Here Are The 17 Absolute Best Places To Stay In Northern California
Chris Muras
Author
As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
Northern California is an ideal destination for those looking to escape their daily routine and experience a rejuvenating weekend getaway. It’s the perfect combination of stunning nature, thrilling adventure, and amazing culture. From the shores of the Pacific Ocean to the majestic Redwood Forest to the beaches of Monterey Bay, you can take in some breathtaking sights that are sure to reinvigorate your spirit. Or, take in unique shops, art galleries, restaurants, wine country tours, and more. We’ve picked some of the best places to stay in Northern California because there really is no better place to spend some quality time with those closest to you than in this beautiful part of the state! Scouring the best Airbnbs in Northern California plus some other unique rentals thrown in the mix, we hope this list inspires some travel!
Best Affordable Places to Stay in Northern California
When you think about California vacation rentals, your wallet tends to feel a little claustrophobic, but it turns out there are some wonderfully affordable rentals to be found without going glamping in a treehouse (although that’s pretty cool, too!). Here are two such places we think you’ll love, with swimming pools and even hot tubs:
1. Yosemite Cozy Cottage, Mariposa County
- Address: Mariposa County, CA
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 6), 1 full bath
- Price: $205/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, grill, wood stove, hot tub
- Ratings: 4.9 stars
Beautiful views of the Merced River Canyon await in this charming cottage in Northern California. About 30 minutes from Yosemite National Park, you have close access to hiking trails and outdoor adventures galore. In the warmer months enjoy the delightful herb garden and fresh tomatoes. When the evening air cools sit outside by the wood-burning stove or take a dip in the private hot tub.
2. Hillcrest Guest House, Sutter County
- Address: Sutter County, CA
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 full bath
- Price: $95/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, washer & dryer, pool, patio, fire pit
- Ratings: 4.9 stars
Enjoy a lovely small-town getaway in Yuba City's Hillcrest neighborhood with this very affordable guest house stay. Newly renovated with wonderful clean interior spaces and outstanding exterior features like the patio area and private pool.
3. A-Frame In The Clouds, Fallbrook, CA
- Address: Fallbrook, CA
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 bath
- Price: $179/night
- Amenities: Mountain View, pets allowed, fire pit.
- Ratings: 4.94 stars
Bailes Farm ranked as the 2nd best glamping spot in the U.S. in 2023 by Hipcamp. The remote A-Frame cabin boasts stunning ocean and mountain vistas. Set amidst a former avocado grove transitioning to permaculture, it offers a fully equipped kitchen, hot shower, and composting toilet. The spacious deck houses a California King bed, loft twin XL bed, and comfy sofa for additional guests. Propane fuels amenities like the gas grill and fire-pit. Enjoy complimentary Starbucks coffee and tea while marveling at local wildlife and breathtaking views.
Best Places to Stay in Northern California for Families
Family vacations in Northern California are some of the most memorable and fun destinations you can choose. And these two Northern California vacation rentals have family fun written all over them. Enjoy!
4. Waterfront Lake House, Lake Wildwood
- Address: Lake Wildwood, CA
- Size: 4 bedrooms (sleeps 8), 3 baths
- Price: $475/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, heat & air conditioning, full kitchen, washer & dryer, game room, fireplace, patio, fire pit, six kayaks, three paddleboards, EV car charger
- Ratings: 5.0 stars
This is a beautiful home right on Lake Wildwood that is the perfect family vacation spot. Stunning lake views, yard games, game room, swimming and fishing dock, kayaks, paddleboards, fire pit - everything you need is already provided for you. All that's missing is you and your family.
5. Redwoods Vintage Cabin, Hacienda Heights
- Address: Hacienda, CA
- Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 full baths
- Price: $455/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, washer & dryer, fireplace, patio, outdoor wood stove, hot tub
- Ratings: 4.9 stars
A charming vintage cabin surrounded by towering Redwoods along the Russian River within walking distance of Mother's Beach... what could be better? This wonderful family getaway is perfect for nature lovers. With hiking trails, swimming beaches, and even wineries if you want to take an adults-only outing from the rest of the family. And of course, the six-person hot tub is absolutely magical in this old-growth forest setting.
6. Wine Country Farmhouse, Sonoma
- Location: Sonoma, CA
- Size: 4 bedrooms (sleeps 8), 3 baths
- Price: $1,528/night
- Amenities: WiFi, swimming pool, hot tub, bocce court, sport court (volleyball, basketball, pickle ball, and badminton), concierge service, private chef
- Rating: 5.0 stars
This beautiful modern farmhouse in Sonoma County will pamper you with amenities. From the high-end finishings to the private chef ready to whip up something special for your family. Tons of activities right on site, or make use of the personal concierge service to plan an itinerary in the beautiful countryside. A limousine wine tasting tour or a trip to Hanson's Distillery could be on the list of things to do for the adults while the kids make use of the sports court and swimming pool. The Sonoma Farmhouse is the ultimate family getaway in the California wine country.
