The Hotel Guru
California
20 Luxury Hotels on the California Coast

20 Luxury Hotels on the California Coast

California’s long coastline offers a huge range of luxurious holidaying opportunities, from remote regions where you can have long stretches of beach to yourself, to glamorous, lively hubs like Santa Monica and Malibu, known for their nightlife. Come for the surf, stay for the cocktails or the aquarium, or the farm-to-fork foodies culture, or the California lifestyle, but you probably won’t have time to do everything you hoped to do. We can’t necessarily help you fit in everything California has to offer, but we can save you time by pre-researching accommodation options, and our Guru’s curated list of 20 luxury hotels on the California Coast is a great place to start. From San Diego in the south to Crescent City in the north, and all the beach hubs in between, our Hotel Gurus have selected a wide range of properties and styles from all-singing-all-dancing resorts you don't need to leave to chic little B&Bs and urban hang-outs.

For Ocean Views

The Surfrider is a super cool, 20 room boutique hotel on Malibu beach. If your idea of luxury includes stylish, Scandinavian decor, mid-century antiques, coffee table books about art, scented candles and incredible ocean views, then The Surfrider will definitely be your cup of tea. The rooftop restaurant with perfect views is extremely thorough with its sourcing and menu creation — and it’s open to guests only.
Set on 20 acres of lush gardens right up against the sands of a Pacific beach, the Four Seasons the Biltmore is a spacious Spanish resort hotel with fabulous views and plenty of panache. There are around 200 rooms, suites and villas, plus a choice of three restaurants, and an impressive spa. But the palm gardens really tip this one over into paradise.

For a Luxurious Beach Break

Right on Santa Monica Beach, with pier views, Loews Santa Monica, is large, spacious and luxurious. All of the 350 odd rooms and suites have a private terrace or balcony, and both restaurants and the pool also have ocean and pier views. Our Gurus love the added touches, like daily morning yoga classes on the beach.
We have a number of spectacularly located hotels on this list, but the Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel has got to be one of the most spectacular, positioned on a clifftop overlooking Salt Creek Beach. This is a big place, with almost 400 rooms, suites and villas, and its facilities are correspondingly impressive, with everything from ping pong to a movie library, yoga and Beach Butlers. There are kids clubs for all ages too.
Santa Barbara’s Rosewood Miramar Beach also has Beach Butlers, if that’s a fresh concept that piqued your interest. This family friendly hotel sits right on the sand of Miramar Beach and also supplies beach toys, chairs and umbrellas, and has a fantastic indoor clubhouse for kids, with an Explorers Club offering cool activities all day long. There are two pools, three bars, a beachwear boutique and around 160 rooms and suites, spread out along the coast.

For Direct Beach Access

Moments from the pier, and right on the sand, the Malibu Beach Inn is spacious and stylishly unfussy, with incredible ocean views and a private beach. There are 47 rooms and suites, some of them perfect for families, plus a super hip restaurant and spa.
Laguna Beach’s Surf and Sand Resort is perfectly positioned just above the sand, overlooking the ocean from an unbeatable number of balconies and terraces — plus the infinity pool. There are 167 rooms and suites, all of them simple and spacious, designed to make the most of the huge windows and private terraces. Plus an award-winning spa and romantic terrace restaurant.

For a Luxury Hideaway

The Hotel Californian is an exclusive bolthole on the Santa Barbara coastline, just off a Pacific beach. The deco is American Riviera at its finest, borrowed stylishly from the European versions — in monochrome. The chic pool, spa and restaurant mean this is the sort of hotel you don’t need to leave.
Terranea is a stunning resort on 102 acres of its own oceanfront land, only 30 minutes drive from L.A.. It’s big, there are 582 rooms, suites and villas, and there’s an excellent selection of bars and restaurants, and a list of facilities that includes golf, snorkelling, horse riding and a kids club.

For Romance

The Casa del Mar is a stylish hotel right on the beach in Santa Monica, with palm trees, Mediterranean style architecture, objets d’art and a lively live music cocktail bar. The hotel has 129 bright and airy rooms and suites — suites have their own spa baths — and you’re moments from Santa Monica pier.

