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Sonoma Coast

The Rugged Beauty of the Sonoma Coast

Where the rolling hills of Sonoma County meet the Pacific, the Sonoma Coast reveals a dramatic landscape of windswept headlands, secluded beaches, and rugged cliffs. Stretching along Highway 1, this spectacular shoreline offers a quieter, wilder side of California wine country, with coastal trails, fresh seafood, and intimate retreats overlooking the ocean.

Bodega Bay

At the southern end, Bodega Bay is a working fishing harbor surrounded by sandy beaches, coastal bluffs, and rolling hills. Browse the waterfront shops, savor freshly caught seafood, or explore the scenic trails of Bodega Head. This rocky promontory offers sweeping ocean views and excellent opportunities to spot migrating gray whales during winter and spring. Nearby, Sonoma Coast State Park protects miles of beautiful shoreline, including dramatic rock formations, sandy coves, and windswept beaches.

Jenner

Further north, Jenner sits at the mouth of the Russian River, where freshwater meets the Pacific beneath towering coastal cliffs. Watch harbor seals resting near the river’s edge, kayak the sheltered estuary, or take in the breathtaking views from coastal overlooks. Just north of town, the trails at Fort Ross State Historic Park and Salt Point State Park lead through coastal forests, open meadows, and rugged seaside landscapes.

Colorful kayaks moored near the shore on a misty morning — Kayak moored near the mouth of the Russian River

cannons and historic farm buildings at Fort Ross State Park on the Sonoma Coast — Fort Ross State Historic Park

The Sonoma Coast also serves as a gateway to the region’s distinctive cool-climate wines. Vineyards tucked into the coastal hills produce elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, shaped by ocean breezes and coastal fog.

11 Remote California Hotels Surrounded by Nature

Posted on August 26, 2026October 26, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

There’s getting away, and then there’s really getting away. California’s most remote hotels trade bustling streets and crowded attractions for redwood forests, rugged coastlines, sprawling ranchlands, alpine lakes, and star-filled skies. Some sit at the end of long, winding roads. Others occupy hundreds—or even thousands—of acres where neighbors are few and nature sets the itinerary. A handful achieve the same sense of seclusion on surprisingly intimate properties, using gardens and forests to make the outside world feel wonderfully far away.

Best of all, there’s little reason to get back in the car once you arrive. From horseback riding across coastal mountains to hiking along ocean bluffs and paddling across a glassy Sierra lake, these 11 remote California hotels put some of the state’s wildest landscapes right outside your door.

Inn at Newport Ranch | Fort Bragg

Few California hotels offer a greater sense of splendid isolation than the Inn at Newport Ranch, set on 2,200 private acres along a ruggedly beautiful stretch of the Mendocino Coast. 20 miles of trails wind through ancient redwood forests, climb ridgelines, and trace coastal bluffs above the Pacific. The hotel was custom-crafted from materials on the land, including fallen redwoods and massive stones. With just 10 rooms, a weekend here feels less like a hotel stay and more like having your own private corner of Northern California.

Circle Bar B Guest Ranch | Goleta

Civilization quickly falls away on the road to Circle Bar B Guest Ranch, a historic dude ranch tucked into Refugio Canyon on the Gaviota Coast near Santa Barbara. The family-owned property encompasses more than 1,100 acres of coastal mountains, with trails threading through canyons and climbing to ridgelines with views of the Pacific, Channel Islands, and the Santa Ynez Mountains. Explore the trails on foot or, better yet, in the saddle on a guided horseback ride. With just 18 guest rooms and cottages, solitude is easy to find.

Highlands Ranch Resort cottages and Childs Meadow

Highlands Ranch Resort | Lassen Volcanic National Park

Near the southern entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park, Highlands Ranch Resort occupies 175 acres where a forested backdrop meets the broad expanse of Childs Meadow. Mountain peaks rise beyond the meadow, wildlife wanders through the grasses, and exceptionally dark skies take over after sunset. Spend the day exploring Lassen’s stunning geothermal features, or opt to go hiking, horseback riding, or fishing. Afterward, retreat to a private cottage with a fireplace and catch spectacular sunsets.

Horseback riding beneath a giant oak tree at Alisal Ranch — Horseback riding at Alisal Ranch

Alisal Ranch | Solvang

At Alisal Ranch, 10,500 acres provide plenty of room to disappear into the landscape. The historic luxury dude ranch sprawls across oak-studded hills and valleys outside Solvang, with more than 50 miles of horseback riding trails and a private spring-fed lake reserved for ranch guests. Take a horseback ride through the foothills in the morning and then spend the afternoon fishing or paddleboarding on the lake. With so much California country contained within the ranch gates, there’s no need to venture anywhere else.

Howard Creek Ranch | Westport

Along the northernmost stretch of Highway 1, the 60-acre Howard Creek Ranch sits on a remote swath of Mendocino coastline. Waves crash against the rocky shoreline hemmed with tide pools and secluded beaches. Densely forested hills rise from the beach with trails leading to old-growth redwoods. Originally established as a homestead in the 1860s, the ranch offers rustic hideaways scattered between the historic farmhouse, carriage barn, and vintage cabins. The accommodations reflect the free-spirited vision of an artist-builder and flower child who purchased the property over 50 years ago.

Aerial view of a mid-century modern hotel on ruged coastline with a large sculpture in the background — Aerial view of Timber Cove Resort

Timber Cove Resort | Jenner

Highway 1 twists along a sparsely populated stretch of the Sonoma Coast before arriving at this dramatic retreat perched high above the Pacific. Timber Cove Resort occupies 25 acres of rugged coastline, with more than two miles of trails wandering across windswept bluffs to overlooks, picnic spots, and the towering Peace Obelisk. Spend an afternoon exploring the coast and the neighboring parklands, then settle in beside the oceanfront fire pit and watch the sunset over the ocean.

Sign for the Historic Requa Inn overlooking that Klamath River — The Historic Requa Inn overlooks the Klamath River

Historic Requa Inn | Klamath

The Historic Requa Inn is nestled in the heart of Northern California’s most remote swath of redwood coast. The simple, Arts-and-Crafts-era inn stands above the banks of the Klamath River just a mile from the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by wilderness. With no televisions or phones, the inn offers a distraction-free way to disconnect from the world while reconnecting with nature. Redwood National and State Parks extend both north and south from the inn. The parks are home to the Earth’s tallest trees and abundant wildlife.

Cottage beneath the pines at Kit Carson Lodge

Kit Carson Lodge | Silver Lake

At 7,300 feet in the Sierra Nevada, Kit Carson Lodge offers a historic mountain retreat along the pine-rimmed shoreline of Silver Lake. Rustic cabins and a lodge sit at the lake’s edge, surrounded by granite peaks and dense forests. Guests can step outside to fish, kayak, paddleboard, or hike, then return for dinner overlooking the lake as the sun sets. With little city light to compete overhead, clear nights reveal a spectacular canopy of stars. The summer resort welcomes guests from June to October each year.

Eden Vale Inn | Placerville

Nestled on 10 acres in Gold Country, the Eden Vale Inn is a quiet sanctuary with just seven rooms surrounded by verdant gardens. Each room features a deep soaking tub on a private deck overlooking the gardens. The property is home to abundant wildlife, including deer and more than 50 types of birds. Viewing is best from the tranquil pond, where guests can relax in Adirondack chairs or row a small skiff across the water. At night, gather around the fire pit to roast s’mores and gaze up at the stars.

A woman sitting on a floor pillow on a deck at sunrise meditating — Sunrise at Mar Vista Farm + Cottages

Mar Vista Farm + Cottages | Gualala

Located on the “secret coast” of southern Mendocino County, Mar Vista Farm + Cottages is a place to slow down and forge stronger connections with nature. The small working farm offers 11 charming vintage cottages scattered around a bucolic meadow. Unwind in a hammock or the redwood soaking tub. Enjoy private access to a secluded beach. Bond with resident goats, bunnies, and chickens. Harvest veggies from the gardens and enjoy farm-fresh eggs delivered to the cottage door each day. At night, the sky is a blaze of stars.

Cottages nestled in the redwoods — The Brambles

The Brambles | Philo

Nestled beneath towering redwoods deep in the Anderson Valley, The Brambles feels like a secret forest hideaway. Reached by a long gravel drive off Highway 128, the property offers just five rooms in a collection of enchanting cottages. Wander the trails through the forest, laze in a sunny meadow along the creek, and climb to a wooden deck built

15 Family-Friendly Boutique Hotels in California Kids (and Parents) Will Love

Posted on July 5, 2026October 28, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

Some family vacations are measured by the places you visit. The best are remembered for the experiences you share. From sleepovers in a vintage railroad caboose to horseback rides at a dude ranch, and from treasure hunts in the forest to beach bonfires beneath the stars, these California boutique hotels invite families to experience the Golden State in unforgettable ways.

a child floating in a purple innertube in a pool with more children behind her in lounge chairs by the pool — Pool time at Hotel Káterina

Hotel Katerina

At Hotel Katerina in Chico, family vacations begin with a surprise from the treasure chest. Young guests are welcomed in VIP style before settling into spacious family suites or the Lil Rancher’s Campout Experience, which transforms a hotel room into an indoor camping adventure complete with a themed tent, games, and snacks. Sunny afternoons are spent splashing in the pool, while evenings bring kid-friendly mocktails and Little Rancher’s favorites at the on-site restaurant, followed by cookies and milk before family movie night. Just minutes away, Bidwell Park offers playgrounds, hiking trails, and swimming holes in one of the nation’s largest municipal parks.

