Top 10 Beachfront Airbnbs In California, USA - Updated 2024

Louise
Louise 
Updated
| 5 min read

Located on the western side of the US, California is a scenic state that is famed for its diverse landscapes. Highly urbanized metropolises, mountainous terrains, lush forests, and breathtaking Pacific beaches dominate the state. Top-visited cities, such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, are found in this state. Adventure-seekers can enjoy reconnecting with nature in the Sierra Nevada mountains, while Wine Country is a popular destination for couples and friends looking for a good time. If it’s relaxation and stunning sceneries you’re after, your best option is to spend the holidays in oceanfront dwellings. To give you an idea of where to find them, browse through this list of the top beachfront Airbnbs in California, USA.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and location with easy access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.

1. Seamist Beach Cottage in Bodega Bay (from USD 429)

Daydreaming of a seaside getaway in Bodega Bay? Make it a reality by booking this beachfront cottage ahead of time. It has a rustic charm brightened by lots of natural light that permeates through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Its elevated location makes the ocean scenery even more spectacular, and they can be enjoyed from inside.

When not indulging in a saltwater swim, you can relax by the fire on the balcony or watch movies in the living space. You can enjoy a soak in the hot tub while taking in the views, as well.

Stayed at this property?
Bodega Bay, California, United States
77.23 km (48.0 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
302 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire cottage 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great view living room furniture and bed could be more comfortable
wifi could be much improved
stunning view of the ocean from the living room and deck
the view is spectacular it was cozy but comfortable for our family of four
cozy cottage with a beautiful view of a beautiful private beach
Cleanliness:
cottage is exceptionally clean
very clean and beautiful but a lot smaller then in the pictures
the location was breathtaking and the cottage itself was clean organized and cozy
Host:
loved that snacks and champagne were left by host :) definitely would love to stay here again
we appreciated the bottle of wine the host provided us upon arrival
nice extra touches provided by the host with wine and snacks upon your arrival
the host was very responsive and everything was clean
nice touch from the host with wine and snacks
Location:
lots of cute shops tucked in along miles of ocean beaches
this was a great location for our family
absolutely great location direct access to the beach
Read more reviews

2. Serene abode in Gualala with stunning views (from USD 401)

If it’s serenity and bliss you seek, this secluded retreat located steps from the Pacific Ocean might pique your interest. It is surrounded by lush greenery; once you gaze through the window, all you will see is nature views. Upon arrival, you will be gifted with a Mendocino County wine as a welcoming gift.

Although this accommodation only has one bedroom, four guests are welcome to stay. The living room’s sofa bed can be used as another sleeping area. Planning to bring a pet? Note that this Airbnb charges a fee for each fur baby.

Stayed at this property?
Gualala, California, United States
144.97 km (90.1 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
291 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cottage 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
loved the view and the tide pools
the kids slept great on the sofa bed too
the cottage was just perfect the bed was super comfortable and it really had everything we needed
we loved scoping out the tide pools and finding treasures during low tide
my toddler enjoyed the hot tub and exploring the tide pools down the mini switch back trail
Cleanliness:
the space is very clean and a joy to be in
the house is super clean
the cottage is super clean and spacious
incredibly friendly hosts and a very clean interior
the place was super clean when we arrived we had fresh eggs and local coffee beans
Host:
marykate was a wonderful host answering all of our questions and giving great recommendations
marykate is a great host
the host communicated very well and very helpful
katy and gregg are so kind and feel like family
marykate and gregg are fantastic hosts who will treat you like family
Location:
breathtaking location wonderful hosts
the most amazing location you can imagine so worth the trip there on hwy 1
a perfect place to come relax and forget about everything
awesome location and cottage a one stop destination
beautiful location and gracious host
Read more reviews

3. Pet-friendly and stylish retreat in Westport (from USD 235)

This interesting 1890’s vacation rental was once a blacksmith shop. It has survived the test of time and lived long enough to become a stylish accommodation that lures Instagram-savvy tourists and sun-seekers. Its close proximity to the Pacific Ocean is another reason travelers love it. You can go on a short walk and find yourself on a tranquil beach.

The best part? You can bring your fur baby with you. The beach is a welcoming playground for four-legged companions. Plus, you will have access to a backyard where you can play fetch with your pet and admire ocean scenery.

