What comes to mind for many people when they think of the California coastline are the sunny beaches near Los Angeles and the foggy waterfront of San Francisco. These two areas are a tiny fraction of all that the Golden State’s coast has to offer. One of the prettiest stretches of waterfront in the world is the Central Coast of California, where tree-lined mountains cascade dramatically into the sea. There are dozens of towns along Route 101, the highway that winds along the coast, where you could base a trip to the area, but consider staying in the pretty town of Cambria. Some of the best places to visit in Cambria are Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Friends of the Elephant Seal, and Hearst San Simeon State Park. Right in the town of Cambria there are tons of naturally beautiful spots too, like Moonstone Beach and Fiscalini Ranch Preserve. If exploring this gorgeous part of California is on your bucket list, read on to know more about the best vacation rentals in Cambria, CA.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. Charming and cozy studio suite (from USD 91)
Tucked away in a pretty surrounding garden, this private studio rental looks like something out of a story book. The rental is for a private guest suite with room for two people. It is a very cozy space with a king bed and seating area in the main room. There is also a kitchenette with a microwave, fridge, and toaster, and supplies to make coffee or tea. The studio has floor to ceiling windows that bring in sunshine and make you feel like you’re part of the garden. You can also sit out on the private deck to take in the peaceful, woodsy atmosphere.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room and bathroom had great amenities and we enjoyed the unobstructed view of the stars at nighta very nice place where the bed has direct view of the star lightthe mattress was sooo comfortablethe amenities showed her thoughtfulness and the suite was comfortablethe space was perfect with a big comfortable bed huge bathroom and nice private deckCleanliness:
beautiful clean spacevery clean and comfortablethe room is spacious very clean and extremely comfortablesuper clean and also has such a nice gardenit is clean bright and beautifully decorated with plantsHost:
ann-marie was quick to respond to any questions we had and she provided lots of helpful tipsann-marie was a great hostannemarie was the perfect host giving us tips of a delicious bakery in cambriaeasy to find comfortable and a great hostshe's so accommodating and makes everything easyRead more reviewsLocation:
great location very private and specialalthough quiet the location was very close to town and local attractionsgreat stay in cambria close to many restaurantslocated on a quiet side street in a beautiful gardenneighborhood location was super quiet for a good night's sleep
2. Studio apartment ideal for nature lovers (from USD 125)
If you love staying out in nature but desire an accommodation with a few more comforts than a tent, check out this cozy studio apartment. The apartment is located within walking distance of beautiful wooded trails as well as the beach. You can also be in town in five minutes, so you won’t be anyplace too rustic. The studio is sized for two guests with a memory foam double bed, a kitchenette, and plenty of entertainment options like books, games, WiFi, and cable television. Guests also have access to a pretty back patio surrounded by palm trees with a double hammock and even a barbecue.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
easy driveway parking lovely electric heater tv that has every movie channel you can imaginecozy space with a beautiful patio for morning coffeethe cottage is very quaint it is quite comfortable with a lovely patioquiet comfortable with many amenitieswould have liked a queen or larger bedCleanliness:
so clean spacious and comfortableit was quiet and cleanthe space was clean and had all essentialseverything was impeccably clean with thoughtful touches adding up to an overall cozy and comforting stayperfectly clean cozy place with everything we needed for a weekend stayHost:
mary anne was an awesome hostmary anne is a wonderful hostmary anne was a lovely hosthost is friendly and accommodatinggreat accommodations and friendly helpful hostRead more reviewsLocation:
very nice place and locationthis wonderful place is close to townlocation is perfect close to town and the beachgreat location and hostsclose to beautiful trails and beaches
3. Pretty private suite with stunning ocean views (from USD 106)
If you’re traveling to Cambria, you’re without a doubt there to see the breathtaking California coastline. Why not see it every day of your stay right from the windows of your rental? This private guest suite overlooks the ocean, with only a few pine trees separating you from the Pacific. It is a very homey place with room for two guests. There is a small kitchen, and the hosts generously provide continental breakfast each morning. This apartment is just a five-minute walk away from the nature preserve, which has many trails that go right up the water’s edge. Some trails are boardwalks, so don’t worry about taking a strenuous hike if you don’t want to. Either way, the best way to end your day is by soaking in the accommodation’s hot tub under the night sky.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the apartment and views were amazingthe breakfast’s were much appreciated and i loved the beautiful flowers on the tray and in the rentalgreat breakfast spread w fresh flowers good coffee very clean and comfortableyes i said breakfast traysthe breakfasts were also a lovely touchCleanliness:
