In Southern California, you won’t have to go far to see it all: endless beaches and sunshine, cosmopolitan cities, vast deserts, state and national parks, and more. It’s no surprise, then, that you’ll have plenty of cool and unique Airbnbs and VRBOs to choose from that will give you a taste of life in Southern California (So Cal). Visitors beware: stay in one of these Southern California vacation rentals, and you’ll never want to leave!
This article covers the top lodging in Southern California, which includes Airbnbs, VRBOs, and other vacation rentals and homes in Southern California. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or group getaway, you’ll be amazed by the sheer number of beachfront villas, unique treehouses, rustic cabins, and eco-friendly accommodations that this region has to offer. Here are the 26 best Airbnbs in Southern California that you need to see to believe!
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The Coolest Airbnbs in Southern California: Top Vacation Rentals in 2021
Here are the best Airbnbs in Southern California by category, taking into account different amenities, trip types, and budgets. The subsequent sections will cover each listing in more detail.
Top Airbnb in Southern California: The Colony Enclave
Best Luxury Rental Southern California: Oceanfront Villa in La Jolla
Top Romantic Airbnb in Southern California: Santa Barbara Cottage
Best Southern California Airbnb for Large Groups: The Farmhouse Retreat
Best Cheap Airbnb Southern California: Beautiful Bungalow Rental
Coolest Treehouse Airbnb in Southern California: Nordic Escape
Best Cabin Rental Southern California: Cozy Cabin in the Mountains
Top Airbnb Southern California with Pool: Spanish Style Villa
Coolest Rental Southern California with Hot Tub: Casa Perla
Most Unique Airbnb in Southern California: Joshua Tree Dome Home
26 Best Airbnbs in Southern California
If cabins, treehouses, romantic cottages, and luxury rentals all sound good to you, get excited! Below are some of the most unique stays in Southern California:
1. Airbnb Dome in the Desert of Joshua Tree
Location: Joshua Tree, California
Rates from: $238 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Experience So Cal in style from this bohemian dome Airbnb in Joshua Tree. This modern home is decked out with all the amenities you’ll need for a cozy stay, including natural wood and stone elements, mountain views, wood burning stove, space heaters, AC, and more.
Spend your days exploring this vast desert, and by night, go stargazing. You’ll quickly see why it’s among the most secluded and unique Airbnbs in Southern California.
Unique features: Unique dome Airbnb; desert and mountain views; modern fixtures and appliances; excellent location; wood-burning stove; space heaters; air conditioner
Cool sights nearby: Joshua Tree National Park | Barker Dam | Coachella Valley Preserve | Skull Rock | Keys View | Cholla Cactus Garden | Hidden Valley Nature Trail | Ryan Mountain | Keys Ranch
2. The Glass House – Top Southern California Vacation Rental for Nature Lovers
Location: Ramona, California
Rates from: $271 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
This glass house is one of the coolest Southern California vacation rentals imaginable. It offers 180 degree views from inside the home, as well as access to lots of great hiking and local wineries.
This home is located on 5 acres of hills, meadows, and oak trees, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Reconnect with nature as you take in the breathtaking mountain views from the huge deck and hot tub. It won’t be long until you realize why it’s among the most unique stays in Southern California.
3. Cozy Cabin Rental in Southern California at Pine Mountain Club
Location: Pine Mountain Club, California
Rates from: $193 per night
Accommodates: 5 guests
This trendy California log cabin is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a vacation in nature with the family. Floor to ceiling windows capture the immaculate beauty of the Pine Mountain Club landscape with gorgeous, unobstructed views of the surrounding forest. Though this Southern California vacation rental is just 60 minutes from Los Angeles, it truly feels worlds apart!
If you’re into cozy cabin rentals, you’ll quickly see why this is one of the best Airbnbs in Southern California.
