Cool Airbnbs Near San Diego to Book This Spring

Road trip!

Photo courtesy of Airbnb
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

After a year of sheltering in place, even the most dedicated homebodies are ready for a getaway—but where? Look no further than your own backyard—we’ve got mountain trails, beachy escapes, desert oases, and not one, but two legit wine regions waiting for you to explore. We’ve put together a handy list of some of the coolest Airbnbs near San Diego, so pack the car and hit the road. Don’t forget your mask!

Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Oceanside
6 guests, $336 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~45 minutes
Grab a couple of kayaks or boogie boards from the garage and spend the day at the beach, then sip wine by the fire pit as you watch the sun sink over the Pacific Ocean from the expansive patios. The fully equipped kitchen and barbecue area makes prepping meals a breeze, or walk down the hill to Vista Street’s restaurants and shopping. 
Things to do nearby: Visit Oceanside’s breweries, catch some waves at Oceanside Pier, and hit the Oceanside Harbor for amazing restaurants with endless sunset views.

Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Cardiff-by-the-Sea
6 guests, $396 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~30 minutes
Experience world-class surfing at Cardiff Reef and Swami’s Beach, just minutes from this sleek, stylish Cardiff escape that’s the perfect home base for our road trip to Encinitas. Après-beach, shed the sand in the custom-heated outdoor shower and sink into the comfy lounges on the patio for a nap before dinner or stargazing at night. 
Things to do nearby: You’re within easy walking distance of Cardiff Seaside Market if you feel like cooking at home, plus several excellent restaurants, pubs, and tasting rooms if you don’t. Take advantage of world-class surfing at Swami’s Beach, or drive 20 minutes south to Black’s Beach where clothing is optional. Explore the tidepools near Cardiff Reef or spend the day at Moonlight Beach.

Airbnb
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Borrego Springs
3 guests, $117 per night
We won’t have a superbloom this year, but you can still get your desert flower fix and see what the tiny house phenomenon is all about at this snug little oasis just outside Anza-Borrego State Park. Perfect for one or two, you’re only a few minutes from more than 500 miles of biking, hiking, and equestrian trails in Southern California’s largest state park. After a day of outdoors adventures, cool off in the pool or have a relaxing soak in the hot tub. Once the sun sets, take advantage of Borrego Springs’ status as California's first International Dark-Sky Community and gather around the fire pit for awesome stargazing. 
Things to do nearby: Check out The Slot trail, wander through amazing metal sculptures at Galleta Meadow, or visit the Borrego Art Institute.

Airbnb
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Big Bear Lake
6 guests, $680 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Two and a half hours
The Cabin on Catalina is a chic, cozy escape that puts you right in the heart of Big Bear, just minutes from hiking and biking trails and restaurants, and a short walk to the new zoo. You’ll love its gorgeous forest views, fully-stocked kitchen, and lavish free-standing tub in the master bath. There’s also a large yard with a mini-hill where the littles can play while the grownups relax in the hot tub.
Things to do nearby: Walk to the Big Bear Zoo, see one-of-a-kind wildflowers bloom at Pebble Plains in the Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve, or yarrow and columbines at the higher elevations of Bluff Lake Reserve.

hot tub
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Yucca Valley
6 guests, $915 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Two and a half hours
Experience seamless indoor-outdoor living at Ventana Cove, a stunning custom home that boasts enormous La Cantina doors in each of the three bedrooms, opening to the huge interior patio with a hot tub, a lounging area, and a retractable canopy for open air relaxation. Take in spectacular views of the Joshua Tree National Park mountains from the cold dip cowboy tub on the lounge deck, stargaze around the fire pit, or chill in a shaded hammock. Located on two private acres, you’re just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park.
Things to do nearby: Hit the Sky Village Outdoor Marketplace for hidden treasures, visit the Joshua Tree Retreat Center, or head to Joshua Tree National Park for hiking and climbing.