Big Sur River Inn

The historic Big Sur River Inn offers a nostalgic retreat along Highway 1 with one unforgettable twist: chairs in the river. Adirondack chairs set in the shallow, slow-moving waters of the Big Sur River invite parents to kick back in the shade while kids splash nearby. Beneath towering redwoods, spacious riverside suites with Murphy beds and river-view decks give families plenty of room to spread out. Between river time and dips in the pool, families can grab a scoop from the vintage ice cream bus, enjoy made-to-order burritos from the General Store, savor summer barbecues, and dine on the restaurant’s sprawling outdoor patio or in the historic dining room.

Parents with young kids walking along the horse stables and riding ring at a dude ranch — Alisal Ranch

Alisal Ranch

At Alisal Ranch, families can trade screen time for the timeless adventures of a California dude ranch. Set on 10,500 acres in the Santa Ynez Valley, the all-inclusive ranch invites guests to saddle up for guided horseback rides, climb aboard a horse-drawn wagon for the legendary Old Adobe pancake breakfast, paddle kayaks and paddleboards on a private lake, and meet friendly barnyard animals. While younger guests enjoy crafts, scavenger hunts, and other supervised Kids’ Club activities, evenings bring s’mores, bingo, karaoke, and country line dancing. Cozy cottage-style accommodations with wood-burning fireplaces—but no televisions—encourage families to unplug and reconnect after a day on the range.

a contemporary living room and kitchen opening to a sundeck with views of the ocean and wharf — Oceanview Sundeck Suite at Beach House Inn & Suites

Beach Street Inn & Suites

At Beach Street Inn & Suites, families can walk to Santa Cruz’s biggest attractions. Located directly across from Main Beach, between the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Cruz Wharf, the boutique hotel makes it easy to spend the day riding roller coasters, building sandcastles, or watching sea lions on the wharf. Family-friendly accommodations include rooms with Murphy beds, sleeper sofas, and kitchens. The spacious Beach House Suites comfortably sleep six. Many rooms also feature private balconies overlooking the Monterey Bay. Throughout the hotel, laid-back surf-shack décor creates a fun, beachy vibe. After a day of adventure, kids can splash in the heated pool before stopping by the lobby for complimentary snow cones and popcorn.

A young girl swinging on a tree swing with a vintage caboose in the background — A tree swing at Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast

Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast

Kids who dream of trains can spend the night in a vintage railroad caboose. On the shores of Clear Lake at Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast, authentic railroad cabooses have been transformed into cozy overnight accommodations, with family-friendly options including bunk beds, trundle beds, and portable cribs. Days are filled with swimming in the pool, paddling kayaks and paddleboards on the lake, riding bicycles, and playing lawn games, while little ones explore the jungle gym and train table. Each morning begins with a hearty breakfast featuring kid-friendly favorites, followed by another day of lakeside adventures.

Little River Inn

Family vacations at Little River Inn spark curiosity. Family-owned and operated for more than 80 years, the oceanfront resort has welcomed generations of guests to discover the natural wonders of the Mendocino Coast. The hotel’s Family Discovery Package turns a coastal getaway into a hands-on adventure, complete with guidebooks, a self-guided itinerary, a naturalist-led walk, a safari tour at nearby B. Bryan Preserve, tide pooling at Van Damme State Beach, and stargazing with hot chocolate. Back at the inn, wide oceanfront lawns invite kids to run and play, a trail leads families to a calm, sandy beach, and the restaurant offers a dedicated kids’ menu for family meals after a day of exploring.

A family and a park ranger on a trail with Golden Gate Bridge in the background — Family discovery at The Presidio. Photo courtesy of The Presidio Trust

Presidio Lodging

In San Francisco, the Presidio is the city’s biggest playground. The Inn at the Presidio and Lodge at the Presidio place families in the heart of the 1,500-acre national park, where miles of hiking trails, beaches, playgrounds, and historic sites are just steps away. Kids can climb at the Outpost playground, complete the Presidio Adventure Passport, hunt for GeoQuesting treasures, or follow the new SF Nature Adventure Map to discover some of the city’s best outdoor experiences. Spacious accommodations, complimentary breakfast, and family-friendly room options—including suites with separate living areas, sofa beds, and two-queen rooms—make it easy to turn a San Francisco getaway into a family adventure.

Kit Carson Lodge

For 100 years, generations of families have gathered at Kit Carson Lodge for summer retreats in the High Sierra. Set on the shores of Silver Lake, the historic lodge invites guests to trade screens for days spent paddling kayaks, casting for trout, hiking the wildflower-filled trails of nearby Carson Pass, and swimming in the crystal-clear mountain lake. Spacious cabins and lakeside cottages with full kitchens make it easy for families to settle in for a few days, while the private marina offers rentals for canoes, paddleboards, motorboats, and more. After a day’s adventure, families can relax over dinner at the lakeview restaurant before gathering around the fire pit to roast s’mores under the stars.

giant chessboard in a hotel courtyard — Giant chessboard in the courtyard of the Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel

The nautical-themed Haley Hotel places families within walking distance of Santa Barbara’s best kid-friendly attractions. The reimagined motor lodge features playful décor and spacious corner family suites with separate bunk rooms, giving kids a place of their own. After exploring the hands-on exhibits at MOXI, strolling Stearns Wharf, or enjoying ice cream along State Street, families can gather in the lively courtyard for ping pong, giant Jenga, Connect 4, or a game of cornhole while little ones play in the sandbox. As the sun sets, the fire pits become the perfect spot to roast marshmallows and recap the day’s adventures.

a rustic cabin beneath the pines at dusk — One of the guest cabins at Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins

Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins

Family vacations at Arrowhead Pine Rose Cabins are filled with playhouse fun, treasure hunts, and mountain adventures. Nestled among towering pines near Lake Arrowhead, the six-acre property features cozy cabins with full kitchens or kitchenettes, private barbecues, and plenty of room to gather after a day outdoors. Kids can climb through the two-story log playhouse, swing on the playground, search for hidden treasures during nature scavenger hunts, and explore wooded paths, a bubbling stream, and a koi pond. Families can cool off in the seasonal pool, challenge each other to giant checkers or ping pong, and venture just minutes away to SkyPark at Santa’s Village for mountain biking, climbing, zip lines, and year-round outdoor fun.

Ocean Echo Inn & Beach Cottages

Evoking the nostalgia of summer vacations at the beach, Ocean Echo Inn & Beach Cottages invites families to experience a historic seaside getaway in Santa Cruz. Tucked into the quiet Live Oak neighborhood just steps from Sunny Cove Beach, the inn has welcomed generations of families with cozy cottages featuring kitchens, barbecue grills, and plenty of room to settle in for a few days by the ocean. Kids can borrow beach toys to build sandcastles, challenge each other to ping pong, and end the day with a beach bonfire and s’mores at sunset. It’s a relaxed coastal escape where families can reconnect and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.

Circle Bar B Guest Ranch

Founded as a children’s camp in 1939, Circle Bar B is a fourth-generation, family-owned guest ranch nestled in a remote coastal canyon near Santa Barbara. For more than 80 years, the ranch has welcomed families to its 1,100-acre property. Families can saddle up for guided horseback rides through fern-lined canyons and across mountain streams, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands. Spacious cottages and family suites comfortably accommodate larger groups, and hearty family-style breakfasts and dinners are included with every stay. Between trail rides, families can cool off in the pool, play games in the recreation room, or gather around the outdoor fireplace beneath the stars.

Timber Cove Resort

Timber Cove Resort invites families to experience the wild beauty of the Sonoma Coast. Perched atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific, the resort’s family guest rooms feature a queen bed and twin bunk beds, plus a fireplace, a balcony, a record player, and board games for cozy evenings after a day outdoors. Families can join guided foraging adventures through tide pools, forests, and coastal meadows to search for edible plants and seasonal treasures, then return to the resort to sample the day’s discoveries. Afterward, kids can challenge each other to foosball or ping pong, roast s’mores by the fire, and gaze at the night sky through telescopes as waves crash below.

