20 Kid Friendly Hotels in California

California is a great pick for a family holiday. Its varied coastline is perfect for exploring, or for just mucking around on a family beach break; its national parks are some of the best known in the United States and are unforgettable places for an outdoorsy family adventure; its mountains are ideal for family ski trips; and its centres are packed with historic sights and world-class museums. And of course San Diego has SeaWorld and LegoLand! The choice is the real challenge, California has lots of family friendly hotels and resorts, and there’s something for every budget and traveller type — from campers, to glampers to luxury-resort-lovers. So choosing the best family hotels in California can easily become a time consuming research job. But our Gurus have started if off for you with their list of recommendations for the best kid friendly hotels in California. These aren’t just hotels and resorts with great family facilities, these hotels have all got something extra that your kids will really love too.

For Family Friendly Beach Breaks

• The Sanctuary Beach Resort is a chic collection of on-the-beach bungalows in a beautiful spot in the sand dunes just north of Monterey. This is a wonderful stretch of beach, and these 60 rooms, suites and villas have direct, and relatively private access to it. The decor is luxurious but unfussy, and makes the most of the location and ocean views, plus there’s a pool, spa, bar, and a restaurant which also does picnics to order. For families, suites sleep up to four and cribs are provided at no extra cost. Lots of space and lots of peace.
• The Dream Inn is a contemporary hotel in a fantastic spot on Cowell Beach, Santa Cruz. The light, spacious rooms (with rollaway beds for kids on request) have floor to ceiling windows and balconies overlooking the ocean, and a retro/ nautical feel — as does the whole hotel — with some surfboard art thrown into the mix. The laid-back restaurant specialises in seafood.
• Just two minutes from the beach, the Santa Barbara Inn is a Mediterranean style boutique hotel with 70 spacious rooms and suites. Stay on one side of the inn and you get Pacific views, and on the other you get views of the Santa Ynez mountains. The Italian restaurant is very popular, the suites are large, and under 16 year olds stay free.
• Lido House in Newport Beach has beach-y decor that reminds you more of Cape Cod — think wood panelling, blues and neutrals and well arranged vintage and antique furniture. The pool and spa, children’s menus, games rooms and the miles and miles of pristine beach, make this a great luxury choice for families.

For Urban Explorations

• The Claremont Club & Spa is a large and luxurious resort in Berkeley, overlooking San Francisco Bay. The 276 rooms come in very varied shapes and sizes, so there’s something to suit every family, but they’re all spacious, light and chic. There’s a huge resort-style pool, a lap pool and a kids’ pool too, plus a spa, tennis courts and a choice of two restaurants. This is a really easy choice for families wanting to visit this area.
• The Hotel Zephyr is a large hotel right next to Fisherman’s Wharf, a San Francisco landmark with incredible views. The hotel’s 360 rooms and suites offer plenty of variety in size, but all have a charmingly fun nautical feel to the decor, and great views. The games room and large courtyard will appeal to families, as will the location.
• The Lodge at the Presidio is a barracks turned unique boutique hotel, located within Presidio Park, right beside the Golden Gate Bridge — this is the closest hotel to the bridge. The 42 rooms are elegant and contemporary, with high ceilings, and clean, contemporary lines. Some of the suites sleep up to four.

For National Park Access

• Yosemite Bug Mountain Resort is a rustic retreat idyllically positioned in the forest on the outskirts of Yosemite National Park. This is a great choice for groups because the accommodation options are excellent, ranging from tents to bunk rooms, family suites and romantic doubles. There’s an eco-friendly spa, and a cafe with a daily changing menu. And of course there’s plenty to do!
• Also close to Yosemite, the Evergreen Lodge has provided families with an outdoor escape for almost a century. Its collection of rooms, suites and private cottages is rustic and comfortable, with open fireplaces and plenty of wood panelling — but don’t worry, the bathrooms are thoroughly modern! There’s a saltwater pool, hotel tub, bar and games room, and plenty of space and quiet.

