Airbnb Palm Desert, California: Studios, Apartments, Glamping, Guesthouses, Villas, Estates, & Mansions

12 Incredible Airbnbs in Palm Desert, California

Palm Desert is nestled in the picturesque Coachella Valley, just east of Palm Springs and two hours from Los Angeles. And with so many things to do, it’s no wonder why Palm Desert is such a popular destination. 

The city is best known for its world-famous golf courses, posh country clubs, excellent art galleries, and boutique shopping along El Paseo. But many people visit Palm Desert solely to lounge around the pool and soak up the desert sun!

Those who want a little bit of adventure won’t be disappointed. Palm Desert offers plenty of opportunities to hike along scenic trails, unwind in natural hot springs, or camp in the middle of the desert. There really is something for everyone.

Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family trip, a special romantic retreat, or an unforgettable weekend away with friends, there’s no doubt that you will find a unique Airbnb in Palm Desert that’s perfect for you. From luxury hillside villas to sprawling celebrity estates and secluded desert homes, the options are plentiful. 

Finding the perfect vacation home might seem overwhelming, so we have picked out 12 of the best Airbnbs in Palm Desert to make your decision just a little bit easier!

Top 10 Things To Do in Palm Desert

Palm Desert Airbnb: Studios, Apartments, Glamping, Guesthouses, Villas, Estates, & Mansions
  1. Get a workout on the popular Bump and Grind Trail. You’ll ascend 1,000 feet to get awesome views of Coachella Valley.
  2. Brunch like a local at Wilma & Frieda’s Cafe. Make sure to try their bacon-garnished Bloody Marys and short rib eggs Benedict.
  3. Take a magical hot air balloon ride and glimpse bird’s eye views of Coachella Valley.
  4. Go golfing at the renowned Palm Desert Resort Country Club.
  5. Stroll along El Paseo, home to the city’s best boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
  6. Check out the exotic desert animals and the beautiful botanical gardens at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.
  7. Catch a musical, comedy, or theatrical performance at McCallum Theatre.
  8. Take a tour of Desert Distilling and sample some handcrafted rum and artisanal spirits.
  9. Get cultured at the Desert Art Collection. The building is comprised of an impressive indoor art gallery and a beautiful sculpture-studded garden.
  10. Visit nearby Palm Springs and explore Palm Canyon Drive. The city’s main drag has excellent shopping and dining options.
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Why Stay in an Airbnb in Palm Desert

Why Stay in an Airbnb in Palm Desert, California

Staying in an Airbnb in Palm Desert comes with lots of perks. First off, you’ll have the chance to experience a local neighborhood instead of staying in a more touristy hotel. Locals are known for their friendly demeanor, which means you are likely going to get lots of travel and dining tips from your Airbnb host.  

The selection of cool Airbnbs in Palm Desert is extensive. You can opt for architecturally stunning homes on golf courses, secluded modern estates in the hills, or tiny homes in the middle of the desert. And by choosing to stay in an Airbnb, you’ll get way more value compared to a hotel. Most Palm Desert vacation homes are much nicer and more spacious than your average hotel room. 

Another added perk is that you’ll have a kitchen to prepare home-cooked meals. Although we definitely recommend sampling at least a few of Palm Desert’s famous restaurants!

Plus if you are traveling as a large group, an Airbnb will likely cost less per person than paying for multiple hotel rooms. This is especially true in the winter and spring months and during events like Coachella and Modernism Week when tourism is at its height.  

Search Hotels and Vacation Rentals in Palm Desert


The 12 Best Airbnbs in Palm Desert, California

Best Palm Desert Airbnbs for Couples and Solo Travelers

1. Designer Mid-Century Modern Condo Near El Paseo

Renowned architect Barry Berkus designed this quintessential California home in 1965. It was even featured on the prestigious Modernism Week 2020 Home Tour as an example of Palm Desert’s iconic mid-century modern design style!

You’ll find contemporary furniture, retro accents, and colorful paintings throughout this Palm Desert Airbnb. With a wood piano and a quirky vintage standalone fireplace, the living room is the picture-perfect place to unwind after a day exploring Palm Desert. There’s also a separate den where you can watch TV from the Pan Am style couch. 

With its funky floral wallpaper, the newly renovated kitchen is an absolute gem. The space features a mix of new and retro appliances, quartz countertops, a wine fridge, and everything you need to prepare your own meals. Whole Foods is just down the street if you need to shop for groceries. 

