51 Best Airbnbs in California
Spanning an expanse greater than Germany, California covers a lot of literal and figurative ground. You’d be hard-pressed to find another state, or country for that matter, with landscapes as varied as the Golden State’s. With each setting comes a batch of delightful dwellings that reflect their surroundings. You’ll find boho-chic pads in Joshua Tree, cozy A-frames among the pines of Lake Tahoe, and retro-cool Airstreams on pastoral coastal farms. Even the state’s beach homes vary wildly, from sunny Santa Barbara beach villas to contemplative Sea Ranch retreats along the rugged Northern California coast. The one thing they all have in common? A strong, unique sense of place via thoughtful design. Listed from south to north, here are the best Airbnbs in California.
We've selected these listings based on Superhost status, ratings, amenities, location, decor, editor stays, and previous guest reviews. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Alex Erdekian and Madison Flager.
All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Modern loft in Little Italy
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Parachute linens on a Tuft & Needle bed, a bottle of bubbly in the fridge upon arrival
Nearby attractions: Little Italy’s restaurants and bars', Gaslamp District, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, Coronado IslandThis loft gives you the best of both worlds with its industrial decor and location smack in the middle of San Diego's Little Italy, while also being within 20 minutes of some of our favorite beaches (Windansea for its surfing and Coronado for its dog beach, among them). Twenty-foot ceilings let in tons of natural light to the living area and lofted queen bedroom, which is open to the living space. You'll have to rely on local restaurants for meals (not a bad thing with so many great ones around), since the home's kitchen is limited to a sink, espresso machine, and mini-fridge—but if you opt for take-out or delivery, you can enjoy your meal on the cozy private patio. Also of note: The home is in a well-trafficked area, which means you can hear street noise inside, according to the hosts, though they provide a white noise machine for light sleepers.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Sunny beachfront cottage in Oceanside
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: 55" Samsung The Frame TV, Keurig coffee maker
Nearby attractions: Harbor Beach and the Oceanside Pier are both steps from the cottage
This refurbished 1920s one-bedroom beach cottage in San Diego’s North County packs a lot of charm into its diminutive footprint. Interiors blend modern finishes—white quartz countertops, hexagonal Clé tile—with retro touches like seafoam green kitchen appliances and a record player with an accompanying vinyl collection. A vaulted ceiling with clerestory windows keeps the space light and airy, while the front porch offers up seaside splendor via the crashing surf just steps away. Further up a beachfront path is Oceanside’s up-and-coming downtown teeming with breweries, boutiques, and hip eateries. - Courtesy Airbnb
Serene escape in Bonita
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Top amenities: Floor-to-ceiling living room windows overlooking a reservoir
Nearby attractions: Downtown San Diego, Balboa Park, and TijuanaThis modern white-and-wood home offers a getaway for travelers in need of some peace and quiet. Situated in Bonita, a small town southeast of San Diego proper, a full wall in the main living area looks out to picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and reservoir. There are two bedrooms, both with a queen-size bed, and a large kitchen and dining area with a table that seats six. The kitchen equipment is somewhat minimal, with a half-size fridge, countertop oven, and convection stove top, but will do in a pinch.
