Best Lodges in California

California is a dream destination for the adventurous. From the white sand beaches lapped by the Pacific Ocean to the rugged mountains, the opportunities for adventure are endless. When it comes to finding a hotel, our hotel experts always favour a lodge. This is because they are often located in spectacular natural surroundings, and come with all the mod cons, without being too ostentatious. With this in mind, our Hotel Gurus have compiled a collection of the best lodges in California. Whether you want to be close to San Francisco and want a design-centric stay or you would rather be in the mountains and want a rustic hideaway — there is something for everyone here. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next trip?

  • Heavenly Valley Lodge Heavenly (California) 13 rooms from $67

    Back to Nature  -  Lake Tahoe offers 300 days of sun a year, crystal clear lakes, snow-peaked mountains, vast forests and stunning natural scenery
    Skiing  -  Heavenly Valley Ski Resort shuttle picks up and drops off guests in front of the property and takes them directly to the slopes
    Active Holiday  -  Every outdoor activity imagineable is on offer; gliding, riding, skydiving, parasailing, paddle boarding, sledding & tubing
    Value chic  -  A super affordable and comfortable base from which to explore this amazing region
    GardenPet friendlyParking

    Intimate owner-run lodge surrounded by parkland a block from Lake Tahoe. Cosy and inviting cabin-style rooms feature fireplaces, wood and rock features; all have kitchenettes and family rooms include bunk beds. Large gardens are home to patio, deck and outdoor furniture. Great for outdoor lovers. See More

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  • Evergreen Lodge, California Mather, California 90 rooms from $143

    Active Holiday  -  Located beside Yosemite National park there are a wealth of hiking an mountain biking opportunites in the area
    Families  -  With boundless space and outdoor activities, this is the perfect base for a family holiday
    Romantic Break  -  Cosy lodges, roaring fires, and complete seclusion - a great choice for outdoorsy couples
    Great walks  -  Hike in the Hetch Hetchy Valley, just a 10-minute drive from the hotel
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Running for nearly a century, Evergreen Lodge has the outdoor escape just right. Cosy lodges have roaring fires, plenty of wood and plaid fabrics. However, the bathrooms are reassuringly modern. Outside there are activities galore from hiking trails to a saltwater pool. Back to nature perfection. See More

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  • Tamarack Lodge Mammoth (California) 45 rooms from $147

    Active Holiday  -  An all year round destination for outdoor pursuits: skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, golf and fishing
    Skiing  -  The property is located a mile from the Mammoth Ski Area, California's best resort for skiing and snowboarding
    Back to Nature  -  The only resort on the shore of Twin Lakes; enjoy lake views, pine forests, national parks and soaring slopes
    Restaurant  -  The small and charming main lodge restaurant has only 10 tables. It offers Twin Lake views and fresh, locally sourced cuisine
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Rustic 1920s lodge located on Twin Lakes shore. Made up of stand-alone cabins (craftsman-style or deluxe) and rooms in the historic main lodge, classic chalet interiors include pine walls, roaring fires and cosy plaid prints. Enjoy lake-view restaurant, bar and lounge. Perfect for active families. See More

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  • Noon Lodge at Mallard Bay Big Bear Lake, California 15 rooms from $156

    Families  -  Some cabins and lofts are ideal for families. The largest can accommodate up to eight
    Hideaway  -  An away from it all escape, but with restaurants and the town nearby
    Active Holiday  -  Plenty of activities available - hiking, swimming, fishing etc
    Views  -  The retreat is located on an inlet of the Lake — Cabin 8 & Cabin 10 have the best views
    Swimming PoolPet friendlyViewsParking

    Historic 1950s mountain retreat — 15 rustic self-catering cabins nestled in the pines, with an old-school camp vibe. Decor is a blend of vintage charm, rustic chic and modern design. Limited hotel amenities, but ideal for those seeking peace and quiet under the stars and around the campfire. See More