You’ll love the bedroom, which is outfitted with a plush king-size bed, designer bedding, peacock wall art, and a large flat-screen. You’ll also have access to a communal heated pool and hot tub. And if you want to hit the town, the El Paseo shopping district is just one mile away!

Check Price & Availability on vrbo


2. Tiny Glamping Home at Sky Valley Ranch

Cool Palm Desert Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals: Sky Valley Glamper
Images courtesy of Sky Valley Ranch Barn

This cargo container has been creatively converted into a tiny glamping home that’s set on three private acres between Palm Desert and Joshua Tree National Park. You’ll have all the creature comforts of home in the middle of the desert! This is definitely one of the most unique Airbnbs in Palm Desert and is a great option for couples wanting a romantic getaway or solo travelers who want to be at one with nature. 

Inside the cabin you’ll find a full-size bed, a sofa, lots of stylish decorations, and cute signs on the walls. The host provides a heater and AC so you’ll be comfortable any time of year. You can also close the insulated curtains during the day to help keep the space cool.

There’s a compost toilet and a hand pump sink with running water inside the container. You’ll find a solar-heated shower outside where you can bathe under the sun! 

Enjoy stunning mountain views from the large front porch. It’s the perfect spot to sip your morning coffee, do yoga, or relax with a book. Take advantage of the fire pit where you can warm up at night and enjoy views of the spectacular star-speckled sky. 

There are tons of hiking options and hot springs in the area and Palm Desert is a 30-minute drive to the south.

Check Price & Availability on booking.com

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3. Spacious Studio with Mountain Views

Best Airbnbs in Palm Desert, California: Mountain View Studio
Images courtesy of Airbnb

With stunning vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling picture windows, it’s hard to believe this spacious Airbnb is actually a studio. This 576-square-foot vacation home features a queen-size murphy bed that you can easily put away in the mornings so it feels a lot like a 1-bedroom apartment!

With its central location you can spend your days shopping and dining on El Paseo, golfing at one of the area’s world-class courses, or hiking one of the many nearby trails. But with access to three heated community pools, you can easily spend the whole day poolside!

Whatever you decide, this beautiful studio has everything you need for a relaxing vacation. If you feel like staying in, you can cook gourmet meals in the cozy kitchen and dine at the table for two. The living room has comfy couches and a smart TV, perfect for a lazy movie night.

You’ll love the large balcony, which has beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Prepare a barbecue dinner at the deluxe grill and dine under the stars at the outdoor table. 


Best Palm Desert Airbnbs for Small Groups and Families

4. Viking Villa: Exclusive Hillside Compound on 2 Private Acres

Best Palm Desert Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals: Hillside Estate
Images courtesy of Viking Villa

If you’re looking to go all out on your next vacation, Viking Villa is one of the best Airbnbs in Palm Desert. This upscale home is perched high on a hill and offers 180-degree views of Coachella Valley. If you want to arrive in style, there’s even an onsite helicopter pad!

This gated 3-bedroom compound is set on two acres of land on completely private property. You’ll feel like you’re worlds away from civilization, but all of the shops and restaurants of downtown Palm Desert are just three minutes away.

The stunning great room features towering ceilings and sliding glass walls that create an indoor/outdoor living experience. You can enjoy mountain and sunset views from the comfort of the plush leather couches. 

Head into the kitchen, which has everything you need to cook at home. You’ll love the luxurious granite countertops, breakfast bar, and stainless steel appliances. If you don’t feel like cooking, a private chef can cook for you!

The circular patio boasts a 60-foot infinity saltwater pool with otherworldly views. At night, you can get cozy around the built-in fire pit and look out over the twinkling city lights. It doesn’t get any better than this!

Check Price & Availability on vrbo


5. Rustic Luxury Home on Golf Course

Best Airbnbs in Palm Desert, California: Luxury Golf House
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Located on the third green of Indian Wells Country Club, this luxurious Palm Desert Airbnb is the perfect pick for golf enthusiasts. The hosts even provide you with a 4-seater golf cart so you can cruise around the course during your stay.

This stunning vacation rental has three bedrooms including two opulent master suites. Each room features a large flat-screen, luxury linens, designer furniture, and mountain views. The two master suites have custom en-suites with spa tubs and steam showers.

