There are perhaps more unique places to stay in California than in any other state combined! With SO many different areas – from mountain to beach, and desert to forest – you can find a little bit of everything in this big beautiful state. California also happens to be my home state, where I grew up and have traveled extensively!
In California, you can stay in everything – think a boat, a wigwam, converted historic spots, boutique stays, and more. Between vacation rentals like airbnbs and VRBO’s to fun and unusual hotels, there are unique accommodation options for everyone on every budget. There’s also a surprisingly large number of themed hotels, too!
Because this list is so long, I have divided it into the most unique stays in southern, central, and northern California. This post would go perfectly with my comprehensive California road trip itinerary or some of my other CA posts below written from my personal travel experiences over decades.
- 75 Pacific Coast Highway Hidden Gem Stops
- Southern California Best Beach Hikes
- Laguna Beach Hiking Trails
- Unique Joshua Tree Stays – some of the most unique CA stays are in the desert!
Unique Places to Stay in Southern California
Here are the best quirky Southern California accommodations – from a trailer park in the desert to a historic estate on the beach.
The Saguaro Palm Springs
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: It’s a fully RAINBOW hotel with TONS of color and sometimes music events too!
The Saguaro is an endlessly cool unique + boutique hotel in Palm Springs. With incredible views of the mountains behind the most colorful hotel you’ll ever see, the Saguaro is a total vibe.
It’s great for young people who like to have a few cocktails by the pool and have eclectic and colorful rooms. The Saguaro is one of the hosts for Splash House Festival, too.
Hi-Desert Fade – Joshua Tree
It’s one of the coolest California stays because it’s literally surrounded by Joshua Trees and rocks, remote from everything else, with amazing views in every single direction.
If you ask me, this might be the coolest place to stay in the Joshua Tree area… and this area has a LOT of unique stays. If you are looking specifically for this area, check out my whole article of 15 unique Joshua Tree stays!
This modern house comprised of glass windows leaves everything out to nature. With immaculate desert views in every direction, a fire pit up against a rock pile, and a jacuzzi and plunge pool open to the elements… it’s everything you’d want from a unique getaway.
*Plumguide selects only the top vetted properties for their site, so you can be confident in this one!
Castle Wood Theme Cottages – Big Bear CA
It’s one of the most fun places to stay in CA because: it’s a COUPLES-ONLY lodging where all rooms have a different fun theme and include costumes to dress up in. It’s also one of the most unique hotels with jacuzzi in California!
With a tagline of ‘live your fairytale,’ these themed cottages are not messing around when it comes to a romantic and unique California getaway. The room themes vary – to name a few, you can choose from ‘castle garden,’ ‘the haunted manor,’ ‘enchanted forest,’ and more. Many have baths/spas also.
You can opt to pay extra for rose petals and a rose to be set on your bed, for a big gift basket, for chocolate-dipped strawberries, OR an in-room massage. What more could you possibly need?! This is my favorite place to stay in Big Bear when with a partner!
STILE Downtown Los Angeles by Kasa
It’s one of the Most Unique California Stays Because It’s a cute and modern hotel with a rooftop pool and an amazing view over downtown!
It’s inside the United Artists Building of DTLA with super chic rooms, amazing views, and awesome outdoor chill areas. Some rooms have terraces and all are decked out for an awesome stay in downtown!
Samesun Hostel Ocean Beach San Diego
It’s One of the Most Unique Hostels in California Because… I mean, look at it! It’s totally colorful and psychedelic with art all over the place.
Everything at Samesun is covered in art and a lifestyle of community and outdoor fun are encouraged and lived! This hostel is literally STEPS from the beach and has dorm rooms for those on a budget and privates as well. Check out the best San Diego sunset spots from here.
Hicksville Trailer Palace – Joshua Tree
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: It’s a totally unique little community in the desert where you can stay in airstreams, buses, and repurposed motor homes, play games, and even in a ball pit.
I’d definitely have to say that Hicksville is one of a kind. No two ‘rooms’ are the same, with motor homes and airstreams housing from two to seven people. There’s also a teepee, and a room shaped like a boat! Everything is lit up in different colors at night.
The common spaces include a ball pit, a massive chess board, archery, cornhole, shuffleboard, a pool, and more. Lana del Rey even filmed a music video there. Awesome! Check out more unique places to stay in Joshua Tree here.
The Queen Mary – Long Beach
It’s One of the Most Unique Hotels in California Because: You can sleep on the historic QUEEN MARY – an incredible ship that sailed the high seas as a cruise ship and cargo liner from 1934.
Yes, you heard that right… you can STAY on the Queen Mary! Docked permanently in the port of Long Beach, the ship now serves as a venue and hotel with pretty epic rooms.
