The 15 best Airbnbs in California

If the arcade room doesn't sell it to you, then nothing will. This stunning traditional-style mountaintop cabin Airbnb offers breathtaking views of mountains and valleys, but wait till you see the sunsets – pack a good-quality camera because you'll want to capture the moments. The two-story cabin sleeps up to 11 guests on 19 acres of rural land, with just a few quiet neighbors. With an arcade room full of retro games, you'll awaken your inner child and never want to leave. But if you do venture to the outside world, the balcony has plenty of seating, a fire pit, a grill, and of course, out-of-this-world views. 

Rooms? 3 Beds. Sleeps up to 11.

Location perks? The prime location for mesmerizing sunsets and chilling by the firepit at dusk.

Budget range? A peaceful getaway for large groups.

….and breeeattheee. This stunning wooden home sits right in the heart of the Topanga Canyon. But if that sounds a little like you’d be roughing it, think again. An expertly designed and curated building offers luxury living at its finest. The canyon color scheme of deep sandy browns and flashes of vibrant vegetation is used throughout the interiors – all except those white tiled bathrooms which almost double as art installations. Huge windows ensure you get unmissable views from each room, but don’t miss the chance to also gaze deeply into that big, big blue sky from the living room balcony. Architecture fans, rejoice (and book now).

Rooms? 3 beds. Sleeps 6.

Location Perks? All the wild, untamed beauty of the Topanga Canyon (with a pizza joint not far away).

Budget Range? Not a cheap stay – but a very, very cool one.

Time Out tip: Welcome in the sunrise with an early morning session in the yoga studio.

The Castle Home Estate takes tiny home living to the next level. This flintstone-esque guard tower sits in the heart of Joshua Tree, just minutes away from the national park. This medieval masterpiece of an Airbnb in California is best suited for a couple looking for a desert retreat. With one bedroom and bathroom, it's cozy but beautifully designed. While you'll be staying in one of the towers, the entire property is very well maintained and makes for an unbelievable glamping experience – complete with impressive stargazing opportunities. 

Rooms? 1 bed. Sleeps 2

Location perks? Cool off in the shared pool while lapping up the gorgeous views from the National Park.

Budget range? Enjoy two nights in luxury. Ideal for couples.

There’s luxury and then there’s Californian luxury – seriously, if "The Wolf of Wall Street" had been set on the West Coast, this place would have been Jordan Belfort's bachelor pad. Kitted out with an oceanfront hot tub and a sun-soaked front deck bigger than most people’s house, this villa is the ultimate place to watch the sunset over the Pacific. Unfortunately, most of us would need a Wall Street-sized paycheck to afford a trip here, but if you’ve got the cash make sure you book this one.

Rooms? 3 beds. Sleeps 6.

Location perks? Top-notch views of Sunset Cliffs. 

Budget range? No expense spared for this honeymoon-worthy stay.  

Here’s how to do ‘nature’ if you’re someone less keen on, well, mud and other slightly less charming aspects of the natural world. This creekside yurt in Idyllwild-Pine Cove is luxury camping at its finest. In fact, calling it ‘camping’ or even ‘glamping’ probably undermines just how slinky smooth this whole set-up is. Soft-as-air memory foam mattresses, Turkish cotton spa robes, apothecary toiletries, artisan tea and coffee, a gorgeous hammock… too much to list. It’s all just lovely, Ok? And best of all, everything has been designed and included with eco principles like upcycling and organic remedies in mind. So your conscience can rest as easily as you will under a duvet made from recycled plastic bottles.

Rooms? 1 bed. Sleeps 2

Location Perks? A pine-scented wilderness with many creature comforts, next to Strawberry Creek. 

Budget Range? A price you won’t regret for a pretty special vacation.

Time Out tip: No tips, no stress, just full immersion. Here’s your chance to relax: take it.

This spectacular Airbnb in California is built on a rocky ridge overlooking meadows and the crest of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada. Looking like it's built inside some kind of rocky cave side, the home is super unique but cozy, too. If you're a fan of nature and the more rustic side of life, you'll love this Airbnb. Bringing the outdoors in, the home has an earthy vibe and woodburning stoves and firepits throughout the property, plus super authentic and natural decor. Outside, you'll find your own private hot tub to use under the stars and plenty of seating for up to 12 guests. You can throw one heck of a gathering here, so bring your nearest and dearest. 

Rooms? Five bedrooms. Sleeps 12 guests. 
The mood? The postmodern stone age.  
Location perks? Embrace your inner Tarzan in this natural playground full of massive boulders. 
Budget range? This top-dollar escape to the wild is truly worth it. Great for a family vacation. 

If you're after something a little more quirky for your stay in California, we have just the place. This 1967 Airstream campervan Airbnb is a blast from the past but with all the modern bits you need. About 300 yards away from Poplar beach, you'll be able to drift off to sleep to the sound of waves – if you're not seasick. You'll have your own kitchenette for cooking light meals and an ultra-comfy Queen-sized bed to rest your head in. Outside, you'll have full access to the private fenced-off yard that the home sits on, with a fire pit and seating. Small but mighty.

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps two guests.
  
Location perks? The perfect way to enjoy the coast, a walkable distance from Main Street.

Budget range? A dazzling, moderately-priced weekend retreat for two. Perfect for digital nomads. 