Unique features: Unique log cabin Airbnb with forest and golf course views; indoor fireplace; floor to ceiling windows; tennis courts
Cool sights nearby: Fort Tejon State Historical park | Mt. Pinos | Los Angeles | Castac Lake | Tejon Pass
4. Bonsall Hills Eco Tent – Unique Southern California Vacation Rental
Location: Vista, California
Rates from: $176 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
“Bask in the nostalgic camping vibe of this off-grid, eco tent surrounded by South African protea flowers. Relieve your aches and pains in the solar powered shower after a long hike, then head to the deck to cook up some magic in the outdoor kitchen.” – Airbnb
Unique features: Eco tent rental tucked in nature; fire pit; BBQ grill; hammock; authentic African artifacts decorations
Cool sights nearby: Carlsbad | San Diego Zoo Safari Park | San Diego | Alta Vista Botanical Gardens | The Wave Waterpark | Rancho Guajome Adobe | Boomers Vista | Brengle Terrace Park
5. Casa Cardiff By The Sea – A Unique Beach House Rental in Southern California
Location: Encinitas, California
Rates from: $487 per night
Accommodates: 8 guests
“Make every night a movie night with the 168-inch (14 ft) drop down HD projector screen in this sleek contemporary home. Midcentury Modern decor and bamboo flooring contribute to an ambiance of artistic minimalism with plenty of amenities and unique spaces for small groups and families. The front patio space is the perfect spot to lounge in the sun, or to enjoy a glass of wine by the fire. While the back deck offers a more intimate experience with an outdoor dining table and lounge area.” – Airbnb
Is this one of the best Airbnbs in Southern California? Absolutely!
Unique features: Modern home just steps from the ocean; outdoor terrace; fit pit; beach items (umbrella, chairs, and boogie boards); large HD projector
Cool sights nearby: Moonlight State Beach | San Diego Botanic Garden | San Elijo State Beach | Cardiff State Beach | Annie’s Canyon Trail | Leucadia State Beach | Meditation Gardens | San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve
6. Top Southern California Vacation Rental in Malibu
Location: Malibu, California
Rates from: $295 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Stay at this Southern California vacation rental in Malibu and you’ll be in for a treat. This mid-century modern home offers an amazing stay with sweeping ocean views.
Spend your days sunbathing at California’s most famous beaches, which are just a short ride away. Go hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, and afterwards, indulge at Malibu’s world-class restaurants. If you’re looking for a Southern California beach house for rent, this unique space is calling your name!
7. Unique Southern California Villa for Rent in Los Angeles County
Location: Arcadia, California
Rates from: $1,152 per night
Accommodates: 15 guests
Dreaming of the ultimate luxury vacation? This 10,000 sq. ft. house to rent in Southern California is the perfect home base for large groups.
Staying at this exquisite Mediterranean-style estate is nothing short of extraordinary. It boasts a huge outdoor area with a pool, spa, outdoor kitchen and dining area, sports court, movie room, massage and sauna room, and more. There’s plenty of space to entertain your large party, and pretty much every amenity imaginable. If you’re looking to experience the best of LA, this Southern California vacation rental has got you covered.
8. The Little Bungalow – a Budget-Friendly Airbnb in Southern California
Location: Long Beach, California
Rates from: $103 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
“This space is a classic Spanish style house built in 1932, but has been completely renovated with all new everything. We are nestled in the heart of the historic Wrigley neighborhood in Long Beach.” – Airbnb
Unique features: Spanish-style bungalow; private courtyard; small slash pool; fire pit; 48-inch smart TV; mural
Cool sights nearby: El Dorado Nature Center| Belmont Shore| Rancho Los Alamitos| Pine Avenue | The Queen Mary | Knott’s Berry Farm | Aquarium of the Pacific | Bolsa Chica State Beach | Adventure City | Port of Long Beach
9. The Farmhouse Retreat
Location: Joshua Tree, California
Rates from: $217 per night
Accommodates: 10 guests
“Conveniently-located on 5 acres of land, the Farmhouse Retreat is your private oasis. A perfect place to come home to after exploring the park and all of the local treasures that Joshua Tree has to offer.” – Airbnb
With so much to see and do, this is definitely among the best Airbnbs in Southern California for large groups.
Unique features: Beautiful Airbnb cabin dating back to 1933; Jacuzzi and spa deck; outdoor firepit; 3 hammocks; bocce ball court; charcoal BBQ; 55 inch flat screen TV; observation deck
Cool sights nearby: Joshua Tree National Park | Palm Springs | San Bernardino National Forest
10. Oceanfront Airbnb in La Jolla
Location: La Jolla, California
Rates from: $695 per night
Accommodates: 8 guests
“This oceanfront home is situated in the popular La Jolla Shores beach community. With its incredible seaside location, staggering views of the surf, wide sandy beach, and breathtaking sunsets this La Jolla Shores beach house is a vacation home you’ll want to visit. Boasting nearly 3,000 square feet of living space with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, chef’s kitchen with views, spacious great room with ocean views, fireplace, outdoor kitchen with built in BBQ, pool and 3 expansive outdoor decks.” – Airbnb
Unique features: Beach house Airbnb with ocean views; pool and waterfall; beach equipment (beach chairs, umbrellas, surf boards); bikes; fireplace; 3 expansive outdoor decks; BBQ grill
Cool sights nearby: Torrey Pines State Beach | La Jolla Cove | Camino de la Costa | Children’s Pool La Jolla | The Cave Store | Shell Beach | Kellogg Park | La Jolla Trail
11. Italian Style Villa Rental in Southern California
Location: Los Angeles, California
Rates from: $395 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
This romantic vacation rental in Southern California is what dreams are made of. It’s located in an idyllic hilltop location in LA with tranquil gardens and stunning vistas as far as the eye can see.
