Vacation rentals in California

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Top-rated vacation rentals in California

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Top guest favorite
A serene sleeping area is displayed, featuring a spacious bed adorned with soft linens and surrounded by natural light from large windows. A wooden table and chair provide a cozy setting, while decorative shoji screens and wood accents enhance the tranquil ambiance.
Guesthouse in Stinson Beach
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 273 reviews

Beach View at the Bird’s Nest Bungalow

Relaxing refuge set on a lush hillside in the quiet seaside town of Stinson Beach. Feel transported by the Asian inspired design and tranquil outdoor shower and soaking tub. Indulge in treetop ocean views from the comfort of a queen bed, and watch the sun set from the privacy of a wooden deck. Walk only five minutes to three miles of perfect beach. It's worth the journey down through the trees on uneven stone stairs and very steep wooden stairs to find yourself transported away from it all. A comfortable queen bed with plenty of pillows affords the perfect sitting spot to look out through the branches of the treetops at the ocean. The small kitchen area has all you need for simple cooking. You'll find extra blankets in the closet behind an antique Japanese room screen while the new handcrafted shoji screen conceals the toilet and bathroom sink. The outside shower is exhilarating (and for the adventurous in the rain and winter) while the soaking tub is beyond relaxing while looking at the ocean watching the sky change colors at sunset. Ahhhhh. Good WiFi, flashlights for night walking, aromatherapy for fully relaxing, eye masks for sleeping in! I like to give my guests total privacy, but I’m always available if needed. ( text is easiest) Stinson Beach is a quiet seaside town popular for its calm surf, smooth sand, and miles of mountain trails. The beach bungalow set on the hillside with wooden and stone stairs to arrive. Worth the trek, but if you have a bad knee, a tricky ankle or a hitch in your get-along, this is not the property for you. A car is recommended for day trips to Muir Woods, the Point Reyes National Seashore, Mt Tamalpais, a ferry ride to San Francisco and shopping in Sausalito. The Marin Airporter will get you from SFO to Mill Valley and then you can hop on the Stage Coach to town. (See Marin Transit Website). The Stage will take you in and around Marin County. However the best way to get around our small beach town is to park the car and walk. Our tiny town has three restaurants, one with fresh baked bread and take out, a library, bookstore , surf shop, kayak and surf rental shop, photography gallery, upcycled denim and hand dyed clothing shop, art galleries, jewelry, flower shop, and more. The Stinson Beach Market has all you'll need for a weekend getaway. You'll want to take a long or short hike on the beautifully maintained hiking trails of the Matt Davis or Steep Ravine and stroll the three miles of perfect sand of one of the best beaches in Northern California. You can surf, boogie board, paddle board, kite sail, or just plain put your feet in the water and marvel at the wonder of the ocean. Whether it's mountain or sea it's all about nature here in our coastal town. Guests must be realistic about climbing stairs. If you have a trick knee, an ankle that aches, or a hitch in your get-along, this is not the place you'll want to be.

Top guest favorite
A spacious deck features wooden lounge chairs arranged for relaxation, overlooking the ocean. Glass railings provide an unobstructed view of Black Sands Beach and the surrounding cliffs. Natural light from the horizon casts a soft glow, enhancing the tranquil scene.
Guesthouse in Whitethorn
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 132 reviews

Mermaids View Breathtaking Ocean View-Pet Friendly

Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway overlooking the beautiful Black Sands Beach. The bottom level of the house is on the cliffs edge so you will have a Birds Eye view of all the whale activity and people watching on the beach. The large deck has glass railing which makes it completely unobstructed. There are no neighbors directly on either side so it is very quiet and private. Newly renovated small-scale kitchen & living room. Just a short walk to the restaurants. Perfect for R&R.

Top guest favorite
A rustic cabin is situated among tall redwood trees. A wooden deck extends towards a tranquil pool, which is surrounded by greenery and flower beds. The warm tones of the cabin's exterior complement the natural surroundings, enhancing the serene atmosphere.
Guesthouse in Woodside
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 345 reviews

Rustic Cabin in the Redwoods

Tucked among the redwood trees on top of King's Mountain, this 1 bedroom cabin offers both rustic charm and modern luxury. Property owners live onsite in the main house about 30 feet away from the cabin. Located just 20 minutes off HWY 280, this cabin is the perfect weekend retreat for those looking to get away from the bay area without actually leaving. Spend time relaxing in the pool, hiking or biking one of the nearby trails, or just reading a book while sitting among the redwood trees.

