20 Romantic Hotels in California

Romance means different things to different couples, but part of the beauty and wonder of California is its variety. So we think our Gurus really have come up with a perfectly romantic hotel to suit everyone on their list of the most romantic hotels in California. Love a luxury spa, a wine lodge, a desert escape or a beach haven? We've found all of these and more; all selected on their romantic credentials including four poster beds, jetted whirlpool tubs, candlelit fine-dining and private balconies or terraces with epic views. Browse through our list of the best romantic hotels in California and start to plan your getaway for two.

For a Once in A Lifetime Occasion

If you’re looking for an unforgettable hotel experience just look at the photos of Sacred Sands. This two suite hotel is remarkably located close to the entrance of the Joshua Tree National Park, and is surrounded by nothing but spectacular desert. Both suites have outdoor baths, showers and day beds, so you can make the most of the views day and night. There’s no restaurant, but guests are treated to a full fridge on arrival. Magical.
The Post Ranch Inn is an incredible getaway with equally magical views, but of the Pacific Ocean. Standing on the edge of a wooded cliff 1200 feet above the ocean, this collection 39 rooms and suites are spacious, and the kind of contemporary which really takes the location into account. Hot tubs come as standard with the views, and there are three infinity pools, two spas, a gym and an award-winning restaurant. And Big Sur is just around the corner.

For a Romantic Escape

If you and your love appreciate five star luxury then the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe will hopefully please you with its alpine opulence and incredible views of Lake Tahoe and the mountains around it. This is a big resort, ski-in and out in season, and complete with all the trimmings of spas, hot tubs, heated pools, fine dining restaurants and cosy bars. It’s spectacular out of season too.
The Enchante Boutique Hotel is an exquisitely put together hotel in Palo Alto, carefully modelled on a French chateau. 19 luxurious rooms and suites make up the hotel, all decorated with antique chandeliers, fireplace and furnishings, and complete with beautiful marble bathrooms. There’s a French/American bistro and a library with a fireplace. The most romantic suites have stand-alone tubs, fireplaces and four-poster beds.

For Oceanside Romance

On top of the sand dunes of the Marina State Beach north of Carmel, the Sanctuary Beach Resort has got to be one of the best located beach hotels in California. Partly because the beach is wild and rugged, and partly because you don’t have to share it with many people. The resort is beautiful too, with 60 simple, yet luxurious rooms, which make the most of the location by having huge windows and terraces. They’ll pack you a picnic for the beach, but the restaurant is extremely pleasant too. And there’s a spa and pool.

For Peace and Romance

The Inn at Europa Village feels as European as its name, but the name comes from the three wineries directly surrounding it, one inspired by the wines of Italy, one France and one Spain. The inn itself feels Mediterranean, with exposed beams and arched pillars, wood furnishings and expansive terraces. The most romantic of the ten rooms have heart-shaped jetted tubs for two and a terrace with views of the vineyards.
The Chateau at Lake La Quinta is like an oasis in the desert just outside Palm Springs, in that its 24 rooms and suites surround a beautiful palm-fringed lake. All of the 24 rooms and suites have lake views, and most of them have balconies or terraces over the lake too. They’re also all individually designed and decorated, but all feature fireplaces and custom made furnishings. There’s a fine dining restaurant and a pampering spa, and no children allowed.
For extra privacy stay in one of 16 individual cottages at the Cottage Grove Inn, which is discreetly hidden in a green Calistoga setting. The design and decor are traditional, and all rooms have a fireplace, spa bath and a private terrace. They make a luxurious base for exploring the Napa Valley.

For Food and Romance

Yountville’s Hotel Villagio is large, elegant, and perfectly positioned amongst some of the Napa’s most scenic wineries. There are 113 rooms and suites, with simple, luxurious interiors which include details like fireplaces, private balconies and free-standing bath tubs. As well as Yountville being know as a foodie favourite, this hotel has impressive cuisine credentials, with its three restaurants run by Michael Chiarello. And there’s an ESPA spa for afterwards.
The River Terrace Inn is a stylish, contemporary hotel on a spacious plot of land on the Napa River. The inn has 114 rooms and suites — some of the suites are huge! And the number of rooms corresponds to the variety of facilities: there’s a 24hour gym, an impressive spa menu, bike hire, and a fancy restaurant to start with. And of course there’s plenty to do in the area. Romantics should book one of the luxury rooms for the river front terrace and jetted marble tub.

