17 Best Hotels and Resorts in California, From Malibu to Napa Valley
Here's the situation: You're a California resident who has had a month and needs to escape to somewhere beautiful, and fast. If that sounds familiar, and you're feeling the need to get out of town without crossing state lines, you're in luck. Whether you're based in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, or elsewhere, there are plenty of places you can go to get away—places that feel far, far away even though they aren't. You have options, but perhaps too many options to quickly and simply make a last-minute plan, which is where we come in. After all, California is sprawling and expansive, with 840 miles of coastline, mountain ranges on either end, and a host of noteworthy wine regions in between. We've narrowed down the Golden State's very best weekend getaways, curating a list of rejuvenating places to stay. Without further delay, these are the 16 best resorts in California for a getaway.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
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Courtesy Hotel CalifornianhotelHotel Californian
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Hot List 2018 
Readers' Choice Awards 2018, 2019Old Hollywood meets the laid-back charm of the Central Coast at the alluring Hotel Californian, a coveted haven tucked into the vital Funk Zone of Santa Barbara. Within 121 generously apportioned rooms lies a treasure trove of tasty architectural flourishes. Spanish Colonial Revival elements blend harmoniously with the influences of Beat-era Tangiers, all masterfully envisioned by the renowned celebrity interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard. The rooms are their own sanctuary, but the Majorelle spa, with its Moroccan flair, offers a different kind of oasis—here, a personalized spa experience awaits, accompanied by an aroma design bar. Hotel Californian's allure is further heightened by its location in Santa Barbara—a coastal gem with sun-kissed shores and a vibrant culinary scene.
Chris SimpsonhotelSensei Porcupine Creek
$$$ | Hot List 2023Rancho Mirage is called the “Playground of the Presidents” for its reputation as a lure for American Chiefs of State, including former President Obama, who reportedly has an estate amongst the tony surroundings in the High Desert. Sensei Porcupine Creek expertly caters to those luxurious expectations with its 230-acre desert retreat nestled amid the Santa Rosa Mountains. The resort’s minimalist stone architecture blends seamlessly into the desert landscape, setting a refined tone even before settling into one of 22 rooms. Rooms doesn’t really describe the accommodations; it’s actually 10 luxury suites in the “Estate House,” four casitas, and eight standalone villas. The amenities are stately as well: an 18-hole golf course and tennis facilities built to mimic nearby Indian Wells Tennis Garden, one of the most famous courts in the world. Guests can take advantage of customizable wellness packages, complete with guided walks, hikes, yoga, meditation, and fitness options. Even the dining feels presidential: Sensei by Nobu—a health-conscious collaboration between Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa and renowned physician Dr. David Agus—is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Courtesy Alila Hotels and ResortshotelAlila Ventana Big Sur
$$ | Hot List 2018 Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022This resort gives uncommon indulgence with exclusivity—just 59 airy suites, each with their own secluded balcony with views out onto the majesty of Big Sur, with its dramatic bluffs set over crashing waves on isolated beaches and its towering redwood forests. Set on 160 remote acres, Alila Ventana Big Sur is a getaway in the truest sense. At its restaurant, the Sur House, hyperlocal dining takes center stage, with fish from Morro Bay and chicken and beef from nearby Central Coast farms, and of course a selection of wines from their 10,000-bottle cellar to wash things down. While traditional adventures like hiking and biking can be had, Ventana's quirky array of experiences include axe throwing, “Vinyasa and vinyl yoga,” beekeeping experiences, personal astrology readings, and a drive through Big Sur’s iconic Highway 1 in one of Ventana’s 40 classic cars, from vintage Porsche Spyders to classic Volkswagen vans.
Randy Galligan/Canyon Ranch WoodsideCanyon Ranch Woodside
An all-inclusive wellness getaway, Canyon Ranch Woodside provides bespoke yoga, healing, and enlightenment programs in addition to the luxurious forested confines. While sitting on the private balcony each room boasts enjoying a refreshing beverage and a moment of perspective, it’s easy to forget Silicon Valley and San Francisco are a short drive away. The rooms are spacious and modern rustic—think leather sofas and earthy tones, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out into the redwood forest. There are a few different experiences you can book, whether it’s the weeklong immersion program, or shorter stays that are medical-based, weight loss–based, or spiritual-based. Or you can simply opt for the “Just Be Here” program, where you can figure out what you want to do once you arrive.
Courtesy Nobu Ryokan MalibuhotelNobu Ryokan Malibu
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2021, 2022We could tell you about the handmade teak soaking tubs, 8,000-thread-count Italian linens by Anichini, the shoji screens and tatami mats, the serene minimalist rooms overlooking the Pacific (only 11 rooms and five bungalows in total), the in-room spa treatments, or the access to the Malibu Racquet Club. We could mention Carbon Beach (one of Malibu’s least busy public beaches) just out the door, or the invisible but attentive staff, and of course the restaurant, where you can get Nobu standbys like black cod with miso. But what’s best about Nobu Ryokan is the exclusivity—even the front door to the hotel is locked at all times; once you’re in, you’re treated like royalty.
