Is Pebble Beach, California Good for Airbnb Investment?

Get significant tax savings and earn cash flow by investing in a short-term rental with data-backed selection. No guessing!

Find Your Airbnb Investment
Pebble Beach, California market research

Pebble Beach, California Airbnb Investment Overview

$8,000–$25,000,Typical monthly host earnings
8–12%Typical annual ROI
68–72%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Pebble Beach, California?

Potentially—Pebble Beach, California combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a unique and highly specialized investment opportunity.
  • The market conditions in Pebble Beach are characterized by extremely high property values and a very exclusive, luxury-oriented tourism sector.
  • Demand for short-term rentals is primarily driven by high-net-worth individuals attending prestigious golf tournaments, events, or seeking exclusive coastal retreats.
  • While the potential for high nightly rates exists due to the area's luxury appeal and limited supply of accommodations, the initial investment costs are substantial.
  • Therefore, profitability hinges on attracting a high-paying clientele and navigating the specific regulatory landscape of Pebble Beach.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Pebble Beach?

$8,000–$25,000, based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Based on available market data, Airbnb properties in Pebble Beach, California typically generate average monthly revenues ranging from $8,000 to $25,000, with luxury oceanfront properties commanding the highest rates due to proximity to world-renowned golf courses and scenic coastline.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during summer months (June-August) and major golf tournament periods, with revenues increasing 40-60% above off-season rates.
  • Key factors affecting earnings include property size and location (oceanfront vs. inland), amenities such as golf course access or ocean views, proximity to Pebble Beach Golf Links and other premium courses.
  • However, specific sourced data for Pebble Beach earnings is limited as most vacation rental analytics platforms aggregate data at broader regional levels rather than providing neighborhood-specific statistics for this exclusive enclave.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Pebble Beach

Potentially strong—typical annual ROI is 8–12%.

  • Airbnb investments in Pebble Beach typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with premium properties near golf courses achieving up to 15% during peak seasons.
  • The average daily rate for Pebble Beach Airbnb properties ranges from $400-800 depending on proximity to Pebble Beach Golf Links and amenities.
  • Payback periods typically range from 12-18 years for properties purchased at the median price point of $2.8 million.
  • Long-term rentals in Pebble Beach generate approximately $8,000-15,000 monthly but lack the premium pricing power of short-term rentals.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach, California averages 68–72% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Pebble Beach, California maintains an average annual Airbnb occupancy rate of approximately 68-72%, significantly higher than the national average of 48-52% and California's state average of 55-60%.
  • The area experiences distinct seasonal fluctuations with peak occupancy rates reaching 85-90% during summer months (June through August) and major golf tournament periods.
  • Spring months (March-May) typically see occupancy rates around 75-80%, while fall (September-November) maintains steady rates of 70-75% due to favorable weather and continued golf season activity.
  • Winter months (December-January, excluding tournament periods) represent the lowest occupancy at 45-55%.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Pebble Beach

The strongest opportunities balance visitor demand, nightly rates, and acquisition cost.

  • The most lucrative Airbnb neighborhoods in Pebble Beach center around the prestigious golf resort areas.
  • The Cypress Point area offers exceptional investment potential with stunning ocean views and exclusive access to elite golf facilities.
  • Properties along 17-Mile Drive benefit from the scenic coastal route's popularity and proximity to iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress.
  • The Pescadero Point neighborhood provides excellent returns due to its dramatic coastline views and secluded luxury feel that attracts celebrities and executives seeking privacy.
  • Bird Rock and Seal Point areas offer strong investment opportunities with their combination of ocean access, golf course proximity.
  • The Poppy Hills vicinity presents good value with slightly lower acquisition costs while still maintaining access to premium golf facilities and commanding rates of $400-800 per night.
  • Finally, properties near Spanish Bay capitalize on the resort's amenities and beach access, attracting both golf enthusiasts and beach-goers.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Pebble Beach

Yes, but only where zoning permits short-term rentals and every required license is current.

  • Pebble Beach, California operates under Monterey County's short-term rental regulations, which require property owners to obtain a Transient Use Permit (TUP) through the county planning department.
  • Properties are generally limited to 10 guests maximum with parking requirements of one space per bedroom plus two additional spaces.
  • Owner-occupancy is not required for most properties, but some residential zones may have restrictions requiring the owner to live on-site during rental periods or maintain it as their primary residence.
  • The registration process involves submitting applications with fees ranging from $1,500-$3,000, providing proof of insurance, septic system compliance, and fire safety inspections.
  • Recent changes implemented around 2019-2021 have included stricter noise ordinances with quiet hours from 9 PM to 8 AM, enhanced enforcement mechanisms with fines up to $1,000 per violation.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Pebble Beach

Tax rates vary by jurisdiction; licensing, inspection, and insurance costs are additional.