Top guest favorite
An outdoor living area is presented, featuring a spacious deck with comfortable bedding and soft textiles. The rustic structure is complemented by natural elements like wooden beams and a panoramic view of clouds and mountains, illuminated by a warm sunset.
Villa in Malibu
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 154 reviews

DREAM Airstream! Insane Ocean View! HOT TUB-Cinema

This ultimate romantic glamping retreat offers a unique transformative nature escape ! Perched atop the Malibu hills ABOVE THE CLOUDS with one of the MOST SPECTACULAR OCEAN & MOUNTAINS VIEWS OF THE WEST COAST, the retreat features a custom AIRSTREAM with huge glass sliding doors, a authentic Bedouin tent, a African plunge pool,a outdoor cinema, stargazing bed, swing,piano and shower meticulously designed to bring the spirit of the Sahara desert to California! A ONCE IN A LIFE dream experience!

Top guest favorite
A spacious living area features a leather sofa facing a mounted television, framed by large glass doors that open to a sunset view. Warm wood beams and accent lighting enhance the natural atmosphere. A potted plant and a decorative area rug add color to the room.
Cabin in Nevada City
5 out of 5 average rating, 252 reviews

Playful Mountain Sunset Escape

Starting from two cargo containers, this home was built to be a seamless space to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing any luxuries while you play. Designed to be an off-grid, sustainable home, this house features a movable glass wall, which opens the living room into the outdoors facing the setting sun. Beautiful native landscaping surrounds a basketball court and covered dining area. Indoors, natural light and a playful spark runs throughout with a second story hammock to enjoy it all!

Top guest favorite
The cabin stands gracefully among tall redwood trees, showcasing a natural wood exterior and a sloped roof. A small porch is visible, integrating the structure with its serene forest surroundings. The soft glow from the windows hints at a cozy interior, inviting exploration.
Treehouse in Albion
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 615 reviews

Handcrafted Hideaway Near Mendocino

*We're usually closed Nov-Feb. Open to messages! Our cabin is nestled among redwood trees a few miles from the wild Pacific Ocean, historic Mendocino, and the Anderson Valley wine country. A place to relax, recharge, or finish a creative project. Bookings include Mendocino County tourism tax. No pets due to wildlife, and host allergies. Note: bear, fox, hawks, quail, bats, lizards, banana slugs, bobcat, spiders are part of the forest ecosystem and may occasionally visit the vicinity.

Guest favorite
Double doors open to reveal serene outdoor views of lush greenery and rolling hills. A wooden deck surrounds a tranquil plunge pool, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Natural light floods the room, accentuating the inviting ambiance.
Bungalow in Topanga
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 282 reviews

Topanga Pool House

The Topanga Pool House is a resort like property located at the edge of the State Park, with canyon views & ocean breezes. The infrared sauna, cedar plunge pool, hot tub, outdoor bed and yoga deck provide an escape from the hustle of the city. Guests have said it's "as if you have a resort to yourselves" "spa like" "magical and healing" and that's the experience we strive to provide. We live in the upstairs unit but prioritize guest's privacy at all times.

Top guest favorite
The entrance of the cottage features a wooden door framed by rustic wood siding. A spacious deck provides seating options, and a hat hangs on the wall. Lush greenery surrounds the entrance, while sunlight filters through the trees in the background.
Cabin in Nevada City
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 188 reviews

Romantic Creekside-Hot Tub-Privacy

This rustically elegant cabin overlooks year round Rock Creek, on 30 private acres of woodland. High ceilings, french doors, a full kitchen, plush furnishings, wood burning stove and gas barbecue are part of the 650 sq ft of spaciousness. With a hot tub on the deck. Just ten minutes from historic Nevada City. The stargazing and tranquility are amazing. 100% privacy on property and at the creek. This studio cabin is perfect for couples or a solo retreat.

