Due to its otherworldly desert landscape and close proximity to Los Angeles, Joshua Tree has become one of the top things to do in California – especially for people looking to escape the city and get a dose of nature.
Most visitors come to Joshua Tree National Park for hiking, camping, and its world-renowned rock-climbing scene. Others come for the bohemian vibes found in the nearby communities of Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley.
These neighboring towns have long been popular with outdoor enthusiasts, alternative health gurus, and anyone else who wants to live off-the-grid in California’s beautiful desert landscape. But now the area has exploded in popularity thanks to Instagram influencers posting dreamy photos of boho-chic Airbnbs found sprinkled throughout the area.
You’ll love exploring the National Park – it’s truly an oasis in the desert and is full of rock formations and cactus-dotted nature trails that wind through the boulders. And once you’ve worn yourself out from hiking in the heat, rest up in one of these gorgeous Joshua Tree Airbnbs and Joshua Tree Vacation Rentals that we’ve handpicked out of hundreds of options.
Hotels are a rarity in these parts, and since there are so many great Airbnbs to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down for you. Here are the 12 best Airbnbs to stay near Joshua Tree National Park, so you can leaving the planning to us and focus on finding your inner peace in the Mojave Desert!
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Why Stay in an Airbnb in Joshua Tree
There are lots of advantages to staying in an Airbnb in Joshua. For starters, you can stay right on the edge of the park in the spectacular desert landscape that Joshua Tree is famous for! In Joshua Tree, you’ll have a seemingly endless selection of cool Airbnbs from which to choose – like a tiny house, a vintage Airstream trailer, dome tents, rustic desert hideaways, and so many more!
The value of staying in an Airbnb can’t be beaten either. Most Joshua Tree vacation rentals are way more spacious than your average hotel room. And if you’re traveling as a large group it’s much more cost-effective to split the price of a single vacation rental among everyone. If you opt for a hotel you’ll find yourself paying a premium for multiple rooms, especially during big events.
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Top 10 things to do in Joshua Tree
- Eplore some of Joshua Tree’s most unique rock formations on the Arch Rock Trail, a short but rewarding hike.
- See one of the world’s densest concentrations of cholla cactus on the Cholla Cactus Garden Trail.
- Sign up for a guided hike to the Keys Ranch and marvel at how difficult life must have been on this remote ranch in the Mojave Desert.
- Spot wildlife like the bighorn sheep and desert tortoises while hiking the Indian Cove Nature Trail.
- Watch the sunset at Keys View, which offers spectacular views across the Coachella Valley and beyond.
- Tip back a cold beer at Pappy & Harriet’s or the Joshua Tree Saloon, two of the most popular watering holes near Joshua Tree.
- Go rock climbing at Echo Cove – it’s perfect for both advanced and beginner climbers.
- Visit what is left of the wild, wild west at Pioneertown. It’s part movie-set, part museum, and part ghost town, as well as a shopping and dining area.
- Critique the wonderfully obscure artwork and sculptures at the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum.
- Explore other oddities like the Beauty Bubble Salon, the Crochet Museum, or Bob Carr’s Crystal Cave, a man-made meditative space full of found objects. The Crystal Cave is found at the Sky Village Swap Meet, another Joshua Tree Gem.
The 12 Best Airbnbs in Joshua Tree
Best Joshua Tree Airbnbs for Couples and Solo Travelers
1. The Shack Attack: Bohemian Tiny Home
Although the inside is just less than 500 square feet, this cool little Joshua Tree Airbnb features every amenity you would need for the perfect stay in the Mojave Desert. Decorated in neutral earth tones, “The Shack Attack” features an open layout complete with a comfy living room and a full kitchen.
The bedroom area also has a king-sized bed and is decorated with wood paneling to give it that rustic cabin-feel. And the surprisingly spacious bathroom features a large walk-in shower and a custom-made sink crafted with repurposed material from the remnants of the structure previously found here.