The best way to describe this colorful one-bed loft in Glendale is that it's like stepping inside a comic book. With an art piece to discover in every corner and along every wall (literally), this imaginative space ebbs and flows with the magic of L.A., and we love it for that. Featuring a massive 8' x 10 bed, an open kitchen, and a shared patio, this space is perfect if you're looking for a way to get your creative juices flowing. Where else would you find an upcycled stripper-pole breakfast bar? Only in Angeleno. 

Rooms? 1 bed. Sleeps 2.
  
Location perks? Enjoy the likes of Glendale's famous boulevard, and the Taco Bell just across the street.
 
Budget range? A one-of-a-kind stay at decent rates. 

That's right, it's a cabin right in the middle of the woods. This is rustic meet luxury – the perfect balance. So, if you're looking for somewhere to get away and unplug, this is the place for you. There's plenty to do here. You could enjoy your evenings taking walks through the woods or simply relaxing with a cup of cocoa by the fire. And once you've worked up the appetite, there are plenty of nearby restaurants. This is a unique experience that will leave you feeling more relaxed than ever before.

Rooms? 2 beds. Sleeps 4.

Location perks? You'll be minutes away from Occidental, Graton, Forestville, and Guerneville. 

Budget range? Enjoy this luxury weekend solo or as a couple.

The owners call this their little "Boho Fish House". It's set in Coarsegold, so you'll be among history, restaurants, and markets. It's also only half an hour away from Yosemite National Park. If you've been looking for a hotel to stay at with your boo, it's perfect for a romantic getaway, too. Inside, you'll find comfy couches, and don't forget to bring some night vision glasses to stargaze by the pool at night. What are you waiting for? Book, book, book!

Rooms? 1 bed. Sleeps 4.

Location perks? 70 wonderous acres of desert ranch land.

Budget range? This cozy weekend retreat for two is a bargain. 

Perched above the Pacific, this magnificent three-bedroom home might as well be a work of art. Featuring a stunning, eagle-like facade, you're in the prime spot for enjoying the mesmerizing waves of the Pacific on repeat. Inside you'll find even more intrigue from the contemporary, elegant interiors that combine marble, glass, wood, and a range of textiles to create a sleek and contemporary vibe throughout. Whether indoors or outdoors, you'll find lots of space to relax in style. Head up to the balcony for the hot tub, unwind on the humungous sofa in the lounge for views of the ocean, and look forward to dining al fresco on the patio. 

Rooms? 3 bed. Sleeps 8.

Location perks? Could there be anything better than these unobstructed views of the Pacific?

Budget range? Today would be a good day to win the lottery. 

Set on 10 acres of Mojave desertland, this tablet white home is a unique escape for up to four in need of a detox in nature. And if you think the views of these rocky craters are cool,  just wait til nightfall when you be able to see the Milky Way right above you. Where better to stargaze or enjoy the moody sunsets than from the hot tub or by the fire pit? The best part is that you needn't pick one or the other. 

Rooms? 2 beds. Sleeps 4.

Location perks? Surrounded by boulders, this desert hideaway is the perfect balance between nature and luxury.

Budget range? A pretty penny.

Farm living at its finest? You'll find it at this Modesto Airbnb set against 20 acres of walnut trees. The idyllic surroundings are home to baby goats, chickens and more – and you can even help feed them in the mornings. The main bedroom has a queen bed and Smart TV, and there's a gaming room for the whole family to enjoy some quality time in. Toys, books and board games can also be found in the living room. The fun continues outside with a pool, Jacuzzi, barbeque, fire pit, pizza oven (when the host is around to help) and 'spa'. Sound like a vacation you wouldn't want your dog to miss out on? Luckily, furry friends are invited. 

Rooms? 4 beds. Sleeps 7.

Location perks? If you're just using the property as a base with the intention of exploring the beauty of California, you can take day trips to Yosemite, San Francisco, Calaveras Big Trees and many of the beach towns from Monterey to Santa Cruz.

Budget range? Not extortionate, but better to split between 2 families. 

A cabin with style? They're hard to come by – and this one serves as the ultimate benchmark. Wall panelling gives a dressed-up look to each room, with vintage furniture adding depth with its dark wooden details and historic charm. Despite the cabin being over 100 years old, it's bright and brought just enough up to date that is feels modernized yet still inherently retro. Low lighting provides a coziness that's sure to hold you back from wanting to leave. But if you do decide to venture outdoors, there's birdwatching, stargazing, hiking and biking to keep you busy.   

Rooms? 2 beds. Sleeps 3. 

Location perks? 10 minutes from the entrance to Yosemite National Park. 15 minutes away from the town of Oakhurst with bars and restaurants. Immediate surroundings include the quiet neighbourhood of Sugarpine and the Sierra National Forest. 

Budget range? Moderately priced for family accommodation. 

So you want to indulge in the land of the rich and famous without breaking the bank? Or perhaps you're in town to visit UCLA? Whatever brings you to this suns-soaked neck of the of the woods, this cozy condo set in the heart of Hollywood will keep you snug as a bug. Elegant and well-equipped, the condo has everything you need to enjoy downtime with a binge-worthy series and your sweats, while also putting you close to Runyon Canyon if you're more of an early bird.

Rooms? 1 bed. Sleeps 2.

Location perks? A resort-style pool that benefits from heaps of direct sunlight. Lush. 

Budget range? A great affordable option for exploring the heart of Hollywood.