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Luxury Suite in Hlywd Hills Castle
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

The 14 most unique Airbnbs in Los Angeles

From castles and train cars to mountain escapes, these are the most unique Airbnbs across L.A.

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L.A. The place of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and all those snazzy jazzy places. Why would you settle for anything less than a super cool and unique Airbnb? From boho hideaways in the mountains to bright and colorful hilltop villas giving you Old Hollywood star vibes, there are plenty of quirky places to stay compared to your standard (even luxury) hotels. 

Los Angeles is an architectural playground, with gorgeous homes nestled in the canyons, steps from the ocean, or in the heart of the action. Below, you'll find a selection of our favorite unique Airbnbs for your next trip, whether they're just crazy quirky, stunning, or impossibly located, there's something you'll love here. 

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Unique L.A. Airbnbs

A kitsch jungle playground in Topanga
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

1. A kitsch jungle playground in Topanga

This house, which calls itself a Pirates of the Caribbean getaway, is a lot, me hearties. It’s all tiki and seashells and laser lights, with Jungle Cruise-meets-Indiana Jones decor (and a questionable teepee). But we legitimately love the lush flora and general vibe—just make sure your tolerance for kitsch is strong. There's 73 photos for you to fawn over. From the practical side, it sleeps two and there's a sauna. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? A secluded tropical paradise. 
Location perks? A stone's throw from Santa Monica and Malibu. 
Budget range? A moderate price for a truly unique escape for two. 

The medieval themed guesthouse in Glendale
Courtesy: Airbnb

2. The medieval themed guesthouse in Glendale

This medieval-themed Airbnb in L.A. - known as the red Drake Inn - is certainly unique. Differing from the typical luxe Airbnbs, with clean-cut, modern interiors, this Airbnb is definitely a different experience. Sleeping up to three guests in one queen-sized bed and a single bed, it's perfect for small families or a couple's getaway. The medieval charm runs throughout the Airbnb but don't worry, it still provides you with the modern conveniences you'll need for a comfortable stay. A bit like a fantasy inn set in Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter, the studio Airbnb includes a bathroom, Wi-Fi, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a stone fireplace for ultimate cozy vibes. Open the double doors into the private yard space where you'll find a courtyard patio with fire pit and gas grill, ideal for dining in the L.A. heat.

Rooms? Studio. Sleeps three guests. 
The mood? Fun and fantastical interiors.  
Location perks? This quirky Airbnb puts you close to Glendale and Universal Studios. 
Budget range? A moderately-priced stay for an extraordinary family vacay. 

 

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A light-filled loft in Venice
Supplied by Airbnb

3. A light-filled loft in Venice

Airbnb is full of cutesy Airstream and loft rentals, but we’d say this one sets the bar (and the pricepoint) sky-high. This is an incredible, sun-filled designer loft space that, fun fact, is part of a multi-million dollar complex created by a well-known Venice producer/director/designer. It’s definitely unique, with views over Venice and Santa Monica from three balconies. If you're in L.A. for a big old hit of the Vitamin D specifically, this might well be the place to call temporary home. Health is wealth, after all. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps three guests. 
The mood? Dreamy, light-filled loft.
Location perks? Moments away from Venice Beach and Santa Monica. 
Budget range? Enjoy a month-long of sunbathing and chilling by the ocean in this luxury loft. 

The bungalow over the water in Malibu
Courtesy: Airbnb

4. The bungalow over the water in Malibu

Although not technically over the water, this bungalow Airbnb in Malibu, L.A is literally on the beach, at arm's length of the water. Sleek, modern, and with a touch of beachy vibes, this Airbnb is the one to stay at for a cute beach trip but close to urban areas if you want a break from sunbathing (as if!). Watch the gorgeous sunset from the comfort of the sofa with the enormous floor-to-ceiling windows, or have a cheeky cocktail out on the balcony and take in the salty air. We feel calmer already.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four guests. 
The mood? A calming oasis by Malibu
Location perks? Gorgeous views overlooking Malibu beach. 
Budget range? A fair price for this ocean paradise. This ideal booking for a group of friends.

