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Part of Greater Phoenix, Scottsdale is known as one of the most luxurious cities in the United States. Not only that, it’s surrounded by mountains and Arizona’s famed desert-scapes – with more than 300 miles of hiking trails for you to tackle. It’s even been named as a top hiking destination by no less than National Geographic magazine!
Though you won’t struggle to find hotels here, you might want to check vacation rentals in Scottsdale to save yourself some money – or to stay somewhere with a little more character. But where do you start?!
That’s where we come in. In this post, we’ll help out by showing you the 15 best Airbnbs in Scottsdale. As well as that, we’re going to take a look at five of the best Airbnb Experiences – everything you need to plan an awesome vacation in Scottsdale. Let’s jump right in!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: These are the Top 15 Airbnbs in Scottsdale
Luxurious Guesthouse by the pool
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Awesome location
- > Swimming pool
Private room in Casa de las Puertas
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Swimming pool
- > Air-conditioning
Desert Dream Home
- > $$$$$$$$$$
- > 22 Guests
- > Pool with slide
- > Pergola and fire pit
Charming and Peaceful Midtown Oasis
- > $
- > 1 Guest
- > Breakfast included
- > Jacuzzi and gym access
Villa in Prime Location
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Laptop friendly workspace
- > Breakfast included
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Scottsdale
As we’ve mentioned, Scottsdale is one of the most luxurious cities in America. With that, you can expect some pretty spectacular properties. No matter what kind of Airbnb you choose, you’re most likely going to have spectacular desert views – even if it’s a private room.
The downside is that Scottsdale can be frightfully expensive – especially when you’re looking at an entire villa. If you’re backpacking the USA on a budget, Scottsdale might not be at the top of your list, but we’re here to help.
One of the most common types of home in Scottsdale, you won’t struggle to find an entire house. Some may be slightly outside of the defined area of Scottsdale, such as Paradise Valley Village or Camelback East Village (make sure you climb the mountain), but they’re still within easy driving distance of Scottsdale’s charming Old Town.
Another popular option in Scottsdale. Expect a warm welcome from friendly residents who have opened up a room in their home to inquisitive travellers. A homestay is a great way to get an authentic local experience of a new destination while saving money, so this will suit a solo traveller or perhaps a couple. They’ll be on a tighter budget than most, but still eager to get a full Scottsdale experience!
There are a few reasons you might book a villa. One is that money is no object! However, the more likely option is that you’re looking for somewhere to have a big celebration with a group or family of friends. Look no further than a luxurious vacation rental villa in Scottsdale.
The 15 Top Airbnbs in Scottsdale
By now, there’s no way you’ll be thinking of anything other than an Airbnb. However, which is the right one for you? You’re about to find out. According to travel style and budget, here are the best Airbnbs in Scottsdale.
Luxurious Guesthouse by the pool | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Scottsdale
This casita means you get the privacy of an entire flat, while the price more accurately reflects a private room. On your host’s property – but with no shared spaces in the property itself – you can make the most of your very own king-sized bed, well-stocked kitchen, TV, and Alexa speaker. You’ll be sharing the pool with your hosts – and two patios!
A private casita with the benefits of a private room price but entire flat privacy. When you’re not in the pool, enjoy watching TV or playing music on the Alexa. Alternatively, chill out on the patio!
Private room in Casa de las Puertas | Best Budget Airbnb in Scottsdale
Scottsdale is known for its luxury. What it’s not known for is budget properties. However, you can find them if you search hard enough! This private room in Casa de las Puertas is one of the best-priced beds you’ll find in all of Scottsdale, but you don’t have to compromise on features. You’ve got a queen bed, a desk, and a swimming pool to appreciate!
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View on OspreyDesert Dream Home | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Scottsdale
Do you want to stay in one of the most beautiful Airbnbs in Scottsdale? Of course you do. It’s great for big groups – you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy yourselves around the swimming pool, which comes with a slide and poolside bar. Rather not get wet? Chill out in the pergola and light up the fire pit – a perfect way to keep you warm in the hot desert nights. Though the listing is advertised for 16 guests, you can actually have up to 22!
Charming and Peaceful Midtown Oasis | Perfect Airbnb for Solo Travellers
Should you be travelling solo, you don’t need a queen or king bed (though that sometimes is nice). But if you’re looking to keep costs low, just get a single. This comfy bed and bathroom in a Scottsdale condo offers use of a gym, clubhouse, pool, and jacuzzi. Added to that, you’ll have a local host at hand who can recommend their favourite things to do. Perfect!
Villa in Prime Location | Perfect Airbnb for Digital Nomads
This place just shows you don’t need to book an entire villa to have the villa experience. The private room is perfect for a digital nomad as it comes with a laptop-friendly workspace and rapid Wi-Fi. Don’t worry about fuelling up in the morning as breakfast is included. After a busy day of catching up on emails and coding, lie back on a soft a comfy queen bed or take a dip in the pool.