- Courtesy Airbnb
An architectural stunner in the desert
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Hot tub with exceptional stargazing come sundown
Nearby attractions: Joshua Tree National Park and PioneertownArchitects Oller & Pejic created this sleek, state-of-the-art, high-design desert dwelling. Sliding glass doors that are as high and wide as the walls themselves showcase the golden mountain landscape and let out to the patio and hot tub. The three-bedroom, two-bath Airbnb sleeps six, and has more than enough seating indoors and out, as well, with sun loungers and cushy chairs out back. Inside, the hosts’ collection of records is not to be missed.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Boho retreat minutes from Joshua Tree
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths
Top amenities: Plunge pool, hot tub, outdoor shower, and fire pit
Nearby attractions: Pioneertown (15-minute drive), Joshua Tree National Park (20-minute drive)If you're looking for a place to gather a large group, this Airbnb just north of Joshua Tree may be the perfect solution. Spread over five acres, this Airbnb is actually six individual homes, of sorts, that are bundled together. The main cabin—which houses the large kitchen, a few living areas (including the one pictured above), and a bathroom—plays host to two bedrooms. There are also three retro trailers, two of which have two beds, while the last one, our pick of the lot, has a full-sized bed and light wood paneling throughout. There's also a yurt, complete with a queen and single bed, and a safari tent on a platform with a single bed. To accommodate outdoor meals, there is a covered dining area and fire pit. Other amenities include a plunge pool, outdoor shower and tub, and outhouse, for those staying outside the main cabin.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Modern homestead outside of downtown Joshua Tree
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Open-air dining room, boulder-shielded outdoor shower, hot tub
Nearby attractions: Joshua Tree Roasting Company, Natural Sisters Cafe, and the Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center all within walking distanceThe thought of a daytime dip in this hot tub overlooking Joshua Tree National Park's mountain line is superseded only by the thought of taking a nighttime dip underneath the ultra-visible stars. While the hot tub (and outdoor shower behind the rock outcrop on the left) are major draws, this three-bedroom home within walking distance of downtown Joshua Tree has plenty inside worth checking out too. The home features a large eat-in kitchen, a formal dining room with space for eight, and multiple light-filled living areas. Back outside, there's also a fire pit and covered dining area. If you're looking for some add-ons to your trip (like an in-home massage, sound bath, yoga lesson, or educational plant walk around the property), reach out to the hosts to set them up, at an extra charge.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Midcentury pool house in Palm Springs
Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths
Top amenities: Heated pool, expansive yard, and private casita with queen bed
Nearby attractions: Downtown’s restaurants and vintage shopsA pool is a must when it comes to beating Palm Springs' desert heat—and this one has all the bells and whistles, like resort-style lounge chairs, an outdoor daybed, and a covered patio. Inside, the home is bright and airy, with boho, desert-friendly touches like geometric wallpaper and woven wall hangings alongside mid-century modern furniture and all the amenities you could need, including a washer/dryer and dishwasher. There's room for 10 guests inside, spread between four bedrooms—one of which has a pair of twin beds, perfect for the kids.
- Courtesy Airbnb
1930s villa in the Hollywood Hills
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
Top amenities: Gorgeous blue-tile pool
Nearby attractions: Disney’s El Capitan Theatre, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Dolby Theatre (home of the Academy Awards)Dreams of more glamorous decades come alive in this villa under the Hollywood sign. The interiors and exteriors alike can only be described as gorgeous—carved stone archways frame a bedroom and the dining room, and thin swirls of iron compose the staircase railing. A cobalt blue tile mosaic pool built in the 1930s is the jewel of the backyard, shaded by Cyprus trees and accompanied by a hot tub. The two bedrooms here can comfortably accommodate four people. Hollywood Boulevard, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theater, and movie premieres are all within walking distance.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Beachfront Flat in Malibu
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: A furnished deck perched directly above the shoreline, a kayak and surfboard
Nearby attractions: Malibu's seafront eateries and the Santa Monica pier are all within close proximityIf your Southern California vacation dreams involve a beautiful beachfront rental in Malibu, look no further than this bright one-bedroom apartment steps from the beach. With a four-poster queen-size bed, full kitchen, and cozy white couches looking out to the Pacific Ocean, plus lounge chairs on the covered deck, it has everything you need for a romantic weekend by the sea. The 4.99 star rating is as impressive as the views.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired hilltop home
