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Proximity, value, variety and hospitality (with bonus points for “cool factor”). That’s what we considered when narrowing down where to remain in L.A. near Universal Studios Hollywood.
When zeroing in on the right Airbnb — especially when organizing a visit around a landmark — there are a couple of potential hurdles. Sometimes, it’s tricky to pinpoint a property’s exact location or the specifications of its surrounding area. Other times, its placement on Airbnb‘s virtual map isn’t entirely accurate (we bumped into that a few times). And sometimes, hosts may be tough to get ahold of. Regardless, there are a number of aspects at play when booking an Airbnb as a non-local.
When vetting rentals for this story, we spoke with each property manager on to get the precise distance from their listing to the movie-studio-meets-theme-park, all indicated below (listings rarely include this information). Through this process, we also found the hosts of the below properties to be especially responsive and helpful. Aside from our experience, each of those hosts and their corresponding properties have dozens, if not a whole bunch, of remarkable reviews on Airbnb’s website.
As you’ll notice, we’ve got not included pricing information as it could vary quite a bit based on aspects like length of stay, season and the way far upfront guests book. Nonetheless, we did our greatest to reflect a variety of price points. Below, the nine best L.A. Airbnbs whether you’re visiting Universal Studios or just searching for a central location within the City of Angels.
Vintage Hollywood Hills Home With Views
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: About 0.7 miles or a ten minute walk
– Accommodates: As much as 6 guests
– Bedrooms: 2 (4 beds)
– Bathrooms: 1
Oozing with original charm yet stacked with modern amenities, this authentic Golden Age Hollywood home boasts an open concept floor plan and huge backyard with an elevated deck overlooking Hogwarts Castle at Universal. Book now at Airbnb.
One in all 12 “Boat Houses,” Harry Gesner’s Architectural Marvel
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: 1.7 miles
– Accommodates: As much as 4 guests
– Bedrooms: 2 (3 beds)
– Bathrooms: 1
Introducing: our dream home. Benefit from this rare opportunity to remain in certainly one of the famous Hollywood Hills “Boat Houses,” a gaggle of 12 homes designed by California architect Harry Gesner and crafted by Norwegian boatbuilders. Beyond its unmatched views, Gesner’s midcentury modern masterpiece contains a vintage Malm fireplace, ample natural light, impeccable decor, a dedicated workspace and, after all, a toilet stocked to the brim with Dusen Dusen towels. No notes. Book now at Airbnb.
One other Iconic Gesner “Boat House”
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: 1.4 miles
– Accommodates: As much as 4 guests
– Bedrooms: 2
– Bathrooms: 1
But wait, there’s one other. A second Gesner “Boat House” has made the list, and it’s just pretty much as good because the last. Book now at Airbnb.
Hollywood Midcentury With a View
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: About 1 mile or 6 minute drive (to Universal’s general parking area)
– Accommodates: As much as 4 guests
– Bedrooms: 2
– Bathrooms: 1.5
Nestled between the Hollywood Bowl and Toluca Lake, this private abode is a standout for its expansive outdoor living space with ample seating, lush gardens and tranquil design elements. Staying for a month? Benefit from a 15 percent discount. Book now at Airbnb.
Midcentury Cabin within the Hills
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: 10-15 minute walk
– Accommodates: As much as 6 guests
– Bedrooms: 3
– Bathrooms: 2
Positioned within the Hills west of Cahuenga and Ventura, this ultra-private home gives the texture of a cabin just minutes away from the massive city’s buzz. Book now at Airbnb.
Hollywood Hills Tree House
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: 0.5-0.75 mile drive; downhill walk of 20 minutes or less
– Accommodates: As much as 4 guests
– Bedrooms: 2
– Bathrooms: 2
Situated just south of Universal Studios, this “Tree House” is pretty much as good because it gets in the case of location, but location aside, the 2 bedroom loft is a guest favorite for its breathtaking views and impeccable interiors. Book now at Airbnb.
Toluca Suite by Universal Studios
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: About 1.2 miles or 5 minute drive
– Accommodates: As much as 6 guests
– Bedrooms: 2 (3 beds)
– Bathrooms: 2
The house’s sleek furnishings and calm, monochromatic interior meet its vibrant, photo-ready patio finished with a custom Hollywood mural by local L.A. artist. Book now at Airbnb.
Home within the Hills With Hollywood Sign View
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: 10 minute drive
– Accommodates: As much as 4 guests
– Bedrooms: 2
– Bathrooms: 2
Soak up the town’s finest views while having fun with a full outdoor gym, conversation-ready fire pit and downstairs game room/bar. Book now at Airbnb.
Views on Views within the Hollywood Hills
Quick Facts
– Proximity to Universal Studios: 1.5 miles
– Accommodates: As much as 4 guests
– Bedrooms: 2 (3 beds)
– Bathrooms: 2
Location, location, location. One other guest favorite, this gated, newly renovated house is loved for its sweeping views and first-rate host. Book now at Airbnb.