The open-plan living area is perfect for socializing after a day on the course. You can relax in front of the TV in the stone-clad living room, mix cocktails at the marble bar, or pick out a bottle of wine from the chilled wine room. Prepare a feast for the group in the luxury kitchen, which has Wolf appliances and a built-in Miele espresso maker.

The pocket doors can be tucked away, revealing panoramic views of the mountains and golf course. Head out to the backyard where you can take a dip in the heated pool, listen to your favorite tunes on the built-in sound system, and enjoy alfresco dinners.

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6. Private One Acre Estate with Mini-Golf & Pool

Cool Palm Desert Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals: Massive Vacation Home
Images courtesy of Airbnb

This massive vacation home is a great option for a fun-filled reunion with family and friends. With three bedrooms, this Palm Desert Airbnb can accommodate up to 10 guests. Plus, you’ll love all of the cool amenities this home has to offer. 

Not only does the sprawling backyard have stunning views of the surrounding mountains, but there are so many things to keep you entertained! You can golf on the 9-hole mini-golf course, swim in the pool, stargaze from the hot tub, warm up around the fire pit, or play a game of ping-pong. There are even regulation bocce ball and volleyball courts! 

The interior is decorated in warm tones with modern furniture. The sleek kitchen has stainless steel appliances and tons of counter space so preparing meals is a cinch. The open-plan living area makes it easy to socialize and cook at the same time so it’s ideal for large groups.

You may never want to leave this incredible Airbnb, but if you want to do some exploring, Palm Desert is just a 15-minute drive away.


7. Modern Wonderlust: Sleek Villa in La Quinta Cove

Best Airbnbs in Palm Desert, California: La Quinta Villa
Images courtesy of Modern Wanderlust

You’ll be in instant vacation mode the second you walk into this modern 3-bedroom villa. This place is all about relaxing and spending quality time with family and friends. With mountain and palm tree views, the picturesque pool area is the perfect place to while the days away.

The living room is impeccably decorated with a stylish leather couch and retro trimmings. You can watch sports or a movie on the 65-inch smart TV, play a friendly game of foosball, or unwind with a good book on the sofa.

The space opens up to the gourmet kitchen, which has everything you need to prepare a holiday meal for the group. You can brunch at the breakfast bar or enjoy dinners at the 8-person dining table. The Airbnb hosts can also arrange to have a private chef cook for you!

This dreamy Airbnb is located in the exclusive La Quinta Cove neighborhood just 10 minutes from Palm Desert. All of the boutique shops and restaurants of Old Town La Quinta are just minutes from your front door. 

Check Price & Availability on expedia


Best Palm Desert Airbnbs for Large Groups and Events

8. Cavallo Ranch: 20-Acre Estate with Private Freshwater Lake

Cool Palm Desert Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals: Cavallo Ranch
Images courtesy of Cavallo Ranch

If you’re looking to host an unforgettable family reunion or a special celebration with friends, Cavallo Ranch might be perfect for you. Located three minutes from the Coachella Festival grounds, it’s also a great pick if you want to do Coachella in style!

This 8,500-square-foot Mediterranean estate is set on 20 acres of land and has a private freshwater lake and polo field. With eight luxurious bedrooms, this spectacular Palm Desert Airbnb can accommodate a group of 16 people. 

You’ll love the palatial backyard where you can float in the infinity pool, cruise around the lake on the paddleboat, play a tennis match at the private court, and dine alfresco at the 26-person dining table. 

Inside you’ll find all sorts of fun features. With a poker table, a pool table, and a fully outfitted bar, the living room offers endless entertainment options. You can hire staff to mix up drinks for a ritzy cocktail party or have a chef cook up a gourmet pizza dinner with the outdoor pizza oven.

If you want to enjoy a day on the town, El Paseo is 20 minutes away. 

Check Price & Availability on booking.com

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9. Secluded Desert Hills Home

Best Airbnbs in Palm Desert, California: Desert Hills Estate
Images courtesy of Airbnb

This expansive 10-bedroom estate is situated high on a hilltop just south of Palm Desert. Surrounded by 18 rugged and wild acres, you’ll truly be in your own little world here.

There are six bedrooms in the main house and four more in the two guesthouses. This is a unique Airbnb that is the perfect choice for multiple families or a relaxing retreat with a large group of friends. With multiple modern kitchens and living areas, you’ll be able to socialize while still getting in some private time. 