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Historic architectural monument with panoramic views of LA
Nearby attractions: Minutes from Highland Park, downtown LA, and PasadenaThere is no shortage of beautiful homes in Los Angeles (in fact, here are a dozen more Los Angeles Airbnbs to peruse), yet this Airbnb Plus still stands out: Designed by Jim de Long, student of Frank Lloyd Wright, the Wolford House is an architecture nerd's dream. Between the floor-to-ceiling windows, leafy surroundings, and view of the city, it's something of an oasis—past guests call it serene—perched atop Mount Washington in east L.A. Spend time lounging or barbecuing out back, or taking in the Mid-Century design, wood paneled walls, and exposed brick from the living area, kitchen, or two bedrooms.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Urban loft in Downtown LA
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 2 baths
Top amenities: 10th floor views of downtown, shared rooftop pool and hot tub
Nearby attractions: Walking distance to eateries, bars, and cultural hotspots (The Broad, Grand Central Market, The Last Bookstore)For urbanites who love to be right in the center of things, this Downtown L.A. Airbnb will put you in walking distance of The Broad museum, Grand Central Market food hall, and The Last Bookstore. Reviewers note the superb views of Los Angeles from the roof, where there is also a pool and hot tub (shared with building residents). Inside, the mix of accent walls, exposed brick, and eclectic wall art will have you going home with design inspo for your own space.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Spiffy, spacious, and suburban home close to OC’s theme parks
Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Gaming consoles, a Keurig, quality linens
Nearby attractions: Disneyland, breweries, and the Anaheim Packing District food hallIf you’re planning a vacation around theme parks, this spacious four-bedroom home is in an ideal location, just a 10-minute drive from Disneyland and about 12 minutes from Knott’s Berry Farm. There’s plenty of room for groups or families, with four bedrooms and two baths, including a room with bunk beds for the kids. With amenities like a full-size laundry room, backyard dining table, and fully-equipped kitchen, you’ll have everything you need to relax after a long day of fun.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Modern pool home in Topanga
Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths
Top amenities: Floor-to-ceiling windows, detached studio, infinity pool and hot tub
Nearby attractions: 15-minute drive to the Malibu coastThis gorgeous mountaintop home, also featured in our list of the best Airbnbs in Los Angeles, is the kind of place you’ll never want to leave. Nestled between Santa Monica and Malibu, there are hiking trails nearby and a remarkable view of the Pacific Ocean from the backyard, which is decked out with a private pool, soaking tub, BBQ grill, and plenty of seating. The house itself sleeps eight, with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Nearly every room has floor-to-ceiling windows, so you won’t have to fight over the best view.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Cozy, refreshed cabin in Topanga State Park
Bed & bath: Studio, 1 bath
Top amenities: Private yard with hammock, scores of nearby hiking trails
Nearby attractions: Topanga State ParkTopanga State Park, just outside of L.A. within the Santa Monica Mountains, is home to this 2019-restored vintage lodge. The studio-size space is centered around a queen bed, has windows on all four sides, and is central to dining out, hiking, surfing, and beach days. With a remodeled, modern kitchen that has a gas oven and teal cookware, this cabin is a compromise between rustic and convenient. The open ceiling with wood beams, original stained glass windows, reading nook, and hammock are cozy touches.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Villa with Santorini vibes on Catalina Island
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Ocean view terrace, woodburning fireplace, complimentary golf cart
Nearby attractions: Avalon’s restaurants, boutiques, and beach clubsA passing glance at this property’s photos might suggest somewhere in the Mediterranean, yet this striking, whitewashed cliffside condo is actually 22 miles off the Southern California coast. The arched walkways and Spanish tile are evocative enough, but it’s the glorious vistas overlooking Catalina’s azure coastline that could double for the Amalfi Coast. Stir up an Aperol Spritz at the cement tile bar, and watch for whales and dolphins from the outside terrace. Or, get a closer view of the water by zipping down to Avalon’s shorefront via the unit’s golf cart.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Sprawling cliffside home in Santa Barbara
Bed & bath: 5 bedrooms, 3 baths
Top amenities: Parachute linens, hot tub, bikes, private beach access
Nearby attractions: More Mesa Beach, Hope Ranch BeachIf you're looking for an extra-large, cliffside Santa Barbara retreat, this calming, spacious five-bedroom is for you. This home has everything: enormous living spaces with couches big enough to seat eight or more; an indoor dining room with Santa Barbara views and an outdoor, shaded dining room; an eat-in chef's kitchen; luxurious bathrooms; and oversized bedrooms. Then there are the added perks, like a hot tub, outdoor shower, access to six bikes (four for adults and two for kids), and even private beach access down the street.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Deluxe airstream in Carpinteria