In the kitchen, you’ll find custom-made concrete countertops and a retro-looking SMEG fridge. The living room boasts bohemian decorations, unique wall art, and two extra-large floor poufs for additional seating. You’ll also find a vintage record player with an assortment of records, which really adds to the ambiance of the place.
After a long day of hiking in Joshua Tree National Park, you’ll love relaxing in the galvanized-steel soaking tub on your own private deck. The beautiful backyard features a cactus garden and an outdoor dining area.
Finally, this unique little Joshua Tree Airbnb has a state-of-the-art heating and cooling system so you will know that no matter what the elements bring, you’ll be comfy and cozy inside.
2. Shangri-La: Stylishly Renovated 1940s Mod-Cabin
Located near the National Park, this 1-bedroom home is perfect for a weekend getaway to Joshua Tree! This modern desert cabin, affectionately nicknamed “Shangri-La”, is styled with hip 1940s decor and accessories. But what really stands out about this Joshua Tree Airbnb is all the fun outdoor activities you’ll have at your disposal.
The Shangri-la boasts 3 separate outdoor patios, a porch swing, an outdoor fire pit, a gas BBQ, and a swing set. Take in the mountain views while relaxing in the outdoor cowboy tub or cool off in the private outdoor shower. And on the back patio, which is decorated with festive lights, you’ll find lounge chairs for sunbathing.
There are also several shipping containers on the property. Inside one is a ping-pong table. In the other, there’s a bar and seating area set up for entertaining.
Our other favorite rooms include the living room and kitchen. In the living room, you’ll find a wood-burning stone and a rock accent wall. The kitchen is beautifully decorated in white-wash stain and comes fully equipped for cooking. Plus it includes a retro dining table and a cool 1940s light fixture.
The stylish bedroom includes a king-sized bed with memory foam topper. The couch in the living room also folds into a queen-sized bed if you need a second bed. The Shangri-la is located just 10 minutes from downtown Joshua Tree and just a few more minutes to Joshua Tree National Park. It’s definitely one of the hippest Airbnbs in the area!
3. Unique off-the-grid Futuro UFO House
For a truly one-of-a-kind stay in Joshua Tree, book a night at the original Futuro House! It may look like it’s high-tech, but this crazy UFO-shaped house is actually more of an off-the-grid glamping experience.
Staying in this super unique Joshua Tree Airbnb is more about disconnecting from technology and embracing the simpler side of life. Though it’s off the power grid, this Airbnb utilizes solar power, so you’ll be able to enjoy your electronic devices, play VHS tapes, or use the in-house Bluetooth sound system.
Originally designed in Finland in the 1960s, there are only 19 of these Futuro Houses remaining in the United States. So a stay here is an experience you’re unlikely to find anywhere but Joshua Tree! The wireless remote front door will make you feel you have stepped onto the set of a sci-fi movie. Once inside, you’ll find an open layout with a queen-sized daybed and plenty of alien-related books and movies to keep you entertained.
The bathroom and solar-powered shower are located in a nearby trailer (remember we said it was a glamping experience). And you’ll also find the kitchen area – complete with gas grill – underneath a shaded patio area in the great outdoors. Nearby is also an outdoor seating area with a propane fire pit.
Location-wise, the Futuro House is just a few minutes walk from the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum, which is almost as weird and unique as this Joshua Tree Airbnb.
4. Beautiful Desert Airstream with Pool
Joshua Tree has its fair share of cool camping experiences, but his 25-foot Flying Cloud Airstream is definitely our favorite! Located just minutes from the National Park, you’ll feel like you have been granted VIP access to the park itself.
This cool Joshua Tree Airbnb is located on 1.5 acres of private land with stunning views of the desert and mountain landscapes. And nearby, you’ll find plenty of nature trails for exploring the Mojave Desert.
There is a comfy queen-sized bed inside the camper, and if you need to sleep more than 2, the dinette and couch also convert into extra beds. The kitchen is surprisingly well-outfitted with a microwave, a gas stovetop, and even an oven. There’s also a Keurig coffee maker, a french press, an electric tea kettle, and all the cooking utensils you could need for dining in.
