8 of the Best Airbnbs in California That Make for the Perfect Getaway
Regardless of your personal coastal preferences, there’s no denying that California offers something that states on the East Coast simply don’t: a warm and sometimes salty breeze year-round. It may not seem like much, but when so many cities around the country are freezing beneath blankets of snow, hopping on a plane or into a car and checking into a stylish Airbnb hideaway along the Golden State’s 770-mile-long coast isn’t exactly a bad idea.
From a renovated 1954 ranch house on Long Beach to a three-bedroom bungalow with glass walls in the heart of L.A., the best Airbnb California rentals on offer are as polished as they are limitless. Plus, there’s hardly a better time to take advantage of Airbnb’s contactless self-check-in and absolute privacy than now. So, whether you live far away or close enough for a road trip, you can’t make a wrong choice when it comes to these eight Airbnb properties from some of the platform’s best superhosts.
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- 1/8
Long Beach
A four-bedroom midcentury ranch in Long Beach—part of the Airbnb Plus collection comprising thoughtfully designed spaces—is carefully restored to preserve the best architectural elements from the 1950s without sacrificing a more contemporary feel. The floor-to-ceiling windows that open to the lush garden, for instance, are midcentury perfection. This place also comes with a heated spa, pool, high-speed Wi-Fi, and an impressive array of vintage boho-inspired furniture. The most effortless romantic getaway in one of the most unique Airbnbs awaits.
2/8Los Angeles
Appropriately dubbed the Box House both for its shape and material (mostly glass), one of the coolest Los Angeles homes is perhaps as zen as architecture can get—and the soft bubbling of the fountain just outside the entryway doesn’t hurt. From the bright living room with 270-degree views of Laurel Canyon to the highly streamlined kitchen with plenty of square feet to spare, each space is a celebration of organic materials, sharp lines, and muted palettes. And when the weather is good, which is most of the time, take a dip in the private Jacuzzi or enjoy a glass of wine in the back lawn.
3/8Los Angeles
“Rustic” and “Los Angeles” don’t often find themselves in the same sentence, but now and then, the two can prove to be the perfect pair. Case in point: this sweet one-bedroom bungalow utilizing bright whites and rich woods perched in the Hollywood Hills. Complete with a freestanding soaking tub within a cabin-like oasis, this place is where you should come to unwind—especially on the sun-soaked terrace with a cup of coffee. Most California Airbnbs boast a certain serenity (especially the oceanfront ones), but few compare to the level of calm offered at this charming haunt.
- 4/8
Yucca Valley
Situated between Pioneertown and Joshua Tree National Park with unparalleled hilltop views, this charming midcentury-modern compound sings the praises of decades-old architectural design. It’s not exactly where you’d go for glamping, but there’s a 40-foot-long pool, a hot tub, a mesmerizing stone fireplace, and a guest house with quietly luxurious sleeping quarters featuring a queen bed. The best spot in the house is actually outside on the back patio, where the views are magnificent. There’s a dining table with room for six, and, on nights with an extra-strong breeze, you can light the fire pit.
- 5/8
Los Angeles
The City of Angels is chock-full of architectural gems, and this three-bedroom Edward Fickett—designed masterpiece off the famed Mulholland Drive is hardly an exception. Completely secluded within the forested hills, the home (with serene views of the treetops) features original wood paneling and a supremely cozy brick fireplace. Plus, the living room opens directly onto the patio, which features a heated pool and BBQ grill.
- 6/8
Twentynine Palms
A unique lodging in the heart of Wonder Valley, the Silver Cabin—named for its mostly gray exterior—is a simple and elegant homesteader cabin in the desert. The pièce de résistance is a massive fireplace in the middle of the living room, but since it’s just decorative, head to the outdoor space where there’s a party-friendly fireplace. Another spot with a top view of the surrounding desert? The bathroom, which features a clawfoot tub. And it’s the perfect spot to hang out after a day spent on the nearby hiking trails.
- 7/8
San Diego
We’d be remiss not to feature San Diego on our best Airbnb California list. Walking distance from the famous Sunset Cliffs and Santa Cruz Cove, this three-bedroom detached beachfront home is a recently renovated Spanish-style structure that will likely make you consider moving to Southern California. After a tiring day in the sun on the nearby beach, spend some time in the heart of the home: the kitchen, which was just remodeled and includes luxury appliances. Otherwise, head for the BBQ gas grill and enjoy the Pacific ocean views.
- 8/8
San Francisco
Lofts are practically synonymous with Northern California, especially San Francisco, and this one is like a symphony of opposites: It was constructed in 1894 and features all of the original Edwardian bones, but its recent renovation showcases a more contemporary living space. The living room, which features soaring ceilings, is where you’ll likely spend most of your time—especially if you’re a design lover. This space is where past and present combine. Plus, if you’re staying for longer than a quick getaway, be sure to make the short drive to wine country in Sonoma.
