16 Best Palm Springs Airbnb Rentals to Book in 2023
By Erika Owen, Gabriela Ulloa, and Sarah Madaus
If you’re craving a desert oasis, “Best Palm Springs airbnb rentals” should be the very first phrase you google. Whether you’re looking to escape under a star-filled night after a day of poolside relaxation or you’re craving a sense of adventure only quenched by hiking through stunning trails, Palm Springs has you covered. With an array of diverse Airbnbs only a quick two-hour drive (traffic-dependent) from bustling Los Angeles, Hollywood’s quiet counterpart offers a slice of serenity moments away from city life. (In fact, it was the calmness of Palm Springs that first drew in all the Hollywood stars from the 1930s through the ’60s.) And though peace and quiet tend to draw in the crowds, that’s only a slice of Palm Springs’s allure. With the town’s focus on art and design, it’s no wonder style aficionados and A-listers alike have been flocking to the off-the-grid California gem for over 90 years. Boasting the perfect blend of both nature and resort, the quiet town has made its way to the top of travel bucket lists. Read on for AD’s top Palm Springs Airbnb picks to help you plan your next vacation.
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- 1/16
The Movie Colony Hideaway
Midcentury modern is the name of the game in this Palm Springs retreat designed by E. Stewart Williams. But the story doesn’t end there: In 1947, Frank Sinatra commissioned the legendary architect to build out a place of respite—in high design, of course. With warm wood and rusty hues complementing the wraparound sofa that anchors the living room, old meets new in this Old Hollywood space. But don’t let the Sinatra memorabilia fool you: Up-to-date touches are sprinkled throughout, such as high-end Viking appliances adorning the kitchen. And although you may want to spend your time daydreaming by the pool, be sure to go for a ride down Palm Canyon Drive and enjoy some of the best dining the town has to offer.
- 2/16
Dome Home in Joshua Tree
Welcome to Mars—or so you might think after settling into this futuristic dome-shaped Airbnb. Only 15 minutes from downtown, the Dome Home is the perfect spot for your next getaway. Nestled on a comfortable five-acre hill surrounded by windmills, mountains, and—for festival lovers—the Coachella Valley, this home welcomes you and your guests with its uninterrupted views of Joshua Tree National Park. Start your mornings off right by taking in the sunrise thanks to panoramic views capturing the San Jacinto mountain range.
- 3/16
Hot Tub Haven in Sun Mesa
A hot tub in the middle of the desert? Sign us up. The Green House boasts 180-degree views of Joshua Tree National Park, including both the San Jacinto and Gorgonio mountain ranges. Check out the indoor and outdoor spas after your hike up Bartlet Mountain or eat up by the BBQ on the gorgeous two-story outdoor terrace. Only a short drive into nearby towns, this light-filled home is the perfect setting for a romantic weekend away. And for those city-goers looking to escape extra noise, this spot is a must. You and your guests will find yourselves mesmerized by the peace and tranquility offered up in this home situated at the end of a quiet residential road.
- 4/16
Stardust Guest House
Surround yourself with midcentury vibes in this one-bedroom casita. From the outdoor shower, private fire pit, and pool area to the ’60s-inspired decor and lounge area, this hotel room–sized space is great for a solo traveler or a couple. The kitchenette isn’t set up for preparing full meals, but all the more reason to get out and explore Palm Springs’s incredible restaurants.
- 5/16
Neptune’s Nest
Experience the best of indoor-outdoor living at Neptune’s Nest, a three-bedroom oasis in the Demuth Park neighborhood, located one mile from the airport. Put the outdoor kitchen to work on an al fresco meal after taking a dip in the heated pool. The interiors are a bit more minimal than other homes you’ll find in the area, relying on bold wallpaper and pops of bright accent colors to brighten up your stay. Each bedroom is outfitted with an ultra-comfortable queen-sized mattress, and there’s a washer and dryer on-site for those staying a bit longer.
- 6/16
Scandinavian Hideaway
The curb appeal on this three-bedroom home makes it an undeniable contender for one of the best Palm Springs Airbnb rentals. The rental is a spectacular example of a butterfly roof construction, an architectural style from architect William Krisel. Although luxurious, the home keeps sustainability on the mind, using the highest grade materials, green-focused appliances and technology, and solar and heat-pump technology, which makes the space fully self-powered. The rental is located on a quiet street in the historic Racquet Club Estates, where one of the unofficial amenities is an unobstructed view of the nearby Mt. San Jacinto.
- 7/16
Charming Home With Mountain Views
Relaxation is the focus in this three-bedroom rental in the Racquet Club West neighborhood. The sprawling living room space bleeds into the kitchen and dining area—it’s the perfect place to curl up with some Netflix and popcorn at the end of a long day. Veiled in jewel tones, each bedroom has a comfortable queen bed and large windows, meaning you’ll wake up surrounded in Palm Springs sunlight every morning.