Stayed at this property?
Westport, California, United States
227.2 km (141.2 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
541 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire cottage 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the living room is comfortable and cozy with a fireplace in the corner
and a huge “roadside attraction” whale fountain in the yard the house is comfortable and clean with great beds
Cleanliness:
the house is incredibly comfortable clean and equipped
Host:
kyle is an excellent host
kyle you are an amazing host and have a way of making people feel like you care
kyle is a gracious host and was quick and easy to communicate with
kyle is a superb host and has created an inspirational and rejuvenating spot in his blacksmith shoppe turned home
kyle is so helpful kind and very responsive
Location:
we absolutely loved the location
beautiful location funky and cozy house
great location in between fort bragg and leggett
this is the perfect place for remote but not too remote beach experience
kyle has a very unique space with an amazing location
Read more reviews

4. Sunny love nest in San Rafael for two (from USD 155)

Planning to surprise the love of your life with a spontaneous holiday in the coastal paradise of San Rafael? Make this bright and sunny studio your home for the weekend. It welcomes two guests, and it has the beach as its next-door neighbor. Since it comes with expansive windows, guests can enjoy picturesque views in comfort, even when they’re just curling up in bed.

If you want to enjoy the scenery in the open air, you can chill in on the terrace and treat yourself to some alfresco dining.

Stayed at this property?
San Rafael, California, United States
15.16 km (9.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
686 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire bungalow 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
not only was the view amazing but the bed was extra comfortable
the breakfasts we had at the table in the mornings were memorable and visually stunning
Cleanliness:
i appreciated how clean the room was
what a great spot stunning very comfortable and clean
home was very clean and comfortable and best of all the view was amazing
Host:
mark & mona were great hosts
the hosts were incredibly communicative understanding and helpful
Location:
beautiful small bungalow in a great location
great location take note to go all the way to the bottom of the pathway
what a beautiful place to stay right on top of the water
mark's place was breathtaking at every turn
really a special place
Read more reviews

California Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

Stephanie Eley

I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more

Tours by Stephanie

5. Lovely beach house in Fort Bragg with a hot tub (from USD 350)

Housing two comfortable bedrooms, three beds, and a private bathroom, this beachfront Airbnb is perfect for a medium-sized group. What’s more, pets are just as welcome as their owners in this abode; all you have to do is pay a daily fee.

Besides the functional amenities you’ll find indoors, such as a fully equipped kitchen with a breakfast nook, a wood burner, and WiFi, you will also be delighted with the features found in the great outdoors. You will have access to a fire pit, beach chairs, a hot tub, and uninterrupted sea views.

Stayed at this property?
Fort Bragg, California, United States
218.07 km (135.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
134 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cottage 3 Beds 3 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we enjoyed the hot tub the amenities and the cozy vibe of the cottage
fantastic cozy place with amazing backyard and view
amazing view very comfortable home with all you need we had a great stay
we loved the private nature-filled space with plenty of room for our dogs to run around
location and view is phenomenal we loved our family time in this cozy cottage
Cleanliness:
the cottage is clean and private
the place was very clean
very clean and comfy beds eve was also great at communicating before arrival after and during check out
this place is really nice and clean
the cottage was very clean & as described
Host:
the host was very responsive
the host is incredibly responsive and polite
eve is a great host and her place is the perfect combination of remote and accessible
our host was truly amazing and very communicative
it's just an overall amazing experience provided by an amazing host
Location:
what a perfect location
this house was absolutely perfect for the two of us beautiful setting and a great location
we explored up the coast and down into fort bragg the perfect location for our plans
this place was perfect for a weekend
i having been coming up to the fort bragg for years and this place was a piece of paradise
Read more reviews

6. Cozy retreat in Sea Ranch with pool access (from USD 357)

if you are looking for accommodations in Sea Ranch, go for dwellings with a view. Lucky for you, this Airbnb on the coast has spectacular ocean scenery. Aside from that, it has miles of scenic hiking trails nearby, perfect for active vacationers. You will also have access to shared amenities, such as sports courts and swimming pools.

After an action-packed day, you can find comfort and peace of mind in this charming rustic retreat that comes with WiFi, letting you post your holiday happenings on your socials.

Stayed at this property?
Sea Ranch, California, United States
123.21 km (76.6 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
187 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 3 Beds 4 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the views the light big open floor plan and comfortable beds
we also appreciated the indoor table overlooking the water
great location glorious views well equipped kitchen with lots of space for multiple cooks and eaters
incredible views from every room easy trail access to stunning beaches comfortable layout and a truly restful stay
casa del mar was a great home with spectacular views in a very comfortable setting
Cleanliness:
the house itself is clean and spacious
joe and cindy have kept the place very clean and are very responsive to emails and phone calls
Host:
host that truly care
great host amazing home and beautiful scenery
the owners are communicative and incredibly gracious to open up this absolutely incredible home
this is a beautiful house joe and cindi are wonderful hosts
joe and cindi are wonderful hosts our stay at casa del mar was amazing
Location:
superb location and facilities
incredible location in a true architectural gem
gorgeous location and the perfect place to spend a family weekend
great location for walks and exploring beaches
the location is so peaceful and the house was perfect for our stay
Read more reviews

7. Superb villa in Oxnard with quick access to the sea (from USD 219)

Nothing compares to a holiday with a view. If you agree, this beachfront villa is the right fit for you. With the sea almost right at your doorstep, you can enjoy picture-perfect views 24/7. In your downtime, you can drift into a lounge chair while marveling at the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

In terms of amenities, this Airbnb comes with one bedroom, a private bathroom, and an open-plan living and dining area that opens onto the Oxnard coastline.

