California isn’t just a destination—it’s a state of mind. With its sun-soaked coastlines, towering redwoods, dramatic deserts, and iconic cities, it's no wonder California is home to some of the most unforgettable hotels in the world. Whether you're looking for barefoot luxury along the Pacific, a rustic mountain escape, or a whimsical night in a vintage trailer, the Golden State delivers in style.

From Napa Valley’s vineyard views to Big Sur’s cliff-hugging hideaways, this list of California's 13 most outstanding hotels will take you on a journey through luxury, history, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Each hotel brings something unique—panoramic vistas, deep-rooted cultural history, or mind-blowing architecture. So, if you're ready to plan your next California getaway, consider checking into one of these spectacular spots. Warning: You may never want to check out!

1. Hotel del Coronado, San Diego
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Stepping into the Hotel del Coronado is like stepping into a living postcard from the 19th century—except with all the modern luxuries you'd expect from a world-class resort. Built in 1888, this National Historic Landmark has long been a favorite among U.S. presidents, royalty, and Hollywood legends.

Perched on the golden sands of Coronado Beach, “Del” (as it’s affectionately called) is a stunning example of Victorian architecture with its red turrets and white-wood façade. It's not just a hotel—it’s a piece of California history.

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2. Auberge du Soleil, Napa Valley
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Set among olive groves and sun-kissed vineyards, Auberge du Soleil is Napa Valley’s ultimate adult playground. This Mediterranean-inspired retreat is pure indulgence—where wine country elegance meets serene simplicity.

Initially founded by a French restaurateur, the hotel reflects its culinary roots. Its Michelin-starred restaurant serves up farm-to-table masterpieces paired with Napa’s finest vintages. Dining here isn’t just a meal—it’s a sensory journey. Guests can savor their dishes on a terrace overlooking rolling vineyards and the Mayacamas Mountains.

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3. The Ahwahnee, Yosemite
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Tucked inside Yosemite National Park, The Ahwahnee is a hotel that blends seamlessly with its legendary surroundings. Known for hosting dignitaries, authors, and nature lovers since 1927, this architectural gem offers a front-row seat to the awe-inspiring majesty of Yosemite.

Designed to reflect the park's grandeur, the hotel features stone façades, stained glass, Native American motifs, and a soaring Great Lounge with massive fireplaces. It's like a mountain lodge crossed with a medieval castle—and yes, it’s just as cool as it sounds.

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4. Cavallo Point Lodge, Sausalito
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Nestled at the Golden Gate Bridge base in the charming town of Sausalito, Cavallo Point Lodge is where tranquility meets history with a touch of luxury. Once a U.S. Army post, this lodge has been transformed into a serene retreat that balances eco-conscious living with top-tier service.

Guests can choose between historic rooms, which retain the architecture of the original officer’s quarters, or contemporary lodgings, complete with radiant floor heating, bamboo furnishings, and sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay. Either way, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable stay.

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5. The Ranch At Death Valley
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If you’re craving something completely different—think stark beauty, dramatic landscapes, and serene silence—Furnace Creek Inn and Ranch Resort in Death Valley National Park delivers all that and more. This unexpected luxury resort lies in one of the hottest, driest places on earth, yet it feels like an oasis from a dream.

Initially opened in the 1933 to attract tourists to the region, the Inn has evolved into a five-star destination, boasting elegant Mission-style architecture and lush gardens fed by natural springs. The Inn at Death Valley offers a more upscale, historic experience. At the same time, the Ranch at Death Valley is ideal for families and casual travelers, complete with a general store, saloon, and even a spring-fed pool.

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6. Wigwam Motel, San Bernardino
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Ready to time-travel back to the heyday of roadside Americana? The Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino is one of the last remaining treasures of Route 66—and it’s as quirky and charming as it sounds. Here, guests sleep inside concrete teepees, each uniquely decorated to preserve the nostalgia of a bygone era.