- 8/16
Monterey Mansion
Designed by architect Albert Belden Crist, this three-bedroom home includes bicycles (and helmets!) when you book a stay. Exploring the city by bike is one of the best ways to take in the sights, for locals and visitors alike. The main bedroom has private access to the adjoining patio. Inside, you can gaze over the landscaping thanks to the room’s floor-to-ceiling windows. The rest of the home is expertly decorated, right down to the hanging wicker chair in the living room.
- 9/16
Joshua Tree Getaway
There are plenty of Palm Springs vacation rentals, but Joshua Tree’s proximity to the star-studded city makes it a great option when you’re looking for a spot to lay your head at night. This two-bedroom home is 10 minutes away from Joshua Tree National Park, if hiking is high on your activity list. End the night stargazing from the hot tub or taking in some Netflix on the indoor projection screen. The interiors are designed in the Finca style—meaning wood beams and natural stone flooring and/or workspaces—and feature custom molded storage nooks and architectural arches. Each room sets its own scene, thanks to carefully considered windows overlooking the landscaping, built-in seating, and the open-plan kitchen.
- 10/16
The Wesley Suite
This one-bedroom studio is located in The Wesley, a centrally located hotel with a massive pool and jacuzzi. You’re a minute drive from the downtown neighborhood and close to a number of golf courses if the greens are calling to you. The hotel’s location can’t be beat, as you have the best of city living within walking distance and two parks (Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. San Jacinto State Park) waiting to be hiked. But back to the studio: Bright and airy with a king-size bed and private patio space, the colorful room is chic, and the shared outdoor spaces are begging to be Instagrammed.
- 11/16
Mojave Villa
Here’s a stunner nestled in Joshua Tree National Park. The modern home has an airy open floor plan for chatting with your crew, plus two bedrooms. It’s tastefully decorated without sacrificing comfort, with stunning natural accents and floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. It has a sprawling outdoor space with plush couches, a sunken conversation fire pit, and a wooden pergola fitted with a dining area, hot tub, and cowboy pool. You’ll be close to downtown Palm Springs, too, but removed enough to enjoy the solitude and natural beauty of the park.
- 12/16
Mesa Ridge
If luxury is at the top of your travel list, we’ve got you covered. Check into this stunning mountainside Palm Springs villa for your next family vacation or college friend group reunion. There are four bedrooms to choose from (plus four bathrooms), and the decor marries traditional and modern with some Moroccan-inspired accents. You’ll find cozy couches, rugs, blankets, and pillows inside, and outdoors you’ll be able to enjoy a grilling station, private saltwater pool, plus a hot tub and sauna. When you’re done dipping in the pool, hang out around the outdoor fireplace. Serve up meals in the fully equipped kitchen, or lounge in one of the many, many private patios.
- 13/16
Peaceful Desert Retreat
If your travel philosophy involves spending less on accommodations and more on your planned activities, this bright condo offers an ideal place to rest your head without breaking the bank. With high vaulted ceilings, it feels spacious and homey. The kitchenette comes fully stocked, and there’s a sleeper sofa in addition to a king bed. It resides in a gated community, so you’ll have access to laundry, three pools, plus biking and walking paths.
- 14/16
Modern King Room
Another self check-in hotel rental option, this minimalist king-size suite has everything you need for a comfortable stay—and nothing you don’t need. Many of the decor and furnishings are handmade by Mexican artisans, including a pair of Oaxacan robes you’ll want to snuggle up in as soon as you come back from your days spent exploring the Valley. The bathroom is spacious and simple, stocked to the brim with shower products. If you’re looking to cool off, hit the loungers by the shared pool with other guests. And there’s a sprawling bar and restaurant on the premises as well.
- 15/16
Dazey Desert House
This two-bedroom home offers a stylish Palm Springs getaway. The location can’t be beat, but what really makes this a standout option is the decor. It combines contemporary design with a touch of retro charm, thanks to designer and photographer Danielle Nagel. Vibrant colors and modern furniture create a lively atmosphere—and backdrop for all of your photos. You can enjoy a private pool, hot tub, and a spacious outdoor area for lounging or playing lawn games. With a well-equipped kitchen, stylish and comfy bedrooms, and a cozy living area, this rental practically ensures you have the time of your life.
- 16/16
The Smoketree House
This Palm Springs house is, in a word, enchanting. Designed with intention and thoughtfulness, the Smoketree House is straight out of a magazine, all the way down to the clamshell dining chairs. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by an open-concept living area adorned with elegant furnishings and unique decor pieces that add a touch of character. The well-appointed kitchen boasts sleek countertops and high-end appliances, and the bedrooms keep it simple so you can focus on rest. Outside, you'll find a patio with comfortable seating and views of the surrounding natural beauty. This listing also offers a detached private casita, which is great for couples. Even the bathrooms (which there are many) have floor-to-ceiling windows. Another highlight of this listing is the outdoor oasis, complete with nods to Mexican architecture and design, plus a sparkling pool and fire pit.
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