One of the coolest features of this vacation home is that you can enjoy endless views of Coachella Valley while floating in the pool or soaking in the hot tub. With contemporary furniture, stylish decor, and colorful art, the interiors of the homes are also impressive.

Walk around the property and you’ll find all sorts of cool things to do. You can watch a movie in the theater room, sip a glass of wine at the outdoor sitting areas, do yoga while watching the sunrise, or play tennis at your private court.


10. Opulent Merv Griffin Estate 

There is no shortage of lavish vacation rentals in Palm Desert. But if you want to truly live like a celebrity during your trip, why not stay in a former home of a celebrity? This opulent estate was once owned by legendary entertainer Merv Griffin so it’s no surprise that everything about this property is over the top!

The estate boasts 13 luxury bedrooms located in three houses and four circular casitas. Inside you’ll find elaborate Moroccan-themed decor and furnishings from North-African patterns to colorful glass lanterns and intricate wood carvings.

You can spend hours exploring the palm-studded grounds, which feature a 2.5-acre pond, a “floating” gazebo, and peaceful manicured gardens. If you want to lounge around there is an infinity pool, a hot tub, and plenty of comfy sitting areas where you can sunbathe or read.

You can whip up elaborate feasts in the deluxe kitchen, which is fully outfitted with high-end cookware and appliances. If you want to have a special meal with family and friends, dine under the stars at the huge dining table.

The Merv Griffin Estate makes for a true one-of-a-kind Palm Desert vacation!

Check Price & Availability on VRBO

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11. Casa Jerde: Stunning Home on Vintage Club Golf Course

Best Airbnbs in Palm Desert, California: Casa Jerde
Images courtesy of Airbnb

Set right on the 16th hole of Vintage Club’s Mountain Course, Casa Jerde is yet another great option for golfers. But you don’t have to be into golf to fall in love with this architectural marvel.

This unique 7-bedroom crescent-shaped home is centered around a shimmering pool, which overlooks the famous golf course. With plenty of padded lounge chairs, there’s room for the whole group to hang out poolside.

With a spectacular curved ceiling, regal furniture, and a grand piano, the living room is the perfect place to entertain. You can prepare appetizers for the group in the spacious chef’s kitchen. With granite countertops, a large island, and top-of-the-line appliances, the cook in your group is bound to be impressed.

This luxurious vacation home also offers endless amenities. You can pick a bottle of wine out in the massive wine cellar, play pool in the rec room, work out in the fully outfitted gym, or get some work done in the study. You’ll never get bored at this Palm Desert Airbnb!


12. Mid-Century Modern Retreat with Lap Pool

Best Palm Desert Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals: Glass Retreat
Images courtesy of Palm Trees In Paradise

If you’re traveling as a large group but want to be close to all of the area’s major attractions, this designer home is one of the best Airbnbs in Palm Desert. There are a total of seven bedrooms – four in the main house, two in the guesthouse, and one in the casita.

All three homes were recently remodeled so everything is brand new and top-of-the-line. Expect to find stylish modern furniture and retro decor in every room.

The spectacular great room in the main house boasts comfy sofas, a gas fireplace, and collapsible glass doors that lead to the outdoor living area. With a large breakfast bar, it’s easy to hang out with friends and family while preparing meals in the fully stocked kitchen.

If you feel like having a low-key night, grab a bowl of popcorn and head into the home movie theater. Not only does it have a huge screen, but there are four plush recliners. 

The backyard boasts all sorts of awesome features. You can swim laps in the 80-foot pool, enjoy a glass of wine in the hot tub, barbecue at the built-in grill station, and golf on the 5-hole putting green.

It’s the quintessential Palm Desert experience!

Check Price & Availability on PLUM GUIDE

That’s it – 12 of the best Airbnbs in Palm Desert! Do you have a favorite vacation rental in Palm Desert? Let us know in the comments below.


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About the Author:

  • Nick Wheatley

    Nick took his first solo trip abroad to Ireland and Scotland when he was just 19. Since then he has visited over 70 countries around the world (plus 45 states in the USA).

    He coupled his passion for travel photography with Val’s passion for writing and thus Wandering Wheatleys was born. He now lives in Asheville with his two rambunctious kids, Humphrey and Wilhelminha.

    Besides photography, Nick loves eating the weirdest food he can find in a country (sheep’s brain currently sits in first place) and making Val get up an hour before sunrise to make sure he gets “the good light”.

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