Home to some of the most gorgeous cities in the United States, California is one of the world’s most famous travel destinations. Wide and expansive, there are so many things to do and explore in California. Whether you’re into a wine tour or beach getaway, plenty of accommodation options are ready to be your home away from home. But why stay at a hotel if you have the money to spend your nights at one of the best luxury vacation rentals in California? The best luxury rentals in California allow you to unwind in your private pool without being interrupted by your neighbor and have a romantic dinner with a beautiful backdrop! But with so many luxury vacation homes in California to choose from, which ones are worth considering? Check out our picks below, and thank us later!
Table of contents
La Paz Estate
11
While there are so many luxury vacation homes in California, we think La Paz Estate is the perfect choice to kick off this list. As you can see from the picture below, one of the estate’s highlights is none other than its huge yard. It’s where you’ll be able to soak up the sun in the outdoor pool and find a waterfall spa. Wear your favorite swimwear and enjoy the 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains! Additionally, we also love how thoughtful this villa is. Perfect for families, this villa also has lawn games to keep your little ones busy and entertained. After a dip, why not compete with your family by playing ping-pong together?
The inside of the villa is just as amazing. Thanks to the clerestory windows, you’ll be able to take photos of the mountains without going outside. Additionally, there are two huge great rooms. We also appreciate how modern and well-equipped the kitchen is. You’ll find not only Viking but also Sub Zero appliances. The dining area is fancy and can seat up to 10 people. Apart from the main house, there’s also a guest house with a pool table, a cocktail arcade table, and a kitchen.
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 7
- Bathroom: 6
- Kitchen: Yes
- Swimming Pool: Yes
- Area: 6,300 sq ft
Highlights:
- Cozy firepit outdoors for stargazing
- Multiple dining areas
- Lawn games
- 360-degree views of the mountain
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1006 Chantilly Rd
10
The 1006 Chantilly Rd is a masterpiece! One of California’s best luxury rentals, this villa has everything you need and more! The magnificent atrium, curved stairs, high ceilings, and open floor design makes this villa one of the most modern options in California. To keep you busy and healthy, this villa has a home gym equipped with all the latest equipment. Aside from that, you can also burn some calories in the infinity pool, which is accompanied by a seating area with a fire pit. Pretty cool, isn’t it? Lucky for you, that’s not all!
If you’re the chef in the group, you should show your skills in the chef’s kitchen, which comes with Miele appliances and an LED countertop. Once you’re done filling your tummy, you can watch some movies in the home theater, which can seat up to 10! While there are eight bedrooms on-site, our favorite is the Master Bedroom. It’s big, bright, and comes with a spotless, spa-like bathroom! Better yet, all bedrooms feature king-sized beds.
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 8
- Bathroom: 10
- Kitchen: Yes
- Swimming Pool: Yes
- Area: 10,000 sq ft
Highlights:
- Home theater for 10
- Home gym
- Elevator
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Beverly Hills Mountain Escape
9
The secluded and private Beverly Hills Mountain Escape is a dream villa for many. And as one of California’s best luxury vacation rentals, we’re not surprised at all. Featuring a long gated driveway, this villa is perfect for accommodating a group of 12. The property has six bedrooms and bathrooms, so you won’t have to spend the nights feeling stuffy. The Main Suite, though, deserves the spotlight. This beautiful bedroom comes with a library, his and hers bathroom, and a huge walk-in closet. If those aren’t enough, you also have an exercise area!
In addition to that, we also love the villa’s modest home gym. It’s nothing too fancy but is equipped with everything you need for an effective workout. Speaking of which, you should also check out the heated saltwater pool! If you love spending your time admiring nature, you should visit the lush gardens. Last but not least, this villa also features a separate guest house with one bedroom.
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 6
- Bathroom: 6
- Kitchen: Yes
- Swimming Pool: Yes
- Area: –
Highlights:
- Spa bathrooms
- Smart home entertainment
- Only moments away from the heart of Beverly Hills
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The Alexander Residence
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Best for Smaller Groups. For smaller families and groups, The Alexander Residence is one of the better options. This mid-century villa is the perfect place to have a tranquil vacation. This villa features a well-maintained backyard with a desert garden, walkways, and manicured lawns. Set in Palm Springs, which has more than 300 days of sunshine, it also boasts an outdoor swimming pool so you can always beat the heat! In addition to that, there’s a relaxing hot tub as well. Also surrounding the pool are sun loungers and a huge patio table for an al fresco dinner.
The Alexander Residence is huge, and it’s one of the biggest luxury vacation homes in California. That said, aside from the main house, there’s also an additional guest house. The main house is bright and comfy, mostly thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The two bedrooms there are huge; each comes with a California king-sized bed and access to the pool area. In the guest house, there’s also a bedroom, a kitchen, and a living room. Better yet, this villa allows you to hold special celebrations, too!
