Are you thinking about your next beach getaway or a romantic honeymoon filled with sun and sand? Look no further than the captivating beauty of California’s coastline. With its 840 miles of stunning Pacific Ocean views, magnificent cliffs, and picturesque beaches, it’s hard to resist. We have a list of 10 seaside properties that offer stunning designs, excellent service, thoughtful amenities, and breathtaking views to satisfy your desire for adventure.
Whether you prefer boutique hotels or luxurious resorts, these top beachfront accommodations in California are guaranteed to provide an unforgettable vacation in the Golden State.
8 Best Beachfront Hotels And Resorts in California:
The Little River Inn, Mendocino County
Overlooking a rocky cove, the Little River Inn has been a favorite spot for secluded getaways along the North Shore since 1939. About a 3.5-hour drive north of San Francisco, the resort sits on 225 acres of forests and gardens, and offers stunning ocean views (bring binoculars if you book a room with a private lanai, a real whale-watching perch). A perfect place also for golfers but also for wilder adventures like a sea kayaking trip or simply to stroll along the beach of Van Damme State Beach, dotted with driftwood.
The Ritz-Carlton , Half Moon Bay
The Ritz-Carlton is located in Half Moon Bay, near San Francisco, but everything here seems to immerse you in a world apart. Elegant rooms overlook secluded coves and footpaths line the property, allowing you to stretch your legs after being pampered from head to toe at the spa whose signature ‘Redwood Forest Ritual’ is inspired by the surrounding nature. Golfers can also test their game on the resort’s Ocean Course, with the added bonus of incredible views of the Pacific from every hole. Sit around the braziers to watch the sun go down or scan the horizon for migrating whales.
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, Dana Point
Experience a touch of Tuscany right here in Orange County at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort. Prepare to be captivated by its enchanting symmetrical stone exterior, adorned with charming pillar-supported patios, romantic stone fountains, and grand lantern-lit staircases. Step inside to discover sleek interior designs featuring refreshing shades of blues, greens, and whites. Luxurious chaise lounges, marble-topped armoires, and spa-inspired bathrooms with oversized soaking tubs add a touch of elegance. As the day comes to an end, you don’t have to worry. Snuggle up in a cozy goose down comforter and indulge in a rejuvenating sea salt scrub at the Miraval Spa, ensuring a restful slumber awaits you.
La Valencia Hotel, San Diego
Even after nearly 100 years, La Valencia Hotel continues to be one of the most breathtaking coastal retreats in Southern California. Its unique pink exterior immediately captures the attention of guests. This Old World Mediterranean-style estate exudes a strong European influence, with its common areas adorned with antique furnishings, Spanish mosaics, and elegant plantation shutters. The guest rooms seamlessly blend modern comforts, such as Egyptian cotton sheets and whirlpool baths, with the charm of the past. To top it off, private balconies offer romantic views of the stunning La Jolla Cove.
Tower 23 Hotel, San Diego
If you’re seeking a trendy atmosphere and a cutting-edge design that prioritizes style over tranquility, look no further than TOWER23 in San Diego. This three-story glass structure, designed by Graham Downes, stands right on Pacific Beach, a short distance from La Jolla. When it comes to vibrant nightlife, the TOWER Deck is the place to be. This exclusive cocktail lounge, located on the hotel’s second floor, is adorned with charming string lights, creating a captivating ambiance for guests and their invited companions.
Surf and Sand Resort, Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach gained fame among millennials thanks to the popular TV show featuring Lauren Conrad and her friends in the early 2000s. However, this glamorous coastal town had already established itself as a favorite Hollywood hangout long before that. Surf & Sand embodies the timeless allure of Laguna Beach, blending the enduring glamour of the 1950s with a bohemian beach bungalow style. Picture bleached wood, plantation shutters, and a vibrant blue-and-white color scheme. Don’t miss the delectable menu at Splashes, which focuses on seasonal ingredients and seafood. Dishes like sautéed king salmon, crispy octopus, and seared scallops can be enjoyed in the alfresco dining room, suspended 25 feet above the beach, providing breathtaking views.
Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, Pismo Beach
Nestled on a bluff overlooking the rugged Central Coast of California, Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa awaits you, only 10 minutes south of San Luis Obispo and conveniently positioned between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The resort offers spacious suites adorned with timeless beach-inspired decor, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. However, it’s the resort’s location that truly stands out. Take advantage of complimentary bike rentals and explore the nearby coastal trails and Palisades Bluffs Park. With some planning, you can even arrange for a gourmet picnic basket to enhance your outdoor experience. If you prefer a liquid lunch, the wineries and tasting rooms of Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande, and Avila Valley are just a few minutes away, providing ample opportunities for wine enthusiasts to indulge.
Hotel Del Coronado, San Diego
A stone’s throw from town, the charming island community of Coronado feels like a private enclave, surrounded by beaches. Its crown jewel is the Hotel Del Coronado, topped with red turrets that resembles a fairytale castle. Explore the lobby and gardens on your own, or join a guided tour to learn about the remarkable history of this hotel, which was born in 1888, and follow in the footsteps of Marilyn Monroe in her film ‘Some Like It Hot’ filmed in 1959. Its restaurant, the Del also serves a sumptuous Sunday brunch, and the Babcock & Story bar is perfect for sipping a craft beer with a view of the Pacific.
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