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  • Buckeye Tree Lodge Three Rivers, California 22 rooms from $165

    Back to Nature  -  Escape into the wild and enjoy a landscape of granite boulders, giant trees, freshwater lakes, waterfalls & snowcapped mountains
    Families  -  The large Glacier cabin sleeps up to eight people making it a perfect family getaway with balconies, patio, BBQs and river views
    Active Holiday  -  The location offers amazing activities year-round from rafting, climbing and snowshoeing to watersports, riding & wild swimming
    Wellbeing  -  The impressive Canopy wellness centre houses a top of the range yoga studio and offers massages, meditation and guided walks
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    Charming riverside eco-lodge comprised of rooms, cabins & cottages close to Sequoia National Park. Light, airy accommodation blends fresh decor with wooden touches. Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, shared grills and river views. The on-site wellness studio makes it perfect for hideaway retreats. See More

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  • White Water Cambria (California) 25 rooms from $165

    Beach Life  -  Facing Moonstone Beach, just metres away, a quiet strip of sand offering stunning sunsets well-suited to walks
    Total relaxation  -  Chilled vibe ideal for those looking to simply enjoy uninterrupted downtime, fresh air and killer vistas
    Romantic Break  -  Ocean View King rooms offer especially romantic outdoor soaking tubs looking over the ocean
    Sea Views  -  Sea views steal the show here. All rooms boast at least a partial ocean view
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Get away from it all at this idyllic ocean-facing lodge. On-trend contemporary interiors were inspired by Danish modernism; expect pale woods, muted accents and custom furnishings. Spacious rooms offer sea views, space and a zen-like vibe plus there's fab dining. Equal parts soothing and stylish. See More

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  • PlayPark Lodge Heavenly (California) 13 rooms from $175

    Active Holiday  -  Spend days outdoors all year round with skiing, snowboarding, boating, riding, hiking, hot air ballooning and paragliding
    Families  -  The well-designed family rooms come with a double bed and cosy bunk beds that will work for kids of all ages
    Whirlpool Bathtub  -  The King and Queen Suites come with spa baths and gas fireplaces
    Lakeside  -  It's a 10 minute drive to Lake Tahoe
    GardenPet friendlyParking

    A welcoming inn with a laid-back friendly feel. Homely rooms feature cosy schemes, plush furnishings and contemporary luxe-style decor; some come with spa baths and fireplaces. The yard and spacious plot have outdoor furniture. Works equally well for couples, friends or families. See More

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  • Black Bear Lodge Heavenly (California) 216 rooms from $179

    Back to Nature  -  Set in the between Lake Tahoe and the mountains, this hotel makes a beautiful back-to-nature retreat
    Families  -  Families are well-catered to here, with self-catering cabins that have multiple bedrooms
    Local exploring  -  With the lake and the mountains close by, there is lots to explore local to the hotel
    Kayaking  -  Explore Lake Tahoe on a kayaking excursion, great for a family day out. Rent kayaks from the hotel
    Air conditioningParking
    Recommended by  -  Chambres d’hôtes de Charme CHC

    This chic mountain retreat is located in South Lake Tahoe. The hotel offers private cabins and a lodge with rooms. The modern interiors have stone wall features and wooden beams which add an alpine feel, plus cosy fireplaces for warming up after long walks; the perfect spot for a hideaway holiday. See More

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  • Sparrow's Lodge Palm Springs (California) 20 rooms from $200

    Artworks
    Sights nearby  -  5 minutes away from Palm Springs Art Museum.
    Tennis  -  Tennis court is for all to use.
    Restrictions on children
    Air conditioningTennisSwimming PoolGardenParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Secluded boutique lodge escape with no screens but gorgeous pool and wood fires. Rooms all showcase wooden furnishing to mirror the great outdoors. The Barn Kitchen offers delicious bites and the bar is well stocked. Koffi town is close-by for restaurants. Relax is the theme. See More

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  • Banning House Lodge Catalina Island 12 rooms from $205