Beach House Half Moon Bay

Beach House Half Moon Bay is made for family beach vacations. Every oversized suite offers 450 square feet of space, a separate living area with a pullout sofa, a kitchenette, and a private patio or balcony, giving families plenty of room to spread out after a day outdoors. Just beyond the hotel, Pillar Point Harbor offers a sheltered beach where kids can splash and play, while older children can try kayaking or explore the scenic California Coastal Trail, which begins right outside the property. An oceanfront heated pool, complimentary breakfast, and free parking make this coastal escape as convenient as it is relaxing.

The Groveland Hotel

The Groveland Hotel is an ideal base camp for family adventures in Yosemite National Park. Just outside the park in the Gold Rush town of Groveland, this 18-room boutique hotel blends historic charm with family-friendly accommodations, including spacious suites and a one-of-a-kind room featuring custom queen bunk beds. After a day exploring Yosemite, families can cool off at nearby Rainbow Pools, marvel at the dollar-bill-covered ceiling of the historic Iron Door Saloon, or unwind back at the hotel, where the tiered garden patio invites outdoor meals and the chance to slow down before another day of adventure.

California’s Best Quiet, Uncrowded Beaches

Posted on May 27, 2026October 26, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

California’s coastline is famous for its iconic beaches, but some of its most memorable stretches of sand are the ones travelers nearly miss. Tucked beneath rugged bluffs, hidden at the end of forested trails, or accessible only by kayak, these peaceful beaches offer a quieter side of the Golden State. From secluded coves along Mendocino’s rugged coast to sandy hideaways in Southern California surf towns, these lesser-known beaches pair wild natural beauty with the simple luxury of solitude.

Hidden Beach

Hidden beneath a steep, forested bluff in Del Norte County, Hidden Beach is one of the Redwood Coast’s most secluded shoreline escapes. Accessible only on foot, this quiet cove in the Redwood National and State Parks rewards hikers with dark-gray sand strewn with driftwood, towering sea stacks, eagles soaring overhead, and sweeping ocean views untouched by development. At low tide, tidepools reveal sea stars, anemones, and other marine life. The beach is accessible via three hiking trails. The shortest is a half-mile path that starts across Highway 101 from the Trees of Mystery’s north parking lot. Another option is a mile-long hike from Lagoon Creek Beach via the Yurok Loop Trail. The third option is a three-mile coastal trail that starts at the Klamath River Overlook on Requa Road near Klamath.

Where to stay

A mile and a half from the Klamath River Overlook, Historic Requa Inn rises above the riverbank, offering a front row seat to the magnificent waterway and its abundant wildlife. Housed in a 1914 Arts and Crafts–style lodge, the hotel offers 15 comfortable guest rooms and hearty breakfasts served each morning.

Westport-Union Landing State Beach

Along the untamed, northernmost stretch of Highway 1, Westport-Union Landing State Beach protects more than three miles of remote Mendocino coastline where dramatic bluffs, crashing surf, and tree-covered mountains create a stunning landscape. Near the mouth of Howard Creek, a wide, sandy beach is framed by rocky outcroppings and tidepools that invite hours of beachcombing and exploration. The beach is also great for fishing. The park was named for two towns that sprang up in the late 1800s during the region’s logging heyday. The small town of Westport still exists, but the buildings from Union Landing have all but disappeared. A day-use parking lot and picnic area just north of the Highway 1 bridge over Howard Creek provide access to the main beach. There are also three campgrounds on the ocean bluffs south of the bridge.

Where to Stay

Remote and rustic, Howard Creek Ranch is a 60-acre oceanfront farm bordered by miles of beach and wilderness. The historic farm sits in splendid isolation with direct access to the beach via a creek-side trail. In town, the beautifully restored Westport Hotel offers airy, light-filled rooms with period-perfect architectural details, a sauna, and an on-site pub.

Big River Beach

Directly below Mendocino Village, Big River Beach stretches along the mouth of Big River, where the languid waters meet the crashing waves of the Pacific. Part of Mendocino Headlands State Park, the beach is one of the more popular beaches on the Mendocino Coast, but this sprawling expanse of sand never feels crowded. It’s a peaceful setting for long beach walks and lazy afternoons by the sea. The calm waters of the estuary make it an excellent spot for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The beach also serves as the trailhead for the multi-use Big River Trail, which winds along the estuary, where it’s easy to spot seals and otters. Visitors can access the beach either from the blufftop staircase near the historic Presbyterian Church in Mendocino Village or from the beach-level parking area off Big River Road.

Where to Stay

Alegria Oceanfront Inn & Cottages is the only oceanfront bed-and-breakfast in Mendocino Village and offers a private path down to the beach. The historic Seagull Inn Bed & Breakfast and Headlands Inn both charm with garden settings and gourmet breakfasts delivered to the room. The Inns of Mendocino offers three properties, each with its own take on modern coastal style.

View from the headlands of kayakers launching from a crescent beach at Van Damme State Park — Kayakers launching from Van Damme State Beach

Van Damme State Beach

South of Mendocino in Little River, Highway 1 dips and curves along Van Damme State Park’s long crescent beach. Rocky headlands on either side create a calm, protected cove that offers an ideal launch spot for sea kayakers and beginning scuba divers. The waters here are part of the Van Damme State Marine Conservation Area, which features vibrant kelp forests teeming with sea stars, urchins, and abalone. In the summer, a concessionaire runs kayaking tours to explore nearby sea caves. While the parking lot can fill up on summer weekends with kayakers and divers, there’s still plenty of space to spread a blanket on the sand and explore the tidepools. Any crowds thin out significantly by late afternoon, and sunset is one of the quietest and most scenic times to visit. Inland from the beach, hiking and biking trails weave through a beautiful canyon lined with redwoods and ferns.

Where to Stay

Perched above the beach, the historic Little River Inn offers sweeping ocean views, a popular restaurant and bar, and a private path to the beach. A half a mile away, the pet-friendly Cottages at Little River Cove feature well-equipped cottages with ocean views. Also in Little River, the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek offers 17 unique, pet-friendly rooms and cottages—many with ocean views—nestled in a garden setting.

Greenwood State Beach

In the tiny Mendocino Coast hamlet of Elk (population 200), Greenwood State Beach offers a quiet stretch of driftwood-lined shoreline framed by dramatic sea stacks and rugged coastal bluffs. A gentle half-mile trail descends from Highway 1 to the secluded cove, where Greenwood Creek meets the Pacific beneath towering rock formations. Visitors come for beachcombing, sea kayaking, picnicking, and exploring tide pools and sea caves at low tide. The solitude and tranquility of this lovely beach, however, belie its past. In the late 1800s, the beach was home to a bustling lumber mill with a wharf that extended along the rock outcroppings into the ocean. Redwood was milled on-site and loaded onto schooners bound for San Francisco. A visitor center in town displays historic photographs and artifacts from its bygone era.

Where to Stay

Perched on a bluff overlooking Greenwood State Beach, the historic Elk Cove Inn & Spa offers a secluded retreat with sweeping ocean views and a private path leading directly down to the sand. The pet-friendly inn also features a day spa, breakfasts delivered to the room, and exceptional dinners at Sibo restaurant.

Fish Rock Beach

Just north of Gualala in the tiny coastal community of Anchor Bay, Fish Rock Beach is a secluded cove tucked beneath towering evergreens along Mendocino’s rugged coast. Protected from the strong northwest winds that shroud much of the Northern California shoreline in fog, the beach lies in a “Banana Belt” that tends to enjoy sunnier weather and calmer waters. Seasonal sands, dramatic rock formations, tide pools, and quiet pockets of shoreline make it ideal for sea kayaking, fishing, tide pooling, whale watching, and beachcombing. Public access is available through Anchor Bay Campground, where a small day-use fee leads down to the sheltered beach and hidden coves.

Where to Stay

For private access to the secluded sands at Fish Rock Beach, stay at Mar Vista Farm + Cottages. Located across Highway 1 from the beach, this peaceful retreat is nestled on nine acres and features cozy vintage cottages, edible gardens, delightful farm animals, and fresh eggs delivered daily.

Cooks Beach

Just north of Gualala on the Mendocino Coast, Cooks Beach is a secluded rock-walled cove where the landscape shifts with the tides and weather. Reached by a short walk down the Bonham Trail off Highway 1, the beach alternates between wide sandy stretches, rocky outcroppings, and driftwood tangled with kelp. At low tide, tidepools reveal purple and orange sea stars, mussels, crabs, and giant green anemones. Sea lions can be spotted playing offshore. Even on sunny weekends, the beach rarely feels crowded. It’s large enough to find your own secluded corner yet compact enough to let your dog roam off-leash. Riptides make swimming risky, but the wild coastal scenery and sunsets are reason enough to linger.

Where to Stay

Just minutes from Cook’s Beach, Rendezvous Mendocino blends plush comfort, warm hospitality, and eclectic coastal style. The intimate retreat offers private decks, fireplaces, and peaceful garden spaces for yoga and stargazing. Fresh, house-baked goods are delivered to the guest’s door each morning.

