Located 5,000 feet up in the San Jacinto Mountains lies the charming town of Idyllwild: the perfect adventure getaway from city life. Located just two hours from Los Angeles International Airport, the town is easily accessible making it the perfect destination for a quick getaway.

Idyllwild offers something for everyone, whether you want to spend your days exploring the plethora of incredible hiking trails, take a casual stroll through the quaint village center and enjoy some wine tasting, or let out your adventurous side by rock climbing and horseback riding through its steep landscapes.

Despite being more popular in the summer with gorgeous rivers to swim in and hike the gorgeous sunny mountain trails, Idyllwild is an all-year-round destination with each season offering unique experiences. The town offers snowy mountain landscapes in the winter months, blossoming flower fields in spring, and gorgeous autumnal colors in fall.

Idyllwild is a small resort town, but it boasts a huge state park area around it, which can make it difficult when choosing where to stay. However, it is well equipped for tourists meaning there is a great selection of places to stay.

When choosing where to stay in Idyllwild, it is best to get an idea of what you want to see and do in order to figure out which area is best for you.

In this guide, I have explained which are the best areas of Idyllwild to stay in and included some of my top suggestions for where to stay in Idyllwild. I have taken into account different travel styles, group sizes, and budgets, so you’ll be sure to find something for you in this list.

Let’s take a look!

Where to Stay in Idyllwild

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Idyllwild.

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    Best Budget Accommodation in Idyllwild – Moody Ruby One Bedroom with Yoga Loft

    Moody Ruby One bedroom with glamping/yoga loft

    Located just outside of Lily Creek and near the village center, this unique one-bedroom home provides a warming and homely atmosphere. The accommodation is equipped with an incredible loft perfectly designed for yoga with a relaxed, rustic, and spacious design throughout the property.

    Best Luxury Accommodation in Idyllwild – 3 BR Seasonal Creek W/ Hot Tub

    Stylish, All New, 3 Bdrms, HOT TUB, Seasonal Creek

    This picturesque home is cozily snuggled between charming treetops and is traditionally decorated with high-beamed ceilings with a modern twist. The cottage has three spacious bedrooms along with a beautiful open-plan living space along with a rustic wooden deck with incredible forest views. It is also primely located just a short drive from the village center.

    Best Bed & Breakfast in Idyllwild – The Nest

    The Nest

    This quaint bed and breakfast is located in the cool area of Lily Creek and is nestled amongst nature providing guests with some of the most spectacular mountain views. The cottage is equipped with top-of-the-range facilities including a private patio, fireplace, and luxurious hot tub. The cottage can fit up to two guests making it a great place to stay in Idyllwild for both couples and solo travelers.

    Idyllwild Neighborhood Guide

    FIRST TIME IN IDYLLWILD
    Village Centre, Idyllwild
    FIRST TIME IN IDYLLWILD

    Village Centre

    Located in the heart of Idyllwild and within walking distance to the area’s plethora of outdoor activities, the village center is the perfect place to stay for your first time in Idyllwild.

    COOLEST PLACE TO STAY
    Lily Creek, Idyllwild
    COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

    Lily Creek

    When it comes to hotels and resorts Lily Creek is very limited, but this adds to its unique, off-the-beaten-path location. Here you will find beautiful woodland cottages along with plenty of budget-friendly lodges and accommodation options.

    FOR FAMILIES
    San Jacinto State Park
    FOR FAMILIES

    Near San Jacinto State Park

    If you’re looking to experience some of the town’s best hiking spots and incredible landscapes then staying just a stone’s throw away from Idyllwild’s famous San Jacinto National Park is a great option.

    Idyllwild is a beautiful resort town located in California’s riverside country amongst the incredible San Jacinto Mountains.

    Despite it being relatively small in size there is a range of places to stay here, from the off-the-beaten-path rural cottages to town center apartments. In this guide, I have broken down three of our top neighborhoods to stay in including the different lodging options and tips on things to do nearby.

    Beginning of course with the village center, the cultural hub to Idyllwild. Here is where you will find the greatest selection of things to do including museums, monuments, restaurants, bars, and cafes.

    Alternatively, if you fancy staying in somewhere a little quieter with a relaxed and slow-paced atmosphere then look no further than Lily Creek. It is just a short walk from the village center tranquil neighborhood is home to quaint cottages surrounded by beautiful woodlands. Lily Creek is just off the highway making it super accessible if you’re on a California road trip.

    One of the key landmarks in Idyllwild is San Jacinto State Park, and with lots of accommodation options surrounding the park, it makes it a convenient place to stay if you want to explore nature and embark on some of the hiking trails.