Courtesy Montage Laguna BeachhotelMontage Laguna Beach
$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022This resort is peak Laguna Beach, set on 300 acres of sweeping bluffs and crystalline beaches. The recently renovated hotel’s 258 rooms and bungalows overlook panoramic views of the Pacific—yes, the horseshoe layout of the building is such that every room has an ocean view. The rooms are swathed in muted tones that foster relaxing vibes and frame the horizon. Relax in poolside cabanas separated by herb gardens, or in one of the 20,000-square-foot Spa Montage’s 21 treatment rooms. Make sure to sample the tasting menu at Studio, one of Montage Laguna Beach’s three restaurants, where you’ll dine on rare delicacies like local spiny lobster, antelope loin, sturgeon, and Santa Barbara abalone.
Lisa RomereinhotelShutters on the Beach
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022Shutters is perfect for the traveler who wants to wake up and smell the salty air from the Pacific Ocean, but still have easy access to all the action. Perhaps that’s why it’s known as Hollywood’s Beach House for its A-list clientele (Angelina Jolie, Christian Bale, and Brad Pitt have all been spotted here). Located on the boardwalk near the Santa Monica Pier, there’s plenty of people-watching to be done. But the white-shingled, New England–style beach house hotel is still cozy and elegant, boasting a blue chip art collection (works by John Baldessari, Ellsworth Kelly, and Jasper Johns to name a few). The beachfront rooms come with the titular shutters that open directly to an ocean view. Four-poster beds, walnut furniture, and custom-made linens aid a restful sleep after a bustling LA day. The two restaurants, 1 Pico and Coast, offer fresh seafood (among other options) and a formidable wine list.
Courtesy Rosewood HotelshotelRosewood Miramar Beach
$$$ | Hot List 2020 Readers' Choice Awards 2019, 2020, 2022Montecito—just east of Santa Barbara—is as tony as California gets, and the Rosewood Miramar fits right in. Miramar Beach, in front of the resort, is lined with dramatic bluffs leading out into the Santa Barbara Channel, where the water is blue and clear. The resort sits on the 16-acre grounds of the legendary Miramar Hotel. The ghosts of that historic wellness retreat—which was open in one form or another for more than 100 years—have been excised, and the vibe now is swank, with a clean and subtle color scheme with lots of whites, soft blues, and sandy and gray tones. The rooms and bungalows are chic, as are the food options. Try the produce-centric, locally sourced menu at the Revere Room, Italian-influenced food at Caruso’s (run by Massimo Falsini, formerly of Harry’s Bar in Rome), Edomae-style sushi at AMA Sushi in a converted bungalow on property, and the Miramar Beach Bar, which looks out over the ocean.
Nicole Franzen/The SurfriderhotelThe Surfrider Malibu
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Gold List 2020 Hot List 2018 Readers' Choice Awards 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021The name evokes a lazy, relaxing shack where barefooted surfers lounge by an open fire on the beach. While it may not be exactly that, there’s something oh-so-Californian about this place, named for the beach in front of it that is in fact a classic Malibu surf spot. The former mid-century motel has been renovated into a 20-room luxury hotel. Still, some of the homeyness seeps through: the lobby is designed to resemble the living room of a beach house, and the rooms are light and bright, engendering good vibes. There’s lots of natural materials—limestone, white oak, teak—and rooms are decorated with locally-made ceramics. Splurge on the Surfrider Suite and you can lounge on the outdoor terrace’s hammock before suppering at the alfresco dining table facing the beach. The roof deck is the perfect spot to escape to, as it’s open only to hotel guests.
STEVEN ROTHFELDhotelMeadowood Napa Valley
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022A sort of homey luxury is everywhere at this 250-acre Napa Valley gem. If you can, spring for the Estate Suite, with more than 2,000 square feet, indoor and outdoor showers, a fireplace, and an alfresco dining room looking out into the forest. There’s a golf course and croquet lawns, as well as exclusive access to some of the most exclusive wine country events—the Restaurant at Meadowood caters some of the best ones in the region—and even sensory evaluation classes. The Restaurant, a legendary three-Michelin-starred eatery, is reason enough to stay here. Led by Chef Christopher Kostow, guests can opt for a tasting menu or the evolving chef’s table experience, which is considered by many a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Courtesy Carneros Resort & Spa/©2016 Trinette + ChrishotelCarneros Resort and Spa
$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021Smack in the middle of Napa Valley, the area is surrounded by grapevines, making it feel more like you’re staying on a vineyard than a typical resort. Even the main building is barn-like, and the cottages and courtyard rooms are set up in little cul-de-sacs, giving off a kind of mini-neighborhood feel. The airy rooms continue the luxe countryside vibe, each with its own fireplace and French doors leading out onto stone patios and manicured gardens. You may not need to leave the resort at all, as there’s a mock Town Square with a Market, and the restaurant Farm books local bands and musicians to play while they serve up seasonally inspired menus utilizing the hotel's gardens and orchards.
