As a California native, I spend a lot of time by the ocean at seaside resorts. Here is a list of my favorite hotels along the California coast from Mendocino to San Diego. Stay at these plush resorts for fabulous spas, views, concierges, and world-class dining.
Save yourself hours of research by choosing from my list of recommendations -- this is the same list I give my friends and family who always ask me where to go!
☀️ Free guide developed by yours truly
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Travel along with me as we go from NorCal to SoCal, sorted by cities. Tip: Use the interactive map on the right to plot your trip.
My picks focus on luxurious experiences that feel very Californian. Check out the descriptions for details about the hotel, including restaurants or spas on-site, and even details about the neighborhood. 💌 DM me for specific itineraries!
Mendocino
Mendocino is a quiet seaside town, in close proximity to Fort Bragg, Little River, Point Arena, and Ukiah. Visit places like Mendocino Headlands State Park, Mendocino National Forest (about 1 million acres of landscape), and the downtown. Take a stroll along beaches such as Big River Beach, Seaside Beach, Schooner Gulch, and (famously and uniquely) Glass Beach.
The Inn recently underwent an 8 year renovation which was completed in 2018. Guests can select between garden view or ocean view rooms or cottages that feature a private patio. Each nightly stay includes a lavish breakfast, access to our private cove, plush down feather bedding, and cozy accommodations. The Two Michelin-starred and Michelin Green Star restaurant Harbor House Inn offers a 25-seat dining room that sits above the Pacific coastline.
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Sonoma Coast
I can go on for days about Sonoma County (and all it's delicious wine, views, and restaurants), but today I want to focus on the area along the coast. On your drive down from Mendocino, take a stop at Timber Cove Resort for a stay. Then mosey down towards Goat Rock Beach, Bodega Bay, Petaluma, and Sonoma TrainTown Railroad before you hit Marin County. If you want to spend a little more time here, try the towns of Jenner, Sea Ranch, Boyes Hot Springs, Healdsburg, and Guerneville for rivers, downtowns, spas (hot spring central!), and wineries. There are truly an innumerable amount of activities and hotels in the area, so look out for a future Guide to help you plot a few days in the area (from me!).
Located on Highway 1, Timber Cove is about fifteen miles north of downtown Jenner and one hour from the Sonoma Airport. Timber Cove is a magical place where stately redwoods pay homage before the vastness of the sea. Guests experience a deep connection with nature, both land and sea, while relaxing in a casual, sophisticated space.
Truly, one of my favorite places along the coast. We come here a couple times a year for their daily Wine Tasting hour, onsite restaurant, mineral fed spas, and lovely grounds.
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Marin County
Along Marin County, you can find sleepy (but weekend busy!) towns like Stinson Beach, Muir Beach, Muir National Forest, and Sausalito. The two hotels below are two of the most luxurious, with the best views and on-site restaurant. Try the Healing Arts Center and Spa at Cavallo Point Lodge for a healing massage and spa day.
Nestled at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, Cavallo Point offers exceptional activities, inspired amenities, and luxury lodging in the San Francisco Bay Area. Check out the Healing Arts Center and Spa for more luxury.
This elegant hotel is located next to the downtown Sausalito waterfront, overlooking the San Francisco skyline. The hotel offers a full-service spa, a restaurant and free WiFi. The Golden Gate Ferry with service to downtown San Francisco is less than 500 metres from Casa Madrona Hotel and Spa. Sausalito's famous water walkway, which offers shops, restaurants and views of Alcatraz and San Francisco, is also less than 500 metres away.
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San Francisco
My heart belongs to San Francisco. Living in the city for over a decade, I have visited a fair number of hotels here. Among the lot, here are my top picks based on their views, on-site spas, and restaurants.
I truly am a Fairmont gal, and this was one of my FIRSTS. With views of the City and the Bay from Nob Hill, Fairmont San Francisco presents an experience from curated concierge services, to dining -- to the world-renowned Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar.
At the epicentre of San Francisco stands the city’s iconic hotel, where business ideas emerge, loved ones connect and life’s most important celebrations happen. When you’re not shopping at Union Square, enjoying the city’s diverse culinary scene or exploring one of the Bay Area’s top attractions, unwind in our newly renovated guest rooms, designed to represent the natural beauty of San Francisco’s fog, redwood trees and ocean. Achieve a new level of wellness at the city’s top health club, then savour elevated California cuisine at MKT Bar or from the comfort of your very own guest room or suite.
Located amongst SoMa, this hotel is a luxurious experience. For a convenient experience, walk right out your hotel room to the indoor pool or eat at Luce on-site.
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Half Moon Bay
Whether it's for a day trip or a long weekend, I find myself in Half Moon Bay constantly. Situated on a cliff surrounded by green golf courses, crashing blue waves, and miles of paved walking paths, the Ritz-Carlton HMB is one of the best ways to experience the coast.