    The neighborhood itself is very safe and has plenty of outdoor activities to explore which also makes it a great place to stay in Idyllwild for families.

    3 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Idyllwild

    Now that you have been briefly introduced to the three best neighborhoods in Idyllwild, let’s take a look, in more detail, at some of the best places to stay.

    Each area caters to different interests, so I have also listed some of the top things to do in each area.

    Enjoy!

    Village Centre – Where to Stay in Idyllwild for First Time Visitors

    Village Centre, Idyllwild

    Located in the heart of Idyllwild and within walking distance to the area’s plethora of outdoor activities, the village center is the perfect place to stay for your first-time visit to Idyllwild.

    Idyllwild has a very laid-back atmosphere but if you’re looking for somewhere to stay that’s more lively, then the village center is your best option. Here is where most of the action takes place, with lots of shops, restaurants, wineries, and art galleries to explore.

    The pedestrian-friendly area is the perfect place to stroll around the quaint cobbled streets which look beautiful amongst the spectacular backdrops of the nearby mountains.

    Being centrally located means there are plenty of accommodation options in the Village Centre from budget-friendly B&Bs to luxury hotels.

    Best Bed & Breakfast in Village Centre – The Wine Loft Idyllwild

    The Wine Loft Idyllwild

    This beautiful loft is perfectly located overlooking the village center and has been remodeled to create a comfortable two-bedroom apartment for up to four guests. The loft also includes a spacious and warm living room along with two decks that offer breathtaking views of the mountainous surroundings.

    Best Luxury Accommodation in Village Centre – Pine Hollow

    Pine Hollow

    Featuring spectacular views right from the onsite patio, Pine Hollow is a luxurious yet traditional holiday home nestled in the village center. Located within walking distance to Idyllwild’s largest selection of shops and restaurants guests staying at the Pine Hollow are in the prime position to explore its laid-back but charming atmosphere.

    Pine Hollow is one of our favourites in Idyllwild but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

    Coolest Accommodation Option in Village Centre – Crestview Lodge

    Crestview Lodge

    Nestled in beautiful surrounding woodland lies the quaint Crestview Lodge. The cozy holiday home provides spacious living areas and warming bedrooms making it a perfect place to relax after exploring Idyllwild’s great selection of outdoor activities. Located just outside of the village center guests staying at Crestview Lodge have the best of both worlds as they are close enough to explore the area’s vibrant atmosphere whilst also being tucked away in a quiet location if they want to relax.

    Crestview Lodge is one of our favourites in Idyllwild but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

    Top Things to Do Near the Village Centre:

    TTD Village Centre, Idyllwild
    • Explore Idyllwild Park.
    • Make the trip to Mt San Jacinto State Park.
    • Wander the Devils Slide Trail.
    • Indulge on food at Fratello’s Ristorante & Pizzeria.
    • Try local bear Idyllwild Brewpub.
    • Wander along the main promenade of shops.
    • Dip into some of the nearby wineries and sample some Californian wine.
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    Lily Creek – Coolest Area to Stay in Idyllwild

    Lily Creek, Idyllwild

    When it comes to hotels and resorts Lily Creek is very limited, but this adds to its unique, off-the-beaten-path charm. Here you will find beautiful woodland cottages along with plenty of budget-friendly lodges and accommodation options.

    Being slightly out of the main village center, Lily Creek is a haven of fun for outdoor adventurers. In winter, snow falls creating beautiful icy landscapes perfect for snow trekking, and in the summer months, the sun glows over the heaps of scenic trails.

    Despite just being a short distance to the center staying in Lily Creek you will feel a very local experience, with not a whole lot in the way of shops and restaurants. Lily Creek’s relaxed charm and authenticity have certainly earned its stripes as the coolest area to stay in Idyllwild.

    Best Budget Accommodation in Lily Creek – Moody Ruby One bedroom with Yoga Loft

    Moody Ruby One bedroom with glamping/yoga loft

    This home can be best described as a homage to growing up in Idyllwild with a feeling of comfort and nature all in one. Moody lodge is a one-bed, one-bath home with an open loft making it the perfect place to stay in Idyllwild for couples or solo travelers.

    Best Bed & Breakfast in Lily Creek – The Nest

    The Nest

    This is quaint and spacious holiday home boasts some of the most spectacular mountain views in Idyllwild, which can be viewed from its private patio which is equipped with a luxurious hot tub. The cottage can fit two guests with an open plan and warming interior making it the perfect place to wind down after a day of exploring.