Stillwater Cove Regional Park

Along the rugged northern Sonoma Coast, Stillwater Cove Regional Park offers a quiet, sheltered alternative to the region’s windswept beaches. Tucked between forested coastal bluffs, the deep-water cove provides calm conditions for sea kayaking, fishing, and abalone diving. Onshore, the crescent-shaped beach is a picturesque spot for picnicking and tide-pooling. Just inland from the beach, more than three miles of trails wind through a fern-lined canyon with towering redwoods and along dramatic coastal bluffs. The park also features a small campground and a restored historic schoolhouse. The park is located about 15 miles north of Jenner on Highway 1. To reach the beach, park in the main lot on the east side of the highway and follow the 0.3-mile Cove Trail across the highway and down to the beach.

Where to Stay

Less than two miles from the park, Timber Cove Resort blends restored midcentury architecture with luxe modern comforts atop Sonoma’s dramatic shoreline. Outdoor offerings include coastal foraging excursions, forest bathing, oceanside picnics, and an outdoor ‘living room’ with games and fire pits.

A beach framed by cypress trees — View from the cliffs of Seal Cove Beach at the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and Seal Cove Beach

Just north of Half Moon Bay, in the quiet coastal community of Moss Beach, the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve offers one of the Bay Area’s most serene and ecologically rich shoreline escapes. The three-mile stretch of protected coastline is best explored at low tide, when sprawling tide pools reveal colorful sea stars, anemones, sea urchins, hermit crabs, and other marine life. The largest tide pools in the reserve are down a set of stairs from the visitor center parking lot at 200 Nevada Ave. Further south within the reserve, Seal Cove Beach is a secluded, picturesque cove that also reveals fascinating tide pools at low tide. The beach is accessible via a wooden staircase at Cypress Ave & Beach Way. Coastal trails connecting the two beaches weave through an enchanting forest of century-old cypress trees, offering stunning ocean views from atop the cliffs.

Where to Stay

Just 500 feet from the staircase at Seal Cove Beach, the Seal Cove Inn is an elegant hideaway bordering the marine reserve. A few miles south, the Inn at Mavericks offers an intimate escape with six spacious suites overlooking the ocean and Pillar Point Harbor. Directly above the harbor, Oceano Hotel & Spa provides an elevated coastal experience with a spa, restaurant, and sweeping views. On the edge of the harbor, Beach House Half Moon Bay features a heated pool and hot tub overlooking the water.

Views of the beach at Garrapata State Park on the Big Sur coastline — Garrapata State Beach on the Big Sur coastline

Garrapata State Beach

Just seven miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Garrapata State Park protects two miles of rugged Big Sur coastline, including a wide, sandy beach flanked by towering cliffs. The park’s spectacular coastline is largely hidden from the road, but it’s accessible via trails leading from discreetly numbered pullouts along Highway 1 (gates 18 and 19). Visitors are rewarded with wildflower-covered cliffs, dramatic sea stacks, crashing surf, and a desolate beach that feels worlds away from the crowds in Carmel. The pounding surf and riptides make swimming far too dangerous, but the beach is ideal for spotting wildlife. Bring a picnic and a pair of binoculars to settle in on the sand and watch for seals and sea otters playing in the water. Gray whales can also be spotted close to shore during their annual winter migration.

Where to stay

A short drive from the park, the storybook village of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a range of boutique hotels. Newly revamped in 2024, the Coachman’s Inn pairs contemporary comfort with bed-and-breakfast charm. Carmel Cottage Inn features five lovingly restored historic cottages with fireplaces. A meditative calm envelops the Asian-inspired Tradewinds Carmel, while the Carmel Country Inn is known for its extraordinary pet-friendly hospitality.

Sandspit Beach

Accessible only by water, Sandspit B e ach is one of the Central Coast’s most secluded shoreline escapes. Stretching south from Morro Rock, the remote barrier beach separates the calm waters of Morro Bay from the crashing Pacific, with miles of windswept dunes, shorebirds, and empty sand creating a wild, untouched feel. Kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or boat from the harbor across the bay with a picnic lunch to explore the beach, tidepools, and surf breaks near the South Jetty. There are no services on the Sandspit, so visitors should pack everything in and out and avoid protected snowy plover nesting areas in spring and summer.

Where to Stay

Located off Highway 1 in Morro Bay, Rhapsody in View is a family-owned boutique hotel with sweeping views of Morro Rock and the Pacific. The Art Deco-inspired guestrooms feature private west-facing balconies for a front row seat to sunsets over the ocean. Stays include a full breakfast served daily.

Summerland Beach

Just six miles south of downtown Santa Barbara, Summerland Beach is a beautiful, peaceful stretch of coastline, far from the crowds. The beach runs parallel to Highway 101 but is largely hidden beneath the cliffs. Most tourists zip past the beach without realizing it’s there. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. It is also one of the few South Coast beaches where you can take a guided horseback ride along the shore. A short walk east along the sand leads to quiet surf breaks and rich tidepools at Loon Point Beach. Access to Summerland Beach is via Lookout Park, with a path leading down the bluff to the sand.

Where to stay

Within walking distance of Summerland village and the beach, the Inn on Summer Hill offers an intimate retreat perched above the coast. The hotel features upscale guest rooms with fireplaces and ocean-view balconies, cooked-to-order breakfasts, and house-made desserts.

View from the top of the stairs at Stone Steps Beach at sunset — View from the top of the stairs at Stone Steps Beach

Stone Steps Beach and Beacon’s Beach

Along a famously busy stretch of San Diego County’s coastline, a few hidden gems lie beneath the towering sandstone cliffs in Encinitas’ laid-back Leucadia neighborhood. Reached by a steep staircase from the end of South El Portal Street, Stone Steps Beach is a narrow, secluded stretch of sand ideal for sunbathing and strolling along the water’s edge. At low tide, you can walk for miles in either direction. Less than a mile north, Beacon’s Beach is another little-known spot where surfers catch rolling waves, and beachgoers can swim or relax on the sand. A zigzagging trail at the end of Leucadia Blvd. descends the bluff to the beach.

Where to Stay

Just minutes from the beach, Twelve Senses Retreat offers a restorative escape in Encinitas. Relax in the sauna and hot tub, indulge in a massage or Reiki treatment, book a private yoga class, and enjoy healthy, organic, locally sourced breakfasts each morning.

California Babymoon Packages for Pre-Parenthood Bliss

Posted on April 20, 2026October 26, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

While better known as honeymoon destinations, California’s boutique hotels also offer some of the most memorable escapes for expectant couples. Intimate, quiet, and romantic, these properties cater to soon-to-be parents with thoughtful touches—from prenatal massages to cozy keepsakes—designed for savoring this fleeting chapter. Consider it one last exhale before life becomes beautifully busy.

Inn at Occidental

Expectant couples seeking a more holistic approach to a babymoon will find a deeply restorative escape at the Inn at Occidental. The hotel’s Mellow Mommy Babymoon experience blends relaxation with mind-body-spirit alignment, offering a thoughtful reset before baby arrives. Hosted by Cindy Scott-Fuchs—a Reiki Master-Teacher and prenatal wellness coach—the program pairs signature prenatal pampering with guided holistic healing practices designed for both parents. It’s a more intentional, immersive take on the traditional babymoon, ideal for couples looking to connect not just with each other, but with the transition ahead. Packages start at $450. Call 707-874-1047 to reserve.

Stanford Inn by the Sea

Set between redwoods and the Pacific, Stanford Inn by the Sea offers a nourishing, activity-rich babymoon designed around wellness and creativity. The Before the Baby package includes nightly dinners, a guided Imagination Playshop with co-owner and creative arts therapist Joan Stanford, and a canoe trip along the tranquil Big River estuary (weather permitting). Couples also receive thoughtfully chosen books on parenting and creativity to inspire this next chapter. Available year-round with a three-night minimum, the package is $535 per couple, plus lodging, and emphasizes rest, connection, and gentle exploration. Book online or call 707-937-5615 to make a reservation.

Eden Vale Inn

In the Sierra Foothills near Placerville, Eden Vale Inn offers a tranquil garden retreat ideal for a restful babymoon. Hidden away on 10 acres, each suite features a private outdoor soaking tub for two and gourmet breakfasts delivered to your room. The hotel’s pampering Couples Babymoon Massage Package includes a 60-minute prenatal massage for Mom and a Swedish massage for Dad, along with thoughtful touches like a sandalwood mineral soak, an all-natural bath bomb, and local artisan truffles. Priced at $299, the package can be added to any stay when booking online or by calling 530-621-0901.