the place was immaculately clean impeccably maintainedvery nice clean and quietthe accommodation was sparkling clean and spaciousclean room good communication extra touches continental breakfastbeautiful apartment that was truly spotlessHost:
stevan and lori are wonderful hostsstevan and lori are great hoststhe hosts are very nicestevan and lori are great hosts) the hosts are friendly and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is great as wellbeautiful accommodations in a secluded neighborhood just a short walk to the beachgood restaurants and things to do close bybeautiful little place the get awayyou can walk/hike to an oceanside park and great restaurants and shops are a 5 minute drive
4. Beautiful private home perfect for a large group (from USD 310)
This spacious Cambria vacation house rental is a great spot if you’re traveling with family or a large group of friends. With three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, it comfortably hosts up to eight guests. You’ll feel right at home with the full house at your disposal, including a fully-equipped kitchen, washer and dryer, and a gas fireplace. The home has lots of living space inside as well as outside, where you can relax on the private backyard patio shaded by flourishing trees.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the kitchen was well stocked for cookingThe kitchen was well-stocked as wellIt was a little rundown with very cheap furnishings and interiorsI need a pet free homeYou can even watch the sunset from the living room It’sCleanliness:
It was very clean and close to townThe vacation rental was very cleanI recommend this vacation rental Reviewer Comments:The house was beautiful and cleanThe kitchen had pantry items which was very niceThe home was clean and tidyHost:
I was more than happy with the locationI was very happy with the locationI was very happy with the locationI was very happy with the locationI was very happy with the locationRead more reviewsLocation:
Robin's is a wonderful place to eat in Cambria )We enjoyed this relaxing location and homeToo bad the neighbor's tree blocks a lot of the viewIt's just a few blocks away from a nice little cove with a benchIt was just a short walk to Shamel Park and the beach from the home
5. Romantic getaway right next to town (from USD 242)
The perfect romantic getaway for two! This cozy little home is a great pick for couples who desire a bigger accommodation than just a suite or apartment. It has one bedroom with a luxurious attached bath that boasts heated towel rods and floors. The fully-stocked kitchen has brand new appliances, or you can grill up your meals on the barbecue outside. In the backyard there is also a gorgeous covered dining area that is an ideal place to take in the morning birdsong with a cup of coffee, or the starry nighttime sky with a glass of wine.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The bed was so comfyPlease do not display my comments:The property manager was more than helpfulThe kitchen had everything you could ever needIt's comfortable well situated in town and well stocked with all we needed Thanks again for the hospitalityCleanliness:
The vacation rental was very cleanI was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rentalI was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rentalI was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rentalI was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rentalHost:
We cooked breakfast one morning and barbecued one eveningAbsolutely love this cottage and hope to return again soonAmazingly they have made most of the space with an outdoor patio easily accessed up the hill that feels like its remote and private We would definitely stay againI was very happy with the locationI was very happy with the locationRead more reviewsLocation:
The charm does not endGreat location Loved walking to breakfast in the morning and dinner at nightjust a short stroll down the hill to Main St that provides easy access to several restaurants and the local wine shopI recommend this vacation rental Reviewer Comments:This house is charming and adorable and a perfect location within Cambria with easy access to many retail locations and restaurantsThe yard is not secure for small dogs but plenty of safe leash walking area close by Beautiful scenic hikes and drives near by Would definitely come back
6. Rustic and cozy cottage on a hillside (from USD 175)
Perched on a small hillside and surrounded by terraced gardens and Monterey pines, this cozy cottage is equal parts rustic and sophisticated. It has warm, wood-paneled walls and a gas stove in the bedroom to make things feel cozy. Tons of sunshine streams in through the skylights and the large window seats, both of which are cushioned for comfort. The window seats are the perfect spot for both occupants to take in the woodsy views of the canyon, preferably while wearing the complimentary bath robes the host provides. There is WiFi but no television, so come here prepared to unplug and unwind!
