The main city in Coachella Valley, Palm Springs offers a whole lot more than just a base for the legendary music festival. This charming city is packed with character and has a welcoming LGBTQIA+ community.
There’s awesome hiking, hot springs, and cycling in the area. Not to mention some of America’s best skies for stargazing. The perfect weekend getaway from LA!
With some of the most incredible architecture in California, be sure to look for vacation rentals in Palm Springs. With everything from cabins, to dome houses, to skyscrapers lying on their sides, there’s no reason to stay in a drab hotel or hostel.
With so many incredible properties in Palm Springs, we understand it might be difficult to pick the right place for you. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! You’re about to see the 15 coolest Airbnbs in Palm Springs. Along with a few Airbnb Experiences to give you an idea of what to do when you arrive too. Let’s go!
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Palm Springs
Upscale Getaway with Pool
- > $$
- > 6 Guests
- > Bikes included
- > Heated swimming pool
Petite Room in Large Mansion
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > King bed
- > Access to kitchen and living area
Invisible Joshua Tree Skyscraper
- > $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
- > 8 Guests
- > 100 foot swimming pool
- > Featured in several international publications
Mid-Century Guest Room with a View
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Queen Bed
- > Private bathroom
Beautiful Private Casita in Palm Springs
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Dedicated workspace
- > Community pool and jacuzzi
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Palm Springs
Looking for a vacation rental in Palm Springs? You are in for a real treat. This place has some of the most incredible Airbnbs in the United States. The city itself has some pretty cool options, but if you want to enjoy the weirdest and wackiest Airbnbs, you’ve got to head out into the Coachella Valley.
It’s there that you’ll find epic tiny houses which open out onto the stars, cool cabins, and villas with mountain views from their infinity pools. If money’s no object, you can even stay in an invisible skyscraper lying on its side. More on that later!
Because of the value and size of some Palm Springs Airbnbs, properties are more likely to be managed by a company than a local host. However, you’ll still get the low down on what to do and see in the area.
Most of the cabins near Palm Springs are found in nearby Joshua Tree and the Yucca Valley. Often wooden buildings, cabins can fit a wide range of travel styles and party sizes. Smaller cabins are perfect for romantic getaways or solo travellers who want to get off-grid, while larger cabins are great for gatherings of family or friends.
There are around twenty dome houses in the area surrounding Palm Springs. Enough to be exclusive but not so exclusive that you’ve no chance of booking one.
Planning on spending some lazy days at your accommodation during your trip? Then a villa in Palm Springs is what you need. Bedecked with cool features such as swimming pools, outdoor living spaces, and hot tubs, they’re the most luxurious way to experience this awesome destination.
Palm Springs has some of the best villas in the United States. For the premium range properties check out Airbnb Luxe villas in Palm Springs.
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Palm Springs
Now it’s time to get to the part you’ve all been waiting for. Arranged by category, and with you in mind, here are 15 of the best Airbnbs in Palm Springs. You’re going to love them!
Upscale Getaway with Pool | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Palm Springs
This Airbnb in La Quinta is our favourite place near Palm Springs. It doesn’t cost a lot, yet there’s room for up to six guests. Spend the evenings chilling out in the large living space in front of the fire, after a day of swimming in the pool or enjoying a game at the nearby tennis court.
Coachella and Joshua Tree National Park are just a stone’s throw away – though maybe a little too far for the free bikes included in your stay!
Petite Room in Large Mansion | Best Budget Airbnb in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is an expensive part of the world, so it’s likely that budget travellers will have to book a private room. However, a homestay is a great way to learn more about the local area. In this charming mansion, you’ve got a private bedroom and bathroom, as well as access to your host’s kitchen and living space. You won’t have paid it, but you’ll feel like a million dollars!
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIInvisible Joshua Tree Skyscraper | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Palm Springs
Quite possibly the most stunning Airbnb we’ve ever listed, this place has to be seen to be believed. It’s a 22 story steel and glass skyscraper on its side – set against the background of a mountain. It has a 100 foot swimming pool, climate control throughout, and solid marble and glass beds.
This stunning house is frequented by A-list celebrities and recording artists so you’ll have to book quick. That’s if you can afford it!
Mid-Century Guest Room with a View | Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Solo travellers can gain from homestays too. While staying in an Airbnb won’t give you as big a social scene as you’d get in a hostel, having your own private space makes up for that. Also, your host will have inside info on all the stuff you can do in the area. To top it off, this place in Palm Springs comes with awesome mountain views.
There are also three cats – great if you love pets but those with allergies should look elsewhere.
Beautiful Private Casita in Palm Springs | Perfect Airbnb for Digital Nomads
Need to do some work either side of your trip to Coachella or hiking in Joshua Tree? This is the place for you. The private casita not only comes with a dedicated workspace and Wi-Fi, but also a shared communal pool and access to tennis courts.