For Family Friendly Ski Breaks

• The Village at Squaw Valley is a charming, 186 room hotel, right in the heart of the Olympic Valley village, but almost close enough to the slopes to ski right into. This hotel has plenty of traditional alpine charm and warmth, think fireplaces, wood and balconies overlooking a bustling square. And they serve hot apple cider in the lobby. Family sized apartments have up to three bedrooms, and there’s a ski school almost next door.
• Overlooking Lake Tahoe, and just minutes from the Heavenly mountain resort, the Hotel Azure is a contemporary mountain retreat with a rustic feel and a great range of accommodation options. In addition to the possibilities presented by the location, there’s plenty to do onsite, what with the large pool, games room and bike hire. There’s no restaurant but the very efficient concierge team will help you out.

For Family Friendly Resort Living

• The Kona Kai Resort & Spa overlooks the Kona Kai marina in San Diego, offering stylish accommodation in a range of sizes and configurations, all along a man-made peninsula. Expect water views — possibly of elegant boats — nautical themed decor, two landscaped resort pools and a private man-made beach. The facilities are really good, with lots to do onsite and slightly offsite — think kayaking and snorkelling trips — and the restaurants benefit from wonderful sunset views.
• The Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel is an all-two-room-suite resort in a superb location between Lake Tahoe and Heavenly Mountain Resort. All of the 400 suites are well equipped, and the resort offers an impressive array of facilities and treats, including an indoor pool and hot tub, and impressive American restaurant. Kids under 17 stay free, and there’s a kids’ day camp with great outdoorsy activities.

For Home from Home Comforts

• Le Parc Suite Hotel is a chic, all-suite West Hollywood hotel with 150 odd rooms and suites featuring plenty of brightly coloured artwork. Amongst the room choices the family suites come with their own kitchens, living areas, balconies and sofa beds. The facilities are excellent, and it’s only a short walk to Santa Monica Boulevard or Beverly Hills.

For Larger Families and Groups

• PlayPark Lodge is a small, welcoming inn in Heavenly, by Lake Tahoe, with just 13 rooms, but set on a spacious plot of land. The decor is cosy, and some of the more luxurious rooms have spa baths and fireplaces, and there’s a shared central courtyard which makes it an ideal choice for larger groups or families with older children as well as younger.

For Family Friendly Luxury

• The Ritz Carlton Marina del Rey is an opulent, family-friendly hotel right on the waterfront at Marina del Rey. There are 300 odd rooms and suites, all with a coastal nod, marble bathrooms, walk-in showers and private balconies. There are facilities to suit all ages including two tennis courts, a spa and farm-to-table restaurant, plus a waterfront pool and bike rentals. And you’re well positioned to explore Venice Beach, Santa Monica and Playa del Ray.
• The SLS Beverly Hills is a large and chic hotel right between Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. There are almost 300 rooms and suites, all of them spacious and beautifully designed. There are two restaurants — the best one for families is Tres (Bazaar is fine dining) — plus an incredible pool on the roof terrace, a gym and spa.
• The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows is a super chic beach resort, which has been pleasing families since the 1920s. Its 300 odd rooms, suites and bungalows are spread out over five acres of lush, palm-dotted grounds, and it feels as if you can see the ocean from almost everywhere you care to look for it. The facilities are five star, and include a beach club on Santa Monica beach, a toy on arrival for kids, a poolside outdoor cinema, and plenty of palm-dotted gardens.

For Family Friendly Escapes

• Mission Ranch is a working ranch, sent on 22 acres overlooking Point Lobos and the Pacific Ocean. As well as the livestock, this ranch has onsite accommodation — 31 rooms, suites and family suites, all spaciously designed, with fireplaces and private balconies, and many have whirlpool tubs too. Plus a popular American restaurant and piano bar. There’s lots to do onsite, but you’re also very close to the beach, a state park and a golf club.
• Small, charming and rustic, the Hounds Tooth Inn’s white timber presence sits brightly in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountains, a perfect spot for exploring Yosemite National Park. There are 13 rooms and suites, and a cottage for families. All are cosy and modern, with open fires and beautiful views. The inn has three and a half acres of its own gardens and countryside around.