The Airstream is tricked out to make your stay as comfortable as possible. You’ll find air-conditioning, a furnace, and a water heater for plenty of hot showers. For entertainment, there’s a stereo, a CD player and Bluetooth, as well as two smart TV’s with surround sound and a DVD player.
But what you’ll really love is what’s outside of this Airbnb – a stock-tank pool for cooling off, a propane grill, a fire pit, and plenty of outdoor seating on the deck, which is all underneath twinkling lights. Everything you could possibly need for the perfect Joshua Tree escape is included in this unique Airbnb!
Best Joshua Tree Airbnbs for a Small Group and Families
5. Stunning Rock Reach House with Jacuzzi, Outdoor Tub, and Fireplace
The Rock Reach House is a sleek modern property that blends perfectly with its remote desert setting. Set in the stunning Yucca Valley in the Mojave Desert and surrounded by massive rock formations, the home is located just 20 minutes away from one of the entrances of the park and the town of Joshua Tree.
One of the highlights of this beautiful Joshua Tree vacation home is certainly the living room, which offers panoramic views from large floor-to-ceiling windows. Sliding glass doors open onto a large deck with twin loungers for sunbathing.
The contemporary kitchen includes an electric stove, an oven, a microwave, a dishwasher, and a coffee maker. The custom-bamboo cabinets are stocked with dishes, cookware, and all the other kitchen necessities. There’s also a large dining table with seating for 6, where you can share a meal while admiring the desert views.
Both of the spacious bedrooms have comfy king-sized beds. In the bathroom, you’ll find modern fixtures, spacious countertops, and high-end toiletries. We also love the shower that opens out to a second outdoor shower – just another unique feature of this amazing Joshua Tree vacation rental.
Outside of the Rock Reach House are a wood-burning fireplace, a jacuzzi hot tub, and a galvanized tub for a cool dip in the desert heat. Watching the sunset over the Mojave Desert while soaking in the hot tub is sure to be a highlight of your trip!
6. Cool Boho Chic House in the Heart of Joshua Tree Village
The White Cactus House is a newly renovated 1947 bungalow near the center of Joshua Tree village. Inside the 2-bedroom space, the interior is light and airy, blending boho-chic vibes with the gritty desert charm of Joshua Tree.
This cool Joshua Tree Airbnb is covered in poufs, plush throws, wood foraged from the desert, vintage knick-knacks, and leather and natural fabrics. Both rooms are cozy and clean. There’s even a meditation room that opens to the backyard to create your own private desert sanctuary.
The kitchen includes a farmhouse sink, butcher block counters, and cute white cacti drawer pulls. The dining room is elegant with an oversized mid-century chandelier and a huge butcher block table. Guests can even help themselves to a complimentary drink from the drink cart to help unwind and relax after a long day of traveling.
The master bedroom includes a queen-sized bed, and the guest bedroom has 2 stacked twin beds. The shower is fitted with a large skylight and 10″ rainfall showerhead for a luxurious shower experience after a hot, dusty day of hiking in Joshua Tree National Park.
The outside area includes a hammock, a bench, mid-century chairs, coffee tables, a charming little retro chiminea, a cozy fire pit, and a cowboy pool with a mini-fountain that sits on a custom wooden deck.
The backyard is decorated with rock circles, picnic tables, a hand-painted cornhole game, 5 cemented sculptures representing the 5 elements, and solar lights that create a unique pattern in the backyard at night. It’s a perfect spiritual bohemian escape in Southern California.
You’ll feel connected to nature in this Joshua Tree vacation home, though it’s just minutes away from all the action of the village. The property is located 1 block from Joshua Tree Village and 5 minutes from the west park entrance.
7. Secluded Dome House with Cedar Hot Tub and Spectacular Views
The Hawkeye Dome is a unique geodesic dome house secluded on 112 acres of land surrounded by the beauty of the Mojave Desert. It was even featured on the cover of the May 2018 issue of Dwell Magazine, so you know it’s one of the best Airbnbs in Joshua Tree. On the property surrounding the home, you’ll find thousands of Joshua trees and yucca plants, massive boulders, and sweeping desert views.