Enjoy a cocktail as you gaze in awe at the surrounding rolling hills and tropical gardens. Relax in the turquoise waters of the tiled swimming pool. This is a top location in Hollywood for photography, as it was an Amalfi Coast hotel location for “Entourage.” If you’re looking for an exotic getaway in SoCal, this is it!
12. Hollywood Hills Home
Location: Los Angeles, California
Rates from: $225 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
“Drink in panoramic city views from Hollywood to the ocean from the freestanding bathtub at a private guest unit nestled in the wooded hillside. Wake up in the cabin-like bedroom and step out onto the sun-drenched terrace for a cup of coffee or tea. The sunsets through the wall of windows looking over the city from either the bed or bathtub can’t be beat.” – Airbnb
With beautiful views of Los Angeles and a cozy living space, this home is certainly among the most beautiful Airbnbs in Southern California. It’s also not far away from Beverly Hills, which also deserves a visit!
Unique features: Hollywood home with stunning views of LA; elegant interior décor; outdoor shower; patio
Cool sights nearby: Beachwood Canyon | Griffith Observatory | Universal Studios Hollywood | Sunset Ranch Hollywood | the Getty Center | TCL Chinese Theatres | Runyon Canyon Road | Hollywood Heritage Museum | Los Angeles
13. Casa Perla Airbnb in Southern California
Location: Yucca Valley, California
Rates from: $497 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
“Casa Perla is situated on 5 acres with gorgeous views of the desert landscape. Watch the sunrise from the master bedroom. Enjoy an outdoor shower. Have a soothing massage in our top-of-the-line spa with six ergonomic seats. Relax in one of the many lounge chairs to stargaze or cozy up to a nice fire with our wood-burning fire pit. Conveniently located, we are close to restaurants and shops, and under 20 minutes to park entrance. While easily accessible, there is privacy and seclusion.” – Airbnb
Not only is this one of the best Airbnbs in Joshua Tree, it’s also among the most unique in Southern California.
Unique features: Hot tub and spa; BBQ grill; patio; smart TV Ultra HD; firepit
Cool sights nearby: Joshua Tree National Park | Palm Springs | Big Bear Mountain resort | Colorado River | Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum | Joshua Tree Retreat Center | High View Nature Loop Trail
14. Room D at The Dutra Inn – Little Italy
Location: San Diego, California
Rates from: $184 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
“Our 20 foot, 100-year-old naval train station doors do seem like have a story to tell. Salvaged and repurposed here in our only street-level loft, they bring in the light and life of downtown San Diego.” – Airbnb
Unique features: Modern loft with floor-to-ceiling windows from a 100-year-old train station; outdoor patio; excellent location in downtown San Diego
Cool sights nearby: Little Italy | Downtown San Diego | San Diego Zoo | Seaport Village
15. Architect’s Off-Grid Stargazing Cabin
Location: Twentynine Palms, California
Rates from: $499 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
“Sleep in a comfy bed under the stars in an open-air room in a minimalist corten steel structure. Architect Malek Alqadi designed this innovative oasis as a unique off-grid getaway offering close proximity to nature as well as simple, stylish living. This tiny home is best suited for 2 guests, but can sleep up to 6. One indoor bed, pull out couch, and one outdoor bed (outdoor bed does not have a cover).” – Airbnb
This tiny house is truly a hidden gem, and thus deserves a spot among the most unique Airbnbs in Southern California.