Still not sure which to book?

• You could browse by location, and check out our recommendations for the best places to stay in Palm Springs or the best places to stay in best places to stay in Southern California
• Or browse by national parks, and consider the best places to stay in Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley National Park, Redwood National Park or Yosemite
• Or refine your search to the best family hotels in San Francisco, in Los Angeles or by the beach.
• 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.

  • Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort Midpines, California from $75

    
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    Groups  -  With a wide range of accommodation from bunk rooms to tents, this is a great option for groups of any size

    Families  -  Choose from one of the family suites and spend days enjoying some of the many activities

    Back to Nature  -  Near Yosemite National Park - this forest lodge is the perfect escape to nature

    Restaurant  -  June Bug Cafe serves a daily changing menu for dinner

    

    A laid-back rustic retreat set within the forest outside of Yosemite National Park. A range of accommodation gives options for all, from charming doubles to bunk rooms and tents. The June Bug Cafe and eco-spa complete the hippie feel at this fun nature stay. See More

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  • Mission Ranch Carmel (California) 31 rooms from $125

    
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    Birdwatching  -  Carmel River State Beach is home to scuba diving but more famous for the scenic bird sancutury.

    Sights nearby  -  18th Century Mission San Carlos Borroméo del río Carmelo.

    Whirlpool Bathtub  -  Many of the rooms come with whirlpool tubs

    Tennis  -  Tennis courts avaliable for all guests.

    

    This working 22-acre ranch overlooks Point Lobos and the Pacific Ocean. The large, classic rooms have fireplaces, private balconies and bathrooms. American cuisine is on the menu and the Piano Bar is popular with guests and locals alike. Tennis courts and sheep on site. Beaches a stone's throw away See More

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  • The Village at Palisades Tahoe Olympic Valley 186 rooms from $129

    
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    Short break  -  Reno-Tahoe International airport is an hour away - connecting with LA in just 90 minutes - ideal for a weekend break

    Families  -  Apartments with up to three rooms, a nearby ski school and endless activities, this is perfect for a family break

    Skiing  -  Set within Olympic Valley, offering miles of ski slopes with difficulty levels for all skiers

    Great walks  -  During the spring and summer there are endless hiking trails to be explored

    

    A charming hotel set right in the heart of the village offering near ski-in access. Accommodation options range from cosy doubles to three-bed apartments. The design is warm and traditional with fireplaces and balconies. Hot apple cider is served in the lobby and there's a Starbucks for quick bites. See More

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  • Hotel Azure Heavenly (California) 99 rooms from $135

    
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    Families  -  This is perfect family holiday material with a large pool and games room on site plus endless activities in the region

    Active Holiday  -  The region is perfect for an active stay with ski resorts, nature parks for hikes, and the lake for watersports

    Great walks  -  This is stunning walking and hiking country

    Kayaking  -  Take a guided kayak tour on Lake Tahoe

    

    A modern mountain retreat set by Lake Tahoe, just minutes from Heavenly Mountain Resort. Spacious rooms have a rustic chic feel with wood-panelled walls contrasting with floor-to-ceiling windows. With a games room, pool, and an efficient concierge team - this is a perfect base for an active break. See More

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

    
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    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

    

    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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  • Hounds Tooth Inn Oakhurst, California 13 rooms from $160

    
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    Country Escape  -  Escape the busy city and retreat to the Madera County countryside amidst shaded pine forests, lakes and mountains

    Families  -  Family friendly and easygoing, with a family cottage available and extra beds and cots on request

    Back to Nature  -  A fantastic gateway to Yosemite National Park and its pristine natural vistas and trails

    Great walks  -  The 3 and 1/2 acre grounds offer plenty of room for quiet strolls, the surrounding countryside boasts great walking trails too

    

    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    Charming and rustic, this little white inn set in the shadow of the Sierra Nevada mountains is an ideal family base from which to explore Yosemite National Park. Great value for money with breakfast included. Rooms are modern (yet cosy) with sink-into beds and fireplaces. An idyllic rural stay. See More