The interior of the home is spacious due to the high ceilings, skylights, and architecture of the home. Almost all of the details were handcrafted and it’s beautifully decorated to fit the 1960’s vibe of the dome. The chef’s kitchen has custom cabinets, spacious countertops, and every appliance you will need to prepare meals at home.
On the second level of the home, you will find more swanky seating areas and reading nooks. The two bedrooms are simple but offer comfortable queen-sized beds. There is also a TV and fast wifi if for some reason you feel the need to stay connected to the outside world.
The outside deck area has a bright orange chiminea and plenty of seating, as well as a brand new cedar hot tub for guests. There’s also a BBQ grill, a covered patio, and lots of hiking trails to explore. Plus, it has one of the most spectacular views in the area!
The sustainable home runs on solar power and batteries so it’s also great for the environment. The dome is in the town of Yucca Valley, which has lovely little coffee shops. And it’s only a 15-minute drive to Joshua Tree National Park.
8. The Casita: Southwestern Home Surrounded by Wildlife
The Casita is a 2-bedroom, 1-bath home that has been beautifully decorated with lots of southwestern accents. But what makes this Joshua Tree Airbnb so special is its location on one of Southern California’s wildlife corridors. Surrounded by 900 acres of protected land, you’re sure to spot desert wildlife like jackrabbits, lizards, and antelope squirrels – perhaps even a desert tortoise or a coyote if you’re lucky!
The common areas of the Casita are beautifully decorated with lots of southwest charm. Relax in the hanging chair while listening to vinyl records. Or kick back on the vintage leather couch. The tiled kitchen has everything you’ll need to prepare meals – ideal because once you see this Joshua Tree Airbnb you may never want to leave!
The first bedroom has a king-sized bed and the second has a queen – both with top-of-the-line mattresses and organic bedding for a perfect night’s sleep.
Outside you’ll find a garden full of native plants, a covered patio, lounge chairs, a hammock, and a hot tub surrounded by open desert views. There’s also a couple of picnic tables if you want to eat outside.
Located down a private drive shared with just two other homes, the Casita is your own private Joshua Tree escape. And it’s just a 12-minute drive into town and just a few minutes more to reach the nearest grocery store.
Best Joshua Tree Airbnbs for Large Groups and Events
9. Cielito Lindo: Luxurious Desert Retreat
One of the absolute best Airbnbs in Joshua Tree, the Cielito Lindo Retreat has everything you need for an epic trip to the Mojave Desert, and then some. It’s perfect for a luxurious girls weekend, a bachelor or bachelorette party, or any special occasion with friends and family.
This recently remodeled former cabin is now a modern desert retreat with three bedrooms – all with memory foam mattresses, custom artwork, and hip southwestern decor. There are also twin rollaway beds available on request if needed.
The Cielito Lindo Retreat also has two full-sized bathrooms with spacious walk-in showers. The ensuite master bathroom also has a full-size tub with gorgeous views of the mountains from an oversized window.
Throughout the home, there are several fun spaces to congregate – the living room, a sitting room, and a partially enclosed patio. You’ll also find that the Cielito Lido comes with board games, a bar cart, books, and fast wifi, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
A state-of-the-art kitchen and mid-century dining room are the perfect places to cook after a long day of exploring the park. Or you can dine outside at the alfresco table that seats up to 16.
In fact, the outside of this amazing Joshua Tree Airbnb is just as gorgeous as the interior! Highlights include a custom-built outdoor rock shower and a hot tub with a wrap-around infinity deck and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. In addition, there are two outdoor “cowboy tubs”, a fire pit, and a propane grill.
The home sits on 2 acres of private land and is within walking distance of downtown Joshua Tree. It also borders the Coyote Hole Conservation Area, a protected area for coyotes and other wildlife. Just ten minutes by car, and you are at the gateway to the National Park. This is one Joshua Tree Airbnb that will make you never want to return home!
