GlobalSpa
28-Aug-2026
These world-class hotels embody the luxurious side of California's laid-back lifestyle—an experience everyone can enjoy.
From oceanfront views and incredible settings to luxury suites and premium amenities, California is dotted with properties that exude comfort and plush living.
Little River Inn, Mendocino County
Credits: Visit California
Overlooking a rocky cove, the Little River Inn has been a go-to spot for secluded getaways along the North Coast since 1939. About a 3 1/2-hour drive north of San Francisco, the resort sits on 225 acres of forests, gardens, and never-ending ocean views and whale watching. Golfers can play at the inn’s challenging course, the only one along the Mendocino Coast. For wilder adventures, arrange to go ocean kayaking or stroll along the adjacent, driftwood-strewn Van Damme State Beach.
Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay
Credits: Visit California & Max Whittaker
The laid-back Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, on the San Francisco Peninsula, is an hour’s drive south of San Francisco but feels a world away. Stylish rooms overlook secluded coves, and trails lace the property, so you can stretch your legs after getting head-to-toe pampered at the on-site spa. Golfers can test their game on the resort’s Ocean Course, with blue Pacific views from every hole. Sit by the private fire pits to watch the sun go down or scan the horizon for migrating whales.
Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur
Credits: Visit California
Post Ranch Inn's jaw-dropping architecture, which blends seamlessly with its bluff-top setting, makes this a sublime way to experience this stretch of the Central Coast. First opened in 1992 on a former homestead and cattle ranch, the resort comprises 40 accommodations miraculously sculpted into the cliffs, including ocean-view suites, treehouses on stilts, and the freestanding Cliff House. Adding to the Zen ambience are the absence of televisions or alarm clocks and the relaxed calm that comes with an 18-and-up age policy.
Ventana Big Sur
Credits: Visit California
Surrounded by 243 acres of lush forests, Ventana Big Sur feels like a secret enclave in the woods. Its 59 refurbished rooms (including two guest houses) are tucked into the hillsides, many with mountain or ocean views and equipped with soaking tubs, fireplaces, and winsome amenities like walking sticks or lanterns to take outside while you explore. To immerse yourself even more in the scenery, go glamping. The resort’s 15 safari tents come outfitted with plush mattresses and bedding, daily housekeeping service, and access to a spa-worthy Bath House.
Terranea Resort, Rancho Palos Verdes
Credits: Visit California
When you arrive at Terranea Resort, you’re greeted with a glass of bubbly and jaw-dropping views of the Pacific. The warm welcome sets the tone for your stay at the 102-acre resort on the secluded Palos Verdes Peninsula, where the ocean plays an integral part—from the spa treatments to the water activities and unique culinary program. Located just south of Los Angeles, the Mediterranean-style resort offers 582 elegant guestrooms and suites including 20 oceanfront bungalows, 50 ocean-view casitas, and 32 villas as well as eight restaurants, four pools, and a 50,000-square-foot spa. There is even a private cove and beach.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines, La Jolla
Credits: Visit California & David H Collier
Though this coastal stunner opened in 2002, The Lodge at Torrey Pines looks every bit like an Arts & Crafts masterpiece from the early 1900s. Refined details, think stained glass, dramatic fireplaces, and gleaming wood trim work fill every corner. At the spa, with its own fireplaces and mosaic floors, try the Ancient Oceans Ritual treatment, which includes a warm body wrap scented with lavender, sandalwood, and sage. Or head outside and breathe in the scent of the area’s feathery evergreen trees while hiking the trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which neighbours the hotel.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Credits: Visit California
Experience Mediterranean opulence in sunny San Diego with a stay at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s premier suite. Corinthian columns line your private dine-in balcony, which overlooks the resort's sprawling grounds. Both king-sized bedrooms also have smaller outdoor areas, perfect for enjoying an early morning coffee. Ask your concierge to arrange a tee time at the Tom Fazio–designed course. A reservation at San Diego’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant, Addison, is a must.
The Resort at Pelican Hill
Credits: Visit California & Max Whittaker
The Villas at Pelican Hill in Newport Beach take residential luxury to the extreme. At 3,500 square feet, the two-story, four-bedroom accommodations have plenty of room for the whole crew. Soak up ocean views from your private wraparound terrace, or enjoy a curated chef’s dinner in the great room. Guests get exclusive access to the Villa Clubhouse, which includes a pool, fitness centre, and relaxation rooms.
Bernardus Lodge & Spa
Credits: Visit California
Live like a French winemaker (at least for a night) with a stay in the Vintner's Suite. Located in the heart of Carmel Valley wine country, Bernardus boasts eight acres of wine grape groves on its secluded 28-acre estate. The two-bedroom Villa Carmelo is one of the property’s most recent additions. The rustic-chic decor includes a 12-person dining area, large copper soaking tub, bedside fireplace, and French doors that open to a breezy outdoor terrace. The private bathroom patios with outdoor showers are proof that the most fabulous amenities are the ones you didn’t know you needed.
Credits: Visit California & Max Whittaker