For Boutique Romance

The Villa Royale is a collection of luxurious, artistically decorated villas just five minutes drive from downtown Palm Springs, but offering incredible views of the San Jacinto Mountains. There are 38 rooms and suites to choose from, and they come in all different shapes and sizes, plus a choice of three pools onsite. There’s also a romantically moody California restaurant. The impressive art collection and confident design choices make this hotel stand out for us, but also serve as a reminder of the glamorous Hollywood heyday of Palm Springs.
The Landsby is a Scandinavian inspired boutique hotel in the wine country around Solvang, just north of Santa Barbara. The hotel’s 51 rooms and suites are light and spacious, and tastefully decorated in blonde woods and neutral colours. The courtyard cocktail bar is both romantic and relaxed, and the onsite restaurant is very popular.
Perfectly positioned between the beauty and wilderness of Fitch Mountain and the Sonoma Hills, and downtown Healdsburg, the Harmon Guest House is a beautifully designed hotel with 39 rooms and suites. The architecturally impressive exterior hides a simpler interior, which nevertheless is beautifully designed with its simplicity. There’s a stylish rooftop bar and terrace, which helps up the romance factor, and a pool and restaurant.

A Desert Holiday for Two

La Maison Hotel feels more Mediterranean than its Palm Springs location would normally allow for, and that’s part of the romance of it. There’s a courtyard with a pool, and surrounding that the 13 rooms and suites and rows of palm trees. Inside the rooms feature dark wood antiques, terracotta floors, and French windows, and there’s a chic alfresco bar and restaurant. This is an intimate hotel in a bustling spot, so a good compromise.
Palm Springs' El Morocco Inn & Spa takes the theme from the name with its colourful Moroccan decor and riad-like arrangement around a central courtyard pool. There are only 13 rooms and suites, dressed with colourful tiles, white linen and canopy beds, and there’s a brilliant spa — again, a la Morocco, and a hot tub and fire pits for maximum romance.

Great Value Hotels for Couples

Just back from the grassy banks of the Napa River, the Milliken Creek Inn is an intimate, adults only inn, with just 12 rooms and suites. The decor is traditional, but luxurious, there’s an impressive spa menu, and the riverside gardens are romantic of an evening, when they serve complimentary wine and cheese, and of a morning, when they serve a complimentary breakfast.
Also in Napa, the Cedar Gables Inn is another small inn with a luxurious air. Housed in a beautiful 1890s Arts & Crafts mansion, there are nine elegant rooms to choose from, all decorated with period antiques, and all unique, giving the house the feeling of being a friend’s luxurious home. Guests are able to share the kitchen if they want to self cater. The suites are our most romantic pick — all have two-person whirlpool tubs.

California’s Romantic B&Bs

As you might have noticed, our Gurus love a little old charmer, and the Garden Street Inn is another pick along these lines: a beautifully converted mansion in downtown San Luis Obispo, with just 13 rooms and suites. They love the light-filled rooms and high ceilings, the antiques and patterned wallpaper, and the beautiful breakfast room, library, and romantic terrace.
The Bergson is a Calistoga B&B with a Cape Cod feel with its gabled roof and white facade. Inside there are 21 rooms and suites, all carefully decorated with a mix of antiques and contemporary details, to offer a cosy feel — the most romantic have four-poster beds. Breakfast is served outside on the gloriously sunny terrace when possible.
The Inn on Summerhill is a charming B&B by the beach in Santa Barbara, with just 16 rooms and suites, all complete with bespoke furniture and architecture. The feeling is cosy, and fireplaces and four-poster beds do a lot to encourage that. There’s no restaurant, but breakfast is included, and they offer wine and appetisers of an afternoon.

