Stretching from the Mexican border along the Pacific for nearly 900 miles, California boasts spectacular natural landscapes and terrain. The Golden State is also home to some of the most luxurious resorts and hotels in the country, which promise unforgettable retreats.

Top picks for a:

  • Romantic getaway: Ojai Valley Inn
  • Eco-friendly retreat: Auberge du Soleil
  • Luxury experience: The Ranch at Laguna Beach

For a luxurious coastal retreat: L’Auberge Del Mar

Relax in coastal luxury and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.

For a luxurious coastal retreat: L’Auberge Del Mar

© L’Auberge Del Mar

Location: Del Mar, California

Surrounded by five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens with sweeping views of the Pacific, L’Auberge Del Mar is a luxurious coastal retreat that offers the best of both worlds—direct beach access and a prime location just across from the Del Mar Plaza.

  • Stylish Rooms – Bright, beach-inspired rooms with iPod docks, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and optional ocean-view balconies
  • Spacious Suites – Suites include cozy living areas, fireplaces, and private patios or balconies
  • Resort Amenities – Two restaurants, a lounge with live music, a poolside bar, a spa, tennis courts, and a gym
  • Easy Beach Days – Complimentary shuttle to Del Mar beaches makes getting to the sand simple and stress-free

Address: L’Auberge Del Mar, 1540 Camino Del Mar, P.O. Box 2889, Del Mar, CA 92014
Phone: 858-259-1515

Del Mar is a 25 minute (20.3 miles via I-5 N) day trip from San Diego.


For a wine country getaway: Carneros Resort and Spa

Savor wine country elegance and unwind with world-class spa treatments.

For a wine country getaway: Carneros Resort and Spa

© Carneros Resort and Spa

Location: Napa Valley, California

If you're planning a wine country getaway and want a spot that feels both luxurious and laid-back, check out Carneros Resort and Spa. It's set on 28 gorgeous acres in Napa Valley and has that perfect mix of countryside charm and high-end comfort. Plus, it's only about an hour from San Francisco—super convenient.

  • Stay Your Way – Whether you're going solo, with a partner, or the whole family, you can book a cozy cottage or go big with a fully furnished home
  • Next-Level Comfort – Think heated bathroom floors, fireplaces, outdoor showers, and private patios where you can sip wine under the stars
  • Great Amenities – Two pools, an infinity hot tub, a relaxing spa, bocce ball, and even bikes to cruise around the property
  • Food You’ll Love – With three on-site restaurants focused on fresh, local ingredients, you definitely won’t go hungry

Address: Carneros Resort and Spa, 4048 Sonoma Hwy, Napa, CA 94559
Phone: 707-299-4900

For a cozy cottage: Meadowood Napa Valley

Enjoy upscale accommodations and savor gourmet dining in a serene setting.

For a cozy cottage: Meadowood Napa Valley

© Meadowood Napa Valley

Location: St. Helena, Napa Valley, California

If you're dreaming of a romantic Napa escape surrounded by vineyards, Meadowood Napa Valley is one of those places that really delivers. Just a few miles from the Silverado Trail, this resort blends luxury and nature with cozy cottages, elegant suites, and beautiful views at every turn.

  • Relax in Style – Rooms and lodges come with plush goose-down bedding, wood-burning fireplaces, wet bars, and private terraces
  • Unwind Your Way – Order in-room dining or a spa treatment, or enjoy the evening wine socials by the fire
  • So Much to Do – Swim in the outdoor pool, work out in the gym, hike scenic trails, or use the resort’s local car service to explore
  • Delicious Dining – From poolside bites to elegant dinners, the on-site restaurants make every meal something special

Address: Meadowood Napa Valley, 900 Meadowood Ln, St. Helena, CA 94574
Phone: 707-531-4788

For top-tier service: Ojai Valley Inn

Relax in a romantic retreat surrounded by stunning mountain views.

For top-tier service: Ojai Valley Inn

© Ojai Valley Inn

Location: Ojai, California

If you're craving a peaceful, luxurious getaway with mountain views and top-tier service, Ojai Valley Inn is a timeless favorite. Just a few miles from Los Padres National Forest, this Spanish hacienda-style resort has been a beloved retreat for over 85 years—and once you visit, it’s easy to see why.

  • Elegant Rooms – Expect designer linens, fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and modern comforts like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi
  • Wellness & Relaxation – Unwind at the full-service spa and wellness center or enjoy yoga, treatments, and more
  • Plenty to Do – Hit the championship golf course, tennis courts, or spend an afternoon by the pool
  • Great for Any Occasion – With on-site restaurants, a business center, and beautiful event spaces, it’s perfect for everything from weddings to weekend escapes

Address: Ojai Valley Inn, 905 Country Club Rd, Ojai, CA 93023
Phone: 855-697-8780

For laid-back luxury: The Ranch at Laguna Beach

Explore scenic trails and enjoy laid-back luxury by the coast.