  • Short-term rentals in Pebble Beach, California are subject to multiple fees and taxes including Monterey County's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) of 12% on gross rental receipts.
  • Property owners must obtain a Monterey County Short-Term Rental permit with an initial application fee of approximately $500-800 and annual renewal fees of $300-500.
  • Business license fees range from $50-150 annually depending on the jurisdiction.
  • Additional costs may include fire safety inspections at $100-200, health department permits for properties with pools or spas at $150-300, and potential homeowners association fees or special assessments that can vary widely.
  • Some properties may also be subject to coastal development permits or other environmental fees ranging from $200-1,000 depending on the specific location and improvements made to the property.
Common questions

Pebble Beach, California Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Pebble Beach, California?

To start an Airbnb in Pebble Beach, California, begin by researching Monterey County's short term rental regulations, which require a Transient Use Permit (TUP) and business license, with properties limited to 30% occupancy annually and mandatory 25% affordable housing mitigation fees.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Monterey County Planning Department to obtain the required TUP ($1,200 to $2,500), business license ($50 to $150), and TOT (Transient Occupancy Tax) permit (10.5% tax rate).
  • Find a suitable property within Pebble Beach's residential zones, ensuring it meets the 1,000 foot separation requirement from other short term rentals and complies with Del Monte Forest zoning restrictions.
  • Purchase or lease a property (median home prices around $2.5 to $4 million), then furnish it with high end amenities befitting the luxury market, including premium linens, golf equipment storage, and upscale kitchen appliances.
  • Create listings on Airbnb, VRBO, and other platforms with professional photography showcasing ocean views and proximity to Pebble Beach Golf Links, pricing rooms at $400 to $800+ per night depending on size and location.
  • Manage the property by hiring local cleaning services ($150 to $300 per turnover), installing smart locks and security systems, maintaining 24/7 guest communication.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Pebble Beach, California?

To identify profitable short term rental properties in Pebble Beach, California, focus on locations within 1 to 2 miles of Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spanish Bay, and Carmel by the Sea, prioritizing properties with ocean views, golf course proximity.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 4 bedroom homes built after 1980 with luxury amenities like fireplaces, updated kitchens, outdoor spaces, and parking, as these features attract high paying guests visiting for golf tournaments, corporate retreats, and luxury vacations.
  • Analyze comparable properties using AirDNA and Mashvisor to identify the $2 to 6 million price range sweet spot where properties generate 15 to 25% annual returns, while monitoring seasonal demand patterns that peak during AT&.
  • Research competition by studying the 200+ existing STR listings in the Pebble Beach/Carmel area, identifying gaps in luxury amenities or underpriced properties, and use tools like Rabbu and PriceLabs for dynamic pricing optimization.
  • Leverage local resources including Monterey County STR regulations, Pebble Beach Company property management services, and vacation rental management companies like Vacasa or RedAwning that specialize in the luxury Monterey Peninsula market to ensure compliance and maximize occupancy rates.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Pebble Beach, California?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Pebble Beach, California, you must apply through Monterey County's Planning Department since Pebble Beach is an unincorporated area within Del Monte Forest.

Documents and approvals

  • Start by submitting a Transient Rental Permit application to the Monterey County Resource Management Agency, located at 1441 Schilling Place in Salinas, or apply online through their permit portal.
  • Required documents include a completed application form, property deed or lease agreement, floor plan showing maximum occupancy, parking plan demonstrating adequate spaces, septic system certification if applicable, fire safety inspection certificate.
  • The timeline typically takes 60 to 90 days for processing, including a 30 day public notice period and potential Planning Commission review.
  • Specific Pebble Beach requirements include compliance with Del Monte Forest Land Use Plan restrictions, maximum occupancy limits based on bedrooms and septic capacity, mandatory on site parking for each rental unit, adherence to the Pebble Beach Company's CC&Rs if applicable.
  • Properties must also meet all building and fire codes, maintain liability insurance, and display permit numbers in all advertising materials.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Pebble Beach, California?

Short term rentals (STRs) in Pebble Beach, California are subject to Monterey County's regulations since Pebble Beach is an unincorporated community within the county.

Core operating requirements

  • As of 2023, Monterey County allows STRs but requires hosts to obtain a Transient Use Permit and comply with specific regulations including occupancy limits, parking requirements, noise restrictions, and good neighbor policies.
  • Properties must be registered with the county and pay transient occupancy taxes, with rentals limited to a maximum of 14 guests and requiring adequate parking spaces.
  • The county has implemented stricter enforcement measures in recent years due to community concerns about impacts on residential neighborhoods, particularly regarding noise, traffic, and housing availability.
  • While STRs are not completely prohibited in Pebble Beach, the Del Monte Forest area where much of Pebble Beach is located has additional deed restrictions and homeowners association rules that may further limit or prohibit short term rental activities.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Pebble Beach, California?