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse by location, consulting our list of the best hotels in Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Carmel-by-the-Sea, or Healdsburg for example.
Or you could consider our recommendations for the 14 Most Romantic Hotels in San Francisco, the 15 Most Romantic Hotels in Miami or the 20 Best Luxury Hotels in California
You could expand your search to include ALL the best places to stay in California
Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Villa Royale Palm Springs (California) 38 rooms from AU$210
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Stunning rooms in private villas invite romance in the sun at this cosy, adult only resort
  City Style  -  A collection of stylish villas in West Palm Springs, 5 minutes from Downtown
  Retro/Vintage  -  The resort has an air of Hollywood heyday, reminiscient in its design
  Views  -  The resort offers mountain views from windows, terraces and pools
  
  A luxury collection of free-standing villas boasting 3 swimming pools and an on-site restaurant and bar serving Mediterranean/Cali fare, perfect for couples. 5 minutes drive from Downtown, the villas are spacious and comfortable, but it is their bold, arty and vibrant design that really stands out. See More
  
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- Milliken Creek Inn Napa (California) 12 rooms from AU$301
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Adults-only, with romantic spa treatments and facilities and nearby vineyards for wine-tastings- perfect for a romantic break
  Total relaxation  -  Unusual and luxury spa treatments on offer, beautiful gardens overlooking the Napa river, and peaceful surroundings.
  Great walks  -  Explore the garden and beyond.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  This intimate adults-only inn is on the grassy banks of Napa River and the scenic Silverado Trail. The beautiful rooms boast stylish furnishings in white and greys, creating a sense of warmth and luxury. Fantastic gourmet breakfasts and a manicured riverside garden add to the idyllic setting. See More
  
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- Cedar Gables Inn Napa (California) 9 rooms from AU$243
  
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  Local exploring  -  Feel like you're returning home after a day of wine-tasting, hiking, shopping, hot-air balooning or playing golf nearby
  Romantic Break  -  The suites all comes with tubs designed for two; there's a whirlpool bath and even a one-of-a-kind four-poster tub
  Wine tasting  -  Take a tour on the Napa Valley Wine Train or book yourself on a tour to sample some of the region's 250+ wineries
  Sights nearby  -  Old Faithful is a world-famous geyser. This natural wonder regularly shoots up thousands of gallons of boiling water
  
  B&B situated in an 1890s Arts & Craft mansion. Step back in time with a stay in the 9 rooms and suites that feel more like staying with a friend. Wooden antique furniture, paisley throws and floral wallpapers complete the traditional feel. There is no restaurant but plenty of options in the area. See More
  
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- Garden Street Inn San Luis Obispo (California) 13 rooms from AU$265
  
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  Local exploring  -  A beautiful area to explore at leisure; enjoy beaches, markets, museums, historical builings, dunes and valleys
  Romantic Break  -  The claw-foot tubs and wood-burning stoves make rooms feel especially romantic
  Surfing  -  It's a 20 minute drive to Pisimo beach, a 23 mile stretch of coastline known for surfing and body-boarding
  Sights nearby  -  The historic downtown is beautiful; visit the 18th century mission and traditional Spanish-style buildings
  
  An exquisite little gem of a property in the downtown. Cosy light-filled rooms feel homely and fresh with high-ceilings, mismatched antique furniture and patterned wallpaper. There's a sweet sit-out terrace, beautiful breakfast room, fireside lounge and book-lined library. Cute and couple-friendly. See More
  
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- The Bergson Calistoga (California) 21 rooms from AU$268
  
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  Wine tasting  -  The Napa Valley area has 400+ vineyards. There are excellent options in Calistoga, try Castello di Amorosa and Chateau Montelena
  Local exploring  -  Base yourself in Calistoga to visit the wider Napa Valley and its many vineyards, excellent restaurants, shopping and cycling
  Romantic Break  -  Rooms and suites have been thoughtfully designed for romance with fireplaces, private sit-outs, jacuzzi tubs and feather beds
  Sights nearby  -  Calistoga is famous for mud baths; enjoy an authentic experience at Golden Haven Mud Baths or Indian Springs Mud Baths
  