Courtesy Rancho Valencia Resort & SpahotelRancho Valencia Resort & Spa
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022This 45-acre resort may rest on a tranquil property, but its focus is on more active recreation. Racket enthusiasts can practice their volley on 19 tennis courts (including two European clay courts) that make Rancho Valencia something of a tennis retreat, while more outdoorsy types can hike, cycle, or take outdoor yoga classes. Not to be overshadowed: the proximity to world famous San Diego–area golf clubs like the Farms and Torrey Pines. The 49 hacienda-style casitas are secluded and spacious, each with vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, and private patios that overlook lush olive and citrus groves and culinary gardens. Guests are encouraged to forage fallen fruit to garnish their drinks at one of the hotel’s two restaurants, Veladora and the Pony Room.
Courtesy BelmondhotelBelmond El Encanto
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021This hideaway in the hills above Santa Barbara opened in 1918. It still maintains the vibe of an old Hollywood escape, with its architectural fusion of California Craftsman and Spanish Colonial styles. But the accommodations and amenities are swanky modern, with access to electric bikes so you can cruise into town, and a zero-edged freshwater pool with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The 92 bungalow-style rooms are spacious and comfortable, some designed in the pristine white Spanish-style and some in the earthy, woody tones of the Craftsmans. The dining room features a menu full of luxe favorites like Royal Kaluga caviar, locally sourced halibut, and lamb loin from Sonoma.
Courtesy Post Ranch InnhotelPost Ranch Inn
$$$ | Gold List 2022 Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022Few hotels in the world are like the Post Ranch Inn, dramatically set on the cliffs above Big Sur. The 39-room hotel is built organically into the surrounding redwood forest, making the line between nature and hotel almost imperceptible. The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal panoramic ocean views, crackling fireplaces, and private decks with outdoor showers and hot tubs. The spa emphasizes healing, and you can even book a session with Shaman Jon Rasmussen, who can help get to the root of issues weighing you down. Don’t miss the cliff-top pools for a remarkable place to do some stargazing.
Courtesy Joie de Vivre HotelshotelCarmel Valley Ranch
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022Carmel Valley Ranch is a perfect sanctuary nestled at the bottom of a valley about 25 minutes from Monterey Bay. The 500-acre expanse resembles the shire from Lord of the Rings, but the real magic is in the activities that the resort offers: top-tier tennis instructors, a Pete Dye–designed bentgrass golf course, and several hiking trails of various difficulty levels that originate from the resort. We’re pleased to report a kid-friendly activity calendar that's actually fun with an awesome kids’ pool, a beekeeping experience, and geocaching lessons. At the end of the day, you can grab a bite at Valley Kitchen, where the meals are locally sourced and they serve up goat cheese and wine made right on the premises.
Courtesy of Farmhouse InnhotelFarmhouse Inn
$$ | Gold List 2018, 2019, 2020 Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022Farmhouse Inn has a bucolic vibe—some have even said Provençal—with its overgrown gardens and gracefully relaxed service. We appreciate the getaway atmosphere as a hub to exploring Sonoma, which doesn’t get as many tourists as nearby Napa Valley, but offers just as much to see and do. Owned by the Bartolomei family, a vintner clan that has been in the Russian River Valley since the early 20th century, this is a wine-lover's dream. Their arsenal includes the Michelin-starred Farmhouse Restaurant, serving an ever-changing farm-to-table menu, the family’s own Lost & Found Wines, as well as a full-service spa. The rooms are quiet with vaulted ceilings and porches that suspend out onto a forested area, adding to the relaxing ambiance.
Courtesy Casa Palmero at Pebble BeachhotelCasa Palmero at Pebble Beach
$$$There are golf resorts, and then there’s Casa Palmero at Pebble Beach. The course, Pebble Beach Golf Links, opened more than 100 years ago in 1919, and has enjoyed as long and storied a history as any. The resort, a former private residence that opened in 1999, is directly on the course—rooms overlook the first and second fairways—making it an absolute dream for golfers. But Casa Palmero offers so much more than tee times. The rooms have a countryside vibe—spacious with woodburning fireplaces, exposed ceiling beams, and wrought iron fixtures, the Spa at Pebble Beach offers award-winning service. Plus, it’s only a five-minute walk down to the peaceful beach.
