These Are the Most Stunning Hotels on the California Coast

From the redwoods of Mendocino to the endless summer warmth of Newport Beach, here are our current favorite coastal properties. Some are brand-new, and some are refurbished gems, but all offer the sense of newness and adventure that’s such a part of the California coastal experience.

La Bahia, Santa Cruz

Thomas J. Story

Known for its redwood groves and peeling surf breaks, Santa Cruz has long lacked upscale accommodations, but this new, ultra-luxe retreat situated right by the Boardwalk is changing the narrative. The property strikes a perfect balance between high-end sophistication and a breezy beach chalet: You might find a lobby cocktail lounge reminiscent of London’s finest hotels and a rooftop sauna with sweeping Pacific views, yet the atmosphere remains entirely unpretentious. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure sort of stay where you can book an indulgent beach butler to manage umbrellas and bespoke picnics, or simply head to Low Tide for fish tacos and smash burgers while still sporting salty hair and sandals.

Pacific Point Pismo Beach

Courtesy of Pacific Point Resort

Anyone who’s driven down 101 has noticed the sleepy little beach town of Pismo, which until now hasn’t had any boutique stays to speak of. The property aims to connect deeply with the coastline in uniquely quirky ways, from in-room binoculars and watercolor kits for seaside sketching to an exclusive Whale Watch Dispatch service that sends real-time text alerts for whale and dolphin sightings.

Hill House at Trailborn Mendocino

Christian Harder/Courtesy of Trailborn Hotels & Resorts

With complimentary kites and bikes, pop-up pizza parties, a detective library themed after the episodes of Murder, She Wrote that were filmed at the hotel years ago, and views on views on views, this modern lodge is a truly unique offering on this quiet nook of California coastline.

Herons Lodge Carmel

Chris Mottalini

It’s difficult to imagine a more picturesque town than this Monterey County seaside shire, and competition is surely stiff when it comes to charming places to stay. Herons Lodge delivers in spades with its intimate 35-key property with groovy, earthy interiors by Freudenberger Design Studio.

Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach

Courtesy of Le Petit Pali

True, we are Palihouse stans and the brand can practically do no wrong, but this OC outpost stands out with its pet-friendly, palm-tree-adorned grounds just steps from Treasure Island Beach and Goff Cove. Did we mention there’s a complimentary champagne continental breakfast included in your stay?

Kimpton Mirador Pacific Grove

Courtesy of Kimpton Mirador

Home to the annual monarch migration and some of the Central Coast’s most charming, high-value real estate, this Spanish revival property sets itself apart from the area’s ubiquitous (albeit charming) Victorians not only in aesthetics, but in its programming, with daily yoga and sound baths, complimentary wine hours, and ultra-pet-friendly spaces for furry friends to unwind, too. It’s easy to see why authors like Robert Louis Stevenson and John Steinbeck used to spend time here.

Milo Santa Barbara

Photo Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara by Lela Brodie

This relaxed, newly renovated beach retreat near the Funk Zone is all class, offering ocean views and beach cruisers to explore it all in style. When you’re back on property, unwind with wine by the fire pits or a round of bocce ball while the kids play with games from the Discovery Cabinet, a treasure trove of books, colored pencils, and activities to borrow during your stay.

Bay Shores Peninsula Newport

Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel

This old surf motel located inside one of SoCal’s most exclusive enclaves makes your beach stay turnkey. Skip the stops at stores and outfitters and opt in for a plethora of beach rentals and an extensive cooler menu to tote to the beach. After soaking up the rays and local brews, book in for discounted treatments and sauna sessions at the property’s partner, Wren Wellness.