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It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Scottsdale
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Scottsdale!
Home away from home in Scottsdale | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
If you’re travelling with your other half, you need to find a place that has the x-factor. How about this? This home away from home is the main part of your host’s home; you’ll have a queen bed and fully equipped kitchen – as well as a 70-inch TV. Just imagine watching a rom-com or horror together on that! You also have access to a gym, putting green, and swimming pool. Loads of fun to have together there!
The Williams Townhouse | Best Airbnb in Scottsdale for Families
Travelling with your family? They’ll be delighted that you’ve snagged this rare find. With two bedrooms boasting king beds and a comfy sofa bed in the living room, there’s enough room for everybody. And this is more than just a place to sleep – this beautifully designed home has a heated pool and hot tub. If it gets too hot outside, just chill out in the gorgeous living room. It’s no wonder this home has featured in Phoenix Home and Garden Magazine!
Home with Pool and Putting Green | Best Entire House in Scottsdale
There are lots of entire homes in Scottsdale, and many of them have pools. So how does one stand out above the rest? Well, this one has it’s very own putting green – so golfers will be absolutely ecstatic. There’s space for up to seven guests, so it can fit a medium-sized family or group of friends. If you’re not out on the golf course, chill out in the pool, which comes with fun inflatables!
Scottsdale Home and Cup of Tea | Best Private Room in a House in Scottsdale
On the hunt for a dream Scottsdale homestay? We’ve found your place! With two bedrooms available, you can actually fit up to four guests in this cute home. Not only can you chill out in the living room (which lets in plenty of light) or the garden, but there’s also a resort-style pool in the condo. Don’t miss this if you want a luxury experience on a budget, with the added bonus of a local to give you tips on where to go.
Paradise at Pinnacle Peak | Best Villa in Scottsdale
If you’re looking for the most extraordinary homes in the world with epic service, you need to get yourself on Airbnb Luxe. Very few homes earn this badge, so you can be assured that the ones that do are absolutely spectacular. Take this villa at Pinnacle Peak. Swim in the pool against a background of red mountains and isolated cacti – it’s the stuff of dreams!
Casa Saguaro | Best Airbnb Plus Scottsdale
It might not be Airbnb Luxe, but Airbnb Plus properties are still pretty special. They’re verified in person, and the hosts are famed for their attention to detail and excellent reviews. This one just happens to have a six-person hot tub you can enjoy as one of your party grills food on the BBQ behind you. The more competitive among you should have a go on the pool table!
Cochise Villa | Most Beautiful Airbnb in Scottsdale
Another Airbnb Luxe Property – this one will make your jaw hit the floor. Set around a warm saltwater pool, 14 guests can kick back in the many alfresco living areas, including a covered patio or outdoor dining space. Weather a bit cold? No problem – just use the heat lamps! If you manage to drag yourself away from this property, it’s not far to the Phoenix Botanical Garden.
Heart of Paradise Valley | Best Airbnb for Throwing a Party
You might have already seen an Airbnb on this list for throwing a party. God knows there are a few. But some of the larger properties don’t want you to do that. Nothing to worry about here, though – so grab a pool ring and float along the lazy river with a cocktail or beer in hand. Yes, really!
Detached Casita with Ramada | Stunning Airbnb for Honeymooners in Scottsdale
Bursting with character, this detached casita with an outdoor ramada is the perfect place to stay for a pair of loved up newlyweds. Impress your other half by cooking a pizza in the outdoor oven – or if making the dough is beyond you, just fall back on a good old BBQ. Whether you decide to soak in the solar-heated pool or the hot tub depends on the weather, but either way, you can dry off under the sun on those Adirondack chairs. How romantic!
Sweet Caroline! | Best Airbnb in Scottsdale for a Group of Friends
Even if you can’t bear the song, you’re going to love the Airbnb that goes by the same name. Sweet Caroline is a home for up to eight guests with a wood-burning fireplace and a swimming pool. The kitchen is fully stocked, so no worries about having to head out and buy food when you arrive. If you don’t want to go out into the cold desert night, curl up with a blanket in front of the 55 inch TV.
What To Pack For Scottsdale
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Scottsdale Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Scottsdale Airbnbs
Well, there you have it. Not only have you seen the best Airbnbs in Scottsdale, but you know exactly what to do when you arrive. Now, it’s over to you to decide whether you want to stay in a villa, rent an entire house, or save your pennies and enjoy the city from your own private room.
If you still can’t make your mind up, let us give you one last piece of advice: book the overall best value Airbnb in Scottsdale – Luxurious Guesthouse by the Pool. It’s an amazing combination of value for money and a wonderful location.
- Check out our Backpacking USA guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Scottsdale guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Make sure you visit the other best places in the USA too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of the USA.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around USA.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
