As soon as you hear the words “California,” it is impossible not to think of iconic images and experiences that define this state: the seaside scenery of picturesque beaches, the captivating wineries of Napa, the Hollywood glamor of Los Angeles, and the incredible National Parks – among many others.
It’s no wonder that California is one of the most visited states in the US, offering a wide range of experiences to visitors of all tastes. But in order to truly enjoy all that California has to offer, finding the perfect hotel that matches your style and preferences is crucial.
Thankfully, California boasts a wide range of hotels that can cater to travelers’ diverse preferences, from the luxurious and lavish to the charming and budget-friendly.
In this article, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to some of the best hotels California has to offer, so you can make an informed choice when planning your next trip.
Best Hotels In California
Without further ado, here are some of the best hotels California has on offer:
1. The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
Located just a few miles from San Francisco, The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay is one of the most luxurious hotels in California. This five-star hotel provides its guests with a world-class spa, two championship golf courses, and breathtaking ocean views over the Pacific.
The guest rooms are spacious, elegantly decorated, and offer luxurious amenities such as custom bedding, marble bathrooms, and private balconies or patios. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Navio, specializes in seafood and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
2. Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
Located on 22 acres of lush, tropical gardens that lead directly to the beach, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara offers luxury accommodation in one of California’s most exclusive destinations, Santa Barbara.
The hotel offers a variety of luxurious guest rooms, suites, and bungalows that combine contemporary elegance with classic Spanish colonial-style furnishings. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a top-rated spa, golf course, tennis courts, and two swimming pools.
3. The Beverly Hills Hotel
With its iconic pink facade and timeless Hollywood glamour, The Beverly Hills Hotel is one of the most recognizable hotels in the world. Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, this legendary hotel boasts 208 newly renovated guest rooms, suites, and bungalows.
At The Beverly Hills Hotel, guests can enjoy world-class dining, luxurious amenities, and personalized service. Highlights of the hotel include the famous Polo Lounge restaurant, the spa, and the charming poolside cabanas.
4. Madonna Inn
Located in San Luis Obispo, Madonna Inn is a unique and quirky hotel that offers something truly different from the traditional luxury hotels mentioned previously.
The hotel features 110 unique and individually decorated rooms, each with its unique color scheme and theme. With names like “Rock Bottom,” “Safari Room,” “Caveman Room,” and “Love Nest,” visitors can expect rooms with opulent finishes like rock walls, pink plush carpeting, and unique lighting fixtures.
The hotel also has its famous copper bar, The Gold Rush Steakhouse, and an on-site spa.
5. Ventana Big Sur, Alila Resort & Spa
Located in California’s iconic Big Sur, Ventana Big Sur, Alila Resort & Spa Hotel offers luxurious amenities in a breathtaking natural setting. The hotel’s modern design and use of materials such as wood, glass, and stone blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
The guest rooms, suites, and villas are spacious and offer unparalleled views of redwood forests, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. The hotel allows guests to explore the natural beauty of Big Sur with activities such as hiking, meditation, and even s’mores-making.
6. The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel
Located in San Francisco’s lively Union Square neighborhood, The Clift Royal Sonesta Hotel offers guests a chic and modern vibe that contrasts well with the city’s historic surroundings.
The hotel’s 372 rooms and suites offer modern amenities such as smart TVs, comfortable bedding, and upscale toiletries. Highlights of the hotel include the stunning Redwood Room lounge, a famous fixture of San Francisco’s nightlife, and the legendary furniture designer Philippe Starck designed the hotel’s stylish overall aesthetic.
7. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
This iconic Santa Monica hotel is located on Wilshire Boulevard and features a mix of Art Deco-style bungalows and modern guest rooms. The hotel sits atop a hill, allowing guests to enjoy gorgeous ocean views.
The hotel offers a long list of amenities and services for guests to enjoy, from gourmet restaurants to the on-site fitness center and outdoor pool. Additionally, the hotel hosts No More Plastic campaign events, which engages the Santa Monica community in reducing single-use plastic waste.
8. Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills
If you want to experience the height of luxury and sophistication when visiting LA, you cannot go wrong with the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills. This five-star hotel is situated at the corner of Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards in Beverly Hills.
The hotel’s rooms, suites, and villas offer beautiful views of the nearby hills and beaches, as well as an unmatched level of luxury. The hotel has a rooftop bar and pool, a Michelin Star-rated restaurant, and a full-service salon and spa.
9. Calistoga Ranch
Located in the heart of Napa Valley, Calistoga Ranch is a luxurious boutique hotel that offers guests the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The hotel’s 50 freestanding guest lodges nestle among oak trees spread over 157 acres of natural beauty, offering guests privacy and tranquility. The hotel’s restaurant offers a farm-to-table menu that showcases the local produce of Napa Valley.
10. Palihouse Santa Monica
This charming and affordable hotel is located in the heart of Santa Monica’s trendy residential neighbourhood, just steps from the beach, shopping, and dining.
The hotel occupies a beautifully restored, Spanish-style apartment building and features spacious, fully-equipped units. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s courtyard garden, equipped with a fire pit and games, as well as deluxe amenities such as laundry services.
Whether you’re looking for the ultimate luxury experience, a quirky and unique stay, or want to experience the charm and beauty of California, this list has something to offer for everyone.
We hope this guide has given you useful insights into some of the best hotels in California. Whatever your tastes, your demands, or your budget, the Golden State offers an abundance of options to satisfy your travel needs.