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
It was quiet comfortableIt was our wedding anniversaryPeter loves to cook and was in heaven in your kitchenso quiet and wonderfully appointedOur stay at the cottage was very nice and cozyCleanliness:
I can't think of enough words to say how wonderful it wasHost:
nice property very goodOverall 10/10 Lizza and John's home was perfectI love to get up early and read and write and those window seats were inspirationalWe needed somewhere peaceful to recharge our batteries after some sad newsOur experience was easy quiet and relaxing Great couples getawayRead more reviewsLocation:
The Garden Cabin is incredibly peacefulThe garden cottage retreat is just that - a retreat that allows relaxation to settle into ones poresIt is located close to the village for restaurants if wanted I shopped at the local market and ate all my meals in the gardensWe were looking for a relaxing getaway from our busy lives in Los AngelesEverything one could want for a peaceful weekend away from everything
7. Peaceful cabin in a tranquil setting (from USD 205)
While it may look like a log cabin from the outside, this gorgeous rental is an elevated version of the traditional rustic getaway. Inside it is a spacious, open-concept home with high ceilings and lots of natural light. It can sleep four guests in two bedrooms, and is pet friendly too. Though it’s just a short drive to all the area’s sights, the cabin is peacefully secluded in a wooded area. You can enjoy the sounds and sights of nature out on the porch, which has seating and tables, or by taking a stroll through the surrounding grounds.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
Super comfortable bed and uncomfortable sofaThe living room room furniture could certainly use updatingThere is a shower in the downstairs bathroom 4it felt spacious because of the high ceilingsSaw deer from the kitchen window Living room sofa could use an update but overall happy with the stayCleanliness:
The cottage was clean and quaintThe vacation rental was very cleanThe vacation rental was very cleanThe vacation rental was very cleanI was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rentalHost:
Loved hearing the birds and wild turkeys each morningI was more than happy with the locationI was very happy with the locationI was very happy with the locationI was very happy with the locationRead more reviewsLocation:
(This sort of backyard is not unusual in Cambria by the way )The cottage is in a great location just down the road from the Cambria Pines Lodge--perfect for outdoor dining in the lovely gardens--and at the East End of Cambria near the French Bakery excelle...The cottage is in a great location just down the road from the Cambria Pines Lodge--perfect for outdoor dining in the lovely gardens--and at the East End of Cambria near the French Bakery excelle...Nice little house in a great location in Cambria - near everything Very comfortable and very peacefulPeaceful and relaxing inside and out great place
8. Historic cottage ideal for pet owners (from USD 139)
If you’re looking for vacation rentals in Cambria, CA that are pet-friendly, then this listing will be perfect for you. This cozy cottage dates back to the 1920s and has authentic historical touches inside, like the large stone fireplace. It has room for four guests in two bedrooms, one of which is located in a loft with sloped ceilings. While the historic charm is what makes this place special, note that the stairs to the loft are steep and the home is not baby-proofed. It is a great pick for those with dogs, as it has a secure, fenced-in yard, and is 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from a beach that welcomes dogs on leashes. The home is also a short walk down a trail to the center of town.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The kitchen is nicely stocked for your cooking needsThey have everything you need in the bathroom as wellWe were able to sleep well on the comfy beds and cooked some meals in the cozy kitchenIt was just the right size for a family of four; very close to everything; a nice quiet street; very cozy and comfortable insideIn fact it is so quietHost:
They had the run of the yardThe reason I gave four stars was due to a couple of small things we were disappointed about no grill and no microwave other than those things for usIn fact the body wash was so niceThe owner Cassandra greeted us with a nice bottle of wine and inside was treats and bowls for the dogs to enjoyThe hosts were in touch and very responsiveRead more reviewsLocation:
Deer are just roaming around the neighborhoodbut it's not a deal-breaker by any meansWe really enjoyed relaxing there after spending the day exploring the area around CambriaThe cottage was very quaint and located in a quiet residential neighborhoodThere are so many beautiful beaches to explore in this area and of course the Hearst Castle is a fun adventure as well
9. Custom-built home with forested canyon preserve views (from USD 234)
Those traveling with children and pets can consider staying at this beautiful and custom-built home in Cambria. It overlooks a forested canyon preserve providing seclusion and easy access to hiking trails and wildlife-viewing opportunities. This two-bedroom home also has a beautifully appointed living room with a fireplace, a lovely kitchen, a dining room, and two full bathrooms. Outside, there is a large wraparound deck with a fire pit and seating. Cambria Village is just a short drive away.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the amenities were off the charts amazing and both beds were extremely comfortablemuch better than a hotel the kitchen was well stocked and the views were incredibleour son loved sleeping in his own toddler bed excellent hosts and amazingly clean homeCleanliness:
everything is very clean and maintained wellthe house is clean cozy invitingthe place was nice and clean and had everything you neededthe house was very clean and had lots of thoughtful extrasthe place is so comfortable and super cleanHost:
the owner was incredibly responsiveowners are very responsivethey are the perfect hostskerrie was a fantastic hostfirst the hosts were greatRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect location close to everythinggreat location very short drive to beach and near hearst castlewell stocked kitchen and great locationbut glad i chose this placethe location is lovely and offers privacy without being too far from downtown cambria
