The Best Palm Springs Airbnbs for Old Hollywood Vibes and Desert Views
All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
If you’re craving a comfortable desert hideaway to retreat to this summer, any of the best Palm Springs Airbnbs could be a worthy contender for your vacation wishlist. From a Mediterranean-style cave home to an estate in the heart of the Yucca Valley that will stoke your sense of adventure, there are so many ways to take in Hollywood’s quieter counterpart, which offers a slice of serenity moments away from city life. (Many of these Airbnbs below are only a quick two-hour drive, more or less, from bustling Los Angeles.)
In fact, it was the calm in Palm Springs that first drew the Hollywood stars from the 1930s through the 1960s. 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. With its proxmity to Joshua Tree National Park, consider resting up here and then trekking out to the trails, which are just an hour’s drive away. Not only will you beat the desert heat, but you’ll also skirt the crowds. Read on for our favorite design-minded Palm Springs Airbnbs that might make you feel like one of Tinsel Town’s finest, though bear in mind that many of these require extended stays.
Perks: Pool access, patio, smart TV, dedicated workspace, shared hot tub
Expect a bit of maximalism around every corner at the Palme Diem, where wallpaper varies from room to room and furniture and textiles pop with jewel-toned hues. Quirky details abound, from the inspired gallery wall in the living area to the throw pillows strewn about the place. But you get more than just decorative accents and a place to lay your head here—guests also have access to a shared pool and tennis court, plus a small balcony off the living space. The shops, restaurants, bars, and sights of Downtown Palm Springs are within walking distance when you stay at this one-bedroom condo, which will give you plenty to do here on your extended stay (two nights are the minimum period for renting this place). When you’re ready to hit the trails, Joshua Tree National Park is a scenic hour’s drive away. From $545 a night.
Perks: Hot tub, Smart TV, pet-friendly, dedicated workspace
Entering the Palo Estate Airbnb is a bit like walking into a catalogue set for refined living. Take the Mario Bellini–like cloud sofa, the rattan-wrapped dining chairs, or the carved headboard set against the deep red limewashed walls of the bedroom. The property has a fully equipped kitchen with plenty of dinnerware for a small crowd (the space sleeps up to six guests), so dinner parties get the green light. Other bespoke details include sumptuous linens, a stone sink, and poolside lounge chairs made for dozing off.
As if the design of this three-bedroom home wasn’t enough, there is a custom heated pool to get you in the Southern California spirit and a 45-minute drive away from the spoils of Palm Springs. The beauty of renting a spot beyond the city is that it gets you closer to Joshua Tree National Park—this spot is also a short drive away from one of the park’s entrances, plus close to the antique shops and cafes of Yucca Valley’s Western Hills Estates neighborhood. Be prepared to stay at least two nights here (though you might as well make it a long weekend or take the week to soak in the beauty of your surroundings). From $1,255 a night.
Perks: 5-minute drive from downtown Palm Springs, BBQ, sun loungers, historic architecture
The designer of the iconic Trixie Motel, Dani Dazey went all out on this three-bedroom midcentury home located at the foot of the San Jacinto Mountain, while architect William Krisel also played a part in bringing the butterfly-shaped roof to life. The orange-and-yellow color theme creates Creamsicle colorscapes that douse each room with a healthy dose of vitamin C. (Seriously, even the oven is orange. Our favorite detail may be the sofa, though, which is covered in an unforgettable floral fabric, but we’d be remiss not to mention the cowboy pool, firepit, and a hot tub in the backyard too. From $348 a night.
Perks: Saltwater pool, hot tub, dedicated workspace, pet-friendly
If orange interiors and Pop art aren’t your vibe, this two-bedroom is a 45-minute drive from the city and only 10 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. You can’t get further from the retro Movie Colony homes of Palm Springs than a Cycladic-inspired cave home. Despite being a nod to Greek architecture, the soft lines and natural color palette fit right into the desert landscape. The pool and spa are big draws and would easily fill a week of afternoons, but the sun-covered rooms inside are a treat. The design is open-plan, making it a good family-friendly option or ideal for a group of buddies. The best place to snooze might just be the arched bunk bed nook adjacent to the kitchen. No single-night stays here—guests have to commit to at least two nights. From $1,798 a night.
Perks: Listening room, smart TV, board games, BBQ
Located within 10 minutes of three golf courses, this three-bedroom home boasts a few perks that set it at the top of our list: great views of the surrounding San Jacinto mountains, a resort-style backyard the whole family will love, and a king-size bed in every sleeping space. You’ll also find a listening room that inspired the home’s name, fully equipped with a Victrola record player and plenty of vinyl. Outside, a pool and hammocks await, but guests can also partake in a (friendly!) game of giant Jenga, bocce ball, or cornhole. The firepit is there for anyone who just wants to cheer from the sidelines. Like most other rentals on this list, there’s a two-night minimum for bookings.