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Tempurpedic bed, full kitchen, washer/dryer, fire pit equipped patio
Nearby attractions: Carpinteria, a quintessential beach townThis restored 1974 airstream is 33 feet of pure silvery spunk and whimsy. The tiny home has the works—washer, dryer, air conditioning, gas stove, walk-in rain shower, and Netflix included. Step outside to a finished, covered porch with cushy seating, a fire pit, and mountain views. Free parking on-site makes transit a cinch. (Turns out… you can’t drive Airbnb airstreams.) This is glamping done right.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Spanish-style pool home in Montecito
Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths
Top amenities: Grand fireplace, tiled hot tub, and a garden pool
Nearby attractions: Walking distance to Montecito’s quaint, upscale villageAnother great find if you’re looking for some fresh air, this 10-guest Montecito home has a backyard made for entertaining. Beyond the pool, there’s a fire pit and chairs situated under a fig tree where you can make s’mores, seating under an overhang (and an outdoor TV, if there’s a game you want to catch), and a courtyard fountain and garden. The real gem, though, is the master bathroom: you’ll wish you could bring the colorful Spanish tile (and the spacious tub) back home.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Design-forward family home in rural Three Rivers
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Heated pool, foosball-equipped game room, EV charger
Nearby attractions: Sequoia National Park (15-minute drive)This modern three-bed, two-bath Sequoia home sleeps up to eight and its driveway has space for four cars, making it ideal for families or friend groups coming in from different areas. The pool area and games (ping pong, foosball, air hockey) makes this vacation rental perfect for a day-time party with your group of travel companions. Situated in the center of Sequoia National Park, you’ll be conveniently located near all the magnificent nature in the area, like Lake Kaweah.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Cheery bungalow in Seaside
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Smeg fridge, 48" Roku TV, fenced yard with fire pit
Nearby attractions: Monterey Bay Aquarium, the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, and Carmel-by-the-SeaThis one-bedroom bungalow in Seaside, California, is a bright, stylish, and accessible base for exploring Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, which are a 10- to 15-minute drive away. The white house with blue trim was built in the 1930s, and has kept some vintage touches: a sloping roof, a polka dot backsplash on the bathroom walls, and a baby blue color palette throughout. A smooth Smeg fridge in the kitchen further contributes to the throwback aesthetic. When it comes to amenities though, this vacation rental is up-to-date with the times. A smart TV has Netflix and HBO, and the kitchen is made special by a coffee bar.
Posh guest house in Pebble Beach
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Fireplace, private deck with fire pit and hot tub, fresh eggs and herbs from the garden
Nearby attractions: The restaurants at The Inn at Spanish Bay and The Pebble Beach Lodge, Asilomar Beach, and tourist fave, the 17-Mile DriveIt's hard to find a lacking spot along the California coast, but Pebble Beach, Carmel, and Monterey are exceptionally picturesque. You're a stone's throw from all three at this Del Monte Forest guest house, with the added bonus of a quiet, tree-lined home base. It's a one-bedroom, so best suited to a couple or solo traveler, with a separate living room, gas fireplace, Wi-Fi, TV, and well-equipped kitchenette (there's a two-burner stove top, microwave, drip coffee maker, and French press). Plus, a private deck with a fire pit and hot tub, and free rein to grab fresh lemons or mint sprigs from the garden, as well as fresh eggs from the host's chickens.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Hilltop guest home in Atascadero
Bed & bath: Studio, 1 bath
Top amenities: Private entrance, 55" 4KHD Smart TV, deck with panoramic views
Nearby attractions: Downtown Atascadero’s eateries and many wineries of the Paso Robles AVASet up on a hill with 180-degree views over the city, this industrial guest suite has its own private entrance and access to a large patio, shared with the hosts who live on site. A thoroughly modern vibe, the spacious studio fits a workspace, living area, kitchenette, bedroom, and bathroom into one space without feeling cramped. Plan to eat meals out in Atascadero, nearby Paso Robles (15 minutes away), or San Luis Obispo (30 minutes away).
- Courtesy Airbnb
Carmel Valley guest house with views
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Full kitchen, private deck with views of the surrounding countryside
Nearby attractions: Wineries and eateries of Carmel Valley; hiking in Garland Ranch Park; Carmel-by-the-SeaTwo hours south of San Francisco, this one-bedroom guest house has everything you'd need to enjoy a quiet weekend away, like a fully equipped kitchen, private patio with rolling hill views, and an open, sun-filled living room. A great home base for exploring nearby Big Sur and Monterey, this spot is ideal for couples and solo travelers, due to its size.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Modern farmhouse in Castroville
