
California vacation rentals
Vacation rentals in California by owner — compare homes, condos and cabins, message verified hosts and book direct. See every charge before you pay.
California stretches from the surf-friendly beaches of San Diego and Santa Monica to the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains and Yosemite National Park. Visitors come for wine tours in Napa Valley, Hollywood attractions in Los Angeles, and tech tours in Silicon Valley. Houfy connects travelers directly with hosts in California, providing vacation rentals and facilitating a seamless booking process. Browse rentals including beachside bungalows, mountain cabins, city apartments in San Francisco, and desert homes near Joshua Tree. Summer is ideal for coastal visits, while winter opens up the slopes of Mammoth and Lake Tahoe for enthusiastic skiers.
Most popular destinations in California
Where guests book most in California — every one bookable direct with the host.
Featured Vacation Rentals in California
Explore top-rated vacation rentals in California, hosted by trusted owners.
Palm Valley Country Club, remodeled 1647 SF, 3BD, 2BA on 18th tee, w/golf cart
$2,053.20 USD $1,872.88 USD total for 7 nights
May 1 – 8, 2027
$9,300.00 USD $6,303.00 USD total for 30 nights
Nov 11 – Dec 11, 2026
$1,036.00 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
Top-Rated Vacation Homes in California
Browse the highest rated vacation properties in California.
$875.93 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 16 – 19, 2026
This property is exactly as stated - 1/2 block from Embarcadero. Loved: - dedicated parking space - comfy beds! (I'd love to know the brand so i can get one) - easy arrival and check in via lock with code - fully equipped kitchen (and a thoughtful snack basket) - SO CLEAN!! (Probably the cleanest rental I've ever stayed in, seriously!) There plenty of room for our group of 3 adults and would likely be comfortable for up to 3 adults and a couple of small kiddos or 4 - 5 adults (two large king beds and a large super cozy sectional in the living room), though you'd have to be pretty comfortable with one another and be ok sharing the one small bathroom. The bathroom is small, but again, CLEAN and is well - equipped. It's also a jack-and-jill, which is totally workable, but could be challenging to access if bedroom doors are closed. We loved our stay and were very comfortable at every point. Would absolutely stay again!
We stayed three nights at Twin Rock Tree House and loved it. We didn't want to leave. The description was accurate and everything was at least a little better than described. John and Lara definitely did a good job of setting, then exceeding, our expectations. The check-in was super easy and the hosts did not bother or intrude on us. John stopped by right after we checked in to make sure we were set. He brought us a quart of milk and I used it up eating cereal for breakfast each morning. Twin Rock Tree House is a very nice rustic cabin in Idyllwild. It has all the modern amenities you need, without ruining the rustic feel of the place. The washer and dryer worked very well. The kitchen was nice and rustic, but with a nice modern refrigerator and coffee maker. John and Lara provided beans and a grinder, so this was a nice bonus for a coffee addict like me. We didn't cook, but the "chrome-plated" microwave worked great, and the oven looked like it did also. The Internet connection was lightning fast and the television worked well. The bathroom had a nice claw foot tub with surrounding shower curtain. The water was nice and hot with plenty of water pressure. The beds were comfortable and we slept great. We stayed plenty cool without the air conditioner in the upstairs bedroom, so I can't attest to how well it worked. Overall we loved the cabin and our stay. It was exactly what we wanted. A rustic cabin with modern amenities in Idyllwild to use a a base for our hiking adventures. This included a nice loop hike up to Tahquitz Peak. This is my all-time favorite hike in Southern CA.
$795.50 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 15 – 18, 2026
This was our third time staying at the Ahwahnee-be and it looks like it will be an annual event! Everything is always perfect, from the cozy but spacious cabin to the perfect location. The hosts communicate clearly and thoroughly so we never have questions. Highly recommend!
$736.38 USD total for 3 nights
Dec 17 – 20, 2026
I had a wonderful experience staying at this venice beach cottage. Suzan was a extremely good communicator and very friendly. She answered all messages promptly, gave a tour of the place upon arrival, and went out of her way to make sure I was comfortable. The cottage itself looks better than the pictures (which already look great). The best part of the cottage is how light and inviting it looks. I really enjoyed the color schemes and all the skylights. The shower looks awesome during the day with the light coming through and the white tiles with green accent tiling. All essentials were provided (towels, toiletries, etc.) and even though I didn't use the kitchen much, it was very well stocked. The heater worked very well and the bed/couch were clean and comfortable. Another huge plus about this stay are the bikes! They're in great shape and Venice beach and the shops on Abbot Kinney are only a 10 minute bike ride away. If the weather is good, I strongly encourage you to take advantage of this - it's enjoyable, fast and fun, and much easier than dealing with parking near the beach. Speaking of parking, there was ample free street parking at all times of the day. The neighborhood is very quiet and safe and in a great location. Overall, everything was very clean, comfortable, safe and the host is very hospitable and a delight. This is definitely one of my favorite, if not my favorite Airbnb I have stayed at and I will return again if in the area. Thank you Suzan!