Timber Cove Resort

Perched along a dramatic stretch of Sonoma coastline, Timber Cove Resort brings a midcentury-modern vibe to the babymoon experience. The property’s rugged setting is balanced by inviting amenities—an ocean-view restaurant, outdoor games, scenic trails, and a fire pit made for romantic sunsets. The Babymoon Package offers 50% off the third night of a three-night stay, along with thoughtful extras like a pregnancy pillow, a parenthood-bonding book, and a curated mocktail menu. It’s equal parts playful and restorative, giving couples space to reconnect before their next chapter begins. Call 707-847-3231 to reserve.

Brewery Gulch Inn

A babymoon at Brewery Gulch Inn on the Mendocino Coast offers a luxurious pause before baby arrives. Built from eco-salvaged redwood timbers, the Arts-and-Crafts-style inn pairs cozy interiors with sweeping ocean views. The Babymoon Package includes a prenatal massage for Mom, a Swedish massage for Dad, a modern parenting book, a Baby Belly Bar from Honey House, and gift certificates to local Mendocino village shops. Priced at $395, the package can be added to any room reservation—simply mention it when booking online. It’s an indulgent yet intimate escape designed for rest and reconnection.

Historic Requa Inn

Perched above the Klamath River near the edge of Redwood National & State Parks, the Historic Requa Inn offers a peaceful, unplugged babymoon designed for rest. The hotel’s Sleep While You Can babymoon package encourages couples to slow down and savor the quiet before baby arrives, with 20% off up to two nights, a homemade breakfast each morning, and a complimentary late checkout when available. Days unfold with morning coffee by the river, scenic drives through towering redwoods, and quiet walks along the beach. The package is valid through December 31, 2026, subject to availability. Call 707-482-1425 to reserve.

Guest room at the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek

Cottages at Little River Cove, Inn at Schoolhouse Creek, and Dennen’s Victorian Farmhouse

Along the Mendocino Coast, three sister properties—Cottages at Little River Cove, Inn at Schoolhouse Creek, and Dennen’s Victorian Farmhouse—offer a complimentary Babymoon Escape package. Designed for quiet connection and a bit of indulgence, the package features non-alcoholic Gewürztraminer grape juice, soothing bath salts, and handcrafted local chocolates. With ocean views and peaceful garden settings, these properties provide an easygoing retreat where expectant couples can slow down and reconnect before their new arrival. The package is valid through May 31, 2026. Call 707-937-5525 to make a reservation.

Lavender Inn

The Lavender Inn offers the perfect opportunity for couples to escape to Ojai and catch their breath before the baby arrives. Just steps from shops and restaurants, the historic property blends vintage charm with relaxed garden spaces. The hotel’s Babymoon Package includes a “Dreaming of Ojai” onesie, savings on midweek stays, and discounts at a nearby boutique. In addition, couples can enjoy $10 off a prenatal massage at the on-site day spa or in the private outdoor garden massage gazebo. Couples also have the option of scheduling a professional Baby Belly photoshoot in the inn’s gardens. Call 805-646-6635 to reserve.

Most Unique Food & Beverage Experiences at California Boutique Hotels

Posted on February 24, 2026October 26, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

For travelers who plan their itineraries around reservations, tastings, and what’s in season, California’s boutique hotels serve far more than a beautiful place to sleep. Across the state, intimate properties are turning olive oil into a private-dining centerpiece, delivering oysters to cottage doors, hosting foraging expeditions along the coast, and curating one-of-a-kind wine and whiskey programs. These are the stays where flavor reigns—and every sip or bite tells the story of place.

Noyo Harbor Inn

At Noyo Harbor Inn’s HarborView Bistro & Bar, whiskey is treated with the reverence of wine. The inn offers a collection of more than 100 whiskeys—the largest selection on the Mendocino Coast—with expertly curated pairings for every appetizer and entrée. Their whiskey flights showcase rare and distinctive pours from around the world, along with local spirits. A new outdoor cigar lounge invites lingering drams, while house-made bitters crafted by bar manager Laura Spradlin star in inventive cocktails like a Candy Cap Old Fashioned made with locally foraged mushroom bitters.

The Atlas Calistoga

At The Atlas, olive oil takes center stage. In partnership with Grove 45 and Napa Valley chef Paul Fields, the hotel offers bespoke private dining experiences built around estate-produced extra virgin olive oils. Fields curates multi-course menus that showcase the nuance of each pour, weaving in seasonal ingredients and regional growers. Guests can deepen the immersion with guided tastings at Grove 45’s nearby salon, complete with exclusive perks like 2-for-1 tastings and a welcome splash of Museion Rosé.

Timber Cove Resort

Timber Cove Resort turns the Sonoma Coast into a living pantry with its Taste of Coastal Foraging excursions. Guided by experts, guests comb tidal pools, redwood forests, and coastal prairies for seasonal finds—fungi, berries, edible greens—before returning to Coast Kitchen for a tasting that transforms the day’s discoveries into refined dishes. In addition, the restaurant offers a robust selection of regional wines and regularly partners with local wineries and distilleries to host wine pairing dinners.

Petit Soleil

At Petit Soleil in San Luis Obispo, the minibar doubles as a cocktail atelier. Each room is stocked with artisan spirits, chilled mixers, proper barware, and house-bottled cocktails with a French accent—like a Manhattan reimagined with Calvados, Bonal, rye, Bigallet China-China, and bitters. The wine program, curated by one of the world’s few female sommeliers, blends local natural wines with French classics while the newly opened Condesa restaurant channels Mexico City cool through French-Mexican flavors.

The Inn at Newport Ranch

Set across 2,200 private acres, The Inn at Newport Ranch builds its menus with deep connections to the land. Breakfast draws from on-site gardens, with house-baked breads, just-pressed juices, house-cured bacon, and preserves simmered from the ranch’s fruit. A rich culinary calendar includes winemaker and visiting-chef dinners—sometimes staged at long outdoor tables overlooking the Pacific—as well as mushroom foraging adventures and thoughtfully packed picnics for days spent exploring the ocean bluffs and redwoods-covered hills.

Hotel Bel-Air

Hotel Bel-Air’s annual end-of-summer barbecue transforms its expansive front lawn into a chef-driven, open-air feast. Executive chefs collaborate with an impressive lineup of culinary talent, each showcasing a distinct approach to live-fire cooking at communal tables under the stars. Guests move between stations sampling diverse barbecue styles, paired with premier spirits. All of the celebratory excess is donated to Chefs to End Hunger—elevating the classic cookout into a philanthropic culinary event.

Mar Vista Farm + Cottages

A coastal getaway to Mar Vista Farm + Cottages turns self-prepared meals into a curated pleasure. Each morning, fresh eggs are delivered to cottage doors, and guests are invited to harvest from the property’s edible garden. Add-ons provision baskets—including breakfast fixings, picnic fare, and ready-to-cook dinners sourced from standout local purveyors—are fully stocked in the cottages prior to arrival, eliminating the need for a market run. Seasonal winemaker dinners bring the wider Sonoma Coast culinary community to the farm’s table.

Nick’s Cove

At Nick’s Cove, the welcome amenity arrives briny and freshly shucked: complimentary oysters delivered straight to your cottage door. The restaurant leans into its Tomales Bay setting, spotlighting local shellfish and produce harvested from The Croft, the property’s small farm just across the road. Vegetables grown steps away find their way onto the plate alongside oysters, Dungeness crab, and other fresh-caught seafood, creating a hyperlocal expression of coastal California cuisine.

Stanford Inn by the Sea

Overlooking the Mendocino Coast, Stanford Inn by the Sea bills itself as the only 100% plant-based resort in the U.S. Its acclaimed restaurant, Ravens, anchors the experience. Organic produce and herbs grown on the property’s farm and in its greenhouses inspire the vegan breakfasts and dinners served each day. The culinary ethos extends to vegan cooking classes, gardening workshops, mushroom exploration tours, and four-night vegan retreats that immerse guests in the joy of plant-based living.

Long dinner table set in an olive orchard at Purple Orchid Wine Country Resport & Spa — Dinner in the olive orchard at Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa

Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa

At the Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa, many of the items poured and plated have a personal provenance. The resort produces its own wine and presses olive oil from its orchard, both featured in nightly charcuterie gatherings and seasonal small bites. Local winemaker dinners, pop-up chef collaborations, cooking demos, and themed multi-course feasts round out the calendar. Guests can also purchase bottles of the resort’s wine and olive oil to take home.

Brewery Gulch Inn

Brewery Gulch Inn’s signature Mendo Boxes have achieved cult status—chef-prepared light dinners for two presented in handcrafted redwood boxes made from the same eco-salvaged timber used to build the inn. Inside: artfully composed, seasonal bites that reflect Mendocino’s coastal larder. For a more immersive experience, the Chef’s Table offers an intimate four-course feast for two, paired with award-winning Champagne and wines, as the executive chef personally presents each course and shares behind-the-scenes insights.