You won’t believe you are on a boat in these luxurious suites! Play games on the deck or explore the ship and its amazing views of the sea and downtown Long Beach. Hop over the border to Orange County or even road trip down to Dana Point.
Wigwam Motel – San Bernardino/Rialto
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: The rooms are shaped like wigwams!
The Wigwam Motel is a unique motel idea that has been replicated quite a few times along Route 66. The rooms are basic yet extremely affordable, and as you can see, shaped like old teepee’s/wigwams! But don’t worry, you will have solid walls and plenty of privacy for a good night’s sleep.
Desert Saga – Panorama Heights
It’s one of the most unusual California Stays because: The totally unique architecture and interior design create a space like nothing you have ever stayed in before!
The architect of this place used tons of upcycled materials to create an off-grid getaway like no other. It may look strange from the outside… but that’s the point.
Experience immaculately designed spaces both outdoors and indoors, do some stargazing, or even opt to sleep in the completely open second bedroom. It has a comfortable kitchen and living area with incredible mountains views… not too far from Joshua tree!
*Plumguide selects only the top vetted properties for their site, so you can be confident in this one!
The Venice Beach House
The Venice Beach House is a historic estate RIGHT in the center of Venice Beach… literally steps away from the water. It was built all the way back in 1911 and is actually listed on the “National Register of Historic Places.”
It looks as good as new, however… the interior is immaculate and each of the 9 rooms has completely unique decor from the next. The gardens are also super gorgeous and a great place to relax if the two steps to the beach seem too far 😉
America’s Best Value Inn + Suites Yucca Valley (prev. Oasis of Eden)
It’s one of the most unusual places to stay in California because: It’s like a normal motel but has 12 different totally decked out, themed rooms… but you’d never guess it from the lobby or outside!
This is one of the strangest and most unusual California hotels on this list for a couple reasons. It was super hard for me to find, as the name seems to have changed, and with a name like “America’s Best Value’ you definitely wouldn’t expect anything this… crazy.
On Booking.com they only show ‘normal’ looking rooms and one themed (Grecian) suite, but when you get on hotels.com things get interesting. You are greeted immediately with the ‘cave’ suite and can see photos of the jungle, 50’s, Persian, Roman, Oriental, Safari, Swimmer’s Paradise, and Tahiti themed rooms.
You can only choose a theme room on Hotels.com so I suggest heading there to see some more bizarre photos of massively-themed rooms right next to very normal ones, haha. OH, and it’s super close to Joshua Tree National Park and perfect to visit from there.
Desert Wave – Palm Desert
It’s one of the most unique California Airbnbs because: The retro-chic design combines with the floor-to-ceiling windows and private garden to creat a desert oasis.
This sculptor studio-turned-interesting lodging is located in Palm Desert. The pastel interior contrasts with a personal Oforo soaking tub, bar, and sound system to create a vibe perfect for you.
The whole thing is so pleasing to the eye, and the waved roof contrasts perfectly with the San Jacinto ranges in the background.
Unique Places to Stay in Middle California
Here are some of the most fun places to stay in mid-California between San Francisco and Los Angeles!
Treebones Big Sur
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: It’s got glamping and camping on the cliffs of Big Sur, with decked-out yurts and even treehouses.
Treebones is one of the coolest places to stay in Big Sur for sure. While nothing in Big Sur is particularly affordable, this one is, well, cheaper than the bigger resorts!
Treebones is super rustic and GORGEOUS. You will find beautiful yurts, a restaurant on-site, amazing views, hiking from the property, and walk-in campsites. Check out the ‘human nest and twig hut’ campsites on the treebones website to find these magical spots.
Madonna Inn – San Luis Obispo
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: It might be the most eclectic hotel in all of California – with fascinating and gaudy decor and extravagant themed rooms.
The Madonna Inn is an unmissable landmark while driving up the 101. With tons of colors, lights, and decorations, it’s even worthwhile just to stop for a snack at their cafe or two restaurants.
When I say the rooms are themed, I mean THEMED. Check out the Expedia page below to scroll through pictures of dozens of totally different and amazing rooms. From the wild west to safari to color blocks, to rooms that look like they were cut out of rocks to even a California Poppy-themed room… it’s unreal.
Victorian Mansion B&B – Los Alamos
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: It’s another awesome boutique hotel with each room a different decked-out theme!
Damn, I had no idea there were so many fun themed hotels in California! The Victorian Mansion Bed & Breakfast has six themed rooms – such as a pirate ship, drive-in theater, and a Moroccan sheiks tent!
Pretty much half way between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo, it’s a perfect stopover location (or it’s worth the trip in itself)! Here are more unique places to stay in Santa Barbara.