Stayed at this property?
Oxnard, California, United States
507.73 km (315.5 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
477 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire villa 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean charming and decorated
it was clean and tidy
the place is calming clean and spacious
beautiful house quiet and clean
the location is 10/10 communication was great and it was very clean
Host:
suzy was extremely communicative and was there to help us if we had any questions
communication with the host was always quick and helpful
we didn’t hear them the whole time and they are very accommodating and awesome people
Location:
the location is beautiful since you’re literally on the beach
great place and great location
location of the apartment is great
the location is fantastic - perfect for kids
great place right on the beach amazing location traffic was light getting there too
Read more reviews

8. Romantic home in Muir Beach with outdoor hot tub (from USD 409)

To say that this Airbnb vacation rental is one of the most romantic retreats in California is an understatement. It has all the ingredients for a fabulous and memorable getaway, such as tastefully furnished interiors with hardwood flooring and floor-to-ceiling windows.

It also has a wonderful oceanfront location. There are sun loungers where you can soak in vitamin D with the love of your life. To spice up your stay, head to the outdoor hot tub, where you can experience delightful dips under the Californian skies. Plus, San Francisco is a good 20-minute drive away, convenient whenever you fancy a little road trip.

Stayed at this property?
Muir Beach, California, United States
4.54 km (2.9 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
286 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bedroom and main room heaters work great for taking the chill out of the air
love sigward’s place amazing views very comfortable space
there is no television (mentioned in the listing) and it was awesome to be unplugged for the weekend
we enjoyed the beautiful view of the ocean from the living room and the bed room
the fireplace in the living room and room was the perfect touch for a relaxing getaway
Cleanliness:
place is clean and cozy
cozy clean and comfortable
Host:
but the host was communicative and the home had everything you need; we will definitely come again
fast responsive service via email and text
sigward is a very good host he is very responsive and understanding
very good communication from host
amazing place for a getaway and sigward was an exceptional host
Location:
the location was truly epic
the location of this place is incredible the pictures don’t do it justice
fantastic location hot tub was amazing while listening to the ocean waves
we decided to do a couple days away during the pandemic and were so happy with the location
what a wonderful place
Read more reviews

9. Convenient townhouse in Monterey with a balcony (from USD 150)

Treat yourself to a change of scenery by staying in this oceanfront townhouse in Monterey. Surprise your colleagues with the view of Del Monte Beach. Thanks to the spectacular ocean scenery it offers, your creative juices will flow freely. Plus, this Airbnb has WiFi and plenty of possible workspaces.

After a day filled with meetings and online work, you can relax on the terrace while downing some drinks, swim in the community pool, or frolic at the beach.

Stayed at this property?
Monterey, California, United States
149.94 km (93.2 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
16 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire townhouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
tom was an excellent host
he was quick to respond to questions and was very helpful
Location:
the house is in a great location and is within walking distance of many local attractions
Read more reviews

10. Spacious guesthouse in Malibu for 16

Make your Malibu getaway extra memorable by taking all your loved ones with you in this luxurious abode with 12 bedrooms and 7 baths, perfect for up to 16 guests. Your fur babies are welcome, as well. Since it is situated along Point Dume Preserve State Park Bluffs, the views of Santa Monica Bay from this side of California are sure to take your breath away.

Aside from quick access to the beach, guests can also take advantage of a swimming pool and a hot tub. Also, this Airbnb comes with indoor and outdoor lounge areas and dining options. A tennis court is at your disposal, as well.

Stayed at this property?

542.9 km (337.4 mi) from Golden Gate National Recreation Area
42 reviews   Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 12 Beds 12 Guests 11 Bedrooms 7 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 12

Top guest reviews
Host:
john was the perfect host
john is a fantastic host
john was a great host and very responsive to any questions we have
john was the most amazing host we have ever had
john is an amazing host
Location:
the location was perfect
great location to just get away and be relaxed and away from the city
it’s the perfect location
this house and location are next level beautiful
outstanding property and location john is an incredible host
Read more reviews

Relish the views in California

California is a city for all tourists, whether you are into luxurious attractions or outdoor adventures. From wine tasting in Napa Valley to reliving your childhood memories in Disneyland Park, there is a lot that this city offers. Best of all, it has oceanfront accommodations that are tourist destinations in their own right, offering seclusion, scenery, and holiday bliss.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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