From Palm Springs and Yosemite to Malibu and L.A., California is a vast and eclectic destination. And the hotel options mirror that, with a huge range of choice and all sorts of weird and wonderful styles to pick from. There’s a pretty big variation in what you find when a hotel refers to itself as ‘boutique’ as well. The term in Californian use is less discerning than in say Paris or London, with much larger, much less independent hotels calling themselves boutique too. So we’ve included properties in this list of the best boutique hotels in California which you might think are better categorised as restaurants with rooms, or small hotels, or design hotels, but we think this broader list is a better way to see some of the amazing accommodation options California has to offer without turning to our list of all the best places to stay in California.
Carmel Valley (California)
Overlooked by the Santa Lucia Mountain Range and resting in 28 acres of lavender, vineyard and olive orchards, the property is one of the few romantic vineyard hotels that successfully caters to couples, groups of friends and families. Spacious rooms and spectacular outdoor dining. Great hideaway.
Newport Beach (California)
Ideal location for lapping up Newport's vibrant beach scene. The rooms are classic beach-chic with stylish features and a contemporary tone. Relax on your balcony overlooking the sea, hit the beach or soak up the lively nightlife.
California
A Michelin recommended hotel tucked into the Sonoma Valley hamlet of Glen Ellen. The 23 elegant rooms have a clean contemporary vibe with an Oriental twist! Crisp white linens, eastern antiques and modern features. Prepare to be pampered with an on-site spa, heated pool and hot tub. Heaven!
Malibu (Malibu)
A high-end Inn, three minutes from Malibu's iconic pier. Plush rooms with understated elegant furnishings. Full floor to ceiling windows and private balconies allow one to fully appreciate the spectacular ocean views. On-site spa, private beach and hip restaurant complete the Malibu experience.
Napa (Napa)
A trendy hotel in the famed Napa Valley Region. Each stylish room features original artworks and a private balcony over looking the local vineyards. Pamper yourself with in room massages, oversized tubs and Molton Brown bath products. Elegant, opulent and fun.
Paso Robles (California)
This modern boutique overlooks historical vineyards and beautifully manicured gardens. Renowned for its charm and hospitality; Large chic rooms are crisp black and white in decor with fireplaces and balconies. Breakfast is notably delicious, so be sure to rise in time.
Malibu (CA)
An uber cool and laid back Malibu boutique. The perfect balance of simplicity and luxury is all in the fine details, scented candles, organic materials and private balconies with Pacific views. The rooftop restaurant is perfect and the staff are as friendly as you will find anywhere. Beach-chic!
Yountville
A casual Tuscan affair in the heart of Yountville. Simple and stylish, the interiors are timeless and offer a soothing background from which to soak up the joys of the Napa Valley. With a wonderful restaurant, a garden, a heated pool, as well as spa and hot tub they have all bases covered.
Los Angeles (East Hollywood)
This fantasy pad is tucked away in East Hollywood, a stone's throw from Melrose Avenue. Inspired by the area's love affair with music, guestrooms allow you to create a personalised collection from vinyl and cassettes. Contemporary art and chic, velvet upholstery seals the sense of Hollywood glamour.
San Francisco (North Beach)
This exclusive hotel is nestled within a private members' club in San Francisco. Housed in a former sweet factory on Jackson Square, inside, guestrooms have exposed red brick walls styled with custom and vintage pieces by Fulk. Enjoy access to the club's first-class facilities during your stay.
California (Midpines)
All the comforts of a luxury hotel, in the form of a campsite. A collection of tents, Airstream trailers and cabins just a short drive from the entrance to Yosemite National Park. Pick a trailer for spa-like bathrooms and mini kitchens. Complete with a pool and outdoor firepits. Camping perfection
Healdsburg
A boutique hotel in Healdsburg, a quaint village in Sonoma wine country. Six luxurious and modern suites feature private terraces, fireplaces and spa showers. Complete with a heated pool and jacuzzi and, of course, a superb collection of local wines; this is an indulgent and intimate stay.
Santa Barbara (California)
Stylish B&B located walking distance from Santa Barbara's West Beach. 9 elegant rooms have been designed with impeccable taste; nautical hues, working fireplaces, spacious marble bathrooms and plenty of light. Home-made cookies are served daily, as well as breakfast in this home-away-from-home.
Solvang (California)
Award-winning restaurant with rooms situated in Ballard, a sleepy village in Californian wine country. Elegant and tastefully-decorated rooms are located within a traditional Victorian-style villa; many have balconies and fireplaces. There is a garden and gabled porch to enjoy relaxing afternoons.
Solvang (California)
Set-up by Hollywood star Fess Parker, the property is set in Los Olivos, in the heart of California wine country. 19 rooms and suites are spacious and homely, with fireplaces and colourful decor. Stays include a wine tasting for two. A heated pool, gym and outdoor fire-pit make this a cosy option.
Sonoma
Charming clapboard cottage surrounded by gardens. Interiors are the epitome of shabby chic; plenty of exposed brick, distressed wood, freshly cut flowers and artfully mismatched antique furniture. Low-key but stylish rooms are decorated with a muted colour palette. Boho-boutique couple's retreat.
Los Angeles (Downtown )
Moody night-time vibes abound in this downtown haunt. Spacious monochrome rooms with raised beds and spot lighting scream Hollywood after-party; vintage telephones and Bauhaus-style leather couches add Film Noir touches. Will suit independent travellers and those looking for a good time after dark.
Healdsburg
A two-Michelin star Japanese organic restaurant with five guestrooms in the centre of town. Rooms are contemporary and slick with redwood beams, gas fireplaces and spacious marble bathrooms. Guests can indulge in an innovative breakfast and the incredible 11-course tasting menu. A foodies paradise.
Palo Alto
Exquisite boutique hotel modelled on a French-style chateau. Luxe rooms perfectly combine traditional period interiors (chandeliers, fireplaces and antiques) with modern comforts and spoiling Carrera marble bathrooms. French/American bistro and fireside library. Fab for grown-up romantic getaways.
Palm Springs
Stylish boutique retreat modeled on 1960s St Tropez. The classic white-wash modernist bungalow is home to a palm-fringed garden with fire pits, day beds, hot tub and pool surrounded by cute parasols. All-white rooms feature retro rattan furniture and wood floors. French Riviera chic in the desert.
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