Caravan Outpost – Boutique Ojai Airstream Hotel
If you haven’t checked out the gorgeous little mountain town of Ojai, this unique airstream hotel could be your calling. It’s trendy as hell with decked-out airstreams (that are actually really luxe inside) and also a ‘tiny home’ with space for 5 people.
There are 10 airstreams, a little garden in the middle, and even a little shop on-site. There are tons of hikes in the area so you can go exploring in the hills, too!
Avila La Fonda – Avila Beach
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: It’s an inclusive Mexican hacienda-themed boutique hotel with unique inclusions and amazing service
We Stayed at the Avila La Fonda on the way back from Burning Man one year (not sponsored) and I was SOOOO impressed. It’s got a beautiful facade with painted tiles and adobe fixtures, but what REALLY set this hotel apart for us was the inclusions.
If you stay here, you get an entire snack basket included, a small gift and wine glasses, wine and pie in the evening, a nacho bar and beer at lunchtime, and delicious homemade croissants for breakfast. The attention to hospitality and detail is incredible. And each room has a hot tub! I can’t wait to go back to this unique boutique property.
Unique Places to Stay in Northern California
And now, the most fun and unusual accommodation in NorCal. These are some of the best in the state!
Delta King Riverboat Hotel – Sacramento
It’s one of the coolest places to stay in California Because: It’s an old riverboat-turned-hotel right in old town Sacramento on the river.
The Delta King used to do trips back and forth to San Francisco during prohibition, and now it lies to rest on the river in Sacramento as a riverboat hotel.
With luxurious rooms, many beautiful outdoor terraces, a restaurant on-site, meeting rooms, and more, it’s a great place to stay in Sacramento for a unique experience. Some even say that it might be haunted… I guess you’ll have to see for yourself!
Hotel Julian San Francisco (prev Hotel Vertigo)
It’s one of the most quirky places to stay in SF because It’s a classic San Francisco-style building that was featured in Hitchcock’s 1958 Film ‘vertigo.’ It was called Hotel Vertigo but has since rebranded.
If you want a unique place to stay in central San Francisco (and appreciate some cool history and film locations) then Hotel Vertigo is your choice. Located a few minutes from Nob Hill, this historic hotel has been remodeled to feel luxe yet still old-fashioned.
It was featured in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 film ‘vertigo,’ then named the ‘Hotel Empire’ in the film. Check this article for more about the hotel’s history.
Gravity Haus – Tahoe-Truckee
Gravity Haus is one of those stunningly unique places to stay in California that gives an old log cabin vibe with sleek and modern touches that exude luxury. Watch the snow falling from your balcony, or enjoy a meal around the outdoor fire if it’s warm enough!
For a more home-away-from-home experience in the Sierra Nevada, MG Vacation Rentals Tahoe offers a range of unique vacation homes around Lake Tahoe that are perfect for ski weekends or summer lake getaways.
This hotel has a bar and restaurant on-site and free bikes to use, making it a one-stop-shop for a fantastic getaway. It is, however, located minutes from Truckee and a few miles from North Lake Tahoe, so also an ideal base for activities, hiking, skiing in the area, or even a road trip stopover. If you’re looking to stay in Tahoe itself, check out the best boutique hotels in Tahoe here.
Fantastic House with Indoor Pool (Vacation Rental)
It’s one of the most fun places to stay in California because It’s a HUGE BEAUTIFUL house with amazing views, game rooms, and an INDOOR POOL.
This place is an awesome find – perfect for groups for a getaway. Not only does it have sleek and chic design surrounding a completely indoor pool with a waterfall, but it was incredible views as well of the surrounding countryside.
Placerville is bona-fide gold country, and you can explore history of the Gold Rush in the area. At the foot of the Sierras there is plenty to do, but I think this place would be more of a group getaway as you don;t even need to leave the amazing property!
Ahwahnee Hotel Yosemite
It’s one of the coolest places to stay in Northern California Because: It’s the ONLY hotel located in CENTRAL Yosemite National Park
The Ahwahnee Hotel is close to ALL amazing Yosemite natural attractions, and is built like a true massive mountain lodge. Comprised of Stone and Wood, the Ahwahnee has an impressive design and also an impressive history.
Its architecture and design have been known throughout the ages to host celebrities and even presidents – it’s THE upscale place to stay in Yosemite. Or, check out my article if you want to know more about Yosemite National Park in winter and where I stayed.
The Coach House – A Unique Getaway Tucked in the Trees
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because it’s the CUTEST cabin in a remote part of the Sierra’s
If you want a getaway: this is it! The Coach House Cabin was actually moved and reconstructed in a location surrounded by forests. The interior is stunning, with cabin-chic designs with old western touches. It sleeps 3 in 2 different beds.
It’s located in the tiny town of Dorrington – remote enough but also close enough to walk to the closest restaurant. You can also get to Calaveras Big Trees State Park and plenty of trails and even a lake nearby.