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Chef's kitchen; huge deck with grill, fire pit, and views of the farm
Nearby attractions: The owners’ artisan farm stand, a secluded beachA stay on an artichoke farm probably isn’t on your bucket list, but this Monterey Airbnb just might warrant a spot. It’s spacious, with room for six across three bedrooms, soaring ceilings that let in tons of sunlight, and a chef’s kitchen begging to be cooked in. There are plants galore, cheerfully brightening up every room, and past guests note hotel-like touches, like water trays and glasses left next to their beds upon arrival. If the house isn’t available for the dates you have in mind, check out the hosts’ other property right down the road; during a stay at either, be sure to check out the farm stand to try fried artichokes and even artichoke cupcakes.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Stylish, Edwardian flat in San Francisco’s Castro District
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Chef’s kitchen, fireplace, kid-friendly
Nearby attractions: Lively Castro Street, Twin Peaks, Golden Gate Park, The Haight AshburyThe two bedrooms are set on the backside of this second-floor apartment in the Castro, which mean they're a quiet oasis from the bustle of the city, while the light-filled living room is the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring. (The views of downtown here are great too, since the home is set on a hill.) Since the hosts have a child, there are also kids' toys and books available for visitors. The real draw, though, is the baby-blue kitchen packed with everything you'd need to cook for yourself—with the exception of groceries, of course.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Smart, woodsy escape in Mill Valley
Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Clinker brick gas fireplace, tree-shrouded deck, upright piano
Nearby attractions: Muir Woods National Monument, Mount Tamalpais State Park, Stinson BeachA 30-minute drive from downtown San Francisco, at the base of Muir Woods National Monument, this is the ultimate city dweller's escape, with tons of day-hike paths and towering redwoods just outside the front door. Inside, the four-bedroom home feels like a spa, with natural wood paneling, white-washed walls, and plants around every turn. It's perfect for families, too, with room-darkening shades for nap time, a Pack ’n Play crib and highchair on request, bathtub, and washer/dryer for post-hike laundry. Between the large, tree-covered deck and the family room, with its piano and desk, to the extra-long dining room, it's hard to pick the most relaxing spot.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Immaculate bolthole in Berkeley
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Welcome snack basket, fireplace, record player, mobile laundry service (fee)
Nearby attractions: UC Berkeley, Tilden Park, Elmwood shopping districtMaybe you're on a college tour or in town for parents' weekend—either way, this one-bedroom in Berkeley's Claremont neighborhood will do the trick. It's close enough to UC Berkeley (eight minutes driving) for easy exploration, but far enough away to provide a sense of calm. Inside, that calm continues, with bright Scandinavian decor and views of surrounding trees. There's one queen bed, a long sectional (big enough for a gangly college kid), fireplace, record player, standard kitchen, and large, modern bathroom.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Winemaker’s cottage in Sonoma
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Clawfoot tub, outdoor deck, fire pit, garden with vineyard views
Nearby attractions: Historic Sonoma Plaza, limitless wine tastingThis two-bedroom cottage just outside of Sonoma looks positively serene. Glass interior walls (with curtains for privacy on the bedrooms) let natural light fill the space, while a mix of farmhouse furniture and antiques combine into an eclectic design that doesn't veer into maximalism. Relax on the private patio, whip up meals in the well-equipped kitchen, and take meetings in the dedicated office space. Or, better yet, spend your days exploring the multitude of nearby wineries before collapsing back into this relaxing space.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Outdoor living in Sonoma
Bed & bath: 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths
Top amenities: Private pool and hot tub, outdoor shower, bocce ball court, and a vintage trailer-turned-bar
Nearby attractions: The exceptional wineries and restaurants of the Sonoma ValleyIf you're looking to stay in Sonoma proper, this colorful five-bedroom is within 10 minutes of the main drag but manages to feel like a world away. It's surrounded by oak and olive trees and has tons of outdoor space, including a hot tub, private pool, outdoor shower, and covered patio with its own bar built into a former trailer. Insider, there's an airy open living area with a full kitchen, living, and dining spaces—and even a dedicated work space for Zoom class or remote work.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Wine country bungalow in Calistoga
Bed & bath: Studio, 1 bath
Top amenities: Double-sided fireplace, freshly ground coffee, fully wheelchair accessible
