Best Airbnbs in Brighton and Hove

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, writing retreat or accommodation for a family or a group of friends, there are numerous high-quality options in Brighton and Hove. As a popular seaside destination, especially over the summer, more and more Airbnbs are popping up on and around the coastline.

Due to increasing levels of competition, the amount of love and care put into these homes is extremely high and Airbnbs are constantly being renovated to keep up with customer expectations. Many of the options are ranked 4.5* and above, and the superhost label is helpful when it comes to ensuring that communication will be clear and quick when you have any questions. 

Here we look at our pick of the best Airbnbs available, from accommodation suitable for a solo traveller to large houses that can nearly home a football team. We have covered a range of budgets, but prices often fluctuate depending on when you choose to visit and how many guests are staying. What is common is that almost all of them are near the sea, with others entertaining stunning ocean views from fully kitted-out balconies.      

The Mermaid Inn, Brunswick

This turquoise, mermaid-themed haven is the perfect accommodation for those who want a touch of escapism during their stay in Brighton. With the sea spied from every room, there aren’t many better Airbnbs when it comes to views. On one side of the flat is a balcony with vistas across the rooftops of Brighton and the ocean, and on the other side is a window seat with stunning views to the West over Hove where you can watch the sunset.

You’ll feel like the only person in the world as you relax from the window seat, which also has a slide-out desk, making this the perfect writing retreat. In fact, the owner – a comedian and writer herself – offers discounts for artists in residence and those performing at the fringe in May. This might not be the right accommodation for a large group or those wanting plenty of space, but the Mermaid Inn is small and perfectly formed and will charm with its creative nautical theme and cute as-button, turquoise bathroom. The living room has been recently renovated and homes a large, comfy sofa that doubles up as a sofa bed.

The Mermaid Inn is located on a pretty, quiet street just a five-minute walk to the sea and conveniently placed smack bang in the middle of Brighton and Hove. There is no shortage of restaurants, bars and cafes on the nearby Western Road and the i360 and the train station are also within easy reach. If you are looking for a colourful, memorable seaside oasis – the Mermaid Inn is the one for you.   

Mrs Butler Brighton, Hove

Searching for a touch of luxury as well as stunning balcony views of the ocean, Mrs Butler might provide the right solution for you. A stone’s throw from the beach, the beautiful, modern apartment is designed for a couple but sleeps children too if requested.  

This private and stylish Airbnb has all the amenities a hotel offers, including your very own Mrs Butler at your service should you require any help to design your stay. The owner is happy to communicate beforehand and give plenty of tips on things to do while you are in town, and also to continue providing advice once you are there. In terms of in-house entertainment, there is a TV, sound system with aux, and books and reading material available.

Mrs Butler currently scores 5 stars almost across the board and is particularly well regarded for communication, location and cleanliness. Several reviews on Airbnb’s site refer to how spotless and comfortable they found the accommodation. In terms of location, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and shops close by with a pub next door.

It seems that the only problem with visiting Mrs Butler is the fact you might not want to leave, but to move in instead. You had better ask the host about that!

Super central flat, Brighton

With a black and white zebra print theme slicing its way through the apartment, this affordable option is in the centre of town, and a close walk to the sea. The contemporary and modern art vibe of the place will delight art lovers and those looking for somewhere with its own distinct identity. A comfortable king-sized bed provides a perfect night’s sleep for two guests and the wooden flooring gives the place a warm, clean and fresh feel.

There is a smart TV providing entertainment for those lazy mornings before you hit the beach or the shops. A modern kitchen comes equipped with an oven, hob, microwave and fridge/freezer for those looking to carry out their whole Brighton trip on a budget. However, for those who want to dine out, a massive selling point of this accommodation is that it is located on Preston Street, one of the best places to eat in Brighton.

The whole road is littered with restaurant establishments and bars, such as Nanninella Pizzeria, the extremely popular Goemon Ramen Bar and Greek and Chinese cuisines to name but a few. Other advantages of the location include its proximity to the i360, Odeon Cinema, Churchill Square Car Park and Churchill Square Shopping Centre. You are really in the middle of everything with this one!

Unique flat in Historic Quarter, Brighton  

A homely wooden oasis with countryside charm is probably a good start when it comes to describing this exquisite two-bedroom flat. A unique apartment located in the historic Lanes is the perfect combination for a party of four looking for something a bit special. The open-plan lounge and kitchen have plenty of space and there is an oversized bath to relax in after a day of pottering around the Lanes. This colourful, warm and cosy Airbnb is a minute’s stroll from the iconic Pavillion, the beach and the famous pier.  

Located in the centre of Brighton, the historic Lanes are home to award-winning restaurants and plenty of bars. Whilst East Street rarely sleeps, both bedrooms are located at the back of the property so there is not a sound problem once you are tucked away in bed.

The flat will be yours during your stay but due to the fact the homeowners have pets, this is not suitable for people with pet allergies. Guests have access to all rooms in the flat and the only off-limit areas are cupboards of personal belongings and the fire, for health and safety reasons. There is no shortage of personality and charm to be found here, and if you are lucky enough to find it available, it may be worth securing this popular Airbnb so you can enjoy the vast bath alongside a glass of your favourite bubbling beverage.

Eclectic House with Balcony, Powis Square

Everything about this house is gorgeous, from its cute, white exterior to each superbly decorated room inside. Colourful, light, and quirky – this house reflects what Brighton is all about – and the attention to detail of this house is stunning. This is the ideal house for group bookings and can accommodate eight guests in three bedrooms.  

This spacious three-bedroom, three-floored townhouse features a freestanding bath, four poster beds, as well as a balcony. It is a rare find to discover such a tastefully decorated house that comes with a balcony, is located in a quiet residential street, and is also a few minutes from the sea. The house has been designed with an eclectic mix of original features, modern furnishing and some lovely modern art, which makes it stand out from more generic Airbnbs found on the market.

Whether you are a family or a group of friends, the large open-plan living and dining area provides a great place to socialise with a beautiful fireplace and excellent wifi throughout the home. The TV has Netflix and Freeview and a large corner sofa that converts into a bed and sleeps two guests comfortably. There are also two-floor mattresses for flexibility of sleeping arrangements.

A large dining table can comfortably seat 12, making it the perfect place for a meal or card game between friends. Centred in the middle of Seven Dials, North Laine, Montpelier and Hove, this is a dynamic location where you can escape some of the mad crowds that gather around the beach.

A good pub, a hip breakfast spot and a supermarket express chain are all within walking distance which means you can enjoy the peace of the area and don’t have to wander too far afield. Whilst it is not cheap, if you have a group of eight it becomes a bit of a bargain for such a large, refined and immaculate space.