Read next: Most Unique Tiny Houses Across the United States
Unique features: Tiny house; stargazing deck; BBQ grill; hammocks; fire pit; mountain views
Cool sights nearby: Joshua Tree National Park | Palm Springs | Barker Dam | Oasis of Mara | Sky’s the Limit Observatory and Nature Center | Indian Cove Boy Scout Trail | Desert Queen Mine
16. Pool House Vacation Rental in So Cal with LA Views
Location: Los Angeles, California
Rates from: $181 per night
Accommodates: 3 guests
“Private location with breathtaking views and access to pool and spa with free gated parking! Centrally located in LA, close to Downtown LA, Hollywood and our neighboring cities of Glendale and Pasadena.” – Airbnb
Unique features: Pool; hot tub with views of the hills of LA; spa; BBQ grill; backyard patio
Cool sights nearby: Griffith Observatory | Downtown LA | Hollywood | Glendale | Pasadena
17. Budget-Friendly Beach House Rental in Southern California
Location: Oceanside, California
Rates from: $250 per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
Looking for a beach house rental in Southern California at a reasonable price? This oceanfront vacation home has got you covered.
Located directly on the Pacific Ocean, this Southern California vacation rental offers breathtaking views, beach access, and a romantic retreat like no other. It’s decked out with a large deck and patio, outdoor barbecue, kitchenette, and more. You’ll be very close to top sights like SeaWorld, Legoland, San Diego Zoo, and Balboa Park. However, after stepping foot inside this beautiful Southern California beach house, it will be hard to leave!
18. Santa Barbara Cottage: A Top Airbnb in Southern California
Location: Santa Barbara, California
Rates from: $335 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
“A true 5-star Santa Barbara experience. Charming 2/1 Spanish, 2 blocks from The Wharf, Beach, Funk Zone & State St, modern, light, boutique-like flair. Views of Riviera from living room. Meticulously clean, tasteful/understated decor, luxurious bedding, fully stocked & great amenities!” – Airbnb
With an amazing location and all the amenities, this is definitely one of the best Airbnbs in southern California.
Unique features: Close to beach; stylish décor; outdoor shower; designed by a world-renowned architect
Cool sights nearby: The Wharf | State Street | Funk Town | Old Mission Santa Barbara | Santa Barbara Zoo | Lotusland | Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
19. Beautiful Cabin Rental in Southern California
Location: Wrightwood, California
Rates from: $171 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
If you’re craving a rustic mountain getaway, it doesn’t get any better than this cabin rental in Southern California. It’s perched high on a mountain ridge overlooking the city of Victorville and a canyon.
Spend your days soaking in the hot tub with stunning views of the countryside. Curl up by the fireplace and enjoy the game room. Explore the local flora and fauna which are endemic to SoCal. Wake up every morning to a vibrant sunrise like no other. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder this is among the best cabins for rent in Southern California.
20. The Coyote House – A Top Southern California Vacation Rental with Hot Tub
Location: Yucca Valley, California
Rates from: $207 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
“The Coyote House is a cozy two-bedroom one-bathroom getaway at the crossroads of Pioneer Town and Joshua Tree. Whether you’re in town for a show at Pappy & Harriet’s, a hike through the national park, or just to hang out with friends in the desert, this spot will be your home away from home.” – Airbnb
With so much charm and personality, this cozy accommodation is definitely one of the best vacation rentals in Southern California.
Unique features: Hot tub; BBQ grill; patio; spacious backyard; elegant interior décor
Cool sights nearby: Joshua Tree National Park | Palm Springs | Big Bear Mountain resort | Colorado River
21. Spanish Pool Oasis – One of the Coolest Airbnbs in California
Location: Montecito, California
Rates from: $1,064 per night
Accommodates: 10 guests
“Get away from it all and enjoy the beach, mountains and open spaces of beautiful Santa Barbara. This amazing Spanish style home is walking distance to the beach, restaurant patio dining, grocery store, and the boutique shopping experience of Montecito. Enjoy walks to the beach, swimming in your private oasis, and roasting marshmallows at the outdoor fire pit. Relax with family and friends in this secluded sanctuary. Close to everything but a world away!” – Airbnb
If you’re looking for a memorable group trip experience, look no further than Spanish Pool Oasis, one of the best Airbnbs in Southern California.
Unique features: Beautiful Spanish-style home; grand fireplace; fountain; outdoor pool and spa; fire pit; jacuzzi tub
Cool sights nearby: Old Town Santa Barbara | Funk Zone | Santa Ynez Valley | Butterfly Beach | Lotusland | Casa del Herrero | East Beach | Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead
22. Angel City Loft is among the Best Airbnbs in Southern California
Location: Los Angeles, California
Rates from: $117 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
“Surrounded by the noisy urban jungle of downtown, this loft is a peaceful and quiet oasis. Enjoy the beautiful views while relaxing in this 10th floor 1920s Beaux-Arts loft located in the Historic Core. The industrial past of this renovated space is still apparent in its high ceilings and polished concrete floors. Unique unit with 7 large windows and personal balcony.” – Airbnb
If you’re looking for a top Airbnb in Southern California that’s on the economical side, this is a great choice!