Inn at Occidental

The winemaker dinner series at the Inn at Occidental turns Sonoma County into a shared table. Each dinner pairs acclaimed vintners from the Russian River Valley and the Sonoma Coast with some of the region’s most celebrated chefs, creating collaborative, multi-course menus that showcase the terroir. The result is an intimate gathering that feels distinctly local—thoughtful wine pairings, seasonal ingredients, and direct access to the makers themselves, all unfolding in the relaxed elegance of this Sonoma hideaway.

14 California Wellness Retreats to Reset for the New Year

Posted on January 17, 2026October 26, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

The start of a new year invites a different kind of travel—one shaped less by packed itineraries and more by intention. Across California, boutique hotels embrace wellness in thoughtful, place-driven ways, offering spaces to slow down, restore energy, and reconnect with the rhythms that support well-being. From immersive retreats guided by experts to garden-set spas and quiet coastal escapes, these hotels invite travelers to begin the year feeling grounded, nourished, and at ease.

Sensei Porcupine Creek

Set on a 230-acre private estate at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, Sensei Porcupine Creek is a desert oasis and wellness retreat where every experience is guided by intention and expertise. The Sensei approach centers on three pillars—Move, Nourish, and Rest—brought to life through personalized wellbeing consultations with trained guides and practitioners in fitness, yoga, nutrition, and mindset. Guests can also enjoy restorative spa treatments, including massage, bodywork, facials, and reflexology, designed to support rest and renewal. Daily movement and mindfulness classes, serene outdoor spaces, and thoughtfully designed facilities create an immersive environment that supports well-being.

Stanford Inn by the Sea

The Stanford Inn by the Sea is a wellness-centered eco-resort nestled between the redwoods and the Pacific Ocean on the Mendocino Coast. A leader in plant-based living, the inn invites guests to slow down and reconnect through experiences rooted in nutrition, movement, creativity, and nature. Throughout the year, the inn hosts immersive Vegan Retreats designed for both longtime vegans and the vegan-curious, combining plant-based cooking classes, nutrition education, and habit change with restorative time in nature. Daily life at the inn is nourished by chef-prepared vegan meals at the acclaimed Ravens restaurant, yoga, meditation, organic gardening, nature tours, and much more.

Hotel Bel-Air

Nestled in the canyons of Los Angeles, the spa at Hotel Bel-Air is a cloistered escape focused on indulgence and rejuvenation. The spa features a tranquil relaxation lounge and seven treatment rooms, where staff attend to every detail, from warmed towels to personalized music selections. For the ultimate in private pampering, book an afternoon in The Enclave—a sprawling suite with two treatment beds, a marble soaking tub, and a shady outdoor patio with a soothing waterfall. Wrapped in plush robes, guests can spend the afternoon relaxing in secluded bliss.

Timber Cove Resort

Perched on a bluff above the Pacific along Highway 1, Timber Cove Resort offers a deeply restorative getaway shaped by the raw beauty of the Sonoma Coast. In 2025, the mid-century–inspired retreat introduced its Reset & Restore Suite, a private wellness experience designed for intentional renewal. The immersive suite features a zero-gravity recliner, compression and recovery tools, a rock sauna, and a cold plunge, along with calming details like essential oils, curated sound frequencies, herbal tea, and plush robes. Beyond the suite, guests can reconnect through guided redwood hikes, forest bathing, yoga, and sunset ecotherapy meditation.

Gaige House

In the idyllic village of Glen Ellen, the Gaige House is a tranquil wine country retreat inspired by the calm rituals of a Japanese ryokan. Designed for rest and renewal, the intimate boutique hotel features serene gardens, softly cascading fountains, and an on-site meditation alcove nestled alongside a creek. Guests can deepen their practice with private yoga or guided meditation sessions, unwind beside the peaceful pool and fire pits, or retreat to ryokan-style suites with private Zen gardens and deep Japanese soaking tubs. It’s an ideal setting to slow down and reset just minutes from Sonoma’s top wineries.

Hotel Cerro

Spa Cerro at Hotel Cerro offers a serene, design-forward wellness experience focused on calm and restoration. Guests can unwind with restorative massages, facials, and body treatments, then linger in the spa’s Relaxation Quiet Room, where mesmerizing panels of bubbling water and a sleek gas fireplace create a soothing cocoon. The experience extends to the rooftop Spa Relaxation Terrace, a peaceful retreat high above the city with panoramic views. Hotel guests can also take a dip in the hotel’s rooftop pool, maintain their workout routine in the fitness center, or relax in the hotel’s edible gardens, which supply fresh herbs and vegetables for the restaurant’s seasonal dishes.

The Steward

The Steward is a grounding retreat rooted in nature, sustainability, and a rich botanical legacy. This one-of-a-kind boutique hotel in Santa Barbara sits on the historic 1880s estate of Joseph Sexton, a pioneering horticulturist. Guests can wander through heritage trees and exotic gardens, unwind poolside, or daydream in the shade of the daybed patio swings. Guests can also deepen their yoga practice on the private yoga lawn. Complimentary yoga classes are held every Saturday morning with private sessions available by request. A renovated historic barn houses the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness center, while in-room massage and a restaurant showcasing local, organic, farm-to-table cuisine round out the offerings.

Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa

Set among rolling vineyards and olive groves in the Livermore Valley, the Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa offers an intimate, slow-paced wellness escape. The boutique resort features just 10 contemporary suites, many with fireplaces and deep soaking tubs for two. Its private on-site spa offers massages, facials, and body treatments—some incorporating olive oil from the property’s own orchard—along with thoughtfully curated spa packages for individuals and couples. Between treatments, guests can unwind by the heated pool with its impressive rock waterfall, linger in stone-enclosed hot tubs, or relax in the gardens overlooking the olive orchard and surrounding hills.

Mar Vista Farm + Cottages

Set along a secluded stretch of Highway 1 in Mendocino County, Mar Vista Farm + Cottages is a quietly restorative retreat rooted in nature and intentional living. Historic cottages are designed for relaxed comfort, with fireplaces, cozy furnishings, and well-equipped kitchens. Guests can make home-cooked meals with vegetables harvested from the on-site garden, farm-fresh eggs delivered to the door, and an array of curated provisions. Opportunities abound to connect with nature, from self-guided forest bathing beneath towering redwoods to time spent exploring a secluded beach with tide pools. The inn offers a wellness package that includes breakfast and wellness baskets, a guided garden tour or a private yoga session, and reserved time in the outdoor soaking tub.

Kenwood Inn & Spa

Tucked into Sonoma’s Valley of the Moon, Kenwood Inn & Spa is a Mediterranean-inspired retreat designed for lingering, restorative days. Surrounded by vineyards, the intimate property unfolds across garden courtyards, warming pools, and shaded cabanas. At the on-site spa, guests can choose from personalized massage treatments ranging from 50 minutes to nearly two hours, including couples’ treatments enjoyed by the fire. Between spa sessions, days drift easily between soaking, quiet lounging with a book, and sipping wine in the central courtyard with its cascading fountains and warming fireplaces.

Hotel San Luis Obispo

In the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, Hotel SLO pairs modern urban energy with a restorative spa experience at Sol Spa, a serene escape tucked into the hotel’s garden courtyard. Sol Spa invites guests to unwind with a curated menu of massages, facials, body scrubs, and reflexology treatments, all designed to calm the nervous system and renew the senses. Spa appointments include access to dry saunas, a relaxation lounge, and the hotel’s pool and hot tub, creating a full day of self-care in a tranquil setting. Other hotel features include an airy, state-of-the-art fitness center, a rooftop terrace with a bar, and two amazing, chef-driven restaurants.

Lavender Inn

Just steps from the guestrooms at Lavender Inn, the Ojai Garden Spa offers an intimate, wellness experience rooted in Ojai’s restorative spirit. Therapies range from customized massages that blend ancient techniques with intuitive bodywork, rejuvenating facials using organic, locally sourced botanicals, and holistic rituals that incorporate breathwork, sound healing, and energy alignment. Guests can opt for treatments in a private gazebo tucked at the back of the inn’s gardens or fireside in the cottage. Guests can also unwind with a simple foot soak in the garden, accompanied by the gentle cascade of fountains and a chorus of frogs.

Inn at Occidental

Tucked into a redwood-shaded village in Sonoma County, the Inn at Occidental partners with nearby Osmosis Day Spa for a restorative getaway. The inn’s Self-Care Getaway Package pairs a one-night stay with your choice of therapeutic and rejuvenating treatments at the acclaimed spa. The package also includes a luxurious tub turndown service, a curated basket of Osmosis spa products, and a delicious breakfast. Enjoy 10% savings on stays Sunday through Thursday nights (excluding holidays). Advance reservations are strongly recommended; visit the website for details.

