Best Airbnbs Near San Diego: Where to Book This Spring

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After a year of on-site accommodation, even the most dedicated homebody is ready for a getaway, but where? Look no further than your very own backyard – we’ve got mountain trails, beach getaways, desert oases and not one, but two legit wine regions waiting for you to explore. We’ve put together a handy list of some of the coolest Airbnbs near San Diego, so pack the car and hit the road. Don’t forget your mask!

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ocean side
6 people, $336 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~45 mins
Grab a few kayaks or boogie boards from the garage and spend the day at the beach, then sip wine by the fireplace while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean from the expansive patios. The fully equipped kitchen and BBQ area makes it easy to cook meals or head down the hill to the restaurants and shops of Vista Street.
To do nearby: Visit Oceanside breweries, catch some waves at Oceanside Pier, and hit the Port by the ocean for amazing restaurants with endless sunsets.

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Cardiff by the sea
6 guests, $396 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~30 mins
Experience world-class surfing at cardiff reef and Swami’s Beach, minutes from this stylish and stylish Cardiff getaway which is the perfect base for our encinitas road trip. After the beach, toss the sand in the custom-designed heated outdoor shower and dive into the comfortable lounges on the terrace for a pre-dinner nap or nighttime star gazing.
To do nearby: Are you within walking distance of Cardiff Seaside Market if you fancy cooking at home, plus several great restaurants, pubs and tasting rooms if you don’t. Enjoy world-class surfing at Swami’s Beachor drive 20 minutes south to black beach where clothing is optional. Explore nearby tidal pools cardiff reef or spend the day at moonlit beach.

Airbnb
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Sources of Borrego
3 people, $117 per night
We won’t have superb flowering this year, but you can still get your fix of desert flowers and see what the tiny house phenomenon is all about at this cozy little oasis just outside Anza-Borrego State Park. Perfect for one or two, you’re only minutes away from over 800 miles of biking, hiking, and horseback riding trails in Southern California’s largest state park. After a day of outdoor adventures, cool off in the pool or relax in the hot tub. After the sun goes down, enjoy Borrego Springs’ status as California’s premier town International Dark Sky Community and gather around the fire pit for stargazing.
To do nearby: Check Slot trail, walk through amazing metal sculptures at Meadow Galletaor visit the Borrego Art Institute.

Airbnb
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Great Bear Lake
6 people, $680 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Two and a half hours
The Cabin on Catalina is a chic and cozy getaway that puts you right in the heart of Big Bear, minutes from hiking and biking trails and restaurants, and steps from the new zoo. You’ll love its gorgeous forest views, fully equipped kitchen, and sumptuous freestanding tub in the master bathroom. There’s also a large yard with a mini-hill where the little ones can play while the adults relax in the hot tub.
To do nearby: Walk to big bear zoosee unique wildflowers bloom at Pebble plains in the Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserveor yarrow and columbines at the highest altitudes of Bluff Lake Reserve.

hot tub
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yucca valley
6 guests, $915 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Two and a half hours
Experience seamless indoor-outdoor living at Ventana Cove, a stunning custom home that features huge La Cantina doors in each of the three bedrooms, opening onto the huge indoor patio with a hot tub, a relaxation area and a retractable awning for outdoor relaxation. Admire spectacular mountain views of Joshua Tree National Park from the cold-water cowboy tub on the living room deck, stargaze around the fire pit, or relax in a shaded hammock. Located on two private acres, you are minutes from Joshua Tree National Park.
To do nearby: Hit it Sky Village Open Air Market for hidden gems, visit the Joshua Tree Retreat Centeror head to Joshua Tree National Park to hiking and escalation.

mid century modern living room
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Palm Springs
6 guests, $391 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Two and a half hours
From the meticulously restored 1959 kitchen to the vibrant splashes of color, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time in this sleek mid-century beauty. As a bonus, pets are allowed and a large park within walking distance makes it convenient for outings with a dog (or human). Pour a batch of martinis, crank up Sinatra, and take a dip in the hot tub for the ultimate Palm Springs experience.
To do nearby: Walk to nearby park for picnics, tennis and baseball courts, hike to Tahquitz Canyon Waterfall or visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens.