For laid-back luxury: The Ranch at Laguna Beach

© The Ranch at Laguna Beach

Location: Laguna Beach, California

Tucked between the hills of Wood and Aliso Canyons, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is a hidden gem in the heart of Orange County. This 87-acre retreat is the only California property recognized as a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, offering the perfect mix of laid-back luxury and natural beauty.

  • Scenic Stays – Boutique-style accommodations feature private balconies or patios with stunning canyon views
  • Fresh, Local Dining – Enjoy California-inspired meals at Harvest Restaurant or opt for in-room dining
  • Relax & Recharge – Treat yourself at the full-service spa, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, or play a round on the 9-hole golf course
  • Close to the Coast – Just minutes from Aliso Beach Park and Coast Highway for easy beach access and local exploring

Address: The Ranch at Laguna Beach, 31106 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Phone: 949-499-2271

For breathtaking vineyard views: Auberge du Soleil

Savor fine dining and admire stunning Napa Valley views.

For breathtaking vineyard views: Auberge du Soleil

© Auberge du Soleil

Location: Rutherford, Napa Valley, California

If you’re looking to truly treat yourself in Napa Valley, Auberge du Soleil is one of the most romantic and luxurious spots around. Inspired by the French Riviera, this secluded hillside retreat blends elegant comfort with world-class service and breathtaking vineyard views.

  • Chic & Serene Rooms – Think private terraces, fireplaces, and soaking tubs for two—perfect for a romantic escape
  • Relaxation at Its Finest – Lounge by the pool in gauzy daybeds or book a treatment at the tranquil Auberge Spa
  • Unforgettable Dining – The Michelin-rated restaurant features Mediterranean-style dishes and an incredible Napa wine list
  • Scenic Setting – Set on a hillside with sweeping views of the valley, it’s ideal for relaxing and reconnecting

Address: Auberge du Soleil, 180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford, California
Phone: 707-963-1211

For history buffs: The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

Discover historic charm and indulge in luxurious spa services.

For history buffs: The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

© bcfotos/stock.adobe.com

Location: Riverside, California

If you're looking for a stay with serious history and jaw-dropping architecture, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in downtown Riverside is a must. Spanning an entire city block, this National Historic Landmark is the largest Mission Revival-style building in the U.S.—and it’s just as stunning inside as it is outside.

  • Rich History – This iconic hotel has welcomed U.S. presidents, Hollywood stars, and artists for over 100 years
  • Unique Style – Gorgeous Spanish Mission architecture and old-world charm give every stay a sense of grandeur
  • Chic Accommodations – Rooms include flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers, with upgraded suites offering private living areas
  • Something for Everyone – Enjoy a full-service spa, outdoor pool and hot tub, a beautiful chapel, and six incredible restaurants

Address: The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, 3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501
Phone: 951-784-0300

If you love orchards: Kenwood Inn and Spa

Enjoy a peaceful escape and savor wine country serenity.

If you love orchards: Kenwood Inn and Spa

© Kenwood Inn and Spa

Location: Kenwood, Sonoma Valley, California

If you’re heading to Sonoma and want a romantic, peaceful spot with serious charm, Kenwood Inn and Spa is a top pick. Tucked among vineyards and orchards in the Valley of the Moon, this Mediterranean-style retreat offers cozy luxury, from featherbeds to fireplaces.

  • Charming Rooms – Villa-style accommodations feature Italian linens, fireplaces, and private terraces or balconies with courtyard views
  • Relaxing Amenities – Unwind at the full-service spa, soak in two hot tubs, or lounge by the outdoor pool
  • Start Your Day Right – A complimentary breakfast buffet includes pancakes, omelets, quiche, and more
  • Wine Country Touch – Enjoy afternoon wine and cheese tastings featuring local, sustainable farmhouse wines

Address: Kenwood Inn and Spa, 10400 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, CA 95452
Phone: 707-833-1293

For an elegant place to stay: Hotel Drisco

Experience boutique elegance and enjoy personalized service in San Francisco.

For an elegant place to stay: Hotel Drisco

© Hotel Drisco

Location: San Francisco, California

If you're looking for a quiet, elegant place to stay in San Francisco, Hotel Drisco in Pacific Heights is a gem. Just a short walk from The Presidio and Fillmore Street's boutiques and cafés, this upscale hotel combines classic charm with thoughtful perks that make your stay feel extra special.

  • Elegant Comfort – Rooms feature pillowtop beds with Egyptian cotton linens, HD TVs, sleep machines, and free Wi-Fi
  • Extra Space – Upgrade to a suite for city views, sitting areas, and pullout sofas—great for longer stays
  • Daily Perks – Complimentary breakfast buffet, evening wine reception, and nightly turndown with chocolate shortbread cookies
  • Wellness & Convenience – Access loaner bikes and enjoy fitness center privileges at the nearby Presidio YMCA

Address: Hotel Drisco, 2901 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94115
Phone: 415-346-2880

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