The Cheapest 'OMG' Airbnb Rentals Around the World

Thanks to Airbnb's new "OMG" category, travelers can stay in a range of quirky vacation rentals ranging from converted school buses and sky-high treehouses to a Beatles-themed submarine surrounded by redwood trees. The best part is, many of these stays are affordable, with some of the most spectacular starting at under $50 a night. Many of these locations are remote, but the surrounding nature views and architectural wonders make them stays you’ll be sure to remember. 

Prices and availability are subject to change.

Related: Amazing Shipping Container Rentals on Airbnb and Vrbo

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain | Sleeps 4

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Adventure lovers will enjoy this Airbnb, built directly into caves from the sixth century. The remote cave dwelling features surrounding mountain views, which can be enjoyed on the large outdoor terrace. Reviewers note how quiet the surrounding area is, with walking access to nearby trails allowing you to explore the island. A short hike leads to the property where canyon views abound. Make sure to plan to arrive early in the day, as the cave can be difficult to find in the evening.

Related: Spectacular Caves You Can Rent

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The cave features a sitting area with a small table, cushions, and handcrafted wooden deck in addition to a dorm, kitchen, and bathroom. Ideal for those looking for a simple stay in nature. While there is a refrigerator, guests will need to bring their own supplies, which can be purchased from the nearby grocery store on the way.

Michoacan, Mexico | Sleeps 5

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Located in the smallest municipality in the state of Michoacan, this dome invites you to sleep in an architectural wonder. Made of adobe, wood, stones, and more, the structure includes its own garden with an avocado tree and recreational area, close access to nearby monarch butterfly reserves, and a resident dachshund that will likely greet you in the mornings. Be sure to explore the area of Aporo, noted for its lush landscapes and pine and cedar forests.

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The property, described as a colonial-style inn, features a range of rooms that can be rented, including this one-bedroom dome room. In addition to the room, there are a range of common areas that include a living room with a fireplace, a dining room, a kitchen, and laundry facilities. Hosts have games on hand for those who may want to play during their stay and will often serve fresh coffee in the mornings. Reviewers love how clean the property is, how inviting the hosts are, and how charming the nearby town is.

Bainbridge Island, Washington | Sleeps 2 

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This hobbit house, hand-built by the hosts, sits on Bainbridge Island, just a short ferry ride away from Seattle. Enjoy views of the surrounding trees and of the colorful sunsets from the outdoor seating area, or head to nearby Manitou Beach to enjoy the ocean and views of the Seattle skyline. While there’s no indoor cooking at the hobbit house, there is an outdoor fire pit and charcoal barbecue complete with s’mores sticks to cook outside.

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The hobbit house features a convertible couch stocked with fresh linens, a small table with seating, and amenities like hot water kettles, coffee makers, bluetooth speakers, an electric fireplaces, books and sketch pads, and tea assortments. A private portable restroom is located outdoors, while indoor heating keeps the space cozy in the evenings.

British Columbia, Canada | Sleeps 2

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Surround yourself in nature at these barrels, which sit on Jewel Creek Farm, an organic farm featuring views over valleys, forests, fields, and creeks. The property has its own nano-brewery for guests who want to enjoy cold beer. The hosts are avid sailors and will gladly take guests on sailing trips on nearby Jewel Lake, noted for its warm temperatures and trout fishing. Kayaks, canoes, and fishing boats are available for rent from the neighboring Jewel Lake Resort, while lakes, creeks, waterfalls, mountains, and more sit just steps from your doorstep.

Related: Best Summer Travel Destinations in Canada

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The rustic barrels feature a bed with storage units, side shelving units, and propane heaters that are available upon request during colder seasons. There is a shared kitchen, shower facility, and restrooms outdoors, while guests can also request gourmet meal service in advance of their stay. The hosts are known for signature dishes that include thin crust wood-fire pizzas, wood-fire cooked paella, and fresh baked sourdough bread, while breakfast selections include fresh eggs and produce from the farm.

Montezuma, Costa Rica |  Sleeps 2

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These artistic domes sit surrounded by the jungle in the surf town of Montezuma, located on the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica where you’ll find beaches, rivers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Your host can organize a range of activities for you, including surf classes, canopy zip-lining, bioluminescence tours, horseback riding, snorkeling, diving, and ATV rentals. The property features three domes that can be individually rented, each of which feature a tropical garden facing the jungle where monkeys are frequently spotted.