Luxury for Families

The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica is an old charmer, having hosted guests in its luxurious embrace since 1921. Its 300 odd rooms, suites and private bungalows are spread amongst five acres of palm-dotted gardens, and you can see the ocean though the trees from almost everywhere. The facilities are really top notch, and kids get the full treatment of toys on arrival and child-sized bathrobes.
Tower 23 isn’t a tower, it’s more of an oversized low-rise villa, sitting on a precarious sandy ridge just off the beach at San Diego — and an elegant contemporary architectural masterpiece with it. Its 44 rooms, suites and family suites are spacious, with fantastic ocean views, and there’s plenty of space for families to spread out and feel at home. The restaurant has an excellent range, and the location is ideal for exploring, as well as enjoying the beach.
The Lido House, just off the main street of Newport Beach, is a Cape Cod-style hotel, with 130 beach-y feeling rooms and suites, an impressive spa, and Newport’s only rooftop bar. The pool is really something, bound to be a crowd pleaser if you’re travelling as a family, and there’s a games room, and great children’s menu too.

For Californian Chic

Shutters on the Beach is known for its classic Californian cool, low key luxury, discreet service, award-winning celebrity spa and private beach. It’s just a short drive from Beverly Hills and Hollywood, but if you book a sea view room, your views of the Pacific sunset will make you feel a lot further away… Expect nautical chic and inbuilt hot tubs, three restaurants and an impressive wine list.

For Foodies

The Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club is an exclusive ranch in beautiful wine country just back from the Malibu coast, with rustic-luxe decor in its 56 rooms, suites and bungalows. The resort isn’t on the beach, but it does have a private beach club, and will ferry you between the two, so you’ve got the best of wine country and the beach! And there's a couple of great dining options.
The Harbour House Inn is a charming six room lodge with a really impressive restaurant, right on the coast, backed by the Mendocino National Forest. The accommodation is beautiful and traditional, and you can have a room in the main house, or a private cottage. The 2 Michelin starred seafood restaurant, known for its strict 30 mile radius sourcing, is worth the journey on its own.

For Oceanside Relaxation

The Ritz Carlton Bacara is a collection of Spanish style buildings housing a large, spacious resort of 358 rooms, just 15 minutes from Santa Barbara. The ocean views are unobstructed, and the vast majority of rooms have sea views and private balconies. And the scale of the resort means the facilities are excellent, including a vast spa which offers the best in relaxation.
La Playa Hotel is a grand, ocean-view mansion right by the beach at Carmel-by-the-Sea — it’s officially the closest hotel to the beach. La Playa’s 75 rooms and suites are elegantly decorated in unfussy neutrals, making the most of the large windows and sea views. The grounds are lushly beautiful, with an outdoor pool and giant chessboard.
L'Auberge del Mar is a luxurious resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean in pretty Del Mar, with a private track down to the beach, complimentary beach gear and a beach valet in season. The hotel has 120 coast-themed rooms and suites, with lots of natural light and private outdoor spaces. The spa is ocean themed too, and the restaurant offers the best seasonal southern California produce.

For Great Value Luxury

In a spectacular spot overlooking the Mendocino coastline, The Heritage House Resort has 47 smart, spacious rooms-with-a-view, and a restaurant and bar with a view too. Chic and affordable, and perfect if you want to watch the waves from your tub.

Still not sure where to book?

You could refine your search to just the best places to stay in Malibu, the best places to stay in Santa Monica, the best places to stay in Newport Beach, Santa Barbara or Santa Cruz
Consider our picks on the list of 20 Luxury Hotels in California
or 20 of the Best Beach Hotels in California
You could expand your search to include ALL the best places to stay in California
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- The Heritage House Resort Mendocino (5200 N Hwy 1) 47 rooms from $246
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Head over and see the Taoist Temple of Kwan Tai, a California Historical Landmark
  Great walks  -  Enjoy a walk through the Coast Botanical Gardens
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  The Heritage House Resort boasts a spectacular clifftop location, perched above a private beach area on Mendocino's coast. Smart and spacious accommodation with fantastic views. Lovely meals served at the restaurant, whilst the 5200 lounge is the perfect place to relax with a tipple. A top spot. See More
  
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- Tower 23 San Diego (Pacific Beach) 44 rooms from $282
  