mid-century modern living room
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Palm Springs
6 guests, $391 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Two and a half hours
From the meticulously restored 1959 kitchen to the eye-popping splashes of color throughout, you’ll feel like you’ve taken a trip back in time in this stylish mid-century beauty. As an added bonus, pets are allowed and a large park in easy walking distance makes it convenient for dog (or human) outings. Pour a batch of martinis, crank up Sinatra, and sink into the hot tub for the ultimate Palm Springs experience. 
Things to do nearby: Walk to the nearby park for picnicking, tennis courts and baseball, hike to the Tahquitz Canyon Waterfall or visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

vineyard airbnb
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico
6 guests, $420 per night 
Distance from San Diego: ~Under two hours 
An homage to owner Grisel De La Rosa’s family of artists as well as the legendary painter Frida Kahlo, Casa Frida sits adjacent to one of the buzziest tasting room/restaurant parks in the valley. Eclectic mid-century furniture, eye-catching original art and vivid colors abound, while arching French doors and high, blond wood-paneled ceilings keep the rooms airy and bright. Since it’s located close to the tasting room, don’t plan on pin-drop silence at night, especially on weekends, but you’ll probably want to be out there sipping wine anyway. 
Things to do nearby: Visit Lechuza Winery, have lunch at Laja, then spend the evening at Terraza Culinaria  or Terraza Granada just outside your casa.

hilltop cottage
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico
4 guests, $159 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Under two hours
Enjoy spectacular sunsets and wide open vistas at Terra Monarca in the heart of the Valle de Guadalupe, within walking distance to Corazon de Tierra and Vena Cava and a short drive to wineries, breweries, and top rated restaurants along both the old and new Ruta del Vino. You’ll love returning to this spacious, beautifully adorned home, sipping wine on the wide stone patio and cooking dinner in the brand new, covered outdoor kitchen complete with a Santa Maria grill. 
Things to do nearby:  Visit the Museo del Vino, have lunch at Deckman’s at El Mogor, then stop at the tiny Quesos Y Delicias Artesanales Jazmine for cheese, jam, and olives to enjoy with the wine you bought.

farmhouse
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Julian
8 guests, $466 per night
Distance from San Diego: One hour, 15 minutes
From the reclaimed barnwood and vaulted ceilings to the wraparound porch and swing, you’ll be utterly charmed by this lovingly restored farmhouse. Situated on an acre of land, it features mountain views from the front and ocean sunsets from the 2nd story deck in the back, weather permitting. Best of all, it’s only three blocks from town, where you’ll find coffee shops, dining, beer and wine tasting, and those famous Julian pies. 
What guests say: “One of the best Airbnb stays we've ever had! The home is absolutely enchanting—the pictures don't do it justice. Decor is impeccable & thoughtful. Had everything we could need for our family of 4. We cooked, played games, watched the sunset from the amazing balcony off the master, watched a meteor shower from the backyard, and just relaxed. It felt like a home away from home. We hope to return someday and cannot recommend this stay more highly.”

fort style house
Photo courtesy of Airbnb

Borrego Springs
6 guests, $187 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Under two hours
Pack the sunscreen and head out to the desert for a break from the daily grind at Borrego Dig, a serene, private getaway on 1.28 acres, with stunning views of Indian Head, Font’s Point, and the Santa Rosa Mountains. Vaulted ceilings and plenty of natural light flood the beautifully decorated rooms, including a large, gourmet kitchen. Spend the day hiking the Ocotillo Forest or golfing at one of Borrego Springs many courses, then chill out under the spectacular canopy of stars—you might even see a meteor shower!
What guests say: “The house was brilliant for a weekend escape. The views were amazing from every window. The house has high ceilings, good circulation and light. We enjoyed playing horseshoes in the back. Jayne was an excellent communicator, very gracious and responsive. I would definitely recommend.”

airstream
Photo courtesy of airbnb

Temecula
2 guests, $148 per night
Distance from San Diego: One hour
Perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Bliss at Serenity Cove is a gorgeous, brand new Flying Cloud Airstream that has all the comforts of home and sits on five acres filled with oak trees and cacti. Spend your days exploring Temecula’s many vineyards and restaurants or zen out in the meditation garden just outside your front door. For the ultimate pampering, book a yoga or meditation class, reiki treatment or massage when you make your reservation (extra charges apply). 
Things to do nearby: Pet cute animals and eat artisan chocolate at Sugarplum Farm, visit Stone Church Brewery and, of course, drink wine.

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Mary Beth Abate is a San Diego-based freelance writer by way of Chicago and Los Angeles. Her hobbies include yoga, pickling and fermenting stuff, reading cookbooks and drinking fabulous gin. Keep up with her experiments @MaryBeth_Abate.