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 3
- Bathroom: 4.5
- Kitchen: Yes (in the main house and guest house)
- Swimming Pool: Yes
- Area: 3,200 sq ft
Highlights:
- Well-maintained backyard with a desert garden and manicured lawns
- Perfect for weddings and other celebrations
- California king-sized beds in all bedrooms
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The Pond Estate
7
Up next is The Pond Estate, one of California’s favorite luxury vacation rentals. This estate truly lives up to its name. As you can guess, it boasts multiple ponds and bungalows. Staying here means you’ll also be able to enjoy the unobstructed views of the mountains 24/7. Of course, like other luxury rentals in California, this gated estate also boasts world-class amenities. One of the highlights of this estate is its inviting outdoor pool. Take a dip and soak up the sun! And when the weather doesn’t permit, you can always go inside and take a dip in the smaller but just-as-comfy indoor swimming pool!
Inside, you’ll also find plenty of space to relax. If you want to spend quality time with your precious ones, you can watch movies together in the media room. Apart from that, the living room is also worth two thumbs up! Featuring a stone fireplace and exquisite furniture, you’ll understand why we think it’s the heart of the villa. Oh, apart from the majestic main house, there are two other guest houses, meaning there’s always a room for everyone in your group!
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 11
- Bathroom: 19
- Kitchen: Yes (outdoor)
- Swimming Pool: Yes (indoor and outdoor)
- Area: 12,700 sq ft
Highlights:
- Modern home gym
- Tennis courts
- Majestic views of the mountains
- Multiple ponds and bungalows
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Fairway Run Cabin
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While not exactly a villa, the Fairway Run Cabin is still worth a spot on this list. This charming cabin allows you to have a warm, comfortable stay without the over-the-top amenities. It keeps things simple but still allows you to have a memorable vacation. Featuring an open floor plan, this cabin boasts multiple comfortable gathering areas for everyone to spend some time together. If you’re the type that prefers to spend your time outdoors, you’ll be happy to find a sunny deck with a seating area as well.
While not the biggest, the modern kitchen is nothing short of fancy. Fully renovated, it comes with stainless steel appliances and everything else you need to make everyone’s favorite food. The dining area is on the smaller side but allows you to enjoy your meal as if you’re at your own home. In addition to that, there’s also a picnic table on the deck. Fire up the BBQ and dine under the stars! Best of all, you can also take advantage of the free shuttle service that can take you to Northstar Village!
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 4
- Bathroom: 3.5
- Kitchen: Yes
- Swimming Pool: No
- Area: –
Highlights:
- On-demand shuttle to Northstar Village
- Pet-friendly
- Shared hot tub
We had a wonderful vacation here with 10 people total from my family for my grandmother’s 90th birthday celebration. We grilled every night, enjoyed sitting on the deck, and found the space to be great, comfortable, and cozy.
– Vonnie
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Chateau Dumont
5
Another awesome addition to our list of the best luxury rentals in California is Chateau Dumont. This five-acre villa is heaven for those who enjoy the nice things in life. With 15 beautifully appointed bedrooms and 13 sparkling bathrooms, this palatial home rental can comfortably sleep up to 30 guests in the heart of Rancho Mirage. While you’re here, you’ll probably be too lazy to venture out as you can find everything you need at the villa. For one, those who want to relax can sloat in the Vegas-inspired outdoor pool and relax in the bathtub. Don’t forget your pool float! When the weather isn’t friendly, you can head inside and spend some time in the cozy home theater watching your favorite movie!
Named one of the top luxury vacation homes in California, there’s more! Also on-site is a tennis court and beach volleyball court, allowing you to burn extra calories and train your competitiveness! In addition, there’s ping-pong, too! But if you’re the type that loves to admire the beauty of nature, you’ll be thrilled to know that this villa is surrounded by waterfalls, lush plants, and lakes where you can spot koi fish! As we said earlier, there are 15 bedrooms on the property. While all of them are nice, our favorite has to be the Master Suite, which has a spacious seating area, a quiet massage room, and a private terrace.
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 15
- Bathroom: 13
- Kitchen: Yes (indoor and outdoor)
- Swimming Pool: Yes
- Area: 18,000 sq ft
Highlights:
- Home theater
- Home gym
- Tennis and beach volleyball court
- Ping-pong
- Unobstructed views of the lake
- Multiple lakes with koi fish
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Beverly Hills Mansion
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Biggest Villa. Not including the Beverly Hills Mansion on our list of the top luxury vacation rentals in California is a crime! As one of the top villas in Los Angeles, this mansion is ridiculously pricey. However, it also means the experience you get is ridiculously unbeatable! For one, it comes with an oversized main deck with a heated swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers. After enjoying a relaxing dip, you can dine in one of the many al fresco dining spaces. After all, there’s nothing better than enjoying some delectable food under the stars!
This villa may have fewer bedrooms than other luxury vacation homes in California. But this means each of them is huge! The property has six luxurious bedrooms, and the Main Suite itself is already 2,500 sq ft! It’s our favorite room and offers views of the city and a shiny bathroom with high-end toiletries and a big walk-in shower. And don’t call it a day if you haven’t enjoyed a glass of wine in the large lounge area that comes with a bar. And if this is your first time visiting LA, you should check out these best day trips from Los Angeles!
