I’d love to know which California hotels are your favorite. Feel free to leave a comment below!
The Line Hotel
Koreatown | Los Angeles County
This industrial-chic spot in Koreatown is one of the hippest destinations in the city. With a view of the Hollywood Hills, a buzzy restaurant, loaner bikes, and a dream location, this dog-friendly find in the heart of LA is the kind of place you’ll never want to leave. Their mid-century designed hotel was originally built in 1964, today it has been transformed to a traveller’s dream stay.
Hotel Joaquin In Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach | Orange County
Nestled between the San Joaquin Hills and the Pacific Ocean, the swanky Hotel Joaquin is an idyllic adult-only retreat where you can disconnect from the world. Treat yourself to a spa afternoon, chill at the saltwater pool, then sample the delights of the farm-to-table restaurant on-site. As a perk, this green hotel works with the Clean the Ocean conservation, collaborates with local farmers for the resultant, and provides cruelty-free bath products. It is a very private stay for those looking for a more intimate and refined Southern California beach getaway.
Cara Hotel
Hollywood | Los Angeles County
Just off Hollywood Boulevard, this upscale spot is perfect for a girls’ trip to LA. Lounge by the pool, lunch at the on-site farm-to-table restaurant, then hit the town.Plus, the dreamy aesthetic will make you feel like you’ve been whisked away for a Moroccan getaway. Modeled after the culturally and architecturally rich Marrakesh skyline, the Cara Hotel embraces the spirit of Morocco by offering up one of the most visually striking hotels in Southern California. Pristine, sun-bleached stucco archways catch the sun and reflect it onto the dazzling tile mosaics as you enter an equally pearly pool deck, embellished with enticing gold accents, making the Cara Hotel feel otherworldly in its charm.

Surf Rider Hotel
Malibu | Los Angeles County
Welcome to your dream Malibu home! Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this four-star gem beside Malibu Pier offers sunny spaces with kitchenettes and terraces, along with a dream view of the sea (or mountainscape). A 20-room chic hotel in Malibu offers an ideal holiday spot for travelers. Listed frequently on Conde Naste Gold List, it’s an upscale yet approachable hotel along the Pacific Ocean. Grab a complimentary surfboard or stand-up paddleboard and let the laid-back beach vibe steal your heart.
Korakia Pensione
Palm Springs | Coachella Valley
Quite possibly one of the best designed hotels in Palm Springs, the Korakia Pensione is lover’s paradise. Moroccan and Mediterranean design create an intimate space to retreat to for a weekend away and was named one of the sexiest hotels in America by the New York Times. With the eclectic Morrocan-inspired gardens filled with olive trees and citrus blossoms, this architectural gem is an essential visit for design lovers.
Hotel California
Santa Barbara | Central Coast
Next to the Pacific Ocean in the hip city of Santa Barbara, this historic and resorted 1925 hotel is a first-choice for the area. It is a Spanish Colonial revived building and the beautiful guest rooms transport you through tasteful decor. If you’re looking for a luxe option in Santa Barbara, it’s all about Hotel California, from the luxurious spa treatments to the locally sourced menu in the on-site restaurant, this place impressed me at every turn.
Rancho Valenica Resort And Spa
Rancho Santa Fe | San Diego County
The five-star suites and villas of the Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa that dot the 45 acres of lush gardens and olive groves will take your breath away. Linger in plush bedding, take in the view from your private patio, then wander down to the wine bar. This Mediterranean sanctuary is the ultimate destination for a special occasion when you just deserve a treat.
The resort features 49 luxurious casitas with private patios, a world-class spa, fitness center, two farm-to-table restaurants – Veladora and The Pony Room, and an award-winning tennis program. I like it for travelers seeking a getaway with a focus on wellness and outdoor recreation.