7. Abalone Cove, Gualala
- Address: Gualala, CA
- Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 8), 2 baths
- Price: $644/night
- Amenities: Ocean views, self check-in, hot tub.
- Ratings: 4.97 stars
Situated over the Pacific, you’ll find Abalone Cove an oceanfront Airbnb rental perfect for the whole family. Offering breathtaking views, this retreat is ideal for people looking to relax and unwind with loved ones. Watch migrating whales from the couch, or soak in the hot tub with views of the sunset. With an open floor plan, 180-degree views, and a spacious yard, soak in the scenery from indoors or out.
Best Romantic Places to Stay in Northern California for Couples
The California wine country, the redwood forest, and historic downtown San Francisco are some of the most romantic locations in the country. We could list dozens of wildly romantic rentals, but we’ve hand-selected two we think will go perfectly with a bottle of wine and some vibrant red roses. Also, this section might just have the most unique Airbnb in Northern California, and perhaps even the country!
8. Secluded Mountain Getaway, Igo
- Address: Igo, CA
- Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 5), 3 baths
- Price: $180/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, full kitchen, washer & dryer, stone fireplace, deck
- Ratings: 5.0 stars
This romantic getaway for two is perfect if you love a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Down in the valley of the South Fork Mountain near Whiskeytown National Forest, you have easy access to hiking, biking, or simply a romantic stroll through the forest. There is even a small creek within a short walk from your back deck. You can also bring your own horses because there is a small barn set up for two horses. Or, if you prefer there are two kayaks for a watery adventure.
9. Seaspray Oceanfront Getaway, Gualala
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- Address: Gualala, CA
- Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 4), 2 full baths
- Price: $360/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, gourmet kitchen, washer & dryer, three fireplaces, outdoor kitchen, deck, grill, hot tub, ocean views
- Ratings: 4.9 stars
Ocean views, ocean views, ocean views! This is the ultimate romantic getaway with your own private spot on the ocean in a beautiful luxury home with high-end amenities. Truly a little slice of heaven. Enjoy a moonlit night gazing over the ocean on your private deck while relaxing in the hot tub. Sparks are sure to fly.
10. Ocean Front Paradise, Pacific Grove
- Location: Pacific Grove, CA
- Size: 2 bedrooms (sleeps 4), 2 full baths
- Price: $800/night
- Amenities: WiFi, fireplace, fire pit, patio, washer & dryer
- Rating: 5.0 stars
This enchanting abode overlooking Monterey Bay is the final piece you are looking for as you plan the perfect romantic getaway. Share a glass of wine out on the patio as the sun sets over the ocean and a warm fire dances like lovers on their wedding night. When the air chills, and the mood starts to simmer, take yourselves inside to sit by the fireplace with views of the ocean. This Spanish revival home is waiting to woo you with its charm. It doesn't hurt that Lover's Point is only a half mile away, but then again, you are probably doing just fine right where you are in this delightful home.
11. Modern Treehouse, Topanga
- Address: Topanga, CA
- Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 3.5 baths
- Price: $785/night
- Amenities: Fully remodeled, featured in Dwell & The New York Times, fully equipped yoga studio.
- Ratings: 4.93 stars
Head on over to Topanga Canyon to stay in this modern treehouse in the sky. Featured in various publications, this fully-remodeled home is an architectural dream. Completely disconnect from day-to-day list as you enjoy beautiful hikes through the canyon, driving to the beach, or your very own fully equipped yoga studio! A peaceful paradise awaits.
12. The Pinecone Treehouse, Bonny Doon
- Address: Bonny Doon, CA
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 bath
- Price: $650/night
- Amenities: Treehouse, featured in NBC Nightly News, free parking.
- Ratings: 4.87 stars
Perched among the majestic Redwood trees in Bonny Doon, the Pinecone Treehouse offers panoramic views of the forest canopy. Let the enchanting surroundings and unique structure envelop you, fostering relaxation, imagination, and introspection. You’ll be perched high in the treetops, sleeping amongst the giant California Redwoods. Sitting 60 feet from the ground on the downhill side, this is an experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Best Places to Stay in Eureka
Eureka is a charming small town in the uppermost point of Northern California. The entire town feels like it stepped right out of the Victorian era. Sitting demurely on beautiful Humboldt Bay, this beach town is a lovely, peaceful getaway spot for your next vacation.
13. River View Retreat, McKinleyville
- Address: McKinleyville, CA
- Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 7), 2 baths
- Price: $400/night
- Amenities: Self check-in, newly remodeled, complete privacy
- Ratings: 4.94 stars
This newly remodeled River View Retreat in McKinleyville is a true gem with total privacy. Come enjoy a home overlooking the Mad River, with over 2,000 square feet of living space. Not only will you have three bedrooms and two baths, but also a sauna, hot tub, bamboo garden, and so much more!
