15 Best Beach Resorts in California

California is a beach lover’s dream, with its stunning coastline, pleasant weather, and countless outdoor activities. And what better way to experience the beauty and tranquility of the state’s beaches than to stay at one of its finest beach resorts? California offers a diverse range of beach resorts to suit every taste and budget, from luxurious to affordable oceanfront complexes to eco-friendly boutique hotels. California’s beach resorts have something for everyone, whether you want a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat.�

Among the best beach resorts in California are the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, a five-star property perched on a cliff with a view of the Pacific Ocean; Montage Laguna Beach, a luxurious resort with a private beach and a world-class spa; and Hotel del Coronado, a historic beachfront property that has been welcoming guests since 1888.

Here’s a list of the 15 best beach resorts in California ranked by aesthetics, service, location, and value for money.

Beach Resorts in California

1. Oceana, Santa Monica

Oceana, Santa Monica, located on the western fringes of Los Angeles, is a vibrant and scenic coastal city known for its breathtaking coastline, active pier, and rich cultural history. Oceana, a tiny and tranquil community nestled in this beachfront paradise, provides a distinct blend of California living, urban convenience, and natural beauty. Oceana has a casual and welcoming environment from the moment you walk in. The streets are lined with lush trees, colorful flowers, and stunning homes that range from traditional Spanish bungalows to modern architectural marvels. And wherever you go, you will be greeted by residents who are proud to call our town home.

Oceania’s proximity to the sea is one of its defining features. The community is only a few blocks from the beach, so residents can easily walk or bike there. Oceana offers convenient access to all of Santa Monica’s beach activities, including surfing, sunbathing, and strolling along the promenade. However, Oceana is more than just a beachside community. It’s also a bustling metropolitan area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment opportunities. This busy neighborhood has something for everyone, from high-end shops and gourmet restaurants to cozy cafes and local hangouts.

Address: 849 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90403, United States�

2. San Ysidro Ranch

The affluent and picturesque San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California, is located right in the heart of the city. This historic property, hidden within 500 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and rolling hills, offers a peaceful retreat for anybody seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. San Ysidro Ranch began as a citrus orchard in the early nineteenth century and has since grown into a world-renowned resort that has hosted celebrities and dignitaries from all over the world.�

With its gorgeous villas, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Mountains, it’s easy to see why this resort has become a favorite among tourists seeking a luxurious and personal vacation.

The resort features 41 beautifully designed and exquisitely furnished cottages and suites, each with its personality and charm. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, including lovely cottages with fireplaces and private patios, spacious suites with mountain views, and sumptuous villas with private pools and hot tubs. The world-class spa at San Ysidro Ranch also offers a variety of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.

Address: 900 San Ysidro Ln, Montecito, CA 93108, United States�

3. Rosewood Miramar Beach

Rosewood Miramar Beach is a stunning resort on Santa Barbara’s scenic beachfront. The resort is ideal for those seeking a magnificent hideaway along with breathtaking ocean views, world-class amenities, and exceptional service. The resort includes 161 well-designed bedrooms. Or the verdant gardens. Each room exudes sophistication while remaining approachable, with handcrafted furnishings, original artwork, and high-end amenities like lush bedding, Nespresso coffee machines, and cutting-edge technology.�

Guests can take advantage of the resort’s numerous attractions, such as lounging by the beachfront pool and resting at the award-winning Therapies, which help you relax, renew, and repair. The resort also features a cutting-edge fitness center with a yoga class, Peloton bikes, and a variety of cardio and strength-training machines.

Address: 1759 S Jameson Ln, Montecito, CA 93108, United States

4. Miramonte Resort – Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is recognized as Los Angeles’ vacation spot and is well worth a visit. If you want to live as luxuriously as the affluent and famous, Miramonte Resort is the place for you. Featuring a beautiful palm tree-lined golf course, your group’s golfers will be blown away by the breathtaking views.

Do you need some rest? The Well Spa is the right destination for you. Massages, facials, wraps, and scrubs are all options for taking some time for oneself. The resort also hosts a range of programs for guests each week; make sure to take advantage of the yoga and poolside ice cream cart!

Address: 45000 Indian Wells Ln, Indian Wells, CA 92210, USA

5. Hotel del Coronado

The Hotel del Coronado, sometimes known as “The Del,” is a well-known luxury resort in Coronado, California, located just across the San Diego Bay from San Diego. The hotel, built in 1888, is well-known for its stunning Victorian architecture, breathtaking ocean views, and rich history. It is a must-see for everyone looking for an unforgettable and luxurious stay in Southern California. The Hotel del Coronado is located on a 28-acre coastal complex that features three swimming pools, a world-class spa, and a variety of dining and retail options.�

The hotel offers 757 bedrooms and suites, all of which are decorated to reflect the property’s historic splendor while still featuring modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.