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Made of a foam and concrete mix by the hosts, the colorful domes are aligned with artwork from the host and local artists, with each dome featuring one bedroom, one bathroom, and kitchen and living room area opening to the garden. Each bedroom comes with large round windows you can lounge in. A roof that retracts is ideal in the summertime for stargazing directly from bed.

Tulum, Mexico | Sleeps 2

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Located just minutes from the busy streets of Tulum, this dome provides a tranquil escape from the crowds in the midst of the Mayan Jungle. More than 70 cenotes — water-filled limestone sinkholes — and four archeological sites are located nearby, with stunning cenotes just walking distance away. Butterflies surround the area, where you’ll also find caves and Soliman Bay Beach nearby, an ideal spot for snorkeling and windsurfing.

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Made from stucco known as chukum, which is made of chukum trees endemic to the Yucatan region, the dome features a bedroom with a queen size bed topped with plush linens and pillows. There is also an indoor communal kitchen, a living area, and a private bathroom and shower located outside. The host family lives on the premises and is happy to provide insight on the best activities to explore nearby.

Related: Incredible Ancient Ruins Across North America

San Marcos, Texas | Sleeps 3

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Those looking to experience a countryside getaway with a quirky twist will enjoy a stay at this converted 1970 Blue Bird school bus. Situated on an acre of fenced land in the Texas Hill Country, the secluded property is tucked in the woods, yet only a short drive from San Marcos. The pet-friendly accommodation includes your choice of either a propane or charcoal grill for grilling outdoors, in addition to an indoor kitchen. Nearby rivers make for relaxing days floating in the water, while the sound of chirping birds are one of the sole noises you’ll hear at this quiet and relaxing rental.

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Converted to include modern appliances, the school bus has a newly added section that features its own bathroom, a living room area, and a sleeping loft suitable for one adult or two children. Sleeping accommodations include a queen bed, a double bed, a couch, and an air mattress, while a large galley kitchen comes with a modern gas range and granite breakfast bar. Hosts provide coffee and tea for guests alongside assistance throughout your stay.

Pieria, Greece | Sleeps 6

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This converted wooden fishing boat sits near a secluded beach where you’ll spot turtles and even flamingos in the winter. Direct beach access, a bistro serving meals on the beach, and the ability to request traditional Greek breakfasts by the water allow guests to enjoy the seaside views, while donkeys are also known to live on the premises. Reach out to the hosts ahead of time to ask them about nearby hidden gems to explore, and you’ll be treated to scenic walks and adventures.

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The home features three bedrooms, one with a queen bed, one with a double bed and single bed, and a third with a single bed. Large panoramic windows allow you to enjoy the sea views throughout. There is also a bathroom and a small kitchen, in addition to changing rooms on the beach to make for comfortable swims when you’re not relaxing indoors.

Bali, Indonesia | Sleeps 2
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This secluded villa sits at the base of a river in a forest surrounded by rice fields. The views you see from the treehouse villa are a large draw, with the ability to arrange cycling, trekking, and horse riding excursions with staff who will assist you during your stay. The treehouse is located in a remote area, so reviewers recommend booking scooters ahead of time to get around, but the sounds of the river lulling you to sleep and the lush jungle views make getting to the secluded spot worthwhile. 

Related: Destinations Where You Can Unplug from the World

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The modern bamboo treehouse villa comes with a bedroom featuring a double bed, a living room, a bathroom with a shower and bathtub, and a minibar. An on-site restaurant is available for meals and arranging cooking classes, while river and valley views can be enjoyed right from your bedroom.

Khiri Khan, Thailand | Sleeps 2

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This turtle-shaped villa floats on top of a natural lotus pond located in Prachuap Khiri Khan, a fishing destination known for its curving bays and soaring mountains. Just two minutes by foot is Sai Noi Beach, one of the best beaches in the area, while Hua Hin, known for its golf and spa resorts, is also nearby. The floating villa sits in an eco-complex surrounded by mangrove forests, fishing villages, and botanic gardens. 

Related: Destinations Where Houseboat Rentals Beat the Beach

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Each of the 25-square-meter villas have a bedroom, bathroom, and outdoor waterside deck. On the premises, there are common areas that include a living room, and a botanic garden. The hosts also provide a cafe preparing daily meals reviewers say are delicious. The cleanliness of the villas, attentive service, and the location’s proximity to the beach are some of the aspects reviewers love most about this stay.

Sicily, Italy | Sleeps 6

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This villa sits on the hillside of Santa Favia, surrounded by lemon, orange, and olive gardens that provide a magnificent scent in the spring. The private location is near the coastal city of Cefalù, where 12th-century fortresses and streets lined with cafes and restaurants await, and Bagheria, where magnificent examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture can be seen. A sunny outdoor terrace and outdoor spaces including a bocce court, a pine forest and a solarium make for relaxing locations to enjoy the surrounding nature.