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A designer doodle studio in Glendale
Courtesy: Airbnb

5. A designer doodle studio in Glendale

Okay, we know at first glance that it's A LOT but this unique Airbnb in Glendale is so worth the visit. Coined the doodle studio – as it's fully clad in doodle art by world-famous artist @prettydone – this property is ideal for a couple of pals looking for somewhere unique to call home for a few days. Located near Hollywood, this is luxury artsy living at its best. Oh, and if you need a moment's respite from the craziness, head to the bathroom where wall art is at a minimum. 

Rooms? Studio. Sleeps two guests. 
The mood? An artist's wonderland. 
Location perks? Super close to downtown L.A. 
Budget range? A budget-friendly steal for solo adventurers or couples. 

An indoor-outdoor Craftsman in Venice
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

6. An indoor-outdoor Craftsman in Venice

This Venice guest cottage feels like it’s distilled every aesthetic of the California dream into a single structure: raw wood and industrial-chic surfaces meet clean, cushy furniture and a vine-covered outdoor bathroom, all wrapped up in an airy Craftsman-inspired space. Beautiful, simple, elegant and quintessentially L.A. Adjective-evocation aside, the place is situated in a beautiful garden right by Venice Beach, so if you're looking to keep the outdoor vibes when you go and unwind somewhere a little more private, well this is sure the place for you.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps three guests. 
The mood? California dreamin' meets Eden. 
Location perks? Tucked away from the hustle and bustle while being moments from the beach, and all the best restaurants and bars. 
Budget range? This digital nomad's dreamland is perfect for those who like to skip town.

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A studio cottage in North East Los Angeles
Supplied by Airbnb

7. A studio cottage in North East Los Angeles

This unique studio cottage is self-described as 'craftsmanesk in style' and we see what they're saying. The look and feel is very bespoke, like someone saw the place and truly put their stamp on it. A great example is the partially open ceiling and skylight, perfect for those of you who love architecture. This is also a great pool to stay in during the summer. Want to know why? It has a great non-heated pool that you can use to cool down in the hot Los Angeles summer months. There is one bedroom and one bathroom so it's perfect for solo travellers or couples looking for a serene getaway.

Rooms? Studio. Sleeps two guests. 
The mood? For creatures of comfort. 
Location perks? Marvellous landscaping and only a short stroll to the Gold Line.
Budget range? An affordable short break for two. 

A colorful caboose in Cornell
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

8. A colorful caboose in Cornell

Yes, this studio is inside of a train car. And as you'd expect, combines rustic charm with some lavish-looking touches. Outside, you can climb atop the caboose to find a patio with views of the surrounding Santa Monica Mountains which is highly recommended. Do note that there’s a metalworking studio on the property that’s active on weekdays—but the resident peacocks, parrots and hummingbirds should hopefully balance that out with some more pleasant noise. Besides, you're near Malibu, so you'll probably be out exploring for the most part, won't you.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? Odd is the new charming. 
Location perks? A peaceful location with beautiful views, and local wineries and restaurants for you to enjoy. 
Budget range? An affordable couple's trip.  

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A villa straight out of Old Hollywood
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

9. A villa straight out of Old Hollywood

With a blue mosaic pool shaded by cypress trees and impeccable iron detailing all over, this hilltop villa conjures the Golden Age of cinema. The stylish decor, the massive arched window, the mezzanine bedroom, the fireplace, the 25-foot ceilings, too. As it should, much of the aforementioned is originally from the 1930s. We simply love everything about this Hollywood home (well, everything except the price tag) but hey, there's probably not a more romantically cinematic place to stay in the world. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps six guests. 
The mood? Sunset Boulevard-esque. 
Location perks? Enjoy a taste of 1930s Hollywood glamour, along with views of the iconic Hollywood sign. 
Budget range? A budget-friendly steal for a group of friends.

