Stay in These New West Coast Hotels for Instagram-Worthy Escapes

West Coast style means in-suite pools, collector’s art, and unbelievable views.

The Ingalls

Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel

Written by Kristin Scharkey May 6, 2022

What do you do with a hotel floor that used to be home to a YWCA indoor pool? Transform it into a luxury amenity, of course.

That’s what the team behind the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel did with a sweeping 2,777-square-foot suite with the aforementioned pool: You can take a dip in 35 feet of pristine water before sipping your coffee with a view of the city. Renowned interior designer Kelly Wearstler transformed the space into a Moroccan-inspired modern oasis with pink chairs and abstract art pieces, not to mention a textured ceramic tile mural by local sculptor Ben Medansky.

The Pool Suite at Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel

The suite is a prime example of the innovative and eclectic designs emanating from some of the West’s newest hotels. Some are already welcoming guests to their confines, with features ranging from private patio fire pits just steps from world-class vineyards to private bowling lanes. Others are slated to open in the next year.

Ambiente, a Landscape Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

Rooftop fire pits and daybeds for sleeping under the stars are just a few of the amenities at this landscape hotel planned to open in July. “A landscape hotel is a hotel that’s actually built within the environment of the property that’s existing and there, that respects the nature,” says Jennifer May, co-founder of developer Two Sister Bosses. You can read more about it here.

Baja Club

La Paz, Baja California

An early 20th century villa got new life from architect Max von Werz and Jaune Architecture, as this hotel boasts rooms spanning garden, patio, and balcony views plus luxe suites. We’re a bit obsessed with the exposed brick courtyard that surrounds the pool, not to mention the rooftop bar. Rustic, minimalistic interiors are the name of the game here, accented by pieces from local craftsmen and women.

Cavallo Point

Sausalito, California

The team behind Cavallo Point lovingly transformed a former military base into this charming resort with unparalleled views of Golden Gate Bridge. Named after the wild horses that once roamed this cove, the hotel combines both historic and contemporary accommodations across its sprawling expanse. Stay in a Colonial Revival home with floor-to-ceiling windows or one of the more modern suites with the bridge in sight from a window seat. Make sure to hike in the hills above the lodges; wildflower-lined trails offer a breath of sea-scented fresh air.

Conrad Los Angeles

Los Angeles

Now accepting reservations, this new downtown Hilton hotel is housed in a Frank Gehry-designed building reimagined for the modern traveler. It’s located directly across the street from Walt Disney Concert Hall and features a rooftop bar, pool, and more. Renderings show contemporary furnishes with luxurious textures. Celebrity chef José Andrés helms the onsite dining experiences.

Downtown L.A. Proper

Los Angeles

Kelly Wearstler, one of the West’s most iconic designers, put her spin on this 1920s architectural gem with hand-painted tiles, stained glass, and Moroccan rugs. “The design of the hotel was greatly inspired by the community—early California, Spanish missions, and the Los Angeles Herald Examiner building across the street,” Wearstler said in a press release. “The building is also a Historic-Cultural Monument, so we maintained some of the original integrity and fabric, like the windowcasing and brickwork, while elevating it with contemporary jewel tones, patterns and plasterwork.”

Hotel Grand Stark

Portland, Oregon

This recently opened gem in the Pacific Northwest embodies the spirit of Portland with bespoke emerald green details, including tile walls, furniture accents, and even the front desk. Bonus: Guests can partake in a complimentary beer and wine social hour in the “Study Hall” on select evenings, or grab coffee and pastries in the same spot to start the day.

Hotel Willa

Taos, New Mexico

Minimalism meets Pueblo-style design at this downtown Taos property, which is slated to open next year. We love the muted shade of pink shown in a model of one of the 50 guest rooms getting a full face lift. The renovation comes from the hospitality group that’s also behind the historic Casa Cody in Palm Springs, California.

Palihouse Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California

This recently opened California retreat describes its design approach as “vintage preppy meets American Riviera,” and we don’t disagree. Plaid pillows are paired with jute ottomans for a down-to-earth, beachside vibe. Stop by the lobby cocktail bar for a Santa Maria vodka martini—and a photo opp, of course.

Pendry West Hollywood

West Hollywood, California

Sophisticated art pieces and modern decor fill the spaces at this West Hollywood retreat that brings a fresh perspective on Hollywood glamor. The rooftop restaurant and pool offer unbelievable views of the city to take in while you sip a glass of rosé. Don’t miss the 70-foot Icosahedron by British-American artist Anthony James in the lobby (though it will be difficult not to).

Stanly Ranch

Napa Valley, California

California wine country’s newest resort sweeps across more than 700 acres of vines abutting the Napa River. More than 130 cottages with stunning indoor-outdoor views of the vineyards feature private patios perfect for a respite. People are already raving about the poolside wellness center replete with massage, oxygen, and salt therapies.

Stay in These New West Coast Hotels for Instagram-Worthy Escapes