The Cottages of Napa Valley

At The Cottages of Napa Valley, wellness is woven quietly into the rhythm of a wine country stay. Guests can arrange private yoga sessions with a local instructor, held beneath towering trees on the courtyard lawn. Complimentary bikes invite easy exploration of the Napa Valley Vine Trail, a 47-mile path that passes through vineyards and wine country towns. Back at the cottages, restoration continues with spa-like amenities, including deep, jetted soaking tubs with chromotherapy and aromatherapy. Other thoughtful cottage comforts include heated bathroom floors, a gas fireplace, and an outdoor chimenea for relaxing beneath the stars.

Whale Watching from Boutique Hotels Along the California Coast

Posted on December 15, 2025October 26, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

Through winter and early spring, over 25,000 gray whales cruise the California coast during their annual migration. Every year, the whales swim between their feeding grounds in the Arctic to the warm lagoons of Mexico, where they mate and give birth to calves. The 10,000 to 14,000-mile round-trip trek is the longest annual migration of any mammal on earth.

The whales usually travel within a couple of miles of land, making them visible from shore. Along the California coast, you can catch sight of migrating gray whales spouting, diving, and breaching between December and April. But the best months for whale watching are March and April, when mothers and calves travel closest to shore to avoid predators on their journey north.

Whale-watching tours depart from numerous harbors up and down the coast, but for a more tranquil whale-watching adventure, book a stay at one of California’s coastal boutique hotels. With creature comforts and panoramic ocean views, these hotels offer cozy perches for gazing out in wonder.

Westport Hotel

From Little River to Westport, the Mendocino Coast plays host to whale festivals throughout the entire month of March. In addition to the festivals, guests can watch the whales from the comfort of the balcony rooms at the historic Westport Hotel. The beautifully renovated hotel stands directly across from the Pacific Ocean and offers stunning views from its balcony rooms and on-site restaurant, The Old Abalone Pub. In March and April, guests can book the Wine and Whales special, which includes 10% off a two-night stay, a complimentary bottle of Mendocino County wine, and use of the inn’s binoculars. The special also includes the inn’s signature two-course breakfast. The offer is valid Thursday through Saturday nights only. Blackout dates apply. Mention this special when booking online or call 707-964-3688.

Inn at Newport Ranch

Set along a mile and a half of rugged Mendocino County coastline, the Inn at Newport Ranch is a stunning destination with a myriad of sites to watch for migrating whales. Guests can hike trails atop the coastal bluffs, settle into oceanfront picnic spots built into the cliffs, gather around an oceanfront fire pit, or soak in a rooftop hot tub overlooking the sea. Several rooms, including the Captain’s Quarters and suites in the Redwood House, have extraordinary ocean views as well. Later this winter, the boutique hotel will feature a whale-watching package. Check back for more details.

Little River Inn

Just south of Mendocino Village, Little River Inn overlooks the Pacific from atop a bluff and offers the chance to see whales from every single room. Guests can relax in rocking chairs lining the decks or even in outdoor hot tubs to take in the views. For mixing whale watching with cocktails, head to Ole’s Whale Watch Bar. With sweeping ocean views, the historic bar got its name from Mendocino’s classic pastime. Owned and operated by the same family for five generations, the Little River Inn is the perfect place to whale watch in cozy comfort. Binoculars can be borrowed upon request.

Inn at Schoolhouse Creek

Nestled on a rise above the Mendocino Coast, the Inn at Schoolhouse Creek features historic cottages and cozy guest rooms, including several that are ideal for whale watching. Among the most unique is the Water Tower Cottage. During World War II, the water tower served as a lookout equipped with an anti-aircraft battery for the U.S. Coast Guard. Today, the tower is a prime perch to watch for whale spouts and sunsets. The base of the tower holds a private hot tub, and a spiral staircase leads to a platform with breathtaking ocean views. Other cottages and guest rooms offer private or shared decks with views of the sea.

Elk Cove Inn & Spa

Further south on the Mendocino Coast, Elk Cove Inn & Spa sits high on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and provides a comfortable perch for whale watching. Guests can gaze out to sea from the gingerbread-trimmed gazebo, outdoor dining deck, and the oceanfront restaurant. Many of the guest rooms also offer stunning ocean views, including the Oceanfront Junior Suites, which feature private decks. The window seats in Surfsong Cottage, Seascape Room, and Baywatch Room also make for a cozy spot to watch for whales. In addition, a private trail connects the inn with trails leading down to the beach and up along the bluffs at Greenwood Creek State Beach.

Timber Cove Resort

Perched on 25 acres of breathtaking coastline, Timber Cove Resort offers unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean along with abundant wildlife and moody winter skies. Trails running atop the cliffs and a stunning oceanfront fire pit provide the best outdoor spots for whale watching. Inside, most of the guest rooms offer panoramic ocean views as well. The best choices are the Ocean View and Ocean Cove View rooms or any of the suites. The rooms and suites are equipped with binoculars and feature private decks or patios with outdoor furniture. The most common whales seen on the Sonoma Coast are gray whales. Humpback, blue, and orca whales can also be spotted a little further offshore. Guests will also spot a variety of sea birds, harbor seals, and the occasional sea lion.

Beach House Half Moon Bay

Perched on an oceanfront terrace, the Beach House Half Moon Bay is an all-suites boutique hotel with sweeping views of Pillar Point Harbor and the ocean. Guests can spot migrating gray whales from winter to early spring, humpback whales in summer and fall, and other marine life throughout the year. The hotel’s Penthouse and Ocean View Suites offer the best views with private balconies or patios. Ocean Terrace Patio—with its fire pit, heated outdoor pool, and hot tub—is another excellent spot to gaze out over the water. Several whale-watching tours depart from the harbor, which is located within walking distance of the hotel via the coastal trail.

Cypress Inn on Miramar Beach

In Half Moon Bay, guests of the Cypress Inn on Miramar Beach are treated to a front row seat to the gray whale migration. The oceanfront boutique hotel offers panoramic views from most of its guest rooms. Bring a pair of binoculars to gaze out over the water from your private deck, or stroll the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail, which runs for four miles along the beach. Back at the hotel, enjoy cozy fireplaces, featherbeds, evening wine and appetizers, and house-made desserts. For those seeking a close-up experience on the water, several seasonal whale watching charters operate from nearby Pillar Point Harbor.

Davenport Roadhouse Inn

Two songs north of Santa Cruz, the town of Davenport was founded in the 1860s by a whaler named Captain John Davenport. From the cliffs, Captain Davenport had watched whales pass close to shore and decided it was a good place to start a whaling business to meet the demand for lamp oil. Directly across from the cliffs, the Davenport Roadhouse Inn stands on the site of the town’s original general store. The family-owned inn offers Highway 1 road trippers a lively waypoint with good food, good vibes, live music, and hip new guest rooms. Rocking chairs on the wrap-around veranda connecting the rooms provide an excellent perch for whale watching. For even more epic views, walk across the road to the oceanfront cliffs that originally lured Captain Davenport.

Monarch Cove Inn

Hidden at the end of a quiet, residential street in Capitola, the Monarch Cove Inn sits high on a cliff overlooking the breathtaking curve of the Monterey Bay. The 2.5-acre oceanfront estate provides an incredible perch for catching sight of migrating gray whales, humpbacks, and other marine life passing through the deep waters of the bay. Guests can follow paths along the cliff’s edge or enjoy the views from the expansive deck overlooking the ocean. In addition to migrating whales, guests can view the hundreds of monarch butterflies that congregate each winter in a protected eucalyptus grove on the estate. The migrating butterflies arrive each year in mid-October and typically stay through mid-February.

Green Gables Inn

With its enviable position at the water’s edge, the newly revamped Green Gables Inn in Pacific Grove offers a front-row view of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and its abundant wildlife. Whale watching is a year-round activity on the bay, featuring migrating gray whales in winter and spring and humpback and blue whales in summer and fall. From the inn’s dining room and lounge, guests regularly spot whales as well as dolphins, seals, and sea otters. The best guest rooms for whale watching include the Balcony Room with its panoramic ocean views and the Chapel Room with its charming window seat overlooking the bay. The inn provides binoculars upon request. For guests who want to get a more up-close view, the Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail is just steps away.

On the Beach Bed & Breakfast

Cayucos is another great spot to watch for humpback whales and migrating gray whales on the Central Coast. Overlooking the water and the sands of Cayucos State Beach, On the Beach Bed & Breakfast provides excellent vantage points from its second-floor rooms (rooms 201-204) and rooftop deck. The spacious, second-floor rooms each feature private balconies with cozy seating and full ocean views. On the rooftop deck, guests can watch for whales while relaxing around the fire pit. Just steps away, guests can also stroll out on the historic Cayucos Pier to catch sight of more marine wildlife.