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  Surfing  -  Pacific Beach is close and great for picking up a board and getting in the ocean.
  Fishing  -  Ask at reception for the recommended spots.
  Great walks  -  Along the beach front or in town.
  Local markets  -  Close to San Diego city centre.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A contemporary architectural masterpiece on the seafront, interiors mirror the modern facades and fresh, clean cut style. Rooms have spectacular sea views, all the mod-cons and in-room spa treatments are available. Steak & Seafood restaurant is a must, but the location lends itself to exploring. See More
  
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- Terranea Los Angeles (California) 582 rooms from $287
  
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  Local markets  -  Seaport Village is worth a visit if you are interested in seeing the daily fishermans catch.
  Hideaway  -  In 102 acres of oceanfront.
  Kids Club  -  Fully staffed.
  Outstanding location
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  102 acres of oceanfront more Mediterranean in feel than South California. Stunning spot, activities for all and only 30 minutes away from LA. Rooms are light, spacious and capture the spectacular view. In-house restaurants and bars are inside or by the pool or ocean. Great retreat for all the family See More
  
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- Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel Santa Monica 347 rooms from $342
  
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  Families  -  With poolside games, the beach right there, and a number of family-friendly sights nearby
  Beach Life  -  Offering a perfect setting on Ocean Avenue just steps from Santa Monica beach
  Restaurant  -  Choose between Ocean & Vine or Blue Streak for the best in Californian cuisine
  Local markets  -  Sample local produce at Santa Monica Farmers Market
  
  An idyllic coastal stay located right on Santa Monica beach. Light and spacious rooms all have private balconies and large rain showers - suites come with free-standing bathtubs. Both restaurants boast iconic views of the pier. As suitable for families as it is for couples. A luxury escape. See More
  
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- Ritz Carlton Bacara Santa Barbara (California) 358 rooms from $350
  
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  Kayaking  -  Kayaking and Paddle boards are both avaliable to rent.
  Great walks  -  Along the coast or through the Med-vibe town Goleta
  Tennis  -  Four clay courts to be used by all guests.
  Kids Club  -  Fully staffed.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A stunning ocean-facing resort 15 minutes from Santa Barbara. Spanish style white washed buildings give a village feel. There are various dining options from fine dining steak to sushi. Rooms and suites are luxuriously appointed plus there's a brilliant spa and activities galore. See More
  
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- Lido House Newport Beach 130 rooms from $375
  
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  Families  -  With a great children’s menus, cots, an arcade games area and fantastic pool- this hotel is perfect for families
  Beach Life  -  Within walking distance, Newport Beach offers 10 miles of pristine coastline for surfing, swimming, or sunbathing
  Sights nearby  -  For fun family days out visit Catalina Island or two-and-a-half miles south is the carnivalesque Balboa Fun Zone
  Restaurant  -  Enjoy the Mayor’s Table Pacific Pub and Kitchen which offers deliciously creative menus
  
  This boutique hotel boasts a Cape-Cod style house, located just off the main street of Balboa peninsula. Rooms have a beachy vibe with wooden panelling and private balconies. Indulge at the spa and by the pool in a private cabana. On-site 'coastal-curators' can plan the perfect day out for guests. See More
  
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- La Playa Hotel Carmel (CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA) 75 rooms from $399
  
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  Luxury  -  Known as the "Grand Dame of Carmel" - this beautiful mansion set in perfectly manicured gardens is the height of luxury
  Beach Life  -  Boasting the position of the closest hotel to the beach in town
  Restaurant  -  Bud's offers contemporary comfort food classics
  Swimming Pool  -  Heated outdoor pool
  
  A grand mansion with ocean views set in perfectly manicured gardens. Elegant rooms boast luxury bathrooms and private terraces to enjoy a glass of local wine on. The grounds hold a lovely outdoor pool and a lifesize chess board. Champagne breakfasts are included - a luxury beach escape. See More
  
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- L'Auberge del Mar San Diego (Del Mar) 120 rooms from $400
  
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  Beach Life  -  The resort offers a private walking path down to the local beach, as well as complimentary beach gear and a seasonal beach valet
  Sights nearby  -  Balboa Park is the cultural heart of San Diego, with fifteen museums, eight gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo
  Spa  -  The spa's treatments focus on the healing powers of the ocean
  Restaurant  -  Coastline uses seasonal ingredients with a true SoCal style
  
