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
An A-Frame cabin is surrounded by lush greenery, positioned on elevated ground. A stone pathway leads to the entrance, flanked by wooden railings. The cabin features large glass panels on its façade, allowing natural light to flood the interior. A deck with seating overlooks the nature surroundings.
Cabin in Felton
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 172 reviews

Santa Cruz A-Frame

This unique A-Frame cabin, in a quiet mountain neighborhood with private creek access, was handbuilt in 1965 and remodeled in the summer of 2024. Now a little slice of heaven on the creek in the redwoods. *5-10 min to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroad, Loch Lomond Recreation Area, the Trout Farm Inn, Quail Hollow Ranch + Felton stores. *20 min to Santa Cruz, beach + Boardwalk. *1 min to Zayante Creek Market (EV charger) Find us on social: Insta @SantaCruzAFrame

Top guest favorite
An A-frame cabin stands amidst lush trees, illuminated by evening lights. A cedar hot tub, surrounded by natural boulders, emits steam, inviting relaxation. The exterior features large windows that bring the outdoors in, while a seating area is positioned nearby for enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Cabin in Running Springs
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 248 reviews

Romantic A-Frame Cabin: AC, Hot Tub, Fire Pit, BBQ

❤️Escape to the most romantic cabin in Southern California-featured in Dwell Magazine❤️ ★ Perfect for a couple's getaway ★ Designer furnishings and high-end linens ★ Hot tub surrounded by boulders ★ Firepit ★ Cozy fireplace ★ Hiking out the back door ★ Nespresso espresso, coffee ★ 55" TV, WiFi, games ★ Gas grill ★ 7 min to Snow Valley ★ 5 min to Running Springs ★ 13 min to Sky-Park ★ 19 min to Lake Arrowhead ★ 25 min to Big Bear Lake ★ We welcome people from all backgrounds No pets permitted

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, 119 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, 184 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, 154 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!

Top guest favorite
A spacious cabin is set against a backdrop of tall trees, surrounded by lush greenery. The large deck features multiple seating areas for relaxation. Meandering stone pathways lead through the landscape, enhancing the outdoor charm of the space.
Cabin in Albion
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 179 reviews

Navarro House - hot tub | beach | dog friendly

The Navarro House is situated on the Mendocino coast with an unobstructed view where the Navarro River reaches the Pacific Ocean. Conveniently located 15 minutes south of Mendocino, this property offers privacy with space to spread out between the houses. The hot tub and BBQ/ Fire pit area is shared with the guest house which sits below. This is a place to reflect, relax and recharge. Well behaved pets welcome! 240 and 140V plugs available in driveway - bring your own plug for car charging.

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, 117 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
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 rustic camping hut is elevated on stilts, surrounded by towering trees. A small deck leads to the entrance, while a woodpile is visible at the base. Natural light filters through the trees, creating a serene forest ambiance.
Treehouse in Elk
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 563 reviews

Forest Camping Hut

Enjoy a private forest camping hut. Rustic yet designed with comfort in mind. Nestled among the Redwoods a few miles from the Pacific Ocean. This is a place for you to disconnect and reconnect with the surroundings. To unplug and decompress from busy life. 5 miles from our town of Elk and a nice coastal drive to historic Mendocino. Our calendar is open 3 months in advance. If you like to to be on our waitlist, send us your email address.

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, 159 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