One of the Hotel del Coronado’s most distinguishing features is its crown jewel, the classic red-roofed Victorian architecture known as the “Main Building,” a National Historic Landmark. It’s a stunning architectural masterpiece. The grand foyer of the Main Building is equally spectacular, with hand-carved wooden ceilings, a grand piano, and the hotel’s renowned crown chandeliers, which have been a fixture since its opening. The Hotel del Coronado’s oceanfront location is another major draw for visitors. With fine white sand and crystal-clear waves, the hotel’s private beach is one of the most beautiful in Southern California.�

Guests can engage in watersports such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, or simply rest on the beach chairs and soak up the sun.

Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, United States�

6. Montage Laguna Beach

Montage Laguna Beach is a seaside paradise. This luxury resort is perched atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The 30-acre property boasts lush gardens, breathtaking ocean vistas, and direct beach access. Each of the 260 rooms and suites has a private balcony or patio with amazing views.

The resort’s Spa Montage offers a tranquil respite. It provides a wide range of treatments, including ocean-inspired therapies. Guests can relax in the adults-only pool or attend a fitness class with a view. The Mosaic Pool, with its exquisite tilework, is ideal for families.

Dining at Montage Laguna Beach is a gourmet treat. Studio, the resort’s premier restaurant, serves a seasonal menu including locally sourced products. The Loft offers informal eating with breathtaking seaside views.

Outdoor activities are abundant. Guests can go surfing, paddleboarding, or play beach volleyball. The resort also provides guided nature walks and whale-watching trips. The location is ideal for exploring surrounding attractions such as Heisler Park and the Laguna Art Museum.

Address: 30801 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA�

8. Terranea Resort

Terranea presents a beachfront event in June to open off each summer, Music in the Meadows, which features local musical talent. Make sure to visit during June to see the amazing scenery behind the venue.

Hearst Castle, the legendary house of media and publishing entrepreneur William Randolph Hearst, is a short drive from the resort. Terranea emphasizes sea-to-land and farm-to-table in all of its culinary ventures. They even have bee hives on campus, so be friendly with them!

Address: 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275, United States

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9. Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite – Fish Camp, California

The beauty of Yosemite National Park should not be missed, nor should Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite, the area’s best resort located near the park’s entrance. When you are not enjoying the national park at your doorstep, there is an indoor and outdoor pool to use if it becomes too hot or too chilly.

Whether you visit during the summer or the winter, there is always something to do on campus. There are sledding hills on campus in the winter, as well as climbing and archery facilities in the summer.

Address: 1122 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623, USA�

10. Juniper Springs Resort

Juniper Springs Resort is a great pick. This resort is situated in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, surrounded by breathtaking vistas of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The resort is just a few minutes from Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, which offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the area. Juniper Springs Resort is a favorite choice among families, couples, and groups of friends. It is a relaxing and pleasurable holiday resort that offers a variety of amenities. Additionally, there are amenities. Activities. Suit everyone’s tastes. Juniper Springs Resort offers something for everyone, whether they desire adventure, relaxation, or entertainment.

The resort’s rooms range from modest studios to spacious three-bedroom condominiums. All of the flats are beautifully furnished with modern furniture and fully equipped with everything you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. The condominiums feature fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and individual balconies with spectacular mountain views. Juniper Springs Resort provides a wide range of on-site activities and services for adults and children. The resort features three outdoor hot tubs, a heated swimming pool, and a fitness center. Guests can also eat on-site at the Eagle Lodge Cafe, which serves delicious American cuisine.

Address: 4000 Meridian Blvd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, United States�

11. Malibu Beach Inn

Malibu Beach Inn is a luxurious oceanfront hotel in California located on the magnificent sands of Carbon Beach that provides the ideal balance of elegance, comfort, and relaxation. The hotel is situated in the middle of Malibu, one of California’s most attractive areas. Malibu Beach Inn boasts 47 exquisitely designed guest rooms and suites, each with unparalleled luxury, grace, and flair. The modern coastal rooms have elegant furnishings, soft linens, and a soothing color scheme that matches the serene beach views. Every room includes a private balcony or terrace where guests may soak up the sun, enjoy the sea breeze, and look out over the Malibu coastline.

Carbon Beach Club, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is popular among both locals and guests. The restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind culinary experience with its cuisine made up of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list that complements the flavors of the meals.