  A luxury resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the picturesque village of Del Mar. Rooms are bright and airy with coastal themes, private outdoor spaces and white marble bathrooms. Discover the healing powers of the ocean at the spa or relax in a cabana poolside. A spoiling escape. See More
  
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- Hotel Californian Santa Barbara (California) 121 rooms from $407
  
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  Hideaway  -  With a chic pool, spa and restaurant within the hotel, there is no need to leave this refined beach hideaway
  Beach Life  -  Set on one of the most exclusive stretches of seaside in America, this hotel makes a luxury beach break
  Foodies  -  Foodies flock to this hotel for its acclaimed Mediterranean-influenced restaurant, Blackbird
  Surfing  -  Surf Rincon, one of California's most famous waves; get started with surf lessons, available from a range of local providers
  
  This exclusive bolt-hole sits on the Santa Barbara coast, a stone's throw from the Pacific Ocean. The hotel's interiors ooze American Riviera style, with monochrome textiles and Mediterranean-style tiles in the urban seaside rooms. A celebrated spa and restaurant complete this VIP escape. See More
  
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- The Surfrider Malibu (CA) 20 rooms from $325
  
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  Beach Life  -  The ultimate beach chic getaway- paired back luxury rooms offering views of the pacific and the best surfing beach in California
  Total relaxation  -  Relax, unwind and enjoy- rooftop cocktails by the firepit and listening to waves crashing on your private terrace
  Surfing  -  Take advantage of your location and hit the beach for some surf (beginners should ask reception for instructors)
  Sights nearby  -  Within a short walk of Malibu Pier, a great place to people watch and grab a bite
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  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! See More
  
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- Casa del Mar, Santa Monica Santa Monica 129 rooms from $428
  
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  Local exploring  -  Wander down to the Santa Monica pier or into the city, with lots to explore close to the hotel
  Beach Life  -  Set on the seafront in Santa Monica, this hotel makes a great option for a luxury beach break
  Romantic Break  -  The bright and airy suites are perfect for a romantic getaway, with a spa bath in every room
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the neighbouring Santa Monica pier, featuring a classic seafront amusement park and aquarium
  
  This stylish hotel is located on the oceanfront in Santa Monica, California. Airy guestrooms create a luxury Mediterranean feel with white linens against oyster accents and dark wood furniture. Meanwhile, the suites feel homely with eclectic objets d'art. Head to the chic Terrazza for nightly music. See More
  
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- Harbor House Inn, California California 6 rooms from $450
  
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  Foodies  -  The beautiful coastal restaurant serves dishes made with produce found within a 30-mile radius - a standout dining experience
  Beach Life  -  Located on the beautiful and rugged Northern Californian coast with a winding path down to a secluded beach
  Restaurant  -  The fabulous restaurant boasts 2 Michelin Stars
  Good wine list  -  Serving Mendocino wines
  
  A charming lodge packing a real punch with a standout restaurant and elegant traditional design. Choose from a cottage or a room in the main house - all filled with antiques, brimming with character, and offering sea views. The seafood restaurant is worth the journey alone. Boutique luxury defined. See More
  
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- Surf and Sand Resort Laguna Beach 167 rooms from $469
  
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  Romantic Break  -  With an award-winning spa, romantic terrace dining, and rooms with private terraces - this is an idyllic romantic hideaway
  Beach Life  -  Commanding wonderful ocean views and just a short walk from the sands
  Restaurant  -  Splashes restaurant offers fine dining, south Californian cuisine in a seaside setting
  Surfing  -  Hire a board and hit the waves
  
  A luxury hotel boasting an elevated position for epic ocean views. Spacious rooms are simple and stylish with large floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto private terraces. Complete with an infinity pool, an award-winning spa, and romantic terrace fine dining. An indulgent stay. See More
  
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- Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows Santa Monica 297 rooms from $499
  
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  Beach Life  -  The Beach Club covers a private area of white-sand Santa Monica beach. Enjoy butler service, beach volleyball and boogie boards
  Families  -  Kid's will feel pampered with children's bathrobes, buckets & spades at the beach club, special minibar items & toys on arrival
  Sights nearby  -  Head into central LA for the day and visit Universal Studios, Melrose Avenue and Dolby Theatre
  Great walks  -  Stretch your legs in the gorgeous 26 acre Palisades Park, just next door
  