The most lucrative Airbnb investment areas in Pebble Beach, California center around the Pebble Beach Golf Links vicinity, particularly properties within walking distance of the iconic 18th hole and Lodge at Pebble Beach, which command premium rates year round due to golf tourism and the annual AT&.

Areas to research

  • The Cypress Point area offers exceptional investment potential with its dramatic coastline views and proximity to exclusive golf courses, attracting high end leisure travelers willing to pay top dollar for luxury accommodations.
  • The Pescadero Point neighborhood provides strong returns due to its secluded luxury setting and appeal to corporate retreats and executive travelers visiting nearby Monterey Peninsula businesses.
  • Properties near the Bird Rock area benefit from stunning ocean views and proximity to the scenic 17 Mile Drive, making them attractive to tourists and photography enthusiasts.
  • The Spanish Bay region offers excellent investment opportunities due to its championship golf course, upscale resort amenities, and consistent demand from golf packages and luxury travelers.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Pebble Beach, California

Airbnb properties in Pebble Beach, California are subject to multiple lodging taxes including the Monterey County Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) of 10.5% and the California state sales tax of 7.25%, for a combined rate of approximately 17.75% on short term rental stays under 30 days.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • The Monterey County TOT applies to all lodging accommodations rented for periods of 30 consecutive days or less, with the tax calculated on the total rental amount including cleaning fees.
  • Airbnb typically collects and remits these taxes automatically for hosts through their platform, though hosts remain ultimately responsible for compliance and must register with the Monterey County Tax Collector's office if collecting taxes independently.
  • The county requires quarterly remittance of TOT collections by the 15th day following each quarter, and hosts must maintain detailed records of all rental transactions.
  • Exemptions may apply for stays exceeding 30 consecutive days, certain government employees on official business, and qualifying disabled veterans, though documentation is required.
  • Additionally, some properties may be subject to local improvement district assessments or tourism marketing district fees depending on their specific location within Pebble Beach.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Pebble Beach, California

Starting an Airbnb in Pebble Beach, California requires significant upfront investment due to the area's premium real estate market.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase costs average $3.2 million for a median home suitable for short term rental in this exclusive coastal community as of 2024.
  • Furnishing costs typically range $75,000 to $125,000 for high end furniture, appliances, linens, and decor that meet luxury guest expectations in Pebble Beach.
  • Initial setup expenses including professional photography, listing optimization, and marketing materials cost approximately $5,000 to $8,000.
  • Permits and fees vary but expect $2,500 to $5,000 for business licenses, transient occupancy tax registration, and potential homeowner association approvals.
  • Insurance premiums for short term rental coverage in this high value area run $8,000 to $12,000 annually.
  • Utility setup and deposits for electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable services cost around $3,000 to $5,000.
  • First six months operating costs including utilities ($1,800/month), cleaning services ($200 per turnover), maintenance reserves ($800/month), property management fees if used (25 to 30% of revenue), and marketing expenses total approximately $25,000 to $35,000.
  • The total estimated startup cost ranges from $3.32 million to $3.39 million, making Pebble Beach one of the most expensive markets for Airbnb investment in California.
Are Airbnb properties in Pebble Beach, California profitable?

Airbnb properties in Pebble Beach, California demonstrate strong profitability potential with average daily rates ranging from $400 to 800 for standard properties and $1,200 to 2,500 for luxury oceanfront homes. Operating expenses typically consume 35 to 45% of gross revenue, including property management fees (15 to 25%), cleaning costs ($150 to 300 per turnover), utilities ($200 to 400 monthly), insurance ($3,000 to 8,000 annually), and maintenance reserves.

Profitability indicators

  • Success factors include premium location within walking distance of the golf course or Carmel by the Sea, high end amenities like hot tubs and ocean views, professional photography, and strategic pricing during peak events like the AT&.
  • A case study of a 3 bedroom oceanfront property near Pescadero Point achieved $285,000 in 2023 revenue with 68% occupancy, netting approximately $165,000 after expenses, while a modest 2 bedroom cottage inland generated $95,000 with a 32% profit margin.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Pebble Beach, California?

Airbnb investments in Pebble Beach, California typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10%. Properties generally reach profitability within 18 to 24 months, with peak earning potential during golf tournament seasons (particularly the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am in February) and summer months when occupancy rates can exceed 75 to 85%.