Featherbed Railroad Caboose B&B – Nice, California
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: You sleep in a themed converted train car!
The Featherbed Railroad Caboose B&B is in Nice, California. This is near Lakeport, right on the shores of Clear Lake in Northern California. This is all inland from Mendocino if all those other names sounded gibberish to you… it’s a smaller part of California! The area is adorable and the views are equally epic.
Each room is inside an old converted railroad caboose, and each has a different theme. The room titles range from ‘Casablanca,’ ‘La Loose Caboose,’ and ‘Wild Wild West’ to ‘Orient Express,’ ‘Midnight in Paris,’ and ‘Celebrations,’ so each one has a completely unique experience and decor.
Live Oak Cove – Pacifica, CA
It’s one of the most unique places to stay in Northern California Because these immaculately designed studios have a view of a quaint village just 30 minutes from San Francisco.
If you are looking for a place to get away while actually not being TOO far away, then Pacifica, or specifically Pedro Point, could be for you. Live Oak Cove is a small and open studio that is as cozy as could be.
There is beautiful scenery, coves, walking trails, and surfing beaches in the area outside this adorable studio. Or, spend some time in San Francisco experiencing the big city before retiring to the comfort of this small town surrounded by nature.
Hotel Zephyr – San Francisco
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: It’s an industrial nautical-themed hotel near Pier 39 in San Francisco!
Hotel Zephyr is an extremely trendy and fun hotel located right next to popular tourist center Pier 39 in San Francisco. I would call it something along the lines of industrial-chic – which fits in with the area well and puts a trendy twist on a nautical theme.
The windows are like portholes, the views are great, and they have really unique fire pits, chill areas, and games like shuffleboard and pool.
Calistoga Motor Lodge
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because it’s a road trip-inspired hotel designed by a NY-based design firm, giving you an upscale roadside motel vibe with activities and games.
Calistoga is a smaller destination just 40 minutes north of Napa (while still being within reach of plenty of wineries) and at the base of the Silverado hiking trail. That’s already PLENTY to do! But being close to Napa you can also visit tonf of wineries, spas, and fabulous restaurants. For more on this area, check out these unique stays in Napa Valley.
This little ‘motor lodge’ is nestled within mountains and vineyards, and has a really cool retro design that makes you feel like you’re road tripping in the past. With lots of activities and s proper spa, it’s a great staycation destination.
Olema House at Point Reyes
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: Its an ADORABLE and quaint NorCal hotel with beautiful architecture and unique rooms
The Olema House is just so cute. It’s the perfect stop on a highway 1 road trip so you can explore Point Reyes. It’s perfectly situated to check out TONS of hiking trails in Bear Valley/Popint Reyes National Seashore, check out the famous lighthouse, the cyprus tree tunnel, or the cute town of Point Reyes Station.
This place won ‘best hotel in Northern California’ in 2020, so I’d put a good bet that it lives up to how charming it looks in photos. Additionally, each room features a unique design, ranging from standalone cottages to smaller rooms and suites with stunning views, making it even more perfect for this list. It has its own little market/restaurant too, in true Marin fashion. The price is quite high, but if you can afford it, it’s a good one.
Lakefront Home on Lake Wildwood
It’s One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in California Because: it’s a perfect-for-groups house with tons of games on a lake, facing the sunset, in a more off-the-beaten-track part of California.
I found this one while browsing VRBO and couldn’t resist adding it in for a few reasons. Firstly, I don;t have enough vacation rentals for large groups on this list. Secondly, look how many GAMES and ACTIVITIES there are?!
Thirdly, sunsets over the lake. Fourthly (is that a word?), have you ever been to Lake Wildwood before?! I haven’t spent much time up near Yuba City or Yube River state park, and it looks gorgeous. This is a perfect family of friend weekend trip destination.
That’s all I got for the most unique, fun, and unusual California stays at the moment… but I will forever be adding to this list! Let me know what you thought in the comments below, or if you have anywhere I should add to the list!
OR View more unique stays:
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More coming soon!
Passionate, full-time travel blogger with over 230k on social media and 150kMPV blog. Extraordinary photographer with two DSLR's + a drone with a love for capturing candid moments, epic drone shots, and magical compositions. I'm a natural-born content creator originally from California, but I've been on the road for 9 years living, working, traveling, blogging, and photographing my way around the world. I recommend the most amazingly adventurous and unique + boutique travel experiences/stays and helpful products to my audience and write comprehensive guides on my website that have helped millions of travelers so far. I love to inspire people to plan their dream trips, and many readers have given feedback as such. The reach on my platforms continues to soar, especially when combining cutting-edge social content with optimized articles on my high-authority website.