10. Stylish Desert Home Just Minutes from Joshua Tree
If you’re visiting Joshua Tree National Park as a large group and looking for an affordable vacation rental that doesn’t skimp on luxury, then you have to check out Morgan Estates! This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom Joshua Tree Desert Retreat can easily accommodate 8 people and the park entrance is just 5 minutes away. In fact, you will be able to enjoy the view of Joshua Tree National Park while relaxing in your hot tub!
Each of the 4 bedrooms comes with a queen-sized bed and the master bedroom has a dual-vanity ensuite bathroom. In the other full-size bathroom, you’ll find convenient amenities like spa robes, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and other necessities for your stay.
The living room in this desert retreat is cozy and includes a flat-screen TV and an electric fireplace. If you choose to spend a night in, you’ll love having access to Netflix and Amazon Prime as well as board games, card games, and records to listen to in the reading nook.
Next to the living room area is a fully-equipped kitchen where you’ll have everything you need to make meals for the whole family. And there’s even a game room that includes a full-sized pool table, a ping pong table, and foosball!
In the backyard of this incredible Joshua Tree vacation home, you’ll find a hot tub, a propane BBQ grill, a fire pit, a cornhole setup, and a miniature yurt for the kids (and grownups too!). There are also several fun outdoor seating areas including a “hammock hexagon” with 5 hammocks and an elegant pergola draped with white curtains.
The host can also provide camping gear – camping chairs, sleeping bags, a tent, and a cooler – if you want to spend a night camping under the stars. And if you decide to head into town you’ll certainly appreciate that walking to the village takes just 3 minutes!
11. Epic Family-friendly Home with Sky Deck & Saltwater Pool
For a perfect Joshua Tree retreat for the whole family, consider staying at the Park Vista! With 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, this spacious home can fit up to 10 guests and offers plenty of amenities to keep everyone happy. Our favorites include the gorgeous saltwater pool, the private hot tub, the second story sky patio with the teak lounge chairs, and the outdoor area with a fire pit and ping pong table.
This Joshua Tree rental will undoubtedly make you feel right at home! In the living room, you’ll find an indoor fireplace and cable TV – perfect for a family movie night. The full-kitchen has modern stainless steel appliances, a wooden breakfast bar, and every kitchen item imaginable.
There are a total of four bedrooms that each have unique decor. One of the rooms is perfect for kids – it has two queen-sized beds, a dartboard, and a foosball table. You’ll have to draw straws to decide who’s lucky enough to sleep there! And with 3 full bathrooms, no one has to wait in line. Each bathroom has a walk-in rain shower and one has a soaking tub for relaxing.
Staying at this beautiful Joshua Tree vacation home in the quiet Desert Heights neighborhood will be the highlight of your vacation. The house comes with everything you might need for a pleasant stay – the only thing you need to bring is some firewood for the fire pit!
12. Colorful Joshua Tree Home Plus Glamping Dome
If you are having trouble deciding between a traditional home and one of the dome homes, you’ll be happy to hear that this Joshua Tree Airbnb has both! It’s a 4-bedroom, 2-bath traditional home that comes with a small dome tent outside that is perfect for hanging out during your trip.
The Desert House is equipped with amenities like an outdoor grass bed, an air-conditioned cozy dome tent for watching movies and eating popcorn, and an inground hot tub for relaxing after the sun goes down.
The bedroom set up at this totally unique Joshua Tree vacation rental is perfect for a large family or group! The colorful master bedroom has a bathroom attached, two of the bedrooms come with queen-sized beds, and the last bedroom has 2 single beds and a sofa bed and is full of musical instruments – perfect for the kids!
Outside you’ll find even more amazing amenities like a fire pit, loungers, a BBQ grill, and a patio with great views of the park. It’s easy to see why this property is one of the best vacation homes in Joshua Tree!
That’s it – 12 of the best Airbnbs in Joshua Tree! Do you have a favorite vacation rental in Joshua Tree? Let us know in the comments below.
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