Blue Lantern Inn

Perched on a bluff above Dana Point Harbor in Southern California, the Blue Lantern Inn offers unparalleled ocean views and whale-watching opportunities. The views can be enjoyed from the inn’s terraced patio and many of its guest rooms, including the Tower Rooms and Pacific Edge Rooms with private balconies or patios. Guests in the third-floor Luxury Tower guestroom have the best views of all, aided by an in-room telescope. For even more panoramic views, the Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area behind the inn offers bluff-top hiking trails and scenic overlooks. At the harbor, whale-watching cruises depart several times daily, offering an up-close view of the whales.

Save with Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals from California Boutique Hotels

Posted on November 11, 2025October 27, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

For travelers chasing this season’s best Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, California’s boutique hotels are rolling out enticing, limited-time offers. From wine country escapes to coastal retreats to mountain hideaways, these distinctive stays are offering their best rates of the year. It’s the perfect time to plan your next California getaway—before these exclusive deals slip away.

Craft House Inn

Just steps from downtown Santa Barbara, the 100-year-old Craft House Inn has been thoroughly reimagined and painstakingly renovated for modern travelers. The design blends old-world charm with modern amenities and comforts. Guests enjoy contactless check-in, access to a full kitchen, and a range of curated experiences to enhance their stay. For Black Friday, guests can save 15% off stays now through February 28, 2026, with the hotel’s Stay Local, Save discount. The sale is available for a limited time and runs now through December 5, 2025. Reservations must be booked directly with the hotel. Blackout dates apply. To reserve your stay, book online using promo code CABBI15.

The Kinney Venice Beach

Playful and vibrant, The Kinney captures Venice Beach’s creative spirit in boutique hotel form. Its art-splashed courtyard pool and retro-inspired rooms channel a distinctive Southern California vibe. The stylish rooms and suites blend bold pop art décor with modern comforts. With complimentary cruiser bikes, guests can explore Venice Beach and its famous boardwalk. During the hotel’s Cyber Sale, travelers can book a beach getaway and enjoy the biggest savings of the year. Save up to 30% on stays through May 21, 2026. Pacifica Perks Members unlock even higher savings with discounts up to 50%. The Cyber Sale runs November 18 through December 2, 2025, only. Book online using promo code CYBEREM.

Granada Hotel & Bistro

In downtown San Luis Obispo, timeless charm meets modern luxury at the Granada Hotel & Bistro. The lovingly restored 1922 hotel features stylish guestrooms with bespoke furnishings and original artwork, fine dining at the Bistro, and a speakeasy-inspired cocktail lounge. For a limited time, the hotel will offer 25% off stays through April 30, 2026, during its Black Friday/Cyber Week sale. The sale runs from November 26 through December 2, 2025. To secure the deal, reservations must be booked directly with the hotel. Black Friday/Cyber Monday rates cannot be combined with any other offer. Blackout dates apply. Book online.

Inn at Newport Ranch

Perched on 2,200 acres of ruggedly beautiful Mendocino coastline, The Inn at Newport Ranch is a working ranch turned luxury retreat. Custom-crafted by artisans from fallen redwood trees and massive stones, the boutique hotel features 25 miles of private trails, guided nature tours, extraordinary cuisine, and fireside relaxation. With the hotel’s Black Friday special, guests can save 30% off stays through the end of 2026. The sale runs from November 18 through December 3, 2025. This offer is valid for two-night stays between November 18, 2025, and April 30, 2026, or between October 26 and December 30, 2026. Blackout dates apply. Book online using promo code BLACK.

Four Sisters Inns

With 17 boutique hotels in some of California’s most iconic destinations, Four Sisters Inns offers exceptional guest experiences blending modern luxury with historic charm and gracious hospitality. Now through December 1, 2025, Four Sisters is offering a Black Friday Sale for discounted stays this fall and winter. Save up to 40% off Sunday through Thursday night stays and 25% off Friday and Saturday night stays now through March 5, 2026. The Black Friday Sale requires a two-night minimum and prepayment at the time of booking. The offer is valid for new reservations only. Cancellation restrictions apply. Book online using promo code SECRETSALE or call the hotel directly. The sale ends December 1, 2025.

The Four Sisters Inns’ collection includes Blue Lantern Inn, Channel Road Inn, Coachman’s Inn, Gaige House, Gosby House Inn, Green Gables Inn, Healdsburg Inn on the Plaza, Inn at Playa Del Rey, Inn at Sonoma, Inns of Mendocino, Kenwood Inn and Spa, Lavender, Maison Fleurie, Milliken Creek Inn, and West Cliff Inn.

Riveria Beach House

Just steps from the beach and Santa Barbara’s vibrant Funk Zone, the Riviera Beach House embodies the artistic spirit of Santa Barbara. The contemporary boutique hotel offers stylish, pet-friendly accommodations, curated art collections, and exceptional onsite dining from Santo Mezcal. With the hotel’s Cyber Sale, travelers can book a Santa Barbara getaway and enjoy the biggest savings of the year. Save up to 30% on stays through May 21, 2026. Pacifica Perks Members can save even more with discounts up to 50%. The Cyber Sale runs November 18 through December 2, 2025, only. Book online using promo code CYBEREM.

Skyview Los Alamos

Perched above Santa Ynez Valley wine country, Skyview Los Alamos is a classic midcentury roadside motel-turned-luxurious-boutique hotel. The five-acre outpost features stylish guest rooms with curated mini bars, a postcard-worthy pool, and a working vineyard that produces the house rosé. Enjoy 25% off stays through April 30, 2026, when you book during the hotel’s Black Friday/Cyber Week sale. The sale runs from November 26 through December 2, 2025. This offer is valid for direct bookings only and cannot be combined with other promotions. Blackout dates apply. Book online to reserve your stay.

Hotel San Luis Obispo

Awarded a coveted Michelin Key, Hotel San Luis Obispo is a modern urban resort with light-filled spaces, custom art installations, and a welcoming, easy-going vibe. Now through Christmas Eve, when shoppers purchase a gift card for Hotel SLO, they’ll receive a complimentary gift card for themselves. The more they give with the hotel’s Gift and Receive Sale, the more they get. Purchase a $50 gift card and receive a complimentary gift card worth $15. Spend $250 and receive a $50 gift card. Spend $500 and receive a $100 gift card. Spend $1,000 and receive a $250 gift card. Hotel SLO gift cards can be used toward overnight stays, dining, drinks, and indulgent spa treatments.

De La Vina Inn

Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, the enchanting De La Vina Inn is located just steps away from restaurants, boutiques, and wine-tasting rooms. Built in 1895 and restored with period-perfect detail, the inn offers elegant eight guest rooms, tranquil gardens, and a range of curated experiences to enhance any stay. For Black Friday, enjoy 15% off stays now through February 28, 2026, with the hotel’s Stay Local, Save discount. The sale is available for a limited time and runs now through December 5, 2025. Reservations must be booked directly with the hotel. Blackout dates apply. To reserve your stay, book online using promo code CABBI15.

Half Moon Bay Lodge

Just 30 minutes south of San Francisco, the newly revamped Half Moon Bay Lodge boasts 80 all-new guest rooms and suites, including some with wood-burning fireplaces. Private guest room balconies and terraces offer tranquil views of landscaped gardens and golf greens. With the hotel’s Cyber Sale, travelers can book a coastal getaway and enjoy the biggest savings of the year. Save up to 30% on stays through May 21, 2026. Pacifica Perks Members unlock even higher savings with discounts up to 50%. The Cyber Sale runs November 18 through December 2, 2025, only. To reserve your stay, book online using promo code CYBEREM.

Hotel Ynez

Nestled on two acres of gardens in Santa Barbara wine country, the Hotel Ynez offers a respite from urban living. Unwind fireside beneath a sprawling oak tree or lounge by the heated, adults-only pool. The thoughtfully designed guest rooms exude a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. For its Black Friday/Cyber Week sale, guests can save 25% off stays through April 30, 2026. The deal runs from November 26 through December 2, 2025. Reservations must be booked directly with the hotel. Black Friday/Cyber Week rates cannot be combined with any other offer, and blackout dates apply. Book online to reserve your stay.

Timber Cove Resort

Embrace the serene beauty of California’s rugged Sonoma Coast with a stay at Timber Cove Resort. With stunning views and a cozy, midcentury vibe, the renovated hotel retains the iconic architecture of the original 1960s legend while bestowing the comforts and amenities of a modern retreat. There’s no better time to plan a winter or spring getaway than with the resort’s exclusive Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer. For a limited time, guests can save 30% off Forest View and Ocean Cove rooms for stays between November 27, 2025, and May 31, 2026 (blackout dates apply). The sale runs from November 26 through December 2, 2025. To reserve your stay, book online.

McCaffrey House Bed & Breakfast Inn

To avoid the Black Friday/Cyber Monday madness, book a quiet getaway to the McCaffrey House Bed & Breakfast Inn during the Thanksgiving holiday. Tucked into the Sierra Nevada’s forested slopes near the charming mountain town of Twain Harte, the inn offers a serene escape with cozy fire stoves