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The villa includes a kitchen, a large living room, and a dining room with formal dining seating, a sofa, and fireplace. There are three bedrooms, including one with two beds, a second bedroom with a queen bed, and a third bedroom with a double bed. The hosts are known to treat guests to local goodies and treats like fruits from the garden.

Andalusia, Spain | Sleeps 4

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Built into ancient caves in the mountains of Andalusia, known for its hills, rivers, and farmland on the border of Spain’s southern coast, these cave apartments include a total of six caves houses available for rent, with capacity from two to 28 people depending on the particular home. Located just 30 minutes drive from Granada, the private estate showcases panoramic mountain views and clear starry skies in the evening. Hosts will often provide tours to their on-site museum to learn about the history of the cave dwellings and to nearby caves.

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This cave house features a bedroom with a double bed and a living room which also includes a single bed. You’ll also find a kitchen that’s often stocked with goodies like tea, cocoa, coffee and even sometimes small treats like muffins, in addition to a shared outdoor pool. You can also organize nearby excursions like wine and tapas tastings.

Marton, Manawatu-Wanganui, New Zealand | Sleeps 4

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Calling all Beatles fans! This yellow submarine will make you feel as though you’re underwater, when in reality, you’ll be surrounded by redwood trees among a rural farmland location surrounded by rivers and lush greenery. The secluded location is ideal for those looking for a digital detox, with no Wi-Fi or cell service on the premises. Instead, evenings are spent gazing at the stars, which shine brightly even when viewing them through the submarine’s portholes. 

Related: 30 Beatles-Inspired Destinations Fab Four Fans Will Love

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The yellow submarine is beloved for the quirky and attentive themed touches you’ll find, from interactive gadgets to Beatles memorabilia. A ramp leads you to the entrance that opens into a Victorian Steampunk-themed galley. There are also torpedo shaped sleeping quarters and a Beatles themed bathroom. Hosts supply breakfast in the galley, while sleeping arrangements include a bedroom with two double beds and a living room with two double beds.

Lock Haven, Pennsylvania | Sleeps 2

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This summer rental, available from May through October, sits in a quiet residential neighborhood with close highway access. At the head of the Bald Eagle Valley Head Trail, where you can bike or hike through trees dotted with bald eagles, the restored 1941 caboose is located next to a kiosk shaped to resemble a 1930s water tank where you can learn about the history of the area’s railroad station. You will want a car when staying at this location as public transportation in the area is scarce.

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The caboose has been restored to maintain historical accuracy throughout, from the dinette to the spacious bunk beds outfitted with modern linens. Reviewers consistently note how spacious the caboose is, in addition to its cleanliness and the attention to detail of its hosts who often provide brochures for exploring nearby attractions and sights.

São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal | Sleeps 2 

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This 19th-century windmill is surrounded by a garden filled with tropical fruit trees and flowers. The views from the property are said to be magnificent, particularly from the upstairs bedroom where you will be treated to 360-degree views of the ocean and lush surroundings. While nature is right at your doorstep, the windmill accommodation is also in close proximity to the airport and to hiking trails, making it a prime location for those looking to explore the western side of the island.

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The converted windmill comes with a bedroom with a king bed, a living room, a kitchenette, and a restroom. In addition to the windmill, the area has two more houses that can be rented, with availability for up to three and four guests, respectively. Attentive touches like a daily turndown service, welcome manuals with area recommendations, and daily breakfast baskets filled with items like eggs, yogurt, granola, bread, milk, juice, jams, charcuterie, and pastries make for what guests say is a five-star experience.

Wallonia, Belgium | Sleeps 3

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Known as the mushroom house thanks to its circular shape, this property is located in a nature reserve, tucked away in the woods where magnificent hikes and walks lead you into the neighboring village of Tilff. Hidden in nature where songbirds greet you in the morning, the house is still within close proximity to train and bus stations, in addition to the city of Liège and its many museums. The large garden showcases fruits like wild strawberries, foliage in the autumn, and tranquil views of snow and a frozen pond in the winter.

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The mushroom house is ideal for two to three, with an upstairs bedroom in addition to an extra bed in the living room. Downstairs, you’ll find a sitting area, a library with a wood fireplace and firewood, and a kitchen stocked with an oven, stove, toaster, kettle, and coffee machine. The property does not include a television but has strong Wi-Fi for those looking to work remotely.