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The Best Hotels to Book Near Vasquez Rocks, California

The Vasquez Rocks are a popular spot for hikers and climbers in Southern California
The Vasquez Rocks are a popular spot for hikers and climbers in Southern California | © Robert Landau / Alamy Stock Photo

Climbers and hikers flock to the Sierra Pelona Mountains in California to explore the Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, found just north of Los Angeles. Stay at one of these top hotels near these iconic sandstone formations, bookable on Culture Trip.

The dramatic natural landscape of the 932-acre (377ha) Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park has been the backdrop for many Hollywood movies from Star Trek to Planet of the Apes. Its name comes from Tiburcio Vásquez, a notorious bandit who hid from the law here in 1874. Aside from movie buffs, the spectacular scenery is perfect for hiking and rock climbing. Here are the best hotels to stay in close by.

Element Palmdale

Hotel

Element Palmdale
Courtesy of Element Palmdale / Expedia

For an extended stay, book the Element Palmdale. The gorgeous nature-inspired rooms are light-flooded and boast fully equipped kitchens and eco-friendly toiletries. Views stretch across the poppy-dotted town of Lancaster. Kick start your day in the impressive on-site gym, then enjoy the complimentary grab-and-go breakfast. Other perks include free loaner bicycles, an outdoor pool and barbecue areas. Downtown Los Angeles is less than an hour’s drive from here – depending on traffic, of course.

Courtyard Palmdale

Hotel

Courtyard Palmdale
Courtesy of Courtyard Palmdale / Expedia

You won’t go hungry staying here. Enjoy the barbecue area with its bar or head to the Bistro for the hotel’s signature breakfast sandwich (bacon, avocado, egg, lettuce and cheese) and a Starbucks coffee. In the evening, kick back with a bowl of meatballs and a black cherry old fashioned, before watching a movie in the theater room. Rooms are modern with plush bedding, king beds and plenty of space. There’s also a gym and a decent pool.

Best Western Plus John Jay Inn & Suites

Chain Hotel

Best Western Plus John Jay Inn & Suites
Courtesy of Best Western Plus John Jay Inn and Suites / Expedia

From this Best Western, you are just a 20-minute drive to Vasquez Rocks with its hiking trails and rock climbing routes. This affordable and comfortable hotel sits in the heart of the Antelope Valley, just north of Los Angeles. Rooms are equipped with microwaves, refrigerators and coffee makers; a continental breakfast and daily newspaper are included in the price. Make the most of the outdoor pool, jacuzzi and gym.

Residence Inn by Marriott Santa Clarita Valencia

Suite Hotel

Residence Inn By Marriott Santa Clarita Valencia
Courtesy of Residence Inn By Marriott Santa Clarita Valencia / Expedia

This all-suite hotel in Santa Clarita is ready to pamper you. Options range from a standard double to a two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite, ideal for families looking for extra space. Not that you’ll be spending much time indoors with Vasquez Rocks only half an hour away by car. The sun-trap pool here is flanked by bright orange lounge chairs, a whirlpool and fire pit, the perfect set-up for when lazy pool days run beyond nightfall.

Hyatt Regency Valencia

Villa

Hyatt Regency Valencia
Courtesy of Hyatt Regency Valencia / Expedia

Embrace sunny California vibes in this creamy Spanish villa-style property that circles a gorgeous outdoor pool and houses 244 luxurious rooms. The stylish light-filled restaurant, Greater Pacific, is popular locally for its upscale menu of seafood and filet mignon, plus live music and cocktails. With the hotel in walking distance of myriad restaurants, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You’re in a great spot for everything from theme parks (including Six Flags Magic Mountain) to the Santa Clara River and Vasquez Rocks, which is just a 25-minute drive northeast.

Hilton Garden Inn Palmdale

Hotel

Hilton Garden Inn Palmdale
Courtesy of Hilton Garden Inn Palmdale / Expedia

Palmdale is a mid-sized town considered an exurb of Los Angeles, separated from the city by thick forested mountains. It sits close to beautiful valleys, waterfalls and lakes, including Vasquez Rocks. This family-friendly hotel offers comfort, value and convenience with an on-site pool, gym and a restaurant. For a fancy dinner out, you’ll find fresh lobster, sushi and quality steaks at nearby local eateries. No one will judge, though, if you just choose to relax with a good book on the comfy sofa by the open fire in the lobby.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Clarita

Hotel

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Clarita
Courtesy of La Quinta Inn and Suites by Wyndham Santa Clarita / Expedia

This pet-friendly hotel is minutes from local attractions such as Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor, as well as the bars and eateries of downtown Santa Clarita. Santa Monica Beach and the buzz of Los Angeles are roughly 30mi (48km) away, while Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park is close and ready to be explored. The hotel does a top-notch free breakfast – think eggs, waffles, fruit and freshly brewed coffee. Take a dip in the outdoor pool and hot tub.

Hilton Garden Inn Valencia Six Flags

Hotel

Hilton Garden Inn Valencia Six Flags
Courtesy of Hilton Garden Inn Valencia Six Flags / Expedia

With tall palm trees encircling this property and a large outdoor pool and gardens, there’s no risk of you forgetting you’re in California. It’s the closest hotel to Six Flags Magic Mountain (hence the name). All rooms are comfortable and modern; upgrade to a king suite with a balcony and pool view. On-site, there’s a handy mini-mart and the Great American Grill, which serves cook-to-order hot breakfasts and, you guessed it, delicious grilled dishes at night.

For more California vacations, see the best hotels on Catalina Island and where to stay in Sequoia National Park. Book your stay now through Culture Trip. Add to your itinerary by viewing the most beautiful coastal towns in the state and taking a sideways look at its famous sports culture, before settling down for a bite to eat at the best well-priced restaurants in LA.

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