  Uber-luxury historic beach resort. This grande dame has been around since 1921 and knows what it's doing. Rooms, suites and bungalows are spread over five acres of lush palm-filled grounds with ocean views everywhere you look. Five-star amenities compliment the pared-back classic luxury aesthetic. See More
  
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- Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel Laguna Beach (Dana Point) 396 rooms from $579
  
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  Families  -  Activities are well laid out for all age groups from toddlers to teenagers, giving parents an opportunity to simply unwind
  Beach Life  -  Beach Butlers organise everything you could need for a day by the sea from loungers to appearing with sun lotion!
  Spa  -  Signature treatments highlight local ingredients and healing rituals at Spa Alkemia
  Restaurant  -  Various options including gourmet steakhouse, and superb pan-Latin coastal cuisine
  
  This luxury hotel is all about the spectacular cliff position overlooking Salt Creek Beach. Well-appointed rooms offer wonderful views (mostly ocean) and classic design. Just moments from a (renowned surf) beach and packed with activities, this is a great choice for both families and couples. See More
  
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- Rosewood Miramar Beach Santa Barbara (California) 161 rooms from $716
  
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  Beach Life  -  Take advantage of the hotel's complimentary chairs & umbrellas, beach butler, beach toys and sports activity equipment
  Families  -  From children's spa services, beach games, kids menus and a special tailored program, children will not be kept busy!
  Total relaxation  -  Relax in the spa, by the pool or on the beach
  Spa  -  Sense spa the only Forbes Five-Star spa in Santa Barbara. Treatments focus on healing traditions and using native plants
  
  A luxury family-friendly hotel situated right on Miramar beach. Rooms are elegant and light with incredible marble bathrooms. Spend a day relaxing by the beach, spa or pool. A choice of three bars serve innovative cocktails and the cuisine is farm-to-table. Beach perfection. See More
  
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- Calamigos Guest Ranch & Beach Club Malibu (CA) 56 rooms from $657
  
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  Local exploring  -  Set in the verdant plains of the Malibu wine country, this hotel is perfectly placed for local vineyard exploring
  Romantic Break  -  Couples love the romantic private suites at this hotel; book a couples' massage for a romantic evening in
  Beach Life  -  With an exclusive beach club within the resort, this hotel is perfect for a relaxing seaside getaway
  Barefoot Luxury  -  For total relaxation.
  
  This hotel is located on an exclusive ranch on the Malibu coast in California. Guestrooms blend rustic fittings with boutique furniture for a luxury home feel; book a bungalow for a private patio and separate living space. Unwind at the VIP beach club after a wine tasting; a chic country stay. See More
  
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- Four Seasons The Biltmore Santa Barbara (California) 207 rooms from $645
  
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  Sailing  -  Santa Barbara Harbour and Waterfront has a lot of sailing opportunities.
  Great walks  -  Along Butterfly Beach, or even East Beach just a bit up the coast.
  Sights nearby  -  Stearns Wharf nearby for art galleries, restaurants and bars.
  Fishing  -  Readily avaliable at the local harbour or ask at reception.
  
  The 20 acres of lush garden on the oceanfront give a Mediterranean feel and beautiful Pacific views. The spacious are Spanish-esqe, with fabulous views of garden, sea or pool. Bella Vista offers organic Italian food or seafood at Tydes, with cocktails at Ty Lounge. Loads to do and a brilliant spa. See More
  
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- Shutters on the Beach Santa Monica (California) 186 rooms from $568
  
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  Beach Life  -  With its stunning beachfront location, you can't be better placed to enjoy both city and beach.
  Great walks  -  Grab a gelato and take a stroll down the popular Third Street Promenade.
  Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  
  A stylish beachfront property providing the ultimate low key luxury stay in Santa Monica. With three gourmet restaurants, a spa, fitness centre, pool and private beach there is no end to the ways you can relax and unwind. Rooms are classic California cool design with nautical colours and balconies. See More
  
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- Malibu Beach Inn Malibu 47 rooms from $311
  
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  Surfing  -  Visit legendary surf spots like Zuma and Surfrider beaches.
  Lively  -  Hip and happening.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  
  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. See More
  
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