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 6
- Bathroom: 10
- Kitchen: Yes
- Swimming Pool: Yes
- Area: 67,000 sq ft
Highlights:
- Home theater
- 2,500 sq ft Master Suite
- Multiple al fresco dining areas
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Delgado Estate
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Best for Music Festivals. We have the Delgado Estate, a massive villa in Coachella Valley, making this the perfect option for those who want to attend music festivals. As one of the top luxury vacation rentals in California, you can rest assured it’s fitted with the fanciest amenities. Guests can expect a luxurious living room, a spotless dining room with a crystal chandelier, and a fully-equipped gourmet kitchen with everything you need. They include separate kitchen islands, huge refrigerators, ovens, and of course, dishwashers. You can even have a private chef do all the hard work for you! Just sit back and relax!
Don’t call it a night before sipping wine! That said, this villa also boasts a hidden wine cellar. While you’re enjoying the drink, let your kid have fun in the games room! There, they’ll find game tables, billiard tables, and others. We bet you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors during your stay. There’s a backyard that offers breathtaking mountain views and two swimming pools! For something more competitive, why don’t you practice your backhand on the tennis court? Then, retreat to the Master Suite and take a dip in the hot tub!
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 15
- Bathroom: 24.5
- Kitchen: Yes
- Swimming Pool: Yes (there are two)
- Area: 26,000 sq ft
Highlights:
- Tennis court
- Home gym
- Games room
- Hidden wine cellar
- Spacious garage for up to 16 vehicles
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Chateau Noel
2
Who doesn’t love Chateau Noel, one of the most perfect luxury rentals in California? This private residence is one of the loveliest luxury vacation rentals in California. Built back in 1929, it’s one of the most historic villas in the area. We truly love how comfortable this villa is. With tall pines, oaks, and multiple manicured gardens, staying here feels like you’re at home (but fancier)! If you want to stay here, you’ll have the luxury of spending your time on the covered patio, which comes complete with a comfy seating area as well as a fireplace! Also, it’s worth noting that this villa is part of the Stonepine Estate. Thus, you’ll have to share the swimming pool with others. But this also means a chance to meet new people!
Aside from the communal pool, guests of this villa can also enjoy the estate’s other amenities, including the tennis court and volleyball court. Inside, you’ll be awed by the villa’s grand living area. There’s even a piano for those who enjoy the music! The fully equipped kitchen has all the high-end appliances you could ever ask for, and the dining area makes you feel like you’re eating in a mansion! Designed to accommodate a group of 16, there are 8 bedrooms on the property.
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 8
- Bathroom: 13
- Kitchen: Yes
- Swimming Pool: Yes (communal)
- Area: –
Highlights:
- Grand piano
- Huge covered patio with a fireplace
- Landscaped gardens
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LX21
1
Most Expensive. If you’re wondering what villa in California costs the most, LX21 is the answer. Offering sweeping views of the gorgeous Monterey Bay, this sleek, industrial-style vacation rental is worth your attention. As you can see from the picture below, one of its highlights is its outdoor area which features a swimming pool and a poolside cantina. Of course, there’s also a relaxing jacuzzi there, so you can unwind and absorb the sun! In addition, there’s also a modern outdoor kitchen and an al fresco dining area!
Offering both privacy as well as seclusion, you’ll find beautiful sculptures and comfortable lounge areas inside. You’ll find yet another kitchen with a breakfast bar, a formal dining area, as well as a modern living area. While the rest is busy cooking, why don’t you sweat it out in the sauna? Don’t forget also to enjoy your wine by the fireplace. Made to accommodate 12, there are 5 spacious bedrooms on-site. Four of them come with a king-sized bed, and one features a queen-sized bed. Nothing beats the Master Bedroom, though. It’s the biggest and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Facilities:
- Bedroom: 5
- Bathroom: 5.5
- Kitchen: Yes (outdoor and indoor)
- Swimming Pool: Yes
- Area: 12,482 sq ft
Highlights:
- Relaxing sauna
- Modern, industrial-style design
- Sweeping views of Monterey Bay
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Our Verdict!
The beaches in California are pretty, and so are the luxury vacation homes in California! A city with limitless possibilities, California has a limitless amount of fancy villas. That said, the above luxury vacation rentals in California are among the best. They’re fitted with top-notch amenities and offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But if you’re in a hurry and need more specific recommendations, check out the villas below!
- Most Expensive: LX21
- Best for Music Festivals: Delgado Estate
- Biggest Villa: Beverly Hills Mansion
- Best for Smaller Groups: The Alexander Residence
Things You May Need During Your Stay
- Top Villas Private Chef – Not all luxury vacation rentals in California offer you a private chef. If that’s the case, why not hire a private chef? That way, you’ll be able to enjoy a personalized menu anytime you want!
- Top Villas Private Butler – In addition to a private chef, you should also hire a private butler! They’ll be ready to pour you wine while you’re enjoying the sunset on your deck!
- Luxurious itineraries – As the land of gold, there are so many exciting things to do in California that can only be enjoyed if you have the money. If this is you, then you should check out these luxurious activities!