10. Oceanview home close to Bluff Trail (from USD 215)
Located in a quiet neighborhood of Cambria, this beautiful home boasts easy access to the ocean and a five-minute walk to Bluff Trail starting point. With a pretty exterior and equally beautiful interior, this house has a spacious living room, three well-appointed bedrooms, modern bathrooms, a chic dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen. The front deck offers unending views of the ocean.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the furniture and beds were most comfortablethe wifi is blazing it’s downright amazingthe wifi was strong and maria was super responsivethe decorations are new and the furniture is quite comfortablea big kitchen with nice amenitiesCleanliness:
exceptionally clean and comfortable housesuper clean and beautiful houseit was clean and comfortablespotlessly clean comfortable well stocked with necessitiesappreciated the extra efforts during covid for a clean spaceHost:
the host was amazingmaria is an awesome hostmaria was a great hostlove the area home and hostmaria is a great host and i would definitely stay at her home againRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is perfectlovely house in an amazing locationa fantastic house really close to the beachher sunny hilltop location was only a short walk to the beach and ranch walklocation is perfect walking distance to the beach and we spotted deer roaming the neighborhood
11. Gorgeous house at a walking distance to the beach (from USD 325)
Enjoy a romantic getaway in Cambria by booking this stunning house that is located at a walking distance the beach. Shamel Park is also just a five-minute walk away. The gorgeous interior of the house follows an open floor plan in the dining and kitchen area. The well-furnished living room looks out to the deck from where you can take in mesmerizing views of the ocean. Two spacious bedrooms and bathrooms complete the interior of this house. You also have access to a patio with a barbecue grill and other outdoor areas with a fire pit, comfy seating, and more.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
everything from wifi to the furnace worked very wellCleanliness:
very clean and well taken care ofwell equipped clean great bedshouse was beautifully clean and very comfortableit was clean and cute and everything you could possibly needgreat location with beautiful views the house was super clean comfortable and well appointed with a lovely kitchenHost:
rating details:the property manager was very helpfulrating details:the property manager was very helpfulrating details:the property manager was very helpfulrating details:the property manager was very helpfulrating details:the property manager was very helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
i was very happy with the locationi was very happy with the locationi was very happy with the locationi was very happy with the locationi was very happy with the location
12. Furnished house with Moonstone Beach views (from USD 225)
If you wish to stay close to Moonstone Beach during your holiday in Cambria, then book this fully furnished single-level home. It is located at a walking distance from this famous beach. This family-friendly home can accommodate up to four guests in its two comfy bedrooms, a gorgeous living room, a beautiful dining area, a full kitchen and two bathrooms. Savor Moonstone Beach views from the outdoor deck that has a barbecue grill too. Your pets can stay here too, for an additional fee.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
towels were spotted and old but cleanthe house was clean and comfortablethe house was clean and had all the plates silverware etcthe vacation rental was very cleanthe vacation rental was very cleanHost:
the home looked well cherished and admired by the ownersrating details:the property manager was very helpfulrating details:the property manager was very helpfulrating details:the property manager was very helpfulrating details:the property manager was very helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
overall would recommend this locationgreat location and has all the toucheswalking to town is easywe were on a trip to hearst castle and it was a perfect location for the destinationviews are amazing location was perfect and close to everywhere we wanted to go
13. Centrally located family home (from USD 438)
For a relaxed family holiday close to the ocean, consider booking this centrally located house. The ocean, beaches, Shamel Park, Fiscalini Ranch and Moonstone Beach are all located at a walking distance from this vacation rental. Contemporary decor can be seen in the living area, dining and kitchen areas. Four spacious bedrooms and bathrooms are also available in this house. From the front deck, enjoy views of the ocean with a glass of wine in hand.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
i traveled with 3 other women and we so appreciated having our own rooms and plenty of bathroomsCleanliness:
this is a lovely property very clean and well appointedthis property is absolutely gorgeous and so clean the photos just don’t do it justiceHost:
the owners take great care and pridethe owners where so helpful and kind we will be backour host terry was the most generous and made us feel so welcomedRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect location perfect homethis is a spacious beautiful and well-appointed property close to beachit’s very close to the ocean and is wonderful place to getaway with friendsthis property was amazing steps away from an ocean front and down the street from a lovely hiking preservethe beds are wonderfully comfortable and the neighborhood is very quiet at night
14. Woodsy cottage in a rustic setting
Those looking for vacation home rentals in Cambria, CA can consider this woodsy cottage instead. This cool cottage will feel a bit like an Airbnb version of a sleep-away camp! The cottage is nestled in a forest setting that provides beautiful scenery by day and the chirping of crickets by night. It can sleep two adults and one child in the bedroom and living room, which has a futon. The cottage also has a kitchen which has almost everything you could need, but there is no oven. The host generously provides beverages, treats and snacks, and even a bottle of local wine or cider upon your arrival. You can entertain yourself right around the cottage by playing games on the communal deck or hiking in the nearby nature preserve, Fiscalini Ranch, where you might spot sea birds and otters.