What an ideal location and place! A short and easy walk (five minutes, tops) to the restaurants and shops on the downtown square, this cozy spot is close to everything you need to unwind after a day of wine tasting. But, it's just far away enough from the hubbub to offer a quiet and secluded experience. The cottage is super comfy and homey, and Kirk and Lisa do an excellent job of keeping it very clean and tidy throughout. The kitchenette was well-appointed with the essentials and the TV options were a nice touch. The patio is a great spot to spend while sipping morning coffee or a glass - or more - of wine at night. We felt like locals whom were fortunate to have such a cute house in a perfect locale. We never met our hosts, but appreciated their attention to detail and communications via emails and notes. Thank you for helping to make our getaway a wonderful experience! One note: Our stay was during an historic heat wave in Paso Robles where temps hit 110. The AC handled it beautifully.
$1,210.83 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 15 – 18, 2026
We had an absolutely amazing time at this Carlsbad beach house. The location can't be beat...just a short walk down to Tamarack Beach. The house itself was even better than we imagined! Three large bedrooms and three bathrooms gave our family plenty of room to spread out. The kitchen was the best stocked kitchen we have ever seen...anything you could possibly need! The backyard was a relaxing oasis with tons of fun extras...hammocks, hot tub, multiple seating areas and such beautiful greenery! The house was equipped with more than enough beach gear including towels, chairs, umbrellas, beach toys, boogey boards, etc. Communication was outstanding. Our host messaged back right away whenever we had a question. Would definitely recommend! We will be back!
$1,130.75 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 15 – 18, 2026
My family (2 adults, 4 teens) enjoyed our stay in this lovely home. The house was VERY clean and well-stocked with all the essentials. Lots of space for all of us to hang out together or separately, without ever feeling like we were on top of one another. There are tv’s in the living area and the front bedroom, but none in the primary bedroom or the bunk room (which was a little disappointing given we asked ahead and were told there were TVs in every room). Terramar Beach is right up the road, accessible by staircase, but unfortunately was covered with seaweed the entire week- so we opted to drive to a couple of nearby beaches just north and it worked out well. Overall, a great house with fantastic indoor/outdoor space to relax.
$1,907.11 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 27 – 30, 2026
We would rate this in our top 3 stays with VRBO. It was me, hubby and one teen and one tween boy. House was super modern and clean. Great technology hook ups and TVs, patio for grilling and outdoor dining. Beds are so comfortable. Had beach chairs and towels for us to use. Fantastic location - minutes from the pier. Easy to rent a bike, hit the sand or eat. Quick bike ride and ferry ride to Balboa island. We didn’t need our car the whole time we were there. 7/11 is a minute walk away for quick conveniences, the beach and pier 5 minute walk and the grocery store is a 10-15 minute walk. Ron our host was super friendly and responsive. Easy check in process. Super organized welcome book with things to do, places to eat, wifi and appliance info etc. I didn’t realize the garage and laundry are in a shared unit but that’s probably common for this area. No issues, just some very minor coordination on laundry. We would definitely stay here again and recommend to family and friends. Loved our short stay in paradise. Thank you!!
Recommended Homes in California
Handpicked properties we think you'll love in California.
$3,539.48 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
$6,238.75 USD total for 4 nights
Nov 29 – Dec 3, 2026
$758.00 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
$1,713.60 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
$985.30 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 15 – 18, 2026
$719.93 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 15 – 18, 2026
$959.84 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
$1,530.70 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
Vacation houses with pools in California
Cool off in style with these amazing pool homes in California.
$4,548.84 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
$1,659.45 USD $1,554.56 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 15 – 18, 2026
$1,964.60 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 28 – Dec 1, 2026
$1,172.19 USD $1,135.40 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
$2,859.13 USD $2,600.71 USD total for 5 nights
Nov 12 – 17, 2026
$1,290.60 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
Beautiful Hollywood Hills Home with Private Heated Pool & BBQ & Terrace
$3,098.00 USD $2,972.49 USD total for 4 nights
Nov 19 – 23, 2026
$3,435.51 USD total for 4 nights
Nov 15 – 19, 2026
Pet friendly vacation rentals in California
Bring your furry friend along! Browse pet-welcoming homes in California.
Hot Tub & Fire Pit • 3 Decks • Treetop Star Views - Holiday Home
$1,093.81 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
$464.00 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 21 – 24, 2026
$2,322.20 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 15 – 18, 2026
$932.08 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 16 – 19, 2026
Pacific/Mission Beach/Bay/CrownPtShores/Primo LOCA
$1,902.95 USD total for 3 nights
Nov 11 – 14, 2026
Why visit California
Discover what makes California a perfect vacation rental destination.