  Cape Cod-style B&B with gabled porches and lovely courtyard garden in Calistoga. 21 rooms and suites manage to feel both fresh and contemporary but also traditional and cosy; several have balconies and four-poster beds. Take breakfast outside before exploring the area and its many restaurants. See More
  
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- The Inn at Europa Village Temecula (California) 10 rooms from AU$277
  
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  Wine tasting  -  The winery produces European-style wines. There are many tastings and wine-related events on property as well as in the area
  Local exploring  -  Should you wish to venture out, Temecula wine country is worth exploring; enjoy rolling hills, lakes and mountain views
  Romantic Break  -  The rooms are quiet, private and feel romantic. Stay here for a weekend away a deux; dine, drink wine, rest and relax
  Great walks  -  Enjoy a walk in the scenic Lake Skinner Park or jog around the Little Free Library at Harveston Lake
  
  Rustic Mediterranean-style accommodation set amongst three wineries, each inspired by France, Spain & Italy. The romantic resort houses one-of-a-kind suites combining antique furniture, wood paneling and lofty terraces; some have vineyard views & jetted tubs. Private luxury well-suited to couples. See More
  
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- The Landsby Solvang (California) 51 rooms from AU$311
  
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  Wine tasting  -  Guests of the hotel benefit from 2-for-1 wine-tastings. The Santa Barbara valley is teeming with excellent wineries to discover
  Local exploring  -  A great base from which to explore wine country. Take a vineyard tour or hike and bike your way around the scenic landscape
  Romantic Break  -  Perfect for a romantic weekend of doing very little other than eating well and relaxing in a beautiful environment
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  
  A scandinavian-inspired boutique hotel located in Solvang, California. 51 rooms and suites have been tastefully decorated with blonde woods, clean white palette and fun Scandi touches. Enjoy a cocktail in the courtyard, dine at the excellent on-site restaurant 'Mad & Vin' or explore the valley. See More
  
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- Sanctuary Beach Resort Marina, California 60 rooms from AU$644
  
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  Romantic Break  -  From sipping wine on the terrace, taking long beach walks to enjoying a picnic for two - this is an idyllic spot for romance
  Outstanding location  -  This is a very special location, set right on a rugged and beautiful stretch of beach with wonderful views of the Pacific
  Families  -  Cribs offered for free, suites sleeping up to four, and endless space for little ones to run around
  Sights nearby  -  The Big Sur, one of California's greatest natural attractions, is just a 45 minute drive
  
  A chic hotel offering one of California's finest locations - set within the dunes beside a beautiful stretch of wild and rugged beach. Rooms are simple yet luxurious and make the most of the ocean views. With picnics to order, a pool, a spa, and wonderful walking country - this is an idyllic escape. See More
  
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- The Chateau at Lake La Quinta La Quinta, California 24 rooms from AU$345
  
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  Views  -  Resort surrounds La Quinta lake and all rooms have a lake view
  Restrictions on children  -  This is an adults only property
  Restaurant  -  Melange- fine dining
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  Nestled in the Californian desert near Palm Springs, this contemporary and recently renovated hotel surrounds the serene and beautiful lake La Quinta. The luxurious suites all have individual custom furnishings, fireplaces, lakeside views and a private patio. A grown-up, romantic retreat. See More
  
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- River Terrace Inn Napa 114 rooms from AU$356
  
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  Weddings  -  Romantic riverside weddings can host up to 300 guests. Enjoy the reception with firepits, mood lighting and Napa River views
  Groups  -  A great option for larger groups travelling together as the location, style and accessibility will please almost everybody
  Wine tasting  -  There are 250 wineries in the surrounding area. Book on a tour and wine-taste your way around this world-famous region
  Romantic Break  -  Couples will love the Deluxe King Rooms with forest and river-facing balconies plus private hot tub
  