 

A legit castle in the Hollywood Hills
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

10. A legit castle in the Hollywood Hills

Turrets, stained glass, high ceilings, chandeliers, details reliefs—yep, this is a castle, alright. But there’s nothing medieval about this stunning Hollywood Hills home; you’ll find fancy appliances, a bathroom with more showerheads than we could count, an outdoor fire pit and a pool and spa. Everything modern royalty could need. The castle itself is unique too (not many of them in Los Angeles is there) it's an example of something called 'Filmic Storybook Architecture' which had a moment in the 1920s and early 30s. This one's a 1931 building. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps three guests. 
The mood? Fairytale in the Hills. 
Location perks? This hidden paradise is tucked away in the Laurel Canyon. 
Budget range? A romantic getaway for those who like to indulge. 

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A mansion with secrets fit for Houdini in Laurel Canyon
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

11. A mansion with secrets fit for Houdini in Laurel Canyon

The first thing to know about the Houdini Estate: It’s unlikely the legendary magician ever owned it or lived there, but he may have rehearsed acts in the property’s deepwater tank, because well, they're in short supply aren't they. The second: In the Before Time, this mansion was best known for big-budget weddings and parties. But now? It’s a (pricey) way to play king for the day and have an entire four-bedroom mansion to yourself—including its Escher-like tangle of staircases and who knows how many secret passages. Still, it's a pretty cool place to stay and has a douze of the charm and mystery of lovely old time Hollywood that'll absolutely deep into your vibes whle here. 

Rooms? Four bedrooms. Sleeps 10 guests.
The mood? A mystical and grandiose playground of sorts. 
Location perks? These magnificent grounds are full of Houdini memorabilia round every corner.  
Budget range? A novel stay, ideal for large group bookings.  

A tranquil retreat in Topanga
Photograph: Airbnb

12. A tranquil retreat in Topanga

Light wood, big glass, all the light. Super sleek appliances and interiors, views of the Santa Monica mountains. Yes, this place is promising a peaceful holiday people. Nearby you're able to hike, mountain bike, surf, and do horseback riding. All of the altitudes covered. There's also yoga and artist studios. That's all assuming you even bother leaving this beautiful temporary home (and its lovely garden) of course. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four guests.  
The mood? Escape to the mountains. 
Location perks? A peaceful retreat, perfect for enjoying picnics and a scenic drive down to the beach. 
Budget range? A moderately-priced short break, great for families. 

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A home in the heart of Beverly Hills
Photograph: Airbnb

13. A home in the heart of Beverly Hills

This is what you call 'centrally located'. Walking distance to il Pastaio, Wally’s, and Avra; and Rodeo Dr. Great. So there's not going to be too much of a need to be in a beautiful home complete with a 70" HDTV (and every channel you could ever need, including Dinsey+, Apple TV, Hulu and the others), a patio area with good views, and loads of natural light, but hey, here you have that too. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps five guests. 
The mood? Bright, sexy, Modern-classic interiors. 
Location perks? Situated in a quiet neighborhood close to  Melrose Avenue and many other popular landmarks. 
Budget range? The perfect spot in Beverly Hills for a group of friends.  

A modern sanctuary in Hollywood Hills
Photograph: Airbnb

14. A modern sanctuary in Hollywood Hills

Okay but say you want to go all out. You want Kardashian style gaff. Maybe even more elaborate than Kardashian, more, king of the sillicone valley style accomodation but on the Hollywood Hills? Well it has to be this place. Sleeping a dozen across six rooms means the cost can become sort of tangible. The good stuff. Look at it, truly modern, whites and glasses in fun shapes. 6,500 sq ft, cost $7million to make. The six bedrooms have en suites of course, and there's also a jetted hot tub on the roof, a pool table in the second living room, multiple balconies with great views of downtown LA and Santa Monica's beaches. All the water is filtered, even the toilet... because why not. We could go on. Selling sunset vibes guartanteed, either way.  

Rooms? Six bedrooms. Sleeps 12 guests. 
The mood? Gawdropping glamour. 
Location perks? The ideal spot for those who want a taste of L.A. nightlife. 
Budget range? A pocket-friendly vacation for a bachelor or bachelorette party.

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