If your work is creative, you’re sure to draw some inspiration from the views of the San Jacinto Mountains.
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It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Palm Springs
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Palm Springs!
Dome in the Desert in Joshua Tree | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
Want to sweep your other half off their feet? This dome house in the Joshua Tree National Park should do it. First of all, you’ve got privacy you’d never be afforded in a city – so go ahead and be as loud as you like.
Sit out and enjoy spectacular mountain views during the day and endless skies at night, with only books, games, and a wood burning stove to distract you. It’s no surprise this has been featured in several magazines!
Sunny Forest Hideaway with Games Room | Best Airbnb in Palm Springs for Families
Families of all ages will love this cabin in Idyllwild-Pine Cove. While the living area is no doubt stunning, it’s the games area where you may spend most of the time. In there, you have a pool table, ping pong table, dartboard, and a record player with Bluetooth speakers.
If you fancy a more chilled out night in, relax with a movie by the wood-burning stove, or admire the twinkling stars from a hot tub.
Wildflower Cabin: A Getaway in the Desert | Best Cabin in Palm Springs
The previous cabin we showed is ideal for families, but this one is more for couples. The Wildflower Cabin is an A-Frame in Whitewater with the timber coming all the way from British Columbia.
Its design means there’s lots of natural light and huge windows where you can enjoy views of the mountains from either a cowboy or Japanese ofuro hot tub. Perfect for honeymooners!
Private and Secluded Dome House | Best Dome House in Palm Springs
The reverse of the cabin we just saw… Previously we showed you an awesome dome house for couples, but here’s a bigger one. Ideal for groups of family or friends, as there’s room for six.
It’s just 15 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs, but you’ll feel a million miles away as you admire the surrounding mountain and desert views. The dome loft on top of the building has skylights so you can stay warm and toasty as you admire the night sky.
Dream Mid Century Modern Compound | Best Villa in Palm Springs
Once the summer home of a Hollywood studio head, this sumptuous villa as constructed in the middle of the 20th century. It’s one of the first examples of mid century modern architecture.
The spectacular surroundings make it a superb place to take a dip in one of the pools, and you can stay in either of the home’s wings. The house has a lot of fascinating history which you can learn more about during your stay too.
Architect’s Off-grid Stargazing Cabin | Most Unique Airbnb in Palm Springs
While on first glance, this home may look like a rusty barn out in the desert, it’s so much more than that. The industrial chic tiny house is way off grid, so this is the perfect place to escape from the stresses of day to day life. The innovative home’s best feature is the outdoor bed.
The only problem with it? You won’t want to fall asleep as you count the shooting stars overhead!
Cliffside Estate | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Palm Springs
An Airbnb Luxe property, this Cliffside Estate is sure to make your jaw drop. We’re not sure if we find the modern architecture of the home or the stunning views of the surrounding desert more beautiful.
You can enjoy them both from the swimming pool or the wrap around bar with floor to ceiling windows. Either way, don’t come here without your camera!
Spanish-Style Home with Saltwater Pool | Best Airbnb Plus in Palm Springs
Airbnb Plus properties get their seal of approval for excellent review scores and the attentiveness of their owners. And this ranch style home is one of the top Plus properties in Palm Springs.
While the interiors are stunning, it’s the outdoor living area that really takes the cake. Not only is there a saltwater pool, but the al fresco fireplace will keep you warm once the sun goes down. Just be sure not to prick yourself on a cactus in the dark!
Designer Hillside Villa by Ruins and Mesa | Best Airbnb in Palm Springs With a View
Another Airbnb Luxe property, this designer hillside apartment looks out over the San Jacinto Mountains and tall palm trees. There are several spots to enjoy the views, but we’d go for the outdoor dining area.
Of course, make sure you spend some time in the swimming pool, and in the outdoor hut area. A place that’s designed to make you feel relaxed and pampered!
Mountain View, Pool and Putting Green | Best Airbnb in Palm Springs for a Group of Friends
Boasting a fire pit, swimming pool, putting green, and inflatable projector screen, can you think of anywhere you’d rather spend time with your mates?
There’s an outdoor dining table and a hammock where you can chill out if you’re not on the putting green. All that and it’s just a short drive from the centre of Desert Hot Springs.
What To Pack For Palm Springs
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Palm Springs Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Palm Springs Airbnbs
So, there you have it. You’ve just seen the 15 best Airbnbs in Palm Springs. Not only that, you’ve found out about some of the coolest Airbnb Experiences too! Whether you want to stay in a Spanish style villa, an off-grid tiny house, or even a skyscraper on its side, there’s an Airbnb in Palm Springs for you.
We hope that wherever you choose to stay, you have an awesome vacation in Palm Springs. Be sure to check out World Nomads and take out a travel insurance policy to keep yourself and your belongings safe!
- Check out our Backpacking USA guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Palm Springs guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the USA too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of the USA.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around USA.
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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