  A 144-room hotel in the very heart of Napa, yet with a wonderful riverside location. Contemporary and spacious rooms and suites are light-filled and many face the lake. There is a 24-hour gym, in-room massages and endless local activities. As well as a restaurant and bar, enjoy great outdoor dining. See More
  
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- La Maison Hotel, Palm Springs Palm Springs 13 rooms from AU$380
  
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  Romantic Break  -  An intimate retreat for a special weekend away; enjoy no distractions, idyllic pool, leafy gardens & atmospheric outdoor dining
  Total relaxation  -  A great place to rest and recharge; quiet, peaceful and relaxing with plenty of sunshine, greenery and nearby attractions
  Sights nearby  -  Learn more about desert flora and fauna - cacti, wildflowes and trees - at the impressive Moorten Botanical Garden
  Swimming Pool  -  The enclosed heated Mediterranean style pool is the perfect place to while away a hot desert afternoon
  Recommended by  -  Fodors
  
  Romantic Mediterranean-style boutique property with enclosed courtyard garden, tropical foliage and palm trees, glamorous pool, outdoor kitchen and chic al fresco bar. Classic rooms combine glossy terracotta floors, carved wooden beds, traditional decor & airy French windows. Tucked away hidden gem. See More
  
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- Harmon Guest House Healdsburg 39 rooms from AU$424
  
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  Local exploring  -  Whether you prefer to explore the town's wineries or venture into the countryside, there is lots to explore local to this hotel
  Country Escape  -  Set in a charming town in Sonoma County, this hotel offers easy access to pretty country walks
  Romantic Break  -  With a stylish rooftop bar and terrace, this hotel is perfect for a romantic couples' getaway
  Great walks  -  Wander into town and browse independent boutiques or head out for a long country walk from the hotel
  Recommended by  -  Design Hotels, Tablet, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  This boutique hotel sits between Fitch Mountain, the Sonoma hills and downtown Healdsburg. Interiors feature locally-sourced artwork and upcycled furniture. Guestrooms focus on texture, with textile headboards and cosy throws contrasting with the tiled shower area. A smart stay for creative couples. See More
  
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- El Morocco Inn & Spa Palm Springs 13 rooms from AU$425
  
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  Total relaxation  -  While away days enjoying indulent spa treatments, soaking in the hot springs, relaxing in a garden hammock & playing lawn games
  Romantic Break  -  Outdoor showers under the stars, candelit courtyard, nightime swimming & spoiling spa treatments makes for a romantic retreat
  Wellbeing  -  The pool, hot tub and spa use water from the nearby mineral-rich hot spring which is considered to have healing properties
  Swimming Pool  -  The outdoor pool is filled with water from the natural hot spring nearby and is open 24 hours for midnight pool parties
  
  Romantic Moroccan-themed desert property located on thermal hot springs. Riad-style courtyard boasts atmospheric fire pits, lanterns and cosy seating. Exotic rooms channel Casablanca with canopy beds, white linens, oriental rugs, love seats and Moroccan tea sets. Fab spa, outdoor pool and hot tub. See More
  
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- Inn on Summerhill Santa Barbara (California) 16 rooms from AU$447
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Santa Barbara offers an enormous amount of activites; surfing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, hang-gliding and mountain biking
  Local exploring  -  The area has endless things to do for everyone; whale-watch, shop, wine-taste, explore museums, hike or hit the beach
  Romantic Break  -  With fireplaces, four poster beds, cosy throws and flat-screen TVs, it may be very difficult to leave the room
  Sights nearby  -  Visit Solvang, a quaint Danish village with cobbled streets, indmills, brick sidewalks, and thatched rooftops
  
  A charming B&B near the beach in Santa Barbara. Craftsman-style architecture makes the property feel unique and homely; relax in the welcoming fireside living room with books and games. 16 beautiful and cosy rooms and suites have distinct wooden ceilings, fireplaces and either sea or garden views. See More
  
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- Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe California 180 rooms from AU$497
  