Address: 22878 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, United States�

12. Oxford Suites Pismo Beach

Oxford Suites Pismo Beach, located in the heart of California’s Central Coast, provides an exceptional hotel experience. This charming motel is just a stone’s throw from the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by some of the state’s most magnificent natural beauty. The hotel offers travelers spacious and well-appointed suites designed to provide all of the comforts of home. Each suite comes equipped with soft beds, a microwave, a refrigerator, a coffee maker, and a flat-screen television. Guests have the option of staying in standard rooms, suites with balconies, or suites with fireplaces.

One of the most distinguishing features of Oxford Suites Pismo Beach is the wide range of amenities available to guests. The hotel offers daily breakfast and free Wi-Fi throughout the resort every morning. Guests can also use the hotel’s fitness center. The hotel has an outdoor pool and hot tub, as well as a 24-hour business center. Oxford Suites Pismo Beach is ideally positioned near some of the region’s most popular attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.

Address: 651 5 Cities Dr, Pismo Beach, CA 93449, United States�

13. Loews Coronado Bay Resort

The Loews Coronado Bay Resort in San Diego, California, is a lovely resort that provides an enjoyable stay for all travelers. The resort is situated on a private 15-acre peninsula in San Diego Bay, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Coronado Bay Bridge, and San Diego skyline. The resort features 439 well-appointed rooms, including 37 suites with breathtaking views of the bay, marina, pool, or garden. The rooms are spacious and well furnished, with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, workstations, and high-speed internet access. The suites feature separate living areas, wet bars, and Jacuzzi tubs, making them ideal for a luxurious and restful stay.

The resort offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes. The Market Café, which overlooks the harbor, delivers a delicious breakfast buffet with a variety of hot and cold meals, while the Cays Lounge, which faces the marina, offers light snacks and cocktails. Crown Landing, the resort’s flagship restaurant, serves dinner and specializes on fresh seafood and locally sourced cuisine. If you wish to relax and refresh, the resort’s Sea Spa offers a variety of treatments including massages, facials, and body treatments. There is also a state-of-the-art workout facility, sauna, steam room, outdoor heated pool, and Jacuzzi.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, the resort provides a variety of options. Guests can hire boats, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the bay from the resort’s private 80-slip marina. Nearby attractions include tennis courts, bike rentals, and a golf course. If you’re looking for family entertainment, the resort’s Kids Club provides supervised activities for children aged four to twelve. The Loews Coronado Bay Resort is also suitable for hosting meetings and events. The resort’s skilled event planners will ensure the success of any event, whether it’s a corporate meeting, wedding, or other special occasion.

Address: 4000 Coronado Bay Rd, Coronado, CA 92118, United States�

14. Ventana Inn – Big Sur, California

Big Sur lies immediately south of Monterey Bay and boasts some of California’s most breathtaking coastline. Ventana Inn is where you may experience this natural beauty and wonderfully tranquil setting.

Ventana Inn, known for its clothing-optional pool and Japanese hot bath, is a location that celebrates all forms of beauty. For those who want a less daring experience, there is also a covered pool and a hot tub. Daily yoga, tai chi, and pilates sessions are just a few of the health possibilities available during your stay at the Ventana Inn. The Inn also sits on 243 acres of fields, meadows, and wooded regions.

Address: 48123 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA

15. The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay exemplifies coastal elegance. This magnificent resort, located just 30 miles from San Francisco, offers views of the rocky Northern California coast. The sound of waves smashing against the cliffs creates a relaxing atmosphere. The resort has 261 rooms and suites, all with ocean or garden views.

Golf fans will be delighted with the two championship golf courses. Both courses provide spectacular ocean views and demanding play. The Ritz-Carlton Spa provides a variety of treatments, including seaweed wraps and massage. Guests can relax in the co-ed Roman mineral bath or use the sauna and steam room.

Dining at the resort is a pleasure. Navio offers fresh seafood and spectacular ocean views. For a more relaxed experience, The Conservatory provides farm-to-table meals in a greenhouse setting. The Conservatory Lounge offers live music and beverages.

Outdoor activities abound. Try horseback riding on the beach, trekking along the coastline, or surfing in the Pacific Ocean. The resort provides unique experiences such as oyster farming tours and wine tasting events.

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Conclusion�

California resorts provide a unique combination of luxury, comfort, and stunning natural beauty. From the alpine beauty of The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, to the desert elegance of La Quinta Hotel & Club, each property provides an unforgettable experience.�

Whether you favor activity, relaxation, or a mix of the two, these top resorts provide something for everyone. Experience the diverse and breathtaking offerings of California’s premier resorts for an unforgettable trip.