The Best Beach Hotels to Book in California, USA

Dubbed Pink Lady for the blushing shade of its façade, this rambling Spanish-style hotel with its landmark tower has cut a commanding presence in La Jolla since 1926. Despite its pedigree, there’s nothing stuffy about this glam yet intimate beach hotel in California. Rooms capture an aura of timeless elegance and are packed with such covetable perks as Keurig coffee makers. Sip a gin-and-bubbly-based Pink Lady cocktail by the palm-fringed pool; then, feast on fanciful Cali coastal fare with the Pacific as a backdrop at the Med restaurant.

If you like hotels with a dash of quirk and history, this lifestyle lair on the boardwalk in Venice Beach should fit the bill. Though a total update has catapulted the 1915 brick gem into the 21st century, its grand central staircase and mahogany-and-brass elevator still recall the times when Charlie Chaplin and other Hollywood heroes resided here. There are three room themes – beach boho, artist and skate/surf – all with ocean views, local art and Aesop bath amenities. Some rooms feature sleek Marshall retro fridges.

This California beach hotel in Cambria is like the hospitality version of “surf and turf” – an earthy rancho-chic retreat cuddling up to ethereally beautiful Moonstone Beach. Spend the day strolling in the sand, observing sea otters and tide pool critters, or head up the road to kooky Hearst Castle. A hearty dinner (ribs or blue crab) at the onsite restaurant is a fitting coda to a day of adventure. Or retreat to your cabin-style room to luxuriate in a clawfoot bathtub before falling asleep to the soft crackling of a wood-burning fireplace.

It’s hard to get any more immersed in the oceanic vibe than during a stay at this aptly named hideaway in Monterey Bay. Surrounded by the crashing surf and a sensuously curving dune preserve are 60 rooms in sand-colored low-rise cottages with private decks or patios for unimpeded sunset views. Beach yoga, nature walks and a sublime spa provide additional Zen moments. At the restaurant, a wood fire crisps fish and meats to perfection, and there are other delicious eating options (and the world-famous aquarium) in nearby Monterey.

In the heart of Surf City USA, aka Huntington Beach, the Paséa epitomizes SoCal’s easy-going, sunny spirit. An upbeat, go-go mood rules especially on weekends, when DJs heat up the action in the rooftop lounge and by the pool. This is not to say that you can’t relax at this fine California beach hotel: that’s what the Balinese-inspired spa is for, after all. Or your room, for that matter. Unwinding comes easy in Frette-linen-draped beds backed by a wall-sized wave image and the real thing outside your window.

The Pacific Ocean is showcased to maximum effect at this tony coastal getaway hugging a dreamy stretch of pristine white sand in Laguna Beach. All 167 amenity-laden rooms feature balconies with sea views stretching to the horizon. The Splashes restaurant serves elevated Med-cuisine right above the waterline, and even the pool sits within earshot of the waves. Make time for a spin around lovely Laguna that honors its artist colony roots with eye-catching public art, a slew of galleries and the well-respected Laguna Art Museum.

Although hemmed in by high-octane Los Angeles, this vast luxury resort draped across a 102-acre (41ha) blufftop on posh Palos Verdes Peninsula feels like a world unto itself. There’s no sandy beach, but, with four pools and adventures like ocean kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and tide pooling, you’re never far from aquatic fun. Land-based activities range from guided nature walks and sessions with the resort’s falconer to a nine-hole golf course and the soulful spa. No matter what you do, the mighty Pacific Ocean will forever sparkle right below.