Perks: Chef’s kitchen, smart TV, Aesop toiletries, rainfall showers, alfresco bath tub
You’re going to want to snap a few selfies as you chill in the pink-and-white checkerboard private pool at this two-bedroom rental. Tucked into five acres covered with Joshua trees (which are actually a type of succulent), this home goes all in on natural touches, like stone tiles and Roman clay walls. The pool is obviously a big draw, but the poolside lounge area should be the destination for afternoon disco naps. Pull yourself away from the outdoor living space and step inside, where the beds are from Tempur-Pedic and one of the bathrooms features an alfresco bathtub. You may be a quick drive from Joshua Tree National Park but dedicate at least one night to sitting around the firepit and gazing up at the stars. From $1,399 a night.
Perks: BBQ, washer/dryer, hot tub, smart TV, free parking
This poolside casita might just be the coolest spot to sleep for an angsty teen or a couple traveling with family. Between this space and the main house, six people can sleep comfortably across three bedrooms decorated with design-forward pieces such as an Eames lounge chair. Each room comes drenched in color and prints, from the wallpapered kitchen to the butter-yellow accent wall in one of the bedrooms. The pool, hot tub, and firepit are all great daytime or post-sunset hangs, but the waterfall in the corner of the backyard offers a soundtrack that’ll send you far from the worries of daily life. Located in Tahquitz River Estates, guests have direct access to the nearby creek and its footpath—a great spot for walking, biking, or checking out the local wildlife. Make sure and take a walk around the neighborhood too; it’s one of the largest in Palm Springs with 1,100 homes and a wide portfolio of architecture styles. This one may be a better option for week-long trips, as the minimum stay is four nights. From $1,293 a night.
Perks: Fireplace, hot tub, bath tub, washer and dryer
There’s nothing better than jumping into a pool minutes after a tiring day-long hike—this two-bedroom can check both of those boxes. Another option located 10 minutes from an entrance to Joshua Tree National Park, this is the spot for those who want to get their hikes in early before spending the second half of the day in Palm Springs (sunrise walks are one of the best ways to experience the desert, after all). The interiors are a nod to the finca style of architecture, which features plaster counters and floors throughout the property. The best place to unwind is in front of the adobe fireplace with a movie on the indoor projector—after an alfresco dinner, of course. With a two-night minimum stay required for all bookings, it’s the perfect long weekend getaway. From $1,200 a night.
Perks: Private courtyard, smart TV, wood-burning stove, outdoor shower
The time capsule that is Pioneertown is a quick 15-minute drive away from this two-bedroom property in the high desert. Easy access to Joshua Tree National Park is the real draw, and you’re only a quick walk away from great bouldering spots if you’re looking to stay even closer to home. Make sure you spend some time in the hot tub (it’s the best spot for stargazing). The interiors are set in serene creams and neutrals and complement the 360-degree desert views, from the bay window bench in the primary bedroom to the octagon-shaped windows in the bathrooms, with stylish vintage furniture anchoring each room. Guests also have the option of adding in-home yoga classes, massages, sound bath sessions, and a private chef for an additional fee. From $902 a night.
Perks: Propane BBQ, cactus garden, record player and portable speaker, hot tub
If you plan on splitting your time between Joshua Tree and Palm Springs, consider staying somewhere in between. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms sprinkled throughout this wood-paneled, cabinlike space that straddles the two regions. The stargazing deck and cowboy pool set the scene for cozy nights at the Rancho Morongo, though you can also start your day there in the outdoor bathtub each morning and take in the 360-degree desert views. Coziness is the ultimate vibe of this rustic getaway, where you can rock in a Thonet-inspired bentwood chair next to a wood-burning fireplace in winter. From $468 a night.
Perks: Sunrise views, board games, Keurig coffeemaker, Bluetooth speaker and radio
Living in Palm Springs is extra sweet, given the wide skies and expansive desert scenes, but this four-bedroom dome gives the landscape a sci-fi feel. The bedrooms are distributed over two structures (there’s a second dome with a king bed), and you’ve got everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay here—an office area for Zooming in from the desert, a standing desk with a treadmill for getting your steps in, and a fully stocked kitchen—though let’s be honest, you’ll want to book for the views: Even one blazing sunset here will remind you of why you booked in the first place. Plus, it’s a 15-minute drive to the city of Palm Springs and a 30-minute drive to the quaint Pioneertown. From $397 a night.
