We all need a little change of scenery every now and then, but luckily Angelenos don’t have to travel too far for it. As much as we love L.A., there’s simply no better way to miss it than getting to know the surrounding lands and discovering (or rediscovering) some of its many amazing spots and unusual hotels. That being said, let’s dive into our list of top unique places to stay in L.A.
1. Blue Sky Center
Gaze into the Milky Way at the rural escape in New Cuyama, California. These designer wagons by Blue Sky Center are the perfect marriage of old-world charm and modern finishes. You can gather a fire pit in the communal area to light up those S’mores fairy lights. It allows you to truly unplug from city life without sacrificing all the modern comforts, which is what the perfect weekend getaway should be all about.
📍 Location: 1000 Perkins Rd, New Cuyama, CA 93254
2. Sacred Sands
Leave the city behind and take in the infinite horizons of the Joshua Tree by soaking in the outdoor tub, then spend your nights gazing up into the magical Milky Way. This iconic landmark is a rustic farmhouse escape balanced with pure luxury, in what feels like the middle of nowhere.
📍 Location: 63155 Quail Springs Rd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252
3. Caravan Outpost Ojai
Head to this oasis in the lovely town of Ojai, surrounded by gorgeous palm trees and enough greenery to make you feel like you’ve landed on a tropical island. You’ll stay in a classic airstream trailer and enjoy evenings around the campfire with fairy lights and stars twinkling above you. You can spend your days horse riding, chasing waterfalls, or visiting the incredible wineries, breweries, and eateries nearby. All of this make this spot one of the most unique places to stay in L.A.
📍 Location: 317 Bryant St, Ojai, CA 93023
4. El Capitan Canyon
This idyllic weekend destination brings you the very best of the Santa Barbara coast. From the rolling meadows, adorable farm animals and rocky streams to the scenic ocean views, you’ll find it hard to even imagine returning to city life. You can choose to stay in a number of glamping options like a cozy cedar cabin, a beautiful safari tent, or a circular yurt complete with wooden floors and views of the sky.
📍 Location: 11560 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93117
5. Pioneertown Motel
Yes, this is a real motel and also one of the most special and unique places to stay in L.A. It looks like a set from a Hollywood Western and that’s pretty much how it started out. The Pioneertown community was founded in 1946 by a group of Hollywood legends including Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Russell Hayden and Dick Curtis. Nowadays, it’s a bonafide motel in the middle of Yucca Valley and these dusty little inns are the perfect way to change up your scenery. Unlike those old flicks, however, there are all the modern amenities you could need out here.
📍 Location: 5240 Curtis Rd, Pioneertown, CA 92268
6. Castle In The Forest
This magnificent Gothic, castle-like structure is nestled in a lush forest in Lake Arrowhead. If you fancy an escape to a land far, far away, then this 10,388-square-foot luxury Chateau might just be it. You’ll be able to wander through the cathedral filled with elegant chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows with views of nature.
📍 Location: Near Lake Arrowhead
7. Vintage Desert Homes
For a more ranch-style weekend escape, choose from an array of fifties-era homes out in the middle of Joshua Tree. These farmhouses feature outdoor tubs, and quirky installations with playful details that make for a wild escape from the city—and reality.
📍 Location: Joshua Tree
8. The Saguaro
The Saguaro is a quirky hotel near Los Angeles that looks like it’s a Pantone strip lying on its side in the middle of Palm Springs. This is where you come to get a bit of color in every sense of the word. The entire hotel looks like it’s straight out of a catalog, which is pretty surreal. Beyond lounging on a flamingo float in the sparkling aqua pool, you’ll have plenty of activities to keep you busy in this designer desert playground, which makes this place a top choice on unique places to stay in L.A.
📍 Location: 1800 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264
9. La Casa Del Camino
La Casa del Camino, known as “The House on the Road,” is a haven for surfers, but its appeal extends beyond the waves to all guests. Literally a surfer’s paradise, this SoCal hotel collaborates with 10 leading surfing companies to design its surf suites. From the inviting tones of the Quicksilver suite to the vibrant designs of Etnies, Roxy, and the lively personality reflected in the Billabong Women’s Suite, guests can immerse themselves in their favorite surfing brands.
📍 Location: 1289 S Coast Hwy 4th floor, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
10. Dockside Boat and Bed
For those intrigued by the idea of experiencing life aboard a yacht, Dockside Boat and Bed offers the perfect opportunity. These authentic working vessels remain moored in the harbor throughout your overnight stay, ensuring the serene ambiance of the bay and the invigorating scents of the ocean persist. As an added bonus, breakfast is conveniently delivered to your boat each morning, enhancing your maritime adventure.
📍 Location: 330 S Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802