10 Awesome Hidden Gems in California

As one of America’s most-visited states, we all know — or think we know — what California has to offer. But there’s more to this region than the Golden Gate Bridge and the Hollywood Sign. Are you looking to get a different perspective on California’s major cities? Or maybe you want to leave them behind entirely for a trip up the Central Coast? Then these hidden gems in California will give you plenty of ideas to guide you.

You’ll notice that many of these special spaces are available to book through Peerspace. Peerspace is the largest online marketplace for hourly venue rentals, connecting you to hidden gems across California and the globe. Use our simple yet comprehensive platform to uncover and book unique spaces near you for your next photoshoot, event, meeting, and more.

Whether you want to tour a mansion or rent one out for the night, you’ll find a range of public and private spaces here to help you enjoy the mountains, beaches, deserts, and more.

1. Feel awe-struck by the Hearst Castle in San Simeon

Hearst Castle isn’t exactly a secret — it was built by the newspaper tycoon who inspired Citizen Kane, after all. However, its remote location means it doesn’t get as crowded as some of California’s other attractions.

A four-hour drive from both Los Angeles and San Diego, it’s a can’t-miss stop on any trip along Route 1. You won’t get to see every room in this sprawling mansion, but you can choose from several tours that focus on different parts of the mansion and grounds.

2. Get creative in a vibrant artist loft in Downtown LA

While Hollywood was known as the center of the movie industry, locals will tell you that that isn’t where the magic happens anymore. Many of LA’s most creative, artistic residents have set up shop in Downtown LA, turning former warehouses into vibrant artist lofts.

This creative studio is one of our favorite hidden gems in California. It’s perfect for a traveling photographer looking for a photo studio or a set for a music video. However, it’s also just as great for someone seeking a memorable venue for a birthday party in the center of LA’s arts district. Book it with ease through Peerspace and then let the unique venue inspire your creative project.

Find even more sick music video locations in Los Angeles here!

3. Have a drink at this super stylish speakeasy bar in the Castro

The Castro is one of San Francisco’s most famous neighborhoods, known for being the center of the city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. For a private party in a vintage-inspired venue, check out this speakeasy tucked away behind a hidden bookshelf. With a fireplace, dart board, and sound system, it’s a great choice for a surprise birthday party. The host even provides options for beverage packages included.

If you have a larger crowd, rent out the upstairs area, too, which features an outdoor terrace, a blackjack table, and even a barber’s chair (in case you want to gift the birthday boy or girl a haircut).

4. Escape to the desert and visit Salvation Mountain in Slab City

A few hours east of Los Angeles is Slab City, an area that’s become a bit of a no man’s land inhabited by artists and off-the-gridders. One of the most outstanding art pieces in the area is Salvation Mountain, a manmade sculpture made of adobe and straw by local artist Leonard Knight. Admittedly the religious theme won’t appeal to everyone. However, there’s no denying the magic of encountering this colorful mountain rising in the middle of the remote California desert.

5. Explore a welcoming beachside getaway in Half Moon Bay

A half-hour drive south of San Francisco is the beautiful Half Moon Bay. It’s a laid-back town close to the beaches and redwoods, with its very own historic Main Street. It makes for a great stop on a road trip, or an all-day getaway from the city for a birthday party or office retreat.

But where to go once there? We recommend this elegant oceanfront designer space that has direct access to the beach. The host also provides a full kitchen, a brick patio surrounded by a lush garden, and a deck overlooking the sea!

6. Celebrate at a picturesque Mediterranean home in Sun Valley

This luxury Mediterranean home in Sun Valley is a hidden gem in California that’s the perfect wedding venue. We especially love its magical backyard garden that can fit up to 200 guests. It features a grassy lawn, plenty of room for a seated ceremony and a dance area, and horses with an optional cart so you can make a grand entrance.

There’s a modern chef’s kitchen (available upon request), and enough lights and shade cover to make it suitable for both daytime and evening events. If you want to get outside of central LA for your event, consider booking this venue through Peerspace.

Learn more about what’s like an Airbnb for weddings in Southern California here!

7. Encounter historic natural wonders at Mono Lake

Most visitors overlook Mono Lake for the more famous Yosemite National Park, which is right next door. But if Yosemite is closed due to snow or wildfire — or just plain crowded — it’s worth taking a detour to this out-of-this-world environment. While you can swim in the lake, it’s best known for its limestone towers called “tufas,” which look like ancient columns rising from the deep. If you can, camp here overnight to see these natural features lit up by moonlight.

8. Find your serenity at this modern desert hideaway in Joshua Tree

The Joshua Tree desert is one of the top hidden gems in California, but the harsh environment can make it hard to plan a successful photo or video shoot or getaway. At this beautiful home, you won’t have to worry about the elements. It features minimalist decor, an enclosed cactus garden, and 270-degree views of the mountains and desert. Rent this venue for a small party, video production, or even just a quiet, peaceful space to do yoga and meditate.

Find this home and more amazing spaces on our list of the coolest secret spots in Joshua Tree!

9. Enjoy the retro vibes of a mid-century home and swimming pool in LA

Party like a movie star at this mid-century meets Tulum home in LA’s Studio City. The home has over 3,000 square feet of space, with a large swimming pool surrounded by tropical plants and walls of windows that provide amazing views of LA on each side.

Here, you can host a birthday party or a full-scale movie production at this incredible hidden gem in California. Best for 50 guests or less, this location offers additional amenities that include a full modern kitchen, an on-site hair and beauty salon, and a jacuzzi surrounded by a rock feature to enhance the retro-rustic ambiance.

10. Plan an unforgettable private tasting in wine country

This beautiful venue in Livermore, CA, is only a 45-minute drive from San Francisco, making it a great choice for a birthday party, a corporate outing, or a wedding. The tasting room can fit up to 80 guests, and it overlooks the vineyard and surrounding hills. There’s also a patio and an outdoor pool, so the venue is suitable for indoor or outdoor events during any season.

Tables and chairs are included with the rental, and food and drink are allowed on-site. You can ask the host directly for catering recommendations and dine al fresco while watching the vineyards spread across the rolling hills.

Hidden gems in California: conclusion

With so many major cities and areas of natural beauty, there’s no way to see all of California on a single trip — even if you’ve lived here your whole life! These hidden gems offer a range of options that show off some of the best of what this state has to offer. From remote deserts to beachy getaways, from artist lofts to vineyards, we hope you enjoy exploring some of these incredible venues and lesser-known attractions up and down the California coast.

And remember, no matter where you roam, rely on Peerspace to connect you to your location’s best hidden gems. With venues owned by local hosts, you not only get to experience an exciting, fresh venue for your professional and personal needs. You also get to enjoy bespoke service that’s hard to come by elsewhere. Head to our platform to uncover the best hidden gem spaces near you and make them all yours for a few hours!

Find more hidden gems in California on Peerspace