airbnb vineyard
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Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico
6 guests, $420 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Less than two hours
A tribute to owner Grisel De La Rosa’s artistic family as well as legendary painter Frida Kahlo, Casa Frida sits next to one of the busiest tasting room/restaurant parks in the valley. Eclectic mid-century furnishings, eye-catching original artwork, and bright colors abound, while arched French doors and high blond wood-panelled ceilings keep rooms airy and bright. Since it’s located close to the tasting room, don’t expect silence at night, especially on weekends, but you’ll probably want to be there sipping wine anyway.
To do nearby: Visit Cellar Lechuzalunch at Lajathen spend the evening Terraza Culinaria or Terraza Granada just outside your casa.

perched chalet
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Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico
4 people, $159 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Less than two hours
Enjoy spectacular sunsets and unobstructed views at Terra Monarca, in the heart of the Guadalupe Valley, within walking distance of Corazon de Tierra and Vena Cava and a short drive from the best wineries, breweries and restaurants. noted along the old and new Ruta del Vino. You’ll love returning to this spacious and beautifully decorated home, sipping wine on the expansive stone patio and cooking dinner in the brand new covered outdoor kitchen with a Santa Maria grill.
To do nearby: Visit the wine museumlunch at Deckman’s in El Mogorthen stop at lowercase Quesos Y Delicias Artesanales Jazmine for cheese, jam and olives to taste with the wine you have purchased.

closed
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Julian
8 guests, $466 per night
Distance from San Diego: One hour, 15 minutes
From the reclaimed barn wood and vaulted ceilings to the wraparound porch and swing set, you will be completely charmed by this lovingly restored farmhouse. Situated on one acre of land, it offers mountain views from the front and ocean sunsets from the 2nd story deck in the back, weather permitting. Best of all, it’s just three blocks from town, where you’ll find cafes, restaurants, beer and wine tasting, and those famous Julian pies.
What guests are saying: “One of the best Airbnb stays we’ve ever had! The house is absolutely enchanting – the pictures don’t do it justice. The decor is immaculate and thoughtful. We had everything we could need for our family of 4. We cooked, played games, watched the sunset from the beautiful master balcony, watched a meteor shower from the backyard, and just relaxed. It was like a home away from home. We hope to return one day and can only recommend this stay more highly.”

fort style house
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Sources of Borrego
6 people, $187 per night
Distance from San Diego: ~Less than two hours
Pack your sunscreen and head into the desert for a break from the daily grind at Borrego Dig, a serene private getaway on 1.28 acres, with sweeping views of Indian Head, Font’s Point, and the Santa Rosa Mountains. Vaulted ceilings and plenty of natural light flood the beautifully decorated rooms, including a large gourmet kitchen. Spend the day hiking in the Ocotillo Forest or golfing at one of Borrego Springs’ many courses, then relax under the spectacular starry canopy – you might even see a meteor shower!
What guests are saying: “The house was great for a weekend getaway. The views were amazing from every window. The house has high ceilings, good circulation and light. We enjoyed playing horseshoes out back. Jayne was an excellent communicator, very personable and responsive. I would definitely recommend.

air flow
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Temecula
2 guests, $148 per night
Distance from San Diego: One hour
Perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Bliss at Serenity Cove is a beautiful, brand new Flying cloud airflow which has all the comforts of home and sits on five acres filled with oak trees and cacti. Spend your days exploring Temecula’s many wineries and restaurants or zen in the meditation garden right outside your front door. For pampering, book a yoga or meditation class, reiki treatment or massage when you book (additional fees apply).
To do nearby: Pet cute animals and eat artisanal chocolate at sugar plum farmvisit Stone Church Brewery and of course, drink wine.

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Mary Beth Abate is a freelance writer based in San Diego via Chicago and Los Angeles. Her hobbies include yoga, pickling and fermenting, reading cookbooks and drinking fabulous gin. Follow her experiences @MaryBeth_Abate.

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