Tip: Slide on over to the downtown area of HMB for more restaurants, or around Pacifica for surfing and the world's prettiest Taco Bell on the water.
One of my favorite day or weekend trips from San Francisco. Situated on a cliff with a full spa overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is surrounded by 2 championship golf courses. It features spacious rooms and 2 fine dining restaurants. Guests of the hotel can enjoy body and facial treatments, manicures and massages at the Ritz-Carlton Spa. A fitness center and indoor pool are also present. Free WiFi is available in the entire hotel.
Panoramic ocean views and fresh seafood are featured at Navio Restaurant. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean are featured at The Conservatory.
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Santa Cruz
Growing up nearby, I spent most weekends as a kid romping around in Santa Cruz, whether I was in the mountain range of Aptos, or down by the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. While here, visit the Downtown for a range of food from tacos to cookies to acai bowls, or head to one of the many beaches in the area, including Natural Bridges State Beach.
Set in the Santa Cruz mountain range of Northern California, the Chaminade Resort & Spa is 5 km from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The resort has a year-round outdoor pool and BBQ, and guests can enjoy a meal at 2 different on-site restaurants. Monterey Bay is a 45 minutes’ drive away. Museum of History & Art at the McPherson Center is 5 km from Chaminade Resort & Spa, while Pacific Avenue is 5 km from the property. The nearest airport is Mineta San Jose International Airport, 41 km from Chaminade Resort & Spa.
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Monterey
"Monterey is a place, a grating noise, a quality of light, a tone, a habit, a nostalgia, a dream." -- John Steinbeck. Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, or the Old Fisherman's Wharf when you're here. Rent a bike and cruise around Pacific Grove too!
InterContinental the Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel
Enjoy panoramic ocean views and radiant sunrises on beautiful Monterey Bay at InterContinental The Clement Monterey. Overlooking the sapphire waters of Monterey Bay on Cannery Row, our waterfront hotel, resort and spa is where beauty and luxury indulge your senses. Whether you are planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or special event, The Clement Monterey is an inspiring Monterey Bay hotel with urban energy, modern luxury, and coastal charm. Escape to the California Coast and feel the spirit of Monterey.
Nestled on 19 acres of pristine Pacific shoreline, The Sanctuary Beach Resort invites you to escape and enjoy the best of the California Coast. Rise and shine to beachfront views, savor artisanal cuisine, and take in nature's beauty. At the end of the day, cozy up by a firepit on the sand and fall asleep to the sound of breaking waves. When you’re ready to explore, discover local wineries and all the sights of Monterey Bay. You’ll also find open spaces, modern facilities, state-of-the-art technology, and California hospitality perfect for hosting groups and events.
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Carmel
Another common weekend destination, I visit Carmel on a regular monthly or quarterly basis. Some favorite restaurants downtown include Casanova, and Mission Bistro, and don't miss the white sand beaches and art galleries.
Charming. Intimate. Comfortable. The serene character of Bernardus Lodge & Spa echoes an authentic Wine Country retreat. Our Carmel resort nurtures a relaxing escape from the bustle of life—to calm and revitalize all of the senses, providing the finest resort experience of all Carmel Valley hotels.
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Carmel Valley Ranch - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Carmel Valley Ranch has always been an escape with plenty of room to roam, to explore, to discover. Where people rekindle romances, reunite with friends and family, revive spirits, or simply get away and play. And these days, play is more important than ever.
Originally built in 1929, this luxury hotel is within walking distance to the legendary Carmel Beach and offers historic old-world charm, complete with all of today's modern amenities and conveniences.
L'Auberge Carmel offers guests everything needed for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Guests will appreciate in-room massage and spa services, flat-screen TVs, and the on-site gourmet restaurant.
Only a short distance from L'Auberge Carmel are many popular attractions. The famous Pebble Beach Golf Course, Monterey Bay Aquarium and a variety of art galleries, shopping centres and restaurants are in close proximity.
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Big Sur
Big Sur incites gasps as you drive through -- whether from the winding turns and seaside cliffs, or from the jaw-dropping views. It lies in Central California between Carmel and San Simeon. The area has many state parks and beaches -- you could spend a week trying to frequent them all! Tip: Always research Highway 1 before you travel, as there may be closures. You may be asked to take Highway 101 from Carmel Valley.
The Post family worked this land for generations, first as a homestead and then later as a farm. Today it retains much of its original character, with the added distinction of offering visitors a serene getaway and retreat.
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Pismo Beach
Central California has a little of everything -- beach, wineries, and great restaurants. A wonderful area to bring families, Pismo Beach offers a boardwalk, Italian and seafood restaurants, and great spots to view the waves.
Tip: If you are looking for a more secluded retreat, try a night in the Avila Beach area.
Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, Autograph Collection
Swoon. Santa Barbara is heaven for all sorts of activities, and most especially the luxurious stays just north of Los Angeles. With the Santa Ynez Mountains standing sentinel, you could try cycling, surfing, hiking, camping, wine-ing (it's a thing!), and shopping all within the city. Coming soon: A full itinerary for eats, spas, and favorite walking/cycling routes in Santa Barbara.
Tip: The Four Seasons and the Bacara are isolated in their own neighborhoods, so if you are looking to be walking distance to downtown, try staying at the Hilton Santa Barbara.
Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is a gracious oceanfront resort located atop pristine Butterfly Beach. Four Seasons marries legendary service with the glory of historic California – a luminous Spanish Colonial treasure with red roof tiles, ivory adobe and graceful archways featuring atmospheric meeting spaces and picturesque gardens. Seaside dining venues and The Spa both reflect the bounty of Santa Barbara.
A most luxurious stay along the Coast. The Ritz Carlton Bacara sits on 78 acres and features 348 guest rooms and suites, two natural beaches, three salt-water pools, a 42,000-square-foot spa and wellness center, and more.
Right across from the beach, the 24-acre beachfront resort offers tree-lined pool and tennis courts, on-site wine tastings, salon, spa, and more.
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Montecito
Home to many celebrities, Montecito is a gorgeous and idyllic area set south of Santa Barbara. Visit one of the resorts below for an all-in experience, or stop by the cute downtown for a bite and shopping.
Set on the American Riviera, Rosewood Miramar Beach offers an estate-style atmosphere and the finest Santa Barbara oceanfront getaway. The resort team's attention to detail and incomparable service has redefined the luxury resort experience. Exquisite culinary options focused on sourcing local ingredients create an epicurean adventure while creative, curated shopping awaits at our variety of boutiques.
With 550 acres and 17 miles of magnificent hiking trails through lavender, jasmine, orange blossoms and eucalyptus nestled between the mountains and ocean, San Ysidro Ranch will captivate you. Tip: My aunt had her wedding reception here, and it was fabulous -- if you are checking it out, it's absolutely worth it!
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Malibu
Malibu feels quintessentially Californian, from the windy roads and sunshine, to the waterfalls, trails, and mountains. Some top things to do in Malibu are: Zuma Beach, visiting the Getty Villa, Malibu Pier, and Malibu Wine Safari.
Renovated from a historic 1950s era motel and named after traditional Japanese inns, Nobu Ryokan offers a unique blend of Japanese hospitality and Californian coastline. Located on the shores of Malibu's Carbon Beach, the hotel's naturally stained teak and ipe woods eases the eyes and mind with their warm, earthy tones and clean, linear form.
Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club is the only luxury destination in Malibu that encompasses both a private 250 acre Ranch in the Malibu Wine Country as well as an exclusive beachfront Beach Club for its guests. Accommodations consist of cozy and intimate Private Cottages, One and Two bedroom Bungalows and Estate Rooms located on the Calamigos Ranch. Guests have direct access to multiple pools, incredible fitness centers and the incredible Spa Calamigos. Guided Nature HIkes, horseback riding and local wine tasting tours are located on property and within 2 or 3 minutes from the Ranch grounds. In addition resort guests have exclusive access to The Calamigos Beach Club, a private 5.5 acre beach estate located just 12 minutes by complimentary luxury shuttle. The Calamigos Beach Club offers full dining and beach bar service with incredible views of the Malibu Coastline from every window.
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Santa Monica
Winding through the LA traffic, you eventually get to Santa Monica. Spend a few days on 3rd Street Promenade, on the beach, or wander nearby to Abbot Kinney near Venice Beach.
Facing the Pacific Ocean in the charming coastal village of Del Mar, this luxury dog-friendly resort and spa offers first-class amenities and accommodations. Accommodation at L’Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa includes coastal or garden views. The guest rooms have full marble bathrooms with spa amenities and guest robes. Guests of L’Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa can relax in the full-service on-site spa, or play tennis on on-site courts.
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And there you have it, a full roadtrip across Coastal California in the most stunning hotels along the Pacific. Can't wait to catch you Coastal Grandmas at these gorgeous gorgeous hotels!
California-based Adventurer & Travel Designer. For over a decade, I explored systemic connections in Canada, Malawi, The Netherlands, Beijing, Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, and the Bay Area. I fell in love with traveling while looking for a career that acknowledges and expands the status quo through intentionally designed experiences. Now I choose to do work that guides people into deeper connection with themselves, their work, and others.
Aside from my work, I’m an amateur ceramicist, casual interior designer and gravel biker, intense Google Sheets and Notion template maker, and avid book reader. As often as I can, I’m off the grid backpacking internationally, or taking a campervan across US National Parks!
I am always up for an adventure, a life-changing conversation, and partnering on work that leaves the planet 🌍 better than we found it.
DM me via Instagram (@thebungalow.sf) to inquire about my personalized travel planning services. ✨✨✨
📍San Francisco, California