Cambria, California, United StatesSuperhostAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
tons of amenities including breakfast foods like muffins and waffles slippers teas coffee etcalso a generous array of snacks and breakfast foodsthe apartment is a sweet cozy space with all the amenities one would needthe bed and linens were amazingly wonderfulthey had a delicious breakfast for us and all the amenities we neededCleanliness:
the space is comfortable clean and cozyeleanor's room was very spacious and cleanthe space was very clean and equipped with everything we needed and morebest welcomes and a very nice place to stay clean and great locationclean cozy and close to town and the beachHost:
they were very helpful with recommendationsthey were extremely responsivebill and eleanor were wonderful hostsbill and eleanor are the perfect hostsbill and eleanor were such gracious hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
location was perfectgood location right off the highwaywonderful place in a great locationlovely quiet locationthe location is easily accessible and close to all of the local attractions
15. Fully-equipped cottage with hot tub (from USD 285)
The hosts of this cottage have equipped the rental so thoughtfully and meticulously that you won’t have to pack anything extra for your stay—just bring yourselves and your adventurous spirits! The home can accommodate five guests in two bedrooms, one of which has an adjustable massaging bed. The kitchen is fully stocked with coffee and tea, dinnerware and cookware, and even oils and spices to accompany any ingredients you buy. For entertainment, each room has its own smart TV and there are also lots of board games and books to choose from. There’s also a hot tub outside, which is great for relaxing after a long day of hiking or sightseeing.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
The kitchen is modern and stocked with everything you might need to prepare foodThe kitchen has everything one would need and is newly refurbishedThe living room is cozy and super comfortable for those relaxing eveningsThe outdoor space is ample and quaint great space for enjoying morning coffee and another private paradise with hot tubkitchen nice barbecue and the private courtyard with hot tub was icing on the cakeCleanliness:
bright nicely decorated clean and invitingIt was so comfortable immaculately clean and beautifully decoratedEverything was exactly as advertisedThe master bath is gorgeousThe house is spotless and decorated with special touchesHost:
Diane went out of her way to make sure we were made to feel welcome Would definitely consider staying here againNo issues Good communication with ownerDiane was a joy to work withWe enjoyed evenings roasting marshmallows with my son by the big fire pit and ended our evenings relaxing in the jacuzziWe struck gold with Cambria andRead more reviewsLocation:
It's perfectly located close to charming restaurants and shopsThe hot tub was a great way to end a day of exploringand through the lovely gardens at Cambria PinesThe surrounding neighborhood is plush with greenery and easy on the eyesMy biggest wish was to take my newly widowed mom and my aunt who was visiting from Germany on a relaxing vacation
Charming, peaceful, and full of adventure
Driving through the Central Coast of California on Highway 101 is the road trip of a lifetime. The Central Coast is almost unearthly in its beauty, and you could spend a lifetime seeing all of the beautiful places in the area. Whether you are taking a grand West Coast road trip and need a place to stay overnight, or want to stay in a cute town for an extended visit, Cambria is a great spot to see all that the region has to offer. And you can choose from several Airbnb or Vrbo vacation rentals in Cambria as a great base for your trip.
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