Top guest favorite
The modern container home is surrounded by lush greenery and grapevines. Floor-to-ceiling windows reflect the natural light, offering unobstructed views of the landscape. The structure is elevated, enhancing the connection to the surrounding redwoods and vineyards.
Guesthouse in Sebastopol
5 out of 5 average rating, 192 reviews

Modern Container Home with Vineyard Views [NEW]

Welcome to Luna Luna House! - A modern container home, turned one-of-a-kind vacation retreat. Where the redwoods meet the vineyards, a serene sanctuary has been thoughtfully crafted where you can unwind and recharge. Luna Luna House is truly a place to commune with nature, enjoy modern conveniences, and indulge in an unforgettable travel experience! - * Designed by Owners + Honomobo Canada * Former location of The Rising Moon Yurt -

Top guest favorite
A coastal cabin is situated on rugged cliffs overlooking the ocean. The structure features large windows, allowing for expansive views of the water. Lush greenery surrounds the home, highlighting its natural setting against a cloudy sky.
Home in Montara
5 out of 5 average rating, 115 reviews

Sea Wolf Bungalow

If you're looking for the most spectacular views on the San Mateo Coast, come to Sea Wolf Bungalow. Located just 20 minutes southwest of San Francisco and 7 miles north of Half Moon Bay, this historic cabin sits on its on own point with sweeping views of the Pacific. Enjoy whale watching, the beach, surfing, fishing, golf, hiking and the fabulous dining of the coastal area.

Top guest favorite
An outdoor deck features a wooden floor and a pergola overhead, surrounded by expansive mountain views. Comfortable seating arrangements include a sectional sofa and a coffee table alongside a dining table with chairs. Potted plants add a touch of greenery to the peaceful setting.
Cabin in Topanga
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 196 reviews

The Willow - Cabin & Retreat - Amazing Views

The property is knows to have the most epic views in all of Topanga!!! Experience this unique cabin with nothing in sight but vast mountains and blue skies. Enjoy a complimentary bottle of wine and bring the kids or pets for hikes just 5 minutes from the front door. Book an on-site massage or do a yoga session, watch movies on TVs in every room, or simply relax.

Top guest favorite
The house features a unique architectural design with a cedar shake exterior, nestled among towering trees. A large window invites natural light, while a welcoming patio area displays a simple chair. A vehicle is parked near the entrance, emphasizing accessibility.
Cabin in Gualala
5 out of 5 average rating, 256 reviews

Elsewhere - Dreamy getaway in the Redwoods

Designed by architect Ralph Matheson, Elsewhere is a sun drenched house in redwoods with intoxicating surrounding views. Ready for a lovely escape that promotes a dialogue with nature and a connection to the cosmos at night. The amenity filled house is spacious for any couple. Ideally located, minutes from Gualala downtown with many dining options.

Popular amenities for California vacation rentals

All about California

As the third largest state in America and home to a number of famous sites, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Hollywood, and breathtaking Highway 1 coastline, California has a lot to offer.

In Southern California, Los Angeles is a mix of beach and city living, with world-class international cuisine spread throughout its many neighborhoods, legendary surf spots along its coastline, and hiking in canyons that offer stunning views of the glittering Downtown Los Angeles skyline. Day trips from this sprawling megatropolis bring you into the midcentury design hub of Palm Springs, or the desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park.

Up north, San Francisco is a compact city with rolling hills that make driving around or riding its famous cable cars feel like being in a slow-moving roller coaster. The prize for walking to the tops of its many neighborhood parks include views of the Bay Bridge and the iconic orange Golden Gate Bridge, as well as Golden Gate Park, which houses a number of notable museums. The city has a rich history of attracting artists, writers, musicians, who continue to make their marks in San Francisco concerts halls, dive bars, galleries, and museums.

Away from these big metropolises, Santa Cruz and Big Sur draw people to their dramatic Redwood-lined coastlines while Napa Valley and Sonoma bring wine lovers from around the world into town. Yosemite National Park, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is a haven for hiking, rafting, and rock climbing.

What are the top things to do in California?

San Diego

When it comes to Southern California beaches, San Diego has some of the best opportunities to swim and surf, with notably warm water and air temperatures year-round, great surf breaks, and plenty of outfitters offering gear and lessons. Back on land, San Diego’s iconic Balboa Park houses 17 museums as well as numerous historic and cultural attractions across 1,200 acres. Beer connoisseurs know the city as one of the country’s epicenters of craft breweries.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is known for its epic waterfalls; wildlife sightings of marmots, bobcats, and dozens of species of butterflies; and scenic trails winding to lookouts like Glacier Point. Catch a glimpse of El Capitan, one of the park’s highest peaks, and gaze in wonder at the breathtaking Bridalveil Falls, which are at their best in spring.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe carries the prize of being the largest alpine lake in North America, and it’s one of the most iconic natural attractions in California. Its crystal clear waters make it seem like you could almost stare straight down to the bottom of its 1,645 feet. Come here to swim, hike or ride bikes along the paths that line the lake’s exterior, and in the winter, ski the slopes and Nordic trails nearby.

Destinations to explore