California vacation rentals
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Top-rated vacation rentals in California
Guests agree: these vacation rentals are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.
- Entire cabin
- Yucca Valley
With some of the best views in the high desert, this unique dwelling situated in the hills of yucca valley has everything you could want in a desert getaway. Its clear walls take the "indoor - outdoor" experience to a whole new level. It has its own deck and propane fire pit, is completely off grid and generates its own power from the sun. The detached kitchen and full bathroom are just yards away. It is one of three other short term rentals on the property.
- Tiny home
- Aguanga
Casa Rosada sits atop the western most hills of a gently rolling landscape east of Temecula. Upon arrival you'll be greeted by your private swath of land. Here lies the main living area, bedroom with queen bed, outhouse with shower/sink/composting toilet, outdoor cooking area, and garden seating. Look out at the vistas below your feet as you lie in bed. Soak up a movie on our projector. Gaze out at a star strewn sky. Whip up a meal with your outdoor kitchen. Come step away at Casa Rosada.
- Entire home
- Newport Beach
Stunning remodeled bungalow that is only steps to the sand (one house off the beach). The open layout is perfect for families. Home comes with surf/body boards, bikes, beach chairs and anything else you would need to enjoy the incredible beach out front. The home has been remodeled top to bottom with no expense spared. Enjoy a morning coffee on the patio while gazing at spectacular ocean and sunset views. Walkable to amazing cafes/restaurants. Dogs are allowed with pet fee - please inquire.
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Your guide to California
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.
How do I get around California?
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are the two biggest airports in the state. From SFO, you can take BART to MUNI to get to your vacation rental in the city, or you can also get there using ride-shares or taxis. It’s not necessary to have a car in San Francisco, and parking is notoriously difficult in the city. If you’re flying into Los Angeles, you can take ride-shares or taxis to your destination — but this is a driving city and as such, having a car can be essential. If you wish to explore the national parks, wine country, or the coast, you’ll need a car to get around.
When is the best time to stay in a vacation rental in California?
Depending on where you’re traveling, you could experience all four seasons or remain in the fog for your entire trip. Generally Los Angeles is dry and arid, with occasional heat waves in the summer, while San Francisco experiences a marine layer of fog that remains even through the summer (if you’re visiting San Francisco, always bring layers for the fog and the wind). Snow comes to the state’s mountain ranges in the winter, bringing cross-country and downhill enthusiasts to ski hubs like Mammoth, Lake Tahoe, and Big Bear.
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.