Vacation rentals in California

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Top-rated vacation rentals in California

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Top guest favorite
Guesthouse in Nevada City
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 168 reviews

Land Yacht AirDream - w/ Hot tub & Creek access

Just a 4-minute drive from downtown Nevada City and yet totally secluded, this absurdly magical Airstream Land Yacht has elevated glamping to the next level. Imagine being completely nestled under a canopy of trees while maintaining every creature comfort you can imagine. Hot tub? Check. Creek access? Wifi? Check. Outdoor shower and movies over a gas fire pit? Check, check. No expense was spared to both design and create this epic yet romantic, one-of-a-kind vacation experience. Bon Voyage!

Top guest favorite
An aerial view captures the A-frame cabin surrounded by lush greenery. Warm light spills from large windows, illuminating the interior. The expansive deck is equipped with loungers, inviting seating areas, and a built-in BBQ, showcasing a welcoming outdoor space for relaxation.
Cabin in Julian
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 360 reviews

Mid-Century Modern A-Frame Secluded with Hot Tub

Secluded mid-century modern A-Frame cabin located in the Pine Hills community of historic Julian, CA. Built in 1969, the cabin completed a 2.5 year renovation in 2023 to meet modern tastes and amenities but keeps the original 60's groovy vibe. This unique family retreat offers a 900 sq ft deck, hot tub, firepits, and stunning views. Julian, a 1.5 hours drive east from San Diego, is a small town with big activities: hiking, biking, fishing, winery/breweries, winter sledding, apple pie eating.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of a stone studio is seen at dusk, featuring an arched entrance framed by natural stone walls. Steps lead to a small patio area, with expansive views of the surrounding landscape, including distant city lights and the twilight sky.
Cave in San Marcos
5 out of 5 average rating, 120 reviews

Casa Grotto, Romantic Stone Cottage w/ Ocean Views

Perched 800ft above sea level with panoramic ocean views from La Jolla to Catalina Island, Casa Grotto is a unique stone studio carved into the ocean view hillside of Lake San Marcos . Built in the 80's using stone from the mountain, the space was updated in 2025 with modern touches—featuring a rock shower, full kitchen, AC, and gym. Just 20 minutes from the beach, it’s a dreamy escape for surfers, hikers, and couples looking for a romantic getaway. No pets—our two friendly boxers live on-site

Top guest favorite
Guesthouse in Whitethorn
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 185 reviews

Mermaids View Ocean Front! Beautiful Pets Welcome

Watch whales & stunning sunsets from your private cliffside deck above beautiful Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast. Mermaids View sits right on the cliffs edge with a bird’s-eye view of all the whales and crashing waves below. The spacious deck features sleek glass railings for a completely unobstructed ocean panorama. With no neighbors directly beside you, it feels wonderfully quiet and private. Recently renovated cozy kitchen & living area. Just a short walk to the beach & restaurants.

Top guest favorite
A serene outdoor deck features two lounge chairs facing a tranquil river and mountain landscape. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting a warm glow over the space. The surrounding area is adorned with lush greenery and natural scenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Camper/RV in Kernville
5 out of 5 average rating, 155 reviews

The Kern River House: MoonShine Trailer Waterfront

MoonShine Trailer, an epic riverfront property by The Kern River House. Very cool 1955 Boles Aero Ensenada Trailer is lovingly restored & updated. Its forever home on a beautiful spot of Kern River, just south of Big Daddy Rapids. Private Waterfront with River Access, cedar hot tub, patios, gas BBQ, fire pit, outdoor shower, speedy WiFi & the coolest vintage vibe. Has queen bed, single sofa bed, indoor bathroom, a/c & heating, refrigerator, stovetop, all kitchen tools. Endless relaxing fun!

Guest favorite
A bright interior space features large windows allowing natural light to fill the area. Colorful cushions in various shades are arranged on the floor, complemented by wooden accents and an open ceiling design that highlights the natural surroundings.
Treehouse in Half Moon Bay
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews

Paradise Treehouse & Heavenly Cabin

A soulful and energetic paradise. Beautiful, private, peaceful & wild surroundings complimented with modern luxuries and comfort. A stunning, unique, & unrivaled experience sure to impact you deeply. Soak in the outdoor tub while you plan your next adventure. Just minutes from the beach, amazing hiking, views and biking. Outfitted with organic latex mattresses, down comforters, top of the line appliances, smoking fast internet and a spectacular wifi sound system with world class acoustics.

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
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 291 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
Cabin in Big Bear
5 out of 5 average rating, 118 reviews

The Capricorn Cabin

Welcome to the Capricorn Cabin! Built in 1961, this cozy mid-century modern A-frame cabin in Big Bear blends historic charm with hygge comfort featuring vintage décor, a modern gel-fuel fireplace, vaulted ceilings, and king bed sleeping loft. Located in the historic Big Bear neighborhood Sugarloaf, this cabin is perfect for a romantic getaway, trip with your small family, or solo retreat. Just minutes from the lake, slopes, and village, with easy access by bus. We'd be happy to host you!

Top guest favorite
Home in Twentynine Palms
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 141 reviews

Clerestory Cabin | Hot Tub · 10-Acres · King Bed

Couples, Tiny Families, & Desert Peace Seekers only, please. Named for its Mid-Century clerestory windows, this bespoke tiny homestead exudes comfort, sophistication, and exclusivity. Nestled on a private 10-acre parcel, there is no shortage of serene desert vistas and thick silence. Originally constructed in 1959, Clerestory Cabin has been impeccably restored to the very last detail. Brilliantly designed by SoCalSTR® | IG: @socalstr "Top 1%" local market performer according to AirDNA

Top guest favorite
A serene pool area is framed by vibrant green foliage and terracotta walls, with lounge chairs positioned nearby. Majestic mountains rise in the background under a clear blue sky. A shaded picnic table is visible, inviting relaxation in a tranquil outdoor setting.
Home in Jamul
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews

Jamul Hacienda | Couples Retreat | Pool & Views!

The Casita retreat is a guesthouse situated among a private 20 acre oasis surrounded by majestic mountain views and a citrus grove 30-40 minutes from San Diego. The space is designed for nature enthusiasts to retreat from the daily hustle and bustle and find peace and slowness. Come take a pause, relax poolside, pick citrus (when in season), enjoy nearby trails, and wineries. The sunsets and starry skies are breathtaking. We hope you get to experience their magic for yourself.

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, 303 reviews

Elsewhere - Dreamy getaway in the Redwoods

Designed by architect Ralph Matheson, Elsewhere is a sun drenched house in the 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 and the magical community of the Sea Ranch.

Top guest favorite
Shipping container in Pioneer
5 out of 5 average rating, 160 reviews

Relaxing Cabin Retreat - Hot Tub, Sauna with View

Escape to a modern, beautifully designed container cabin tucked among the tall trees of Pioneer. This peaceful retreat offers total privacy, clean modern comfort, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for couples, solo travelers, and anyone needing a quiet reset. Enjoy morning coffee in your private sunroom, evenings by the fire pit, and star‑filled skies you simply can’t get in the city.

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