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Airbnbs in the desert, whether in Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, or Sedona, usually symbolize a specific, solitary fantasy: of digital detoxing, of reconnecting with nature, of going off the grid. And, frankly, doesn’t that sound just about perfect right now? We’re a mere month into 2021. Between the news cycle and the brutally persistent pandemic, it’s exhausting. Sign us up for someplace with sand, sun, stars, and a sprawling landscape. (Another added bonus: many desert locales are within driving distance of major metropolitan cities, such as Los Angeles or Phoenix.)
We took it upon ourselves to scour Airbnb for the best remote retreats. What did we find? An architecturally significant property in Pioneertown, a tricked out Airstream in Joshua Tree, a tiny cabin overlooking red rocks in Arizona, and so much more.
Below, find our nine favorite Airbnbs in the desert for the ultimate safe and socially-distant getaway.
Off-Grid It-House (Pioneertown, California)
Linda Taalman, a preeminent architect whose work is included in the MoMA and Vitra Design Museum’s permanent collection, designed this remote off-grid house outside of Pioneertown, California. (Population: 420.) There’s no television, satellite wifi is available for emergencies only, and the entire house is powered by solar panels. Those who desire a digital detox in the high desert—look no further.
Merchant-on-the-Road Airstream (Joshua Tree, California)
This Joshua Tree Airstream comes with some serious design cred: the interiors are by Merchant Modern, an effortlessly cool Venice Beach home goods shop known for its Moroccan rugs, mid-century furniture, and vintage ceramics. Bonus: although yes, this is a camper, the campground comes with an impeccably-adorned clubhouse complete with a kitchen, living room, and outdoor deck.
The Joshua Tree House (Joshua Tree, California)
Ten minutes from the Western entrance to Joshua Tree National Park is this charming hacienda built in 1949. There’s thoughtful design touches—Casper mattresses, Schoolhouse lighting fixtures, hanging chairs, and a fringed hammock—and over 100 of the region’s signature trees on the property. Although it’s certainly off the beaten track, civilization is close proximity: it’s only a short drive or a 10-minute walk from downtown Joshua Tree.
A-Frame Desert Oasis (Palm Springs, California)
Although an A-Frame abode isn’t what one traditionally envisions when in the mid-century modern mecca of Palm Springs, this listing is still full of chic character with its sunset color palette: there’s a bright yellow door, a pleasant pink entryway, and a sherbet-orange bedspread. A final fun design touch: Drop It Modern’s Modern Femme terracotta wallpaper in the laundry room.
Mid-Century Home (Palm Springs, California)
Flat roof. Interiors with no-fuss ornamentation. Indoor-to-outdoor space—this Palm Springs home checks the classic mid-century boxes. Strike your best Slim Aarons pose by its pool.
Geodesic Dome (Palm Springs, California)
This Palm Springs Geodesic Dome Home, owned by an architect, is both a popular listing and a popular Instagram account. Sitting on five acres and overlooking a desert wind-farm, it’s a unique retreat in every sense of the word.
The Coyote House (Yucca Valley, California)
Tucked away on the road between Pioneertown and Joshua Tree is The Coyote House. It’s a charming oddball of a home thanks to its abundance of tiki furniture, shag carpeting, vintage ochre sofa, and of course, a hot tub. And, to borrow some real-estate parlance, it’s all about location, location, location: this place is a few blocks away from the vintage shops on Palms Highway, five minutes from Pioneertown, and 20 minutes to the National Park entrance. (And, if you re looking for a restaurant recommendation, may we suggest La Copine?)
Green Haus (Joshua Tree, California)
“Green,” here, isn’t used as a figurative word for eco-friendly, but rather a literal descriptor: the house is a bright lime hue. The true attraction is its deck, which boasts expansive views of Joshua Tree, including Mt. San Jacinto and Mt. Gorgonio. Soak in an incredibly chic hot tub under the stars.
Tiny Cabin (Sedona, Arizona)
Perched right on Oak creek in Sedona, Arizona, is this charming tiny house adorned with Western details. Gaze upon the area’s red rocks from your private deck, or just cozy up in a nook with a good book—it’s your vacation after all.