Explore Yosemite National Park
Stunning granite cliffs & waterfalls
Witness the majesty of Half Dome and El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. It's an easy 3-hour drive from San Francisco. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature photographers.
Dive into San Francisco's Arts Scene
Home to SF MoMA and vibrant murals
Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, located 1 mile from Union Square. The city's diverse art scene includes colorful murals in the Mission District.
Relax on Santa Monica Beach
Iconic pier and sandy shores
Enjoy the sun and surf at Santa Monica Beach, just 16 miles from downtown Los Angeles. The vibrant pier offers games, dining, and a lively atmosphere.
Tour Napa Valley Wineries
Renowned vineyards and tastings
Sip world-class wines in Napa Valley, famous for its extensive vineyards just 60 miles north of San Francisco, offering both guided tours and intimate tastings.
Where to stay in California
The best areas and neighborhoods for your vacation rental in California.
Los Angeles
From Hollywood's glitz to Venice Beach's bohemian vibes, LA offers diverse attractions including Universal Studios and the Getty Center.
San Francisco
Known for the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, San Francisco mixes historic charm with a bustling tech scene and eclectic neighborhoods.
San Diego
Famed for its zoo, beaches, and vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego offers a mix of outdoor adventures and urban attractions.
Napa Valley
A premier wine-growing region offering picturesque vineyard views and fine dining experiences in charming small towns.
Find California vacation rentals that suit your style
Vacation homes, cabins, villas and more — pick the kind of California vacation rental you want, then book it direct with the host.
California vacation rentals with free WiFi, hot tub or air conditioning
Free WiFi, hot tub, air conditioning and more — every California vacation rental here is listed by a verified host and bookable direct, with the price the host set.
Top attractions in California
All within driving distance of California vacation rentals.
Yosemite National Park
Famed for its granite cliffs and waterfalls, located about 200 miles east of San Francisco. · 200 miles
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
A leading museum with a vast collection of contemporary art, 0.5 miles from Moscone Center. · 0.5 miles
San Diego Zoo
Home to over 3,500 animals in Balboa Park, 2 miles north of downtown San Diego. · 2 miles
Santa Monica Beach
Famous for its pier and beach vibes, located 15 miles west of downtown LA. · 15 miles
Golden Gate Park
A large urban park with gardens, trails, and museums, situated 5 miles west of downtown San Francisco. · 5 miles
Alcatraz Island
Once a notorious prison, now a historic site offering tours, located 1.25 miles offshore from San Francisco. · 1.25 miles
Best Time to Visit California
California offers pleasant weather year-round, with the best months being April to June and September to November for mild temperatures and less rain.
The best time to visit California is April to November, when the weather is at its best. For lower prices and fewer crowds, November to March is the best time to book.
Why guests book on Houfy
Direct with the host
Message the host before you book. Ask questions, confirm details, and deal with the person who owns the property.
Verified hosts
Every host completes identity verification before a listing goes live.
Itemised pricing
Every charge is shown before you pay — including the API connection fee, where one applies.
More vacation rental destinations around California
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about booking vacation rentals in California and what direct booking on Houfy actually means.
California rental prices vary widely. In San Francisco, expect to pay $200-400 per night for a city rental, whereas a beachside property in San Diego might cost $150-300.
Yes, many rentals in Lake Tahoe welcome pets. Check listings on Houfy for options offering spacious grounds and nearby trails for pet-friendly stays.
Santa Monica and Pasadena stand out for families, offering entertainment, green spaces, and easy access to attractions like the Santa Monica Pier and Kidspace Museum.
For skiing, the best time to visit California is December to February. Lake Tahoe is a popular destination with its well-maintained slopes and reliable snow.
Houfy offers a variety of options in San Diego, from beachfront condos to downtown lofts, catering to different group sizes and preferences.
Renting a vacation home in Napa Valley offers increased privacy and a homelike experience amidst the vineyards, whereas hotels may offer more amenities like spa services.
California offers excellent surf spots such as Huntington Beach in Orange County, known as Surf City USA, and Mavericks in Half Moon Bay for more advanced surfers.
Houfy is a platform that allows you to book vacation rentals directly with owners, ensuring guests pay the listed price directly.
Yes, Houfy is a reliable platform for booking rentals in California, with secure communication and transaction processes between guests and property owners.















































































































































