Unique features: Private balcony with skyline views; shared pool and hot tub; excellent location in the Historic Core of LA
Cool sights nearby: Historic Core | Downtown LA | Financial District | Disneyland Park | Universal Studios Hollywood
23. Nordik Eskape – Treetop Cabin VRBO in Southern California
Location: Big Bear, California
Rates from: $242 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
“Enjoy the mountains by ski, board, foot, boat or bike. You’ll want to come home to this Scandinavian Hideaway by day’s end. While relaxing in the hammock, dining on the deck, or nestling by the fire you can retreat and rejuvenate. Unwind as the light of the sun setting paints the two story window wall. The 22 foot ceilings beside the painted wood walls. Nordik Eskape has both adventure and intimacy. Experience the cozy light of a fire while nestled high amongst the treetops.” – Airbnb
Read next: Coolest California Tree Houses
Unique features: Hammock; mountain bikes; sleds; indoor fireplace; mountain views; outdoor terrace
Cool sights nearby: Big Bear Lake | Big Bear Ski Resort | Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain | Castle Rock Trail | Big Bear Discovery Center
24. Dome House Airbnb in Southern California
Location: Palm Springs, California
Rates from: $428 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
“Amazing Retreat on 5 acres with Geodesic Dome and 360 degrees views of Desert, Mountains, Joshua Tree Park and Coachella Valley. Perfect for Romantic Getaways.” – Airbnb
Stay at this Dome House near Joshua Tree, and you’ll see why it’s among the most unique Airbnbs in Southern California.
Unique features: 5 acre hill vista; 26-foot ceiling in Dome Living Room; hot tub; stunning views of the mountains and desert valley; hot tub; covered patio
Cool sights nearby: Palm Springs | Joshua Tree National Park | Coachella Valley | Pioneer Town | Palm Springs Aerial Tramway | Indian Canyons | Mount San Jacinto | Palm Springs Art Museum
25. Mid-Century A-Frame Cabin for Rent in Southern California
Location: Twin Peaks, California
Rates from: $204 per night
Accommodates: 4 guests
Experience Southern California away from the coast from this A-Frame cabin rental. It’s incredibly modern and picturesque, seamlessly blending into the surrounding landscape.
Cook up a barbecue with the gas grill in the backyard. Relax and let all of life’s worries go away as you lounge on the 2 large decks with a fire pit. Warm up by the fireplace as you watch Netflix or Hulu on one of the 3 Apple TVs. Is this one of the coolest cabin rentals in Southern California? It sure is!
26. The Colony Enclave Airbnb Rental in So Cal
Location: Palm Springs, California
Rates from: $293 per night
Accommodates: 6 guests
“Located just on the outskirts of Downtown, it feels like you’re right on the edge of civilization and the stars shine just a little brighter. All that Downtown Palm Springs has to offer is just a few miles away . Enjoy the six beach cruisers that will take you wherever you want to go. The 15-foot hedge provides complete privacy without blocking the spectacular views.” – Airbnb
In addition to being a top beachfront vacation rental in Southern California, it’s also among the best on VRBO.
Unique features: 8-person spa; pool with cabana-style lounge area; fire pit; BBQ grill; 6 beach cruisers; indoor shuffleboard table; poker table; board games
Cool sights nearby: Palm Springs | Joshua Tree National Park | Palm Springs Art Museum | Coachella Valley | Mount San Jacinto | Pioneer Town | Palm Springs Aerial Tramway | Indian Canyons
Best Places to Stay in Southern California (So Cal)
Still contemplating where to stay in Southern California? Here are my favorite cities, towns, and nature areas where I recommend staying:
– Top Cities and Towns: Beverly Hills, Carlsbad, Hollywood, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Malibu, Newport Bach, San Diego, Santa Catalina Island, Santa Monica
– Best Cabins and Campgrounds: Palm Springs
– Coolest State/National Parks: Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree National Park
Best Airbnbs in Southern California: LA, San Diego, Joshua Tree + More
Have you ever stayed in a unique Airbnb or vacation rental in Southern California? Please let me know, as I’m always looking to add to this list of the best and most unique Airbnbs in Southern California!
Read next: 15 Best Things to do in Southern California
Read next: Coolest Airbnbs near Muir Woods, California
If you’re looking for more tropical vacation paradises, check out these destinations:
– Florida Keys Vacation Airbnbs
– Cool Airbnbs in the South of France
