If you're planning to hole up this winter with family or your quarantine pod, why not go in together on a sweet vacay rental in driving distance from San Francisco?
With options ranging from a modern "tree" house with its own infrared sauna near Yosemite to Wine Country estates with swimming pools and vineyard views, Northern California has getaways galore, and the price-per-head isn't always as much as you might think (sometimes it is).
Sonoma Vineyard Escape
Courtesy of the owner, via Airbnb
Location: Sonoma, CA
Bedrooms: 4 (sleeps 8)
Price: $983 per night (approx)
You could easily ride your bike from this hideout to Sonoma Square, but you may have a hard time tearing yourself away from the infinity pool with vineyard panoramas. This four-bedroom stay is the epitome of lavish, Wine Country living with an open floor plan and guest house deal for entertaining thanks to endless patios, dining spots, and a retractable living room for indoor-outdoor living. The five-acre property doubles as a working vineyard for Barboshi Farms, giving guests the opportunity to participate in the winemaking process. // Book your stay at airbnb.com.
Yosemite Forest Retreat
Location: Mariposa, CA
Bedrooms: 3
Price: $434 per night (approx)
Located just outside Yosemite, the Forest Retreat House is a chance to unplug in a modern architectural space in the woods. The renovated three-bedroom abode has floor-to-ceiling windows filled with Douglas fir, pine, and cedar trees; exposed wood beams; an eclectic mix of vintage and modern decor; and plenty of outdoor seating. After exploring the property's lush grounds, kick back and relax in a hammock, zen out in an infrared sauna located among the trees, or bathe under the stars in one of two outdoor vintage clawfoot tubs. // Book your stay at airbnb.com.
The Lodge at Seven Coves
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Bedrooms: 8 (sleeps 18)
Price: $7,667 per night
You might have seen it on Big Little Lies or pictured in Architectural Digest: The massive villa, on 2.2 oceanfront acres, is known as The Lodge at Seven Coves and it can host your whole family for an epic getaway with eight bedrooms—six have ocean views (all in all, it sleeps 17 guests—hey that's only $196 a night each!). The 12,000 square foot space has a sprawling living room with 25-foot ceilings, two hot tubs, a stunning swimming pool, and a sea level fire pit where you can hear the waves crashing. Explore the Art Deco–style library's 5,000 book collection. // Book your stay at vrbo.com.
Modern Farmhouse
Location:St. Helena, CA
Bedrooms: 2
Price: $2,300 per night
Flanked by a swimming pool on one end and a hot tub on the other, this shabby-chic Napa Valley farmhouse has an open layout, two airy bedrooms each with French doors, and mountain and vineyard views. The magazine-worthy interiors are impeccably designed—think zebra print accents and antique European furnishings—and amenities include a wine fridge and an acre of secluded grounds. // Book your stay at luxuryretreats.com.
Surfer Style at Stinson Beach
Location: Stinson Beach, CA
Bedrooms: 3 (sleeps 8)
Price: $811 avg per night
Separated from Seadrift Lagoon by just a private hot tub and lounge chair-topped dock and deck, this Stinson Beach home, decorated in neutral hues and effortless furnishings, exudes surfer-chic vibes. Thanks to two master bedrooms, plus a bunk bed room, an open floor plan, and a multitude of outdoor hangout spaces, you can easily take advantage of warm fall weather with a group of friends and family. After a long day at the beach, rinse off in the outdoor shower, throw open the huge dining room doors for dinner with a view, or chill out under the stars at the fire pit. // Book your stay at airbnb.com.
Location: Trinidad, CA
Bedrooms: 3 (sleeps 6)
Price: $700 per night
Venture up the coast to this luxe three-bedroom retreat designed by renowned Canadian architect Brian Hemingway. An open floor plan, wood- and glass-heavy modern design, and massive windows complement spectacular ocean views and the surrounding redwood trees, creating a zen, indoor-outdoor feel. You'll have a front row view for sunsets from the many outdoor lounging spots, hot tub and fire pit. Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors open from the master bedroom to a private balcony. You'll also find a charger for your Tesla, heated floors, towel warmer rack, and two LCD TVs. Nearby, find endless hiking trails, beaches, restaurants, and boating opportunities nearby. // Book your stay at vrbo.com.