Perks: Stone fireplace, Nespresso machine, memory foam mattresses, outdoor TV
Every single space in this three-bedroom home has a connection of sorts to the stunning landscape outside, whether it’s the sliding doors that open to the pool from the living space or the private patio outside the primary bedroom. The interiors (which include a striking rock wall surrounding the fireplace) are modern and spacious, drawing on retro wallpaper and vibrant midcentury furnishings to liven up the place. Extra perks include a washer and dryer that make it an even more convenient place to set up some temporary roots. From $3,424 a night.
Perks: Stone fireplace, Nespresso machine, memory foam mattresses, outdoor TV, washer/dryer, outdoor firepit, pool, yard games
Every single space in this three-bedroom home has a connection of sorts to the stunning landscaping outside, whether it’s the sliding doors that open to the pool from the living space or the private patio outside the primary bedroom. The interiors are striking, with a black-stone-clad fireplace as the focal point. Outdoor living is basically a playground with plenty of seating—from alfresco dining to striped bean bag lounge chairs to pool floats. You can also camp yourself next to the outdoor firepit, should you want a break from splashing in the pool or bocce ball. Heads up: There is a four-night minimum to stay in this spot. From $1,598 a night.
Perks: Terrazzo flooring, piano, gas grill, chef’s kitchen
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 mementos like a baby grand piano distract you too much: Up-to-date touches are sprinkled throughout, such as high-end Viking appliances in 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. There’s a three-night minimum, but that’s the least amount of time you’d want to spend in this historic beauty anyway. From $15,930 a night.
Perks: Pet-friendly, outdoor fireplace, washer and dryer, hot tub
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 Bartlett Mountain or regain your energy with a BBQ feast 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 city-goers looking to escape extra noise, this spot is situated at the end of a quiet residential road.
From $719 a night.
Perks: Spa access, Smart TV, rain-head shower, memory foam mattress
Surround yourself with midcentury vibes in this one-bedroom casita (a two-night stay is the booking minimum). From the outdoor shower with a confetti-like backsplash, private firepit, and pool to the 1960s-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’ incredible restaurants. From $536 a night.
Perks: Pool, pet-friendly, washer and dryer, dedicated workspace
The interior design of Monterey Manor is something that warrants a magazine home tour—an asymmetrical stone-clad fireplace, eclectic art, and furniture to inspire a redesign of your own home. Designed by architect Albert Belden Crist, this three-bedroom home has plenty of floor-to-ceiling windows to flood the interiors with light. The main bedroom has private access to the adjoining patio so you can wake up and head straight to the pool. You’ll also find bicycles (and helmets!) so you can explore the nearby neighborhood. Two nights is the minimum, but we have a hunch you might want to stay longer. From $1,732 a night.
Perks: Walking distance to a national park, EV charging, Parachute linen bedding, juicer
Here’s a stunner nestled right in the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, close to downtown Palm Springs too but removed enough to enjoy the solitude and natural beauty of the park. The modern home has an airy open floor plan for chatting with your crew, plus two bedrooms for resting up. It’s tastefully decorated without sacrificing comfort, with stunning natural accents and floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. The sprawling outdoor space is where you’ll want to spend most of your time, between the plush couches, sunken conversation firepit, and wood pergola fitted with a dining area, hot tub, and cowboy pool. From $734 a night.
Perks: Pet-friendly, washer and dryer, Bluetooth sound system
Located in Yucca Valley, just a little north of Palm Springs, Casa Myka is a boho minimalist’s ideal getaway. The desert cabin, which sits on 130 acres of private land and can comfortably fit up to six, was designed by the local interior design team Acme 5. The space is full of whimsical touches, like a light fixture crafted from a branch, bed nooks, and an expansive dining table. Step outside to enjoy the fully equipped patio area that includes a hot tub, firepit, and grill, along with lovely panoramic views of the mountains and desert. From $456 a night.
Perks: Home theater with projector, game room, dedicated workspace, washer and dryer
Everything about this Yucca Valley adobe-style desert ranch home looks and feels like a dream. The interior is airy, bohemian, and minimalist—not unlike Casa Myka. Outside, you can find beautiful views, a firepit for late-night hangouts, a hammock for afternoon naps, loungers for tanning in the desert sun, and a private hot tub (because, why not?). You can even bask in the infrared sauna. With two bedrooms and plenty of room for up to six guests, it’s easy to see how this house became a “guest favorite.” From $1,398 a night.