This motel is a living piece of mid-century history. Built-in 1949, it was one of several “Wigwam Villages” constructed across the U.S., catering to post-war families driving cross-country. Today, it’s one of only three left standing and lovingly restored for the modern traveler.

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7. Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa
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Surrounded by the rugged Santa Rosa Mountains and swaying palm trees, Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells is a lush, Mediterranean-style oasis perfect for sunseekers, spa lovers, and golf aficionados. Located in the heart of the Coachella Valley, this desert gem offers a mix of tranquility, indulgence, and charm.

The architecture evokes a Tuscan village—think terracotta roofs, vine-covered walkways, and peaceful courtyards with bubbling fountains. Rooms and suites are spacious, adorned with warm tones, private patios, and mountain or garden views. Everything here whispers relaxation.

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8. The Queen Mary
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Where else can you spend the night on a retired ocean liner with a haunted history and stunning harbor views? Only at the Queen Mary Hotel in Long Beach, one of the most unique stays in California.

Once a luxury cruise ship that carried royalty, celebrities, and soldiers across the Atlantic, the Queen Mary now sits permanently docked and converted into a floating hotel. It’s a magical blend of maritime history, vintage glamour, and a dash of the supernatural.

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9. Montage Laguna Beach
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Overlooking the shimmering blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, Montage Laguna Beach is a masterpiece of luxury and coastal elegance. Perched on a bluff in Orange County, this iconic resort offers postcard-perfect views, five-star amenities, and a laid-back SoCal vibe that’s hard to resist.

From the moment you step into the grand lobby with its sweeping ocean panoramas, you know you’re in for something unique. The rooms and suites are spacious and airy, with ocean-inspired décor, marble bathrooms, and private terraces that let you soak up those golden California sunsets.

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10. AutoCamp Yosemite
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For those craving adventure without sacrificing comfort, AutoCamp Yosemite offers a modern twist on the classic camping experience. Located just outside Yosemite National Park, this glamping resort is a paradise for nature lovers who still want a plush bed and designer interiors.

Guests stay in custom-designed Airstream trailers, luxury tents, or sleek cabin suites, all equipped with spa-inspired bathrooms, high-thread-count linens, and stylish furnishings. Think Scandinavian chic meets rustic charm.

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11. Alila Ventana Big Sur - Inclusive Resort
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Hidden away in the redwood forests of Big Sur, Ventana is the ultimate adults-only retreat for those seeking serenity, seclusion, and unspoiled natural beauty. As one of the flagship Alila properties in the U.S., this resort is where luxury and wilderness blend into a dreamy escape.

Set on 160 acres of coastal forest, Ventana offers two types of stays: high-end guest rooms and suites and a luxury glamping experience complete with safari-style tents and private fire pits. Either way, the views are jaw-dropping—towering trees, a distant ocean, and nothing but peace.

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12. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
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Ski-in, ski-out luxury? Check. Cozy fireplaces, majestic mountain views, and après-ski cocktails? Also, check. The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe epitomizes alpine elegance, blending rustic charm with five-star sophistication in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Located mid-mountain at Northstar California Resort, this Ritz-Carlton is a dream for winter sports enthusiasts and summer hikers alike. In the colder months, the private ski valet and on-site lift access make hitting the slopes seamless. Come summer, the trails and lake activities are equally thrilling.

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13. Alila Marea Beach Resort
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Perched above the Pacific in the laid-back beach town of Encinitas, Alila Marea Beach Resort is a sleek, stylish newcomer already making waves. This coastal gem seamlessly combines high design with nature-forward ethos, offering a retreat that’s as calming as the sound of crashing waves.

The architecture is modern and minimalist, with plenty of glass to maximize ocean views and natural light. Rooms have calming color palettes, soft textures, and private terraces overlooking the cliffs or coastline. Want to feel the sand between your toes? You’re just steps from South Ponto Beach, one of San Diego’s hidden treasures.

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