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

    
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    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

    

    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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  • Claremont Club & Spa Berkeley (California) 276 rooms from $219

    
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    Families  -  With spacious rooms and suites, kids menus, three huge pools and great access to family-friendly attractions

    Restaurant  -  There are two great restaurants ranging from regionally-sourced cuisine to family favourites

    Spa  -  A spa that uses a mix of advanced and natural healing treatments using exquisite products

    Swimming Pool  -  Three outdoor heated pools, whirlpool and complementary lounge chairs and umbrellas

    

    A fabulous family-friendly resort in Berkeley, with incredible views overlooking the San Franciso Bay. Spacious and chic rooms with indulgent bathrooms. Relax and heal in the spa or on a lounger poolside. Fantastic dining options with creative cocktails and fresh local dishes. A has-it-all stay. See More

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  • Kona Kai Resort & Spa San Diego (Point Loma) 170 rooms from $222

    
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    Families  -  With its wide range of accommodations, private beach, and excellent on site amenities there's something here for all ages

    Honeymoons  -  A perfect place for a short but sweet honeymoon; spa, sea-view dining, romantic bonfires and pool-time with great views

    Beach Life  -  Spend the day on the resort's private beach, equipped with badminton, volleyball, bean bag toss, cabanas & bonfires

    Restaurant  -  As well as two pool bars, there's an outdoor dining marina-view terrace and 'Vessel' restaurant which serves SoCal cuisine

    

    Stylish luxury resort overlooking Kona Kai Marina. Contemporary rooms have bold prints and a fresh take on the classic nautical colour-scheme. Suites are more sophisticated with fireplaces. There's a man-made beach, two chic waterside pools, spa and al fresco dining. Romantic yet family-friendly. See More

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  • Sanctuary Beach Resort Marina, California 60 rooms from $233

    
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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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  • Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel Heavenly (California) 400 rooms from $236

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Lake Tahoe offers every outdoor activity imagineable from skiing, snowmobiling and tubing to parasailing, watersports & fishing

    Families  -  Every room type at the property is a two-room suite, providing an affordable and perfect set-up for families of all ages

    Restaurant  -  The casual dining American restaurant serves light meals made with fresh locally sourced ingredients. There's also a cafe bar

    Swimming Pool  -  The large heated indoor pool with mountain views will apeal to children and adults alike. There is also a whirlpool hot tub

    

    Comprehensive all-suite family-friendly resort with super location near both Lake Tahoe and Heavenly Mountain Resort gondola. Spacious well-equipped accommodation plus great facilities - indoor pool, hot tub, gym and restaurant - makes for a comfortable base for outdoor exploring all year round. See More

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  • Dream Inn Santa Cruz, CA (California) 165 rooms from $239

    
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    Families  -  With rollaway beds offered at just $30 plus the beachside location is a sure fire hit with kids

    Surfing  -  Set right on Cowell Beach - a favourite with surfers

    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool

    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.

    

    A modern hotel offering a spectacular location right on Cowell Beach. Light and spacious rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies to enjoy the sea views from, surf-centric artworks, and retro furniture. A laid back restaurant specialises in seafood. A great choice for a beach break. See More

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  • Hotel Zephyr San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf) 360 rooms from $239

    
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    Local exploring  -  Well postioned right beside Fisherman's Wharf - step out of the hotel and explore San Francisco's boutiques and restaurants

    Families  -  With fun design, a laid back feel, a games room and large courtyard area - this is ideal for those travelling with children

    Sights nearby  -  A trip to the city wouldn't be complete without a stop by the Golden Gate Bridge

    Local markets  -  Explore the waterfront marketplace at Fisherman's Wharf

    

    The Zephyr Hotel could not have a better location - set right by Fisherman's Wharf. This is a large hotel with a spacious central courtyard filled with all sorts of activities. The interiors are fun and vibrant with a distinctly nautical feel, Perfect for exploring the city with friends or family. See More