    Best Luxury Accommodation in Lily Creek – Spacious, creekside home w/wood fireplace 

    Spacious, creekside home w/wood fireplace

    This contemporary, cabin-style home is located alongside the two beautiful creeks of Strawberry Creek and Lily Creek. The large home can fit up to eight guests and is equipped with comfortable furnishings, a cozy wood fireplace, and a deck with an outdoor BBQ. This would be the ideal cabin to stay in for Christmas in California.

    Spacious, creekside home w/wood fireplace is one of our favourites in Idyllwild but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

    Top things to do and see near in Lily Creek:

    Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail
    Photo: Person-with-No Name (Flickr)
    • Sleep amongst the stars in Idyllwild Park.
    • Explore the hiking trails in Idyllwild Park.
    • Walk the trails at Humber Park.
    • Take the scenic trail towards the Village Centre.
    • Let out your adventurous side and hike the Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail 3E07.
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    Near San Jacinto State Park – Where to Stay in Idyllwild for Families

    San Jacinto State Park

    If you’re looking to experience some of the town’s best hiking spots and incredible landscapes then staying just a stone’s throw away from Idyllwild’s famous San Jacinto National Park is a great option.

    The area is full of accommodation options perfectly designed for outdoor lovers with chalets, bed & breakfasts, and hotels offering great tours and equipment. It is also a great place to stay in Idyllwild for families with the neighborhood providing a quiet and safe atmosphere but also having plenty of things to do to keep the kids entertained.

    The village center is also easily reached on foot, just a 10-15 minute walk away from the neighborhood. This means guests staying in the neighborhood won’t have to trek far to reach the town’s main area for restaurants, cafes, and bars.

    Best Luxury Accommodation near San Jacinto State Park – 3 BR Seasonal Creak W/ Hot Tub

    Stylish, All New, 3 Bdrms, HOT TUB, Seasonal Creek

    This stunning cabin is beautifully snuggled between beautiful woodlands and is equipped with high-beamed ceilings and a modern kitchen and living space creating a luxurious and charming feel. The cabin is just a short walk away from San Jacinto State Park along with being less than a mile to Downtown Idyllwild and its village center. Guests love that the property offers a rustic wooden deck that includes a hot tub where they can enjoy the lush forest views.

    Best Budget Accommodation near San Jacinto State Park – Cabins in the clouds

    Cabins in the clouds, Idyllic & a walk to town

    This budget-friendly cabin is tucked away amongst the wilderness and is surrounded by towering Pines and Cedars trees. The property is in the perfect location to explore nature with plenty of hiking trails on its doorstep along with being just a short drive to the famous lakes of Lake Hemet and Lake Fulmor. If you’re backpacking California and fancy taking a short hiking trip, this would be the ideal budget accommodation to base yourself in.

    Cabins in the clouds is one of our favourites in Idyllwild but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

    Best Bed & Breakfast near San Jacinto State Park – Idyllwild Dairy Cottage

    Idyllwild Dairy Cottage

    This charming cottage is the perfect place to stay in Idyllwild for a romantic weekend getaway with guests falling in love with the home’s country charm. The cottage is beautifully and meticulously decorated to give an appealing ambiance as well as celebrate the property’s long history. The cottage is spacious and open planned and set up like a studio boasting a hot tub and deluxe queen-size bed.

    Idyllwild Dairy Cottage is one of our favourites in Idyllwild but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

    Top things to do and see Near San Jacinto State Park :

    San Jacinto State Park California
    • Go mountain biking in San Jacinto State Park.
    • Hike to highest peak of San Jacinto State Park.
    • Visit Idyllwild Area Historical Society.
    • Take a trip to Idyllwild Nature Center.
    • Wander the Deer Springs Trailhead.

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    Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Idyllwild

    So that’s Idyllwild, a small and yet stunning town in California, surrounded by incredible mountains, beautiful walking trails, and glistening rivers. With the town being reasonably small no matter which neighborhood you choose, you won’t be too far from the action.

    In case you’re still unsure on where to stay in Idyllwild here is a quick rundown…

    If you’re looking for where to stay to be amongst the hustle and bustle of Idyllwild, staying in the village center is the place to be. Or, perhaps you’re heading on a family getaway and want a safe and relaxed location with plenty of things to keep the kids entertained, then San Jacinto is your best bet.

    Finally, you have arguably the coolest place to stay in Idyllwild, Lilly Creek, just outside of the village center. This neighborhood offers guests an off-the-beaten-path experience whilst also being within walking distance to the town’s main shops, restaurants and attractions.

    Do you have a favourite place to stay on my list? Let me know in the comments!


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