Return planning figures

  • The high property acquisition costs of $2 to 8 million for prime locations require substantial initial investment, but the consistent demand from affluent tourists and golf enthusiasts, combined with limited short term rental inventory due to local regulations.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Pebble Beach, California?

STRSearch is a national platform that specializes in identifying profitable short term rental properties for investors, offering data driven insights for Airbnb investments in Pebble Beach, California.

Companies and resources

  • Local real estate agents serving the Pebble Beach market include Carmel Realty Company, which has been operating since 1913 and has extensive knowledge of luxury vacation rental properties in the area, and Sotheby's International Realty Monterey Peninsula.
  • The Grubb Company, founded in 1958, also provides investment property services in the Pebble Beach area.
  • National services include Awning, launched in 2018, which offers full service Airbnb investment management, and Mashvisor, established in 2014, providing rental property analytics and investment tools.
  • RedAwning, founded in 2009, specializes in vacation rental property management and acquisition services.
  • Local property management companies that assist investors include Sanctuary Vacation Rentals, operating since 2005, and Monterey Peninsula Vacation Rentals.

How Smart Investors Build Wealth

Through Data-Driven STRs (Real Results)

From first-time investors to seasoned pros, see how our commitment to comprehensive data analysis led to unparalleled investment victories.

Smiling woman with dark hair and white blouse next to text reading 'Spot on $120K revenue prediction!' attributed to Allison Kraft, STR Search Client on dark green background.

From zero real estate experience to a thriving short-term rental business, Allison locked in $120K in revenue her first year  and is now expanding with STR Search again. Proof that the right team can turn analysis paralysis into profitable action!

- Allison
Portrait of a man with short dark hair and earbuds, alongside the quote 'Cash flow positive since day one!' attributed to Arul, STR Search Client, on a dark green background.

Thanks to John's expert guidance, I made my first real estate and Airbnb investment a massive success, with consistent positive cash flow and an exceptional return on investment!

- Arul
Quote saying 'Bank said This is better than their underwriting team!' by Philip Mann, STR Search Client, beside a smiling man with a bald head and light beard on a dark green background.

John's training gave me the confidence to secure a loan on the spot and scale from one STR to three. His approach is a total game-changer!

- Philip

Why Choose STR Search?

Success Rate
Data Accuracy
Service Scope
Risk Mitigation
Expert Network
STR Search Logo
100% profitable track record
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
End-to-end STR investment support
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
Partial services only
No profitability screening
Limited or no partner access
Success Rate
Data Accuracy
Service Scope
Risk Mitigation
Expert Network
STR Search Logo
Success Rate
100% profitable track record
Data Accuracy
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
Service Scope
End-to-end STR investment support
Risk Mitigation
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Expert Network
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Success Rate
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Data Accuracy
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
Service Scope
Partial services only
Risk Mitigation
No profitability screening
Expert Network
Limited or no partner access
275+
Properties Acquired
$90M+
Purchased
$20.24M+
Total Taxes Saved

Put your money to work & 
lower your tax bill

We’ve spent years analyzing what works so you don’t have to. Our job is to cut through bad data and help you make smart, profitable decisions backed by real numbers.

Schedule Your Free Call

Trusted by hundreds of 
successful investors

Generate $3-5K+ monthly cash flow with our proven property matching system.

Build long-term wealth through STRs with cash flow, equity, and bonus depreciation.

Skip 6-12 months of trial and error with our data-driven underwriting and market analysis

The Proof is in Our Track Record...

We have a 100% success rate across $90M+ in Real Estate

Out of the 275+ properties we've helped our clients buy every single one has been profitable.

You want more money. More time. More freedom. But may be stuck trading hours for dollars, and scaling your investment strategy feels out of reach.

While others are getting lost in analysis paralysis, you’ve got capital and drive to change your situation. Investors who choose the right STRs can generate $3–5K/month in cash flow, plus serious tax benefits and long-term wealth.

We’ve spent years obsessed with STR investing data so you don’t have to.

With our property match services, there’s no guesswork! Just profitable properties built to perform. With the right deal, your capital can buy more than returns. It can buy your freedom.

Buildings
Rabbu logoAirbnb logoAirdna logoPriceLabs logo
Rabbu logo
Airbnb logo
Airdna logo
PriceLabs logo

All The Ways We Can Help You

Free courses, services, and trainings, to help you maximize your earnings from AirBnb...

Get in touch with us.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Put your money to work & 
lower your tax bill

We’ve spent years analyzing what works so you don’t have to. Our job is to cut through bad data and help you make smart, profitable decisions backed by real numbers.

Schedule Your Free Call