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  • Santa Barbara Inn Santa Barbara (California) 70 rooms from $250

    
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    Families  -  Spacious suites, family-friendly activites nearby, a pool and the beach on the doorstep — there is something for all the family

    Local exploring  -  Perfectly located for discovering the city and the surrounding area from the beach and museums to the vineyards

    Sights nearby  -  Santa Barbara Zoo, Stearns Wharf and the Ty Warner Sea Center are all less than two miles away

    Restaurant  -  Convivo Restaurant and Bar, specialises in 'Italian nomad' cuisine

    

    An elegant Mediterranean style boutique hotel situated just two minutes from the beach. Rooms are light and spacious with tropical/floral themes and balconies with stunning views of the Pacific or Santa Ynez mountains. Enjoy innovative cocktails and delicious Italian fare on the oceanfront terrace. See More

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  • Le Parc Suite Hotel Los Angeles (West Hollywood) 154 rooms from $271

    
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    Families  -  Family suites come with sofa beds, a kitchen, and living area

    City Style  -  This all-suite property is at once both stylish and homely

    Swimming Pool  -  Roof terrace pool

    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.

    

    A chic all-suite hotel set in the Design District in West Hollywood. Spacious rooms feature bright modern artwork set against stark white walls, kitchenettes, and living areas. Bathrooms have large walk-in rainshowers and Gilchrist & Soames products. The roof terrace pool is a real lure. See More

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  • SLS Beverly Hills Los Angeles (Beverly Hills) 297 rooms from $274

    
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    Families  -  With a popular kids menu at Tres, a fantastic shallow pool and huge family suites- this a perfect stay for families

    City Style  -  Nestled between Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, this hotel will give guests the ulitmate LA city break

    Restaurant  -  The hotel has two restaurants, by the celebrated chef José Andrés. Tres is more casual fare whilst The Bazaar, is more high-end

    Spa  -  Indulge at the Ciel Spa. Enjoy restorative Biologique Recherche treatments to inspired wellness rituals and full-service salon

    

    A boutique hotel situated between chic LA and the iconic Beverly Hills. Rooms are sleek and spacious with mirror-lined walls and glass bathrooms with rainfall showers. The two restaurants leave guests spoilt for choice from casual fare to delicious tapas. Don't miss the ultra-cool rooftop pool. See More

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  • Ritz Carlton Marina del Rey Los Angeles (Marina Del Ray) 304 rooms from $308

    
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    Families  -  The resort's pool, tennis courts and bike rentals can be enjoyed by the entire family

    Local exploring  -  The resort is perfectly situated for exploring Santa Monica, Venice Beach and WeHo

    Great walks  -  Enjoy access to waterfront walking/jogging trails and catch a breathtaking sunset in Playa Vista, Playa del Rey or Santa Monica

    Swimming Pool  -  Year-round waterfront heated outdoor salt-water pool that offers poolside dining and cabanas

    

    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    An opulent family-friendly waterfront resort, in Marina del Rey. Rooms are modern and coastal with huge marble walk-in showers and private balconies. At Cast & Plow, enjoy the farm-to-table fare. With two tennis courts, a full-service spa, a year-round waterfront pool, guests are spoilt for choice. See More

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  • The Lodge at the Presidio San Francisco (Presidio Park) 42 rooms from $314

    
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    Local exploring  -  The nearest stay to the Golden Gate Bridge, shuttles run into San Francisco, and there's 1,500 acres of woodland to explore

    Families  -  A couple of the suites sleep up to four and children will love all the space surrounding the property

    Boutique  -  The exterior is a historic red brick building but interiors are elegant and contemporary

    Great walks  -  Get on your walking shoes and explore the trails that run through the woodlands

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Originally a barracks, turned boutique hotel, offering an unbeatable location beside Golden Gate Bridge and surrounded by Presidio Park. Interiors are elegant and contemporary with high ceilings, sash windows, and clean lines. Expect bagels and baked goods for breakfast. An idyllic stay. 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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  • 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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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 16th November 2022