13 California Hotels You Should Know About

From cozy boutique hotels to luscious resorts and ranches, there’s no shortage of top-rated accommodations along the California coast. Here are 13 hotels you should know about in the Golden State. 

Cavallo Point (Sausalito)

Just outside of San Fransisco, Cavallo Point offers a nearby retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. This highly awarded property has 142 rooms and suites split between Historic and Contemporary style lodging. Located within the Golden Gate Bridge National Recreation Area, there are many outdoor activities available, as well as spa treatments at the Healing Arts Center & Spa, cooking classes, and dining at restaurants Sula and Farley. 

Granada Hotel & Bistro (San Luis Obispo)

This 17-room boutique hotel, a former brothel, is located along California’s Central Coastal town of San Luis Obispo, a short walk from its shops, restaurants, and vibrant public art. The cozy rooms have an industrial-chic vibe to them. The property includes The Bistro, the hotel’s signature restaurant, and Nightcap, the speakeasy-setting lounge. 

Hotel Erwin (Venice)

Walk along the world-famous Venice Beach Boardwalk and you’ll find Hotel Erwin when you reach 17^th Avenue. The boutique property is known for its High Rooftop Lounge that offers not only delicious bites to eat and craft cocktails, but also one of the best sunset views in the area. Other dining options include Pizza Girl and Erwin’s Kitchen. Laid-back and artistic in their style, there are a range of city and ocean view rooms to book. The hotel has been family-owned for decades and is a neighborhood staple. 

Laguna Surf Lodge (Laguna Beach)

This oceanfront, 41-room boutique hotel is the relaxed vacationer’s dream spot. There’s a light and airy vibe throughout, including in its ocean view and partial ocean view rooms, some with balconies. Peaceful Rooms offer many thoughtful amenities, from sound machines and essential oil diffusers to meditation pillows and yoga mats.  

Mission Pacific Beach Resort (Oceanside)

The Mission Pacific Beach Resort is high-profile, as it was just named the No. 1 U.S. Resort in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. The hotel is part of World of Hyatt and has 161 rooms, including 38 suites. The Rooftop Bar is a standout spot for views, live music, and cocktails. The hotel’s dining experience is top-notch with the Michelin Star restaurant, Valle, as well as Top Gun House and High Low. Topping off the resort stay is Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge. 

Post Ranch Inn (Big Sur)

For a secluded stay with beautiful lodging, Post Ranch Inn offers artfully designed accommodations among nature and overlooking the Pacific. From the Mountain House to Tree House to Butterfly, each suite is unique. The property has a jade pool, meditation pool, and a lap pool. Guided nature walks, morning yoga, and more relaxing activities are all available. 

Sea Ranch Lodge (Sea Ranch)

The 53-acre Sea Ranch Lodge was originally built in 1965 and completed an extensive, multi-year renovation in 2021. The nature-focused Northern California property also reimagined its 17 guest rooms in 2023. Guests can either rent out entire homes and cabins or individual rooms. The ranch is connected to The Sea Ranch Links golf course, and the hotel offers two restaurants, two cafes, a general store, and programming including an outdoorsy kids club.  

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa (Rancho Santa Fe)

Set on a sprawling 45 acres of greenery, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa offers Spanish hacienda-style accommodations – 49 casitas with patios and fireplaces and three private residences. Guests enjoy wellness, fitness, and tennis programs, and the signature restaurant, The Pony Room, for dining al fresco. 

The Marker San Francisco Hotel

Centrally located in historic Union Square, The Marker is a standout San Francisco hotel. Its deluxe rooms and suites capture the vibrancy of the city, as does the bold Tratto restaurant. The hotel is pet-friendly and offers a 24-hour fitness center. 

The Pierside Santa Monica

Chic on the beach: The Pierside Santa Monica has a contemporary coastal charm that attracts surfers and seaside loungers alike. The hotel is best known for its restaurant The Surfing Fox, which holds weekly events, and The Board Shop for all your vacation needs, from beach chairs to boardgames.  

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

Spanning 72 acres and nestled within Aliso Canyon, The Ranch at Laguna Beach encompasses 97 village-style rooms, a 9-hole golf course, spa and fitness center, a signature restaurant, beach cafe, and more amenities and activities, including access to Aliso Beach. 

River Terrace Inn (Napa)

This Napa Valley retreat provides a classic stay in wine country with its newly renovated village side, riverside, luxury, and accessible accommodations. Guests can dine by the river at ALBA Restaurant, participate in arts and culture activities on the property, and take advantage of wine train tour experiences. 

San Diego Mission Bay Resort

This beach resort offers everything families need for a fun California vacation: a large pool, beachside cabanas, several restaurants, pickleball courts, kids’ activities, water sports rentals, and a spa and fitness center. The guest rooms were recently updated and are light-filled with natural tones.