    Total relaxation  -  A tranquil environment works perfectly for those looking for a quiet place to rest, read, relax & enjoy the scenery
    Local exploring  -  A great base for those looking to do a few sightseeing tours of the island at a leisurely pace
    Back to Nature  -  Surrounded by palm trees, rural land and walking distance to coves, beaches & hillsides
    Kayaking  -  Equipment available at the lodge for guest use includes kayaks, mountain bikes, paddleboards, SCUBA & snorkelling gear
    GardenViewsParkingNo pets

    An early 20th-century summer home converted into charming sea-view B&B. Built on an intimate scale, the Craftman's style lodge offers plenty of shared relaxation areas & has a homely feel. Views from rooms & terraces overlook Two Harbours & surroundings. Rustic & relaxed pied-à-terre for exploring. See More

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  • The Deerfield Lodge at Heavenly Heavenly (California) 22 rooms from $210

    Back to Nature  -  Surrounded by big gardens and atmospheric pine trees, with Lake Tahoe at walking distance, this is a fab nature-facing retreat
    Active Holiday  -  Lake Tahoe delivers outdoor activities all year round; come for mountain biking & kayaking in the summer or winter sports
    Great walks  -  One of the best ways to explore the lake is to walk around its perimetre, stopping for swims at sandy beaches along the way
    Minimum Stay  -  There is a two night minimum stay
    GardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A contemporary take on a traditional Alpine lodge. Set on a wooded plot a few blocks from Lake Tahoe, all rooms feature large well-equipped kitchenettes, gas fires and balconies. There's lots of outdoor furniture for the warm months. Spacious, modern & extremely comfortable. Great for long stays. See More

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  • Timber House Lodge Chester, California 9 rooms from $211

    Active Holiday  -  Activities are on offer throughout the year; get out into the great outdoors and explore mountains, lakes, and wildlife areas
    Families  -  The one-bedroom suite offers a great accomodation for families or friends, with spacious living and dining areas
    Birdwatching  -  There are several spots within a mile of the property that offer great birding; look out for waterfowl, wading and shorebirds
    Sights nearby  -  Architecture-lovers will like touring the town exploring its range of historic buildings that date from the 19th century
    Air conditioningPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Charming motel-style inn located in the small logging town of Chester. Each of the contemporary, cosy and deluxe rooms has a unique theme ranging from gypsies and ranchers to cowboys; several have fireplaces. A comfortable base to return to after days outdoors. Restaurant and brewery coming soon. See More

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  • Bodega Bay Lodge Bodega Bay, California 83 rooms from $250

    Back to Nature  -  Set on 7 acres overlooking Doran Regional Park and the Sonoma Coast, with whale watching, bird watching and nature trails galore
    Total relaxation  -  A peaceful retreat from the everyday, scenic firepits, fine wines, excellent food and indulgent spa treatments
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A wonderfully laid back lodge, sandwiched between Doran Regional Park and the Sonoma Coast. The rooms are elegant and comfortable, and the best come with wood-burning fires and balconies overlooking the ocean. The restaurant is sustainability focused and the 7 acre estate inspires calm. See More

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  • Napa Valley Lodge Yountville 55 rooms from $293

    Great walks  -  Skyline Wilderness Park has 850 acres of trails and has something for everyone.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor- year round.
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A romantic hideaway commanding spectacular views of the renowned Napa Valley. From Champagne breakfast delivered to your door, to watching the sunset from your private balcony, this is a truly pampering experience. The rooms are simple, elegant and extremely comfortable. A wine lover's paradise! See More

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  • Beltane Ranch Glen Ellen, California 6 rooms from $295

