Given the fixation on beauty and celebrities in the big cities of California, there’d be no point in us turning up at all with anything less than perfect. That’s why Los Angeles and San Diego are among the big cities absolutely packed with some of our most exquisite rental homes in the world, as well as top attractions, from Universal Studios and Disneyland to the San Diego Zoo. But it’s not just in the glitzy, shiny cities and their suburbs that our Plum Guide homes stand out. Our rentals spread far off that beaten path and into the desert plains of the Joshua Tree National Park and the snowy peaks of Lake Tahoe. In these homes, being star-struck takes on a totally different meaning beneath a black carpet of balls of light at night. By day, nature trails take you through the arid plains and forested hills to our myriad homes, which harmonise nicely with the picturesque surroundings.
Shubin’s Masterpiece, Santa Monica, Los Angeles
With such a weighty name, this home sets the bar high as far as expectations go. And it doesn’t disappoint. Designed by award-winning architects, this Los Angeles treasure has a modern-rustic design, with four bedrooms and bathrooms. Its glassy exterior not only makes for a spacious and relaxing ambiance, but also affords views of the sea. It’s in a prime location, just a few minutes’ drive from Santa Monica in Los Angeles (one of our many homes here). Stay in the garden into the evening, making use of the huge hot tub overlooking the coast. It has a basketball court, a free-standing bath tub and a wood-panelled arched ceiling that adds a pastoral flair. If you can bear to leave the house, even for a second, head down to the exclusive shops of Santa Monica and spend the afternoon at the beach. Mingle with the surfers down in Malibu.
Shubin's Masterpiece, Plum Guide home in Los Angeles
Hollywood & Pine, Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles
It’s time to venture inland to the homes of the stars in the Hollywood Hills, where you're guaranteed to find some of the most beautiful homes in California. With its wooden exterior and gorgeous swimming pool, Hollywood & Pine is exactly the kind of haunt you can imagine your favourite celebrities hanging out or throwing a party in. Unfortunately, you’ve just got your family or your friends, and they just have you. Still, the photos of your trip will elevate you to star status among your pals. Appreciate the modernist design and chic interiors, before enjoying a BBQ on the patio.
Hollywood & Pine, Plum Guide home in California
Grapefruit Sea, San Diego
While relaxing on the comfy cushions of the terrace, with views of the sea, you’ll thank yourself for reaching a point in life where you can afford to stay in one of the most beautiful homes in California. Wait, did we mention the terrace has a hot tub? What are you doing on the sofa, when a large, bubbly Jacuzzi is sitting there right beside you? If you ever come down from that romantic rooftop spot, you’ll find yourself in a modern treasure, with a long dining table and a billiards room. Perfect conditions to make the most of the Hidden Valley and La Jolla areas of San Diego.
Ocean Beach, San Diego, California
Grapefruit Sea, Plum Guide home in San Diego
Boulders, Lake Tahoe
Whether you’re into skiing at break-neck (we hope not) speeds or simply swimming laps in the lake (it’s too big for laps), Lake Tahoe has something for you. Of course, it depends on the season: you can’t just go swimming in the middle of February or skiing in June. But we have every confidence you’ll figure it out. For now, we wanted to give you an insight into one of our most fabulous homes worldwide. Boulders is perched precariously (it’s not that precarious but we just wanted to use the word and some alliteration) on the cliff. It has a charming fireplace and a pool table, as well as large windows overlooking the lake and the mountains. Oh, and don’t forget the hot tub. We certainly won’t.
View of Lake Tahoe, USA
Boulders, Plum Guide home in South Lake Tahoe
The Mirrored House, Joshua Tree
We simply had to tell you about the Mirrored House. If we didn’t, you might just stumble across it and see your own reflection, deducing that you were suffering from desert hallucinations. Well, you're not. This architectural marvel stretches across a large portion of the arid topography of the Joshua Tree National Park, its walls composed entirely of glass. Miles from civilisation, you’ll be able to enjoy it in perfect solitude and serenity, apart from the screaming kids (your own ones, if you have them – the house doesn’t just come with screaming kids, as that’d be an unpopular feature). The best thing about the house is that you can see out, but nobody can see in. Do what you will with this information.
The Invisible House, Plum Guide home in Joshua Tree, US