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  Romantic Break  -  For rooms with epic vistas, couples' massages, and adreneline fuelled activities - this romantic escape is hard to beat!
  Active Holiday  -  Of course the slopes are one of the main draws but there are endless other activities for non-skiers
  Skiing  -  A ski-in / ski-out resort located mid-mountain at Northstar California Resort
  Spa  -  Huge spa with 17 treatment rooms, steam rooms, fire-warmed relaxation areas and much more
  
  A grand five-star offering an unbeatable ski-in ski-out setting in Northstar California Resort. Spacious rooms are elegantly styled, with all the luxury trimmings, and wonderful mountain views. With heated pools, fine dining, and a spoiling spa this mountain escape really has it all. See More
  
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- Hotel Villagio Yountville (YOUNTVILLE) 113 rooms from AU$513
  
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  Romantic Break  -  With its beautifully designed rooms with cosy fireplaces, plus superb dining options and top notch spa, romance is guaranteed
  Foodies  -  Yountville is home to some of the best restaurants across America and the hotel itself has three exemplary restaurants
  Spa breaks  -  Unwind in the full-service spa run by ESPA with its exceptional facilities including luxurious spa suites
  Restaurant  -  Choose between Italian, Spanish or firepit BBQ style cuisine
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A luxury hotel set amidst Napa Valley's wineries. Interiors are simple and minimalist with rooms boasting freestanding baths and working fireplaces. The three restaurants are run by heralded chef Michael Chiarello, while the ESPA spa makes this a truly indulgent stay. See More
  
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- Sacred Sands California 2 rooms from AU$535
  
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  Back to Nature  -  Soak in the views around you by day and the milky way above by night. Hike to you heart's content from the property
  Hideaway  -  Only 2 suites surrounded by desert landscapes give this a true James Bond villain style hideaway feel
  Weddings  -  For an intimate wedding like no other this is a unique venue. They also offer elopment packages
  Romantic Break  -  From the outdoor bathtub look out over the Mojave Desert into Joshua Tree National Park
  
  One-of-a-kind property located close to the West entrance of California's Joshua Tree National Park. Just 2 suites - Onyx & Jade - make up this desert get-away, each with outdoor bath, shower and day bed to maximise jaw-dropping views at every turn. Check-in with someone special to escape it all. See More
  
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- Enchante Boutique Hotel Palo Alto 19 rooms from AU$588
  
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  Romantic Break  -  After a romantic dinner enjoy inviting canopy beds with silky sheets, fluffy gowns, stand-alone tubs and cosy in-room fireplaces
  City Style  -  A little corner of France in Silicon Valley. Thoughtfully and authentically decorated to a high standard without feeling themed
  Sights nearby  -  The grand Winchester Mystery House is well-worth a visit, as is NASA Ames Research Center
  Restaurant  -  Champagne One Main is a bistro serving French/American cuisine
  
  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. See More
  
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- Cottage Grove Inn Calistoga (California) 16 rooms from AU$638
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Charming cottages complete with spa baths, private terraces, and fireplaces are ideal for a romantic break
  Local exploring  -  Spend days exploring the Napa Valley Wine Country
  Great walks  -  Find numerous walking trails running through Napa Valley
  Whirlpool Bathtub  -  Spa baths made for two in every cottage
  
  A charming collection of cottages situated in a scenic and secluded spot in Calistoga. The design is traditional but the feel is fresh and contemporary and each room includes an enormous spa bath, a terrace, and a fireplace. A luxurious base to explore Napa Valley's wineries from. See More
  
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- Post Ranch Inn Big Sur 39 rooms from AU$1210
  
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  Views  -  Over the Pacific Ocean.
  Great walks  -  Point Lobos State Reserve and others treks are trails loved treks.
  Private Hot Tub  -  Many of the suites have a private hot tub on the deck
  Surfing  -  Pfeiffer Beach is only one mile away.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Tablet
  
  1200 feet above the Pacific Ocean stands, a romantic getaway with modern, spacious rooms. Mind blowing views and hot tubs come as standard with access to 3 infinity pools, 2 spas, a gym and an award-winning restaurant. Big Sur is a great base for trekking and photography. The perfect intimate spot! See More
  
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