    Country Escape  -  A bucolic working ranch with vineyards - country escapes hardly get more idyllic
    Restaurant  -  Not a restaurant as such but al-fresco four course dinners with wine pairings
    Tennis  -  Pack your racket and play some tennis on the hotel's outdoor hard court
    Great walks  -  Enjoy long scenic walks starting straight from the property
    TennisRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A charming working ranch and vineyard offering six airy rooms and utter peace and quiet. Each room is traditionally styled with whirring fans, hardwood floors, and french doors leading out onto perfect bucolic scenes. Four-course meals are served outside, paired with local wines. Rural perfection. See More

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  • Nick's Cove California 12 rooms from $340

    Foodies  -  Nick’s Cove Restaurant and Oyster Bar is an all-American roadside stop serving simple but excellent seafood
    Short break  -  Just an hour outside San Franciso on the famed Highway 1, the perfect choice for a weekend escape
    Great walks  -  Spend a day hiking in Tomales Bay State Park
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    A handful of charming cottages attached to the long-standing Nick's Cove Restaurant and Oyster Bar. Accommodation is quaint and traditional, packed with antiques and offering sea views. Spend days outdoors on the coast before returning for some hearty seafood. See More

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  • Plumpjack Inn Olympic Valley 55 rooms from $349

    Skiing  -  Squaw Valley is North America’s largest ski resort and the inn offers ski in-and-out access. Ski at altitudes up to 8,200 feet
    Weddings  -  The property offers different wedding packages (and natural backdrops) throughout the year
    Active Holiday  -  Enjoy the outdoors all year round: excellent skiing, hiking, mountain biking are on offer
    Great walks  -  In spring, summer and autumn, hike on some of California's most beautiful trails straight from the property
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Sociable and lively lodge-style resort. The pebble and clapboard rustic exterior contrasts with sleek contemporary interiors; think deep carpets, thick duvets, cosy cream palette & rustic wooden furniture; many rooms have mountain views. Perfect 'après ski' haunt for friends and families alike. See More

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  • Highlands Ranch Resort Mill Creek, California 7 rooms from $393

    Romantic Break  -  It's hard to imagine somewhere more romantic; log fires, breakfast in bed, mountain views and cosy suites to return to at night
    Back to Nature  -  Landscapes don't get much better than this; there's open space for miles and views over snow-capped peaks, forests and lakes
    Active Holiday  -  The area is a real outdoor playground offering activities throughout the year in this stunning and remote landscape
    Business meetings  -  A brilliant setting for a luxurious off-site retreat with 1,200 sq ft of meeting space and private dining room
    RestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Upscale mountain retreat in a stunning setting next to Lassen Volcanic National Park. Heavenly suites and cottages exude a sleek but rustic glamour with fireplaces and impressive views; some have hot tubs. The main lodge acts as a gathering point with restaurant, bar and large deck. Heaven on earth. See More

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  • The Inn at Newport Ranch California 7 rooms from $460

    Back to Nature  -  A real back to nature experience - a 2000-acre ranch where you can either cosy up in your room or get into the great outdoors
    Local exploring  -  The perfect spot to hideaway with your significant other (better yet - it's adult only too)
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Adult Only
    SpaGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Set within 2000-acres this off-the-beaten-track ranch is the perfect place to hideaway in nature. Cosy rooms are individually styled but each is packed with antiques (with a little cowboy charm). Outdoors, there are a wide range of activities from hiking to horse riding. An idyllic rural getaway. See More

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  • Sacred Rock Resort Mendocino 19 rooms from $595

    Back to Nature  -  Boasting an epic location set on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean just moments from the wide sandy Greenwood State Beach
    Great walks  -  Go for long walks along the beaches and through the stunning Navarro River Redwoods State Park
    Views  -  With unfettered views over the Pacific Ocean the location here is simply stunning
    Wine tasting  -  Anderson Valley Wine Country produces particularly good Pinot Noir
    RestaurantDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A collection of houses and cottages set in a stunning location perched atop the rugged bluffs of California’s coastline. While exteriors are charming and traditional, interiors are sleek and modern with large expanses of glass, luxe bathrooms and woodburning stoves. Ideal for an escape to nature. See More

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