The 11 best desert Airbnbs near L.A. for a sunny getaway

45 minutes from Los Angeles 

This is the standard that every desert Airbnb in California should strive for; this villa, framed by the craggy outline of the Sandstone Peaks, really does have it all: stunning vistas over the sun-bleached countryside, seamless indoor-outdoor living, stylish rattan furnishings, luxurious bedding and toiletries, an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, hammocks, teak jacuzzi and meditation deck. You won’t want to leave. 

Rooms? Four. Sleeps eight guests.
Mood? Mexican-Mediterranian style.  
Budget range? Pricey but fabulous. 

2hr from Los Angeles

Feel like a Bond villain or a jet setting hermit in this glassy geodesic dome just outside of Palm Springs. You’ll find the three-bedroom home at the end of a dirt road, with wind turbines, mountains and mostly open desert as a backdrop from the main 26-foot-tall living area.

Rooms? Four. Sleeps nine guests.
Mood? Futuristic design. 
Budget range? Soooo worth it.

30 minutes from downtown LA

Yep, we wish every day could look like this too. By this, we mean Scandinavian chic meets rustic desert getaway. Perched up high on a rocky canyon in Topanga, this tiny home is about as blissful as it gets for two nomadic lovebirds wanting to skip town for a few days. Constructed using glass and wood, this space consists of one bedroom, outdoor bathroom, and a fenced deck off deck complete with hot tub. The only downside is that there's no kitchen, but that's forgivable for those incredible views. 

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Desert bliss.
Budget range? Get ready to flash that cash.

3hr from Los Angeles

This super-slick one-bedroom rental is an ideal launching pad for High Desert adventurers. Not only is it 15 minutes from the Joshua Tree National Park gates, but it's got all the makings of one of the best desert Airbnbs near L.A. with a hot tub; soak in the steam and bubbles while overlooking the beautiful landscape before trying out the BBQ, local and organic shower products and the all-new appliances. To top it all off, it's fully solar-powered for net-zero emissions.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Rural romance.
Budget range? Spenny.

1hr from Los Angeles

Okay, Malibu may not typically be your go-to desert spot... However, this epic Airbnb sits on the Santa Monica Backbone Trail which has an abundance of mountainous desert-like vibes. As for the accommodation, it's a 2022 Airstream bus designed in an awesome collab with Pottery Barn to create the "Malibu Lovestream". The interiors feel like a real modern home from home, featuring Belgian Flax bedding, black faucets, a flat apron sink, and a custom-made sofa for lounging on. Outside, there's a hot tub and furniture for dining – and soaking – alfresco.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Glamping vibes. 
Budget range? On the pricier side.

2hr 30min from Los Angeles

You’ll see nothing but mountains and sandy hillsides in every direction from this desert dome, even though you’re only minutes from the highway. It’s as well-appointed as it is seemingly isolated: A bright, beautiful midcentury-inspired interior with wood accents overflows into a patio with an outdoor fireplace that overlooks the 112-acre property.

Rooms? Two. Sleeps six guests.
Mood? Modern desert escape. 
Budget range? Mid-range with a great offering.

3hr from Los Angeles

If you’re looking to get the full experience, check out this private dome tent, tucked away in Wonder Valley in Twentynine Palms, right near Joshua Tree. Okay yes, it’s a tent, but the interiors are a cosy oasis in the heart of a fantastic desert, with unobstructed views of the mountains - and at night, the stars. 

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Alfresco dining under the stars. 
Budget range? An absolute steal.

2hr from Los Angeles

We love a place that isn’t afraid of some color, and this Palm Springs spot goes all in on its blue, orange and yellow scheme. It’s by the airport, so it’s a little more removed from the local restaurant and shopping scene—but that helps keep the price down compared to most other pool houses in the city, and makes it one of the best cheap desert Airbnbs near L.A.. 

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Multi-colored oasis.
Budget range? So damn cheap.

3hr from Los Angeles

Wanting a place for you and your buddies? This huge apartment is perfect for a group break. Think gorgeous wooden interiors, hanging egg chairs in the garden, an outdoor breakfast bar, table tennis and darts. Oh, and a swimming pool. This spot is right in the middle of Joshua Tree and Pioneer Town, with views of both and the surrounding mountains. In the evenings, crack open a beer on the patio and wait for the stars to come out - and you might even spot a stray roadrunner or two. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests.
Mood? A little taste of Spain. 
Budget range? A great weekend getaway for four.

2 hours from Los Angeles

This architectural marvel has been recognised by multiple publications as one of the best rental homes in America. Powered by solar panels, without a TV and set up only for the use of emergency Wi-Fi access, this remote structure is the ultimate switch-off escape. Immerse yourself in the landscape with its panoramic windows, Juxtaposing the industrial interiors. Even the bedroom is made up solely of glass walls so you can wake up in nature. Simple yet comfort-focused living is what it's all about, with the minimalist living area revolving around a suspended fireplace. Feel at ease thanks to on-site security cameras, and fully relax while soaking in the bath with something to read from the collection of books provided. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Sustainability with style.  
Budget range? Reasonable for one of the America's most notable properties. 

2 hours from Los Angeles

Time travel back to the 70s and prepare for a surreal experience at this vintage hideaway in Yucca Valley. The strong earthy color palette is paired with shaggy rugs, a record player and retro kitchen appliances for a full-on removal from reality. The back garden is the best place to take in the landscape and unobstructed sky views – especially if it's from the rustic cowboy pool. Dry off in the shaded outdoor seating area before heading back inside to cook something up in the full-size kitchen. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Funky fresh. 
Budget range? A price that matches the property.