Sun-drenched beaches, breathtaking landscapes and hip cities abound in California. One of the most densely populated states in the USA, this epic West Coast destination promises a fabulous range of places to stay — from intimate inns, rustic lodges to glamorous hotels and expansive resorts with beautiful vineyard views. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with family and friends, the best places to stay in California are perfect for kicking back in style.
Los Angeles needs little introduction. Whether you’re a movie buff, music lover, keen shopper or foodie, this vibrant metropolis is brilliant for a city break with a big buzz. Explore the best of old Hollywood, soak up the legendary glitz and glamour, or discover hidden markets, old-school delis and quirky museums. For more terrific food and a fascinating history head to San Francisco — home to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge — whilst San Diego is a lively university city with great beaches and some wonderful family-friendly attractions. San Jose and Silicon Valley are also intriguing.
Some of our Californian collections:
California is perhaps most famous for its spectacular coastline, dotted with trendy beach towns, superb surf spots and vast stretches of wilderness. Book a room at a cosy B&B or chic seaside property in Malibu, Santa Barbara, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Laguna Beach to bask in that Californian sunshine. Nearby Santa Catalina Island offers excellent watersports, whilst Big Sur, south of Monterey, is the perfect place to get lost amidst towering redwoods, craggy cliffs or the thundering waterfalls of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
For the ultimate escape, look towards the enormous Yosemite National Park, Death Valley National Park or the Sequoia National Forest. Palm Springs, on the other hand, is a retro gateway to the wonders of the desert — and boasts some striking small spa hotels. For cooler climes, check out the ski hotels and resorts around Lake Tahoe, Heavenly and the Olympic Valley.
This is also a state for wine lovers. Napa Valley is one of the best-known wine regions in the world, with a number of appealing towns for romantic getaways or trips with friends. Napa, old-fashioned Calistoga, and pretty St Helena are good places to start. Serious foodies should consider Healdsburg or Yountville, which has more Michelin stars than any other town in the USA.
Hugely popular throughout the year, the best places to stay in California offer something fantastic for everyone!