Nearby attractions: Calistoga’s walkable main drag is a block awayAbout 45 minutes north of Napa, Calistoga is a wine-lover's heaven in its own right, as home to the first sparkling wine producers in California (a visit to Schramsberg Vineyards is a must). This house, just on the outskirts of town, offers a knick-knack–filled home base, with one bedroom, a well-equipped kitchen, double-sided fireplace that burns in the living room and bedroom, and small back porch. It's also fully accessible, with an entrance ramp, wide doorways, room to maneuver a wheelchair in the main living area and bedroom, and a wheelchair-friendly bathroom—there's a step-free shower with a chair and grab bars by the toilet.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Stunning estate in Calistoga
Bed & bath: 5 bedrooms, 6 baths
Top amenities: Chef's kitchen, pool, home gym, media room with projector
Nearby attractions: 11 minutes to downtown Calistoga, 30 minutes to HealdsburgSplit across two buildings, this home features four California-king size bedrooms, an additional bedroom with two twin beds, a chef's kitchen with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that bring the outside in, two laundry rooms, a home gym, and a media room for movie nights. (Families traveling with kids can also request the travel crib and a high chair.) Enjoy the large yard and private pool with views of the Mayacamas Mountains. Plus, Napa Valley's vineyards are all within a short driving distance.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Country cottage in Graton
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Top amenities: Strong Wi-Fi, upright piano, gardens or orchard in the back
Nearby attractions: The tiny town of Graton, wineries, farm stands, and vintage shopsIf you're looking for a complete change of scenery, this two-bedroom Airbnb with a stunning garden might be just the place. Remote workers will be happy to know the home offers strong Wi-Fi (checked by Airbnb inspectors in person, since this is an Airbnb Plus) and an antique drop-leaf desk available to use as a workspace. There's a workable galley kitchen, washer/dryer, large patio, and hammock among the amenities—plus you're surrounded by wineries, apple orchards, and the Christmas tree farm across the street.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Renovated 1973 A-frame in Truckee
Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Rough-hewn stone fireplace, hot tub, super speedy Wi-Fi, shuttle that picks up at cabin and delivers you to restaurants and slopes
Nearby attractions: The Village at Northstar (four minutes), Lake Tahoe (five minutes), downtown Truckee (15 minutes)This renovated 1973 A-frame cabin is filled with tons of character, from the stone fireplace to the lofted bunk room for the kids. (Don't worry, there are four true bedrooms for the rest of the family to spread out in.) Relax in the spacious living room with its floor-to-ceiling windows, multiple lounging areas, and access to the eat-in chef's kitchen. Outside, chill in the private hot tub or head to the neighborhood's rec center, pools, and gym. And if you're looking for more to do on the ground, let our guide to the best of Lake Tahoe inspire your itinerary.
- Courtesy Airbnb
A-Frame at Lake Tahoe’s Carnelian Bay
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Nest controlled fireplace, Sonos speakers, Tesla EV charger
Nearby attractions: Walking distance to the shore, plus the Truckee River, Northstar, and Squaw Valley ski resort are a quick drive awayJust 20 minutes from skiing and snowboarding at Olympic Valley and Squaw Valley, this whitewashed A-frame is an ultra-cozy winter getaway. Located on the northwest edge of the lake, in Carnelian Bay, this two-bedroom home has two bathrooms, a front porch, and an extra-large back deck with a BBQ grill, a well-equipped and modern kitchen, a fireplace, and a washer-dryer. (And because it's California, there's a Tesla charger, too.) Many guests report coming back year after year just to stay in the Airbnb.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Coastal farm glamping in Crescent City
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Eggs and milk straight from the farm
Nearby attractions: The pristine Smith River and the redwood groves of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State ParkEight miles south of the Oregon border, this delightful glamping escape sits on a private corner of the Alexandre Kids organic pastured egg farm, which means embracing both the rooster’s morning call as well as the delicious fresh eggs, milk, and yogurt in your fridge. The 28-foot trailer features a queen bed, built-in dining nook, and a full kitchen and bathroom including a hot shower. Outside, take in the pastoral scene via a raised deck flanked by light-strung trees and a nearby fire pit. You may spot Roosevelt elk grazing nearby. Or, amble over to the nearby salmon-filled Smith River which runs through the property. Make sure to save time to play with the farm’s sweet dog, Ada.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Sunny relaxation on the Northern California Coast
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Organic Keetsa mattresses, king-sized Thuma beds, woodburning fireplace, outdoor deck with meadow views, dedicated remote workspace with high-speed Wi-Fi
Nearby attractions: Gualala State Beach, Del Mar Rec Center, Sea Ranch Golf Course, The Dining Room restaurant and bar at The Sea Ranch LodgeFounded with the intent of seamlessly blending 1970s modernism with Sonoma’s rugged coastal beauty, the Sea Ranch has long been a refuge for nature and design. Case in point: this light-filled property set on coastal meadows just a short stroll from the shore and decked with modern furnishings. Fill a leisurely day prepping meals in the fully stocked kitchen and beachcombing along the nearby shore. At night, cozy up by the wood-burning fireplace and enjoy shockingly vivid stars from the outside deck. The more ambitious can hit the tennis courts and pools at the Del Mar Rec Center, or trek the stunning, seven mile Sea Ranch Bluff trail that showcases this special stretch of coast.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Handsome cabin in the Mayacamas
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Outdoor shower, Chemex pour over, Serena & Lily bedding
Nearby attractions: Calistoga’s wine country (40-minute drive)Hidden away in the Mayacamas Mountains, the dramatic range that rings the Napa Valley, you’ll find this spiffy getaway set amidst the dogwoods. With big picture windows overlooking the canopy, it feels like a modern treehouse. Life in the mountains moves at a slower pace, and you’ll appreciate simple pleasures such as a Chemex pour-over, cushy Serena & Lily bedding, or plunking down with a book on the scenic deck set with Adirondacks. If you’re up for a day trip, Calistoga’s many notable tasting rooms are just 26 miles away.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Contemporary barn loft in Sonora
Bed & bath: Studio, 1 bath
Top amenities: 2 Tesla chargers
Nearby attractions: Pinecrest Lake, Historic Downtown Sonora and Columbia, Dodge Ridge Ski ResortSituated in the rural foothills of the Sierra Nevada, just outside the charming Gold Country town of Sonora, this photoshoot-ready loft sits above a newly built barn on six acres of land. The airy studio features a pitched ceiling and soothing interiors that are set with two queen beds, a living nook, and a full kitchen. Despite the secluded locale, modern conveniences include high speed Wi-Fi and two Tesla chargers. Nature lovers will most appreciate being able to explore the oak tree–filled farmstead and mingle with the owners’ sheep, and in spring, baby chicks.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Cabin Hideaway in the Albion redwoods
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Woodburning stove, seasonal farm-fresh apples and berries on request, forest bathing on the rear balcony
Nearby attractions: Navarro River Redwoods State Park, charming Mendocino village, and the Anderson Valley wine countryA favorite of former Traveler editor Louis Cheslaw, this lofted studio near Mendocino is an ideal romantic getaway. (A number of previous guests have gotten engaged at the cabin.) The interior is basic, but with everything you'd need, like a kitchen with cooking essentials, wood-burning stove, a dining area, couch, lofted bedroom with a queen bed, and bathroom with forest views. The highlight, though, is the balcony at the rear that looks out “onto nothing but tree trunks and green leaves," Cheslaw says.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Dramatic, round house in Gold Country
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Wrap around deck, hot tub, fast Wi-Fi
Nearby attractions: Onsite year-round creek and waterfall, nearby Yuba River, historic Gold Rush towns of Grass Valley and Nevada CityTwo and a half hours northeast of San Francisco, this unique round house (like an oversized, more permanent yurt) is set up on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest from multiple areas. Despite its unusual design, the home has all of the comforts you'd expect, from two downstairs bedrooms (plus a sleeping loft), to a well-equipped kitchen, dining area, outdoor deck, and even a hot tub. Plus, it's very private, set on five acres with creek access and a waterfall on property.
- Courtesy Airbnb
Cozy A-frame in Shasta County
Bed & bath: 2 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Wood stove, primo stargazing from the front deck
Nearby attractions: Lake Shasta and Castle Crags State ParkAnother day, another A-frame—though this one is on the list for more than just its aesthetics. It's smack between Lassen Volcanic, Redwood, and Crater Lake national parks, all less than three hours away, and the more immediate surrounding area offers more than 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. The home itself feels ultra-secluded, with a patio looking over the forest and huge windows to fill the space with natural light. The Airbnb comes with the usuals, like an essential-filled kitchen, cozy living room with a wood stove, grill, and more, along with two bedrooms—both upstairs—and a bathroom downstairs. (Though you might want to skip the bedrooms and camp on the deck instead, the hosts say, for the stargazing alone.)
- Courtesy Airbnb
Charming farm-stay in Ferndale
Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
Top amenities: Guided tour of the farm, hot tub
Nearby attractions: Victorian village of Ferndale, King Range Wilderness National Conservation Area, and Humboldt Redwoods State ParkWant a taste of California farm life? Book a stay at this four-bedroom house, set on an 120-acre working organic dairy farm. Designed in true rustic farmhouse style and filled with antiques (and just the right amount of kitsch), the home is the perfect base for lazy days in the cozy living areas or adventures in the nearby King Range Wilderness National Conservation Area and the Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Be sure to take host Merritt up on a tour of the farm—especially if you're visiting with kids—as past guests have raved about the experience.
.jpg)
