Rana Good is the founder of Naïra NYC. A writer for publications such as Forbes, Travel + Leisure, Coveteur, Mens Journal and others, she created her own platform celebrating women of color.
Since the start of the pandemic, international travel has been either on hold or restricted which has motivated more people to travel domestically instead of hop on a plane. Now, Airbnbs in the United States are more popular than ever and it’s easy to see why. With them you get a wonderful vacation but also privacy and minimal interaction with people outside of your circle. There are fewer worries about getting sick and the homes provide quality time with friends and family. Planning a memorable domestic trip in 2021? Here are the most amazing airbnb homes you can book right now.
1. Tiki Suites ~ The Grand Tiki
The Grand Tiki follows the massive success of the original Tiki Suite and just launched this year on Airbnb. It’s slightly more luxurious than the original and features an artistic roof design, 50″ LED TV and Blu-ray and tempered peak windows. The Grand Tiki is located in Key West and entirely surrounded by water which means you will need a water taxi to get to and from your ocean home. Don’t worry though you have an expanded 30 gallon per day freshwater tank, electric mini-refrigerator, and plenty of lighting so you won’t be missing anything during your stay. What you will love is water sports literally being at your doorstep — there are two inflatable paddleboards, two sets of snorkel gear, and an easily integrated swim ladder to access the Airbnb. If you love the ocean, this is your spot.
This Joshua Tree Airbnb offers a serene desert escape. It’s a two-bedroom, two-bathroom property ten minutes away from the Joshua Tree National Park. While you’re out in nature you’re also only a ten-minute walk away from Joshua Tree town with shops and restaurants, so you’re not completely off the grid. With a jacuzzi out front you can enjoy a night under the stars or snuggle up with loved ones inside in front of the fireplace.
3. The Black A-Frame: Sustainable Catskills Cabin
Enjoy the beautiful foliage and landscape of the Catskills while staying in this stunning A-frame home in Kerhonkson. This home is magical during all seasons – in the fall you can come for leaf-peeping, in the winter enjoy walks in the snow and in the spring/summer enjoy barbecues on the outdoor deck. The New York Post called it the “Coolest A-frame in NY” in 2020 for a reason.
A treehouse offers a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and this tropical one in Hawaii is particularly charming. It sits on top of 15 feet high stilts in a canopy of local flora and exit and enter you need to use a trap door. You will be surrounded by dense jungle and Volcano National Park is just 10 miles away. This is a true nature escape — the running water is collected rainwater (not potable) and at night the sound of coqui frogs will lull you to sleep. Oh and if you hear grunting? That’s a family of (harmless) wild pigs.
5. Heward’s Fully Restored 1920’s Sheep Wagon #1
Want to transport yourself to a simpler time? Maybe live like a sheepherder? You’re in luck, there’s a sheep wagon Airbnb in Wyoming calling your name. Restored in 2013, this original sheep wagon was used from the 1920 to ’70s and now comfortably sleeps up to four people under the open sky. There’s wood-burning cookstove and oven, and the wagon is equipped with plates, silverware and cups for dining. In the surrounding area, you can enjoy excellent hiking and fishing, plus at night you’ll see an endless array of stars.
6. Terluna: Off-grid Adobe Dome near Big Bend
Another surreal Airbnb on our list is this adobe dome in Big Bend, Texas which is truly off the grid and powered by solar energy. Located in the Texas desert this property is perfect for unplugging, exploring the surrounding trails and enjoying impressive mountain views. It’s equipped with a bed and kitchen offering a comfortable stay after you’re done exploring.
7. Magical Airstream Adventure + Stunning Views!
Another property in beautiful Joshua Tree, but a completely different experience than the previous home. Stay in a 2018 25-foot Flying Cloud Airstream and enjoy a few nights of glorious sunsets and sunrises in the desert. If you’re there when it’s particularly warm there’s even a dipping pool for you to cool off. Inside the airstream you’ll find two TVs, a kitchen and refrigerator, shower and toilet. There are three bed configurations and the airstream can sleep up to five. Perfect for a family getaway.
With its circular door and mountainside entrance this Underground Hygge House in Orondo, Washington is reminiscent of Hobbiton and it’s also a place for a great adventure exploring the surrounding area. This cozy one bedroom property sits on the Columbia River Gorge and offers an insane view. Inside every nook and cranny is thoughtfully designed and makes for an ideal romantic getaway far away from regular life.
9. The Box Hop – Hocking Hills
A lot of the Airbnbs on this list have been charming and cozy but this one is modern and large, ideal for a group of up to eight people. Located in Hocking Hills, Ohio, the home is made up of three intermodal shipping containers and features a rooftop patio to have cocktails with friends. You have 18.5 acres of surrounding land to hike on and a hot tub to come home to.
10. Mountainside Beach House Retreat (also pictured top)
We’re closing out the list with stunning Pacific Ocean views with this mountainside home in Topanga, California. Here you’ll find designer furniture, an indoor/outdoor layout and studio space. This property is part of the Luxe collection of Airbnb and is suited to even the most discerning of guests.