14. Lilac Victorian, Eureka
- Address: Old Town Eureka, CA
- Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 10), 3 baths
- Price: $309/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, two full kitchens, washer & dryer
- Ratings: 4.5 stars
Another wonderful Victorian home near Humboldt Bay just down the street from the Carson Mansion and the Pinc Lady. The feel of a historic Victorian home with updated modern conveniences. The Lilac Victorian is a lovely light-filled home with a white picket fence within a short walk to the beach, shopping, and restaurants in Eureka.
Best Places to Stay in San Francisco
What’s not to love about San Francisco? Those nerve-wracking steep streets, cable car rides, the Golden Gate Bridge, unique art galleries, fine dining at Michelin-star restaurants, and a historic culture that is world famous. For your next Bay Area vacation we’ve selected two rentals that will blow you away. You’ll want to visit again and again.
15. Castro Bali Retreat, Corona Heights
- Address: Corona Heights, CA
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 4), 1 full bath
- Price: $431/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, chef's kitchen, fireplace, washer & dryer, patio, tropical garden, hot tub, fire pit
- Ratings: 5.0 stars
A zen retreat right in the heart of San Fransisco with a hot tub. What? Yes, this tranquil home is the relaxing stay you need, while you enjoy all that San Fransisco has to offer. Only a couple of miles from Union Square. Or, a short walk to shops, bars, and restaurants. This high-end home is set up right with a chef's kitchen and a Sonos sound system with mood lighting. Um, and a heated toilet seat. Just saying.
16. Mill Valley Retreat, Strawberry
- Address: Strawberry, CA
- Size: 3 bedrooms (sleeps 6), 2 full baths
- Price: $600/night
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, TV, kitchenette, washer & dryer, grill, patio, garden, 75-foot outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness room
- Ratings: 4.9 stars
The lower level of this stunning Mill Valley retreat on a quiet private cul-de-sac is all yours. With elevated views of the San Francisco skyline, this is a magical accommodation in Northern California. Only minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and a ferry to San Francisco. Or, take a day trip to nearby Napa and Sonoma County wine country. Everything about this rental property is top-notch, including the friendly hosts.
17. Hilltop Studio, San Francisco
- Address: San Francisco, CA
- Size: 1 bedroom (sleeps 2), 1 bath
- Price: $181/night
- Amenities: Wi-fi, self check-in, newly remodeled.
- Ratings: 4.94 stars
This newly remodeled Hilltop San Francisco studio offers private-entry atop a hill in Bernal Heights. This guest suite has everything you need to be close to the city, plus creature comforts from home. Enjoy private keyless entry, a luxury bathroom, large backyard, kitchenette, and more. With easy access to public transportation and the highway, this Airbnb rental has it all.
Northern California is a wonderful part of the state filled with a unique mix of beautiful natural areas, old Victorian charm, oceanside cabins, and luxury accommodations. These are only a few of the best places to stay in Northern California – there are thousands of vacation properties to choose from. We hope you enjoy your stay at one of these rentals that were hand-picked for you.
What vacation rentals in Northern California have you discovered? Share your best weekend getaway with us in a comment. Then, just for fun, check out this list of fun things to do around San Francisco.
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More to Explore
Where to stay in Northern California
What are the best unique hotels in Northern California?
Northern California, specifically the San Francisco area, Bodega Bay, and Sonoma County is filled with history and quirky artistic charm. That artsy Mediterranean vibe definitely spills over into its hotels. Here is a list of some of the best unique hotels in Northern California:
1. Hotel Vertigo, San Francisco
2. Palace Hotel, San Francisco
3. Camellia Inn, Healdsburg
4. The National Hotel, Nevada City
5. Eden Vale Inn, Placerville
6. The Delta King, Sacramento
View more unique places to stay in Northern California in this article showing 11 wonderful rentals that are filled with charm and a unique welcoming vibe, including some of the best hotels around Half Moon Bay, the Mendocino coast, and other scenic areas along the Pacific coast.
Where are the most unique getaways in Northern California?
Northern California has so much to offer, from the beautiful Redwoods in national and state parks, to ocean-side villas, Napa Valley, and charming small-town vacations along the Sonoma coast. But sometimes you just want something uniquely Californian that not many can say they have experienced. Let’s take a road trip down Highway 1 and the Northern California coast to check out some of the most unique getaways in Northern California:
1. Philo Apple Farm, Mendocino County
2. East Brother Light Station, San Pablo Bay
3. Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino, CA
4. Bear Basin Fire Lookout and Pierson Cabin
5. Timber Cove Resort, Jenner, CA
6. The National Hotel, Jamestown, CA
Read the entire list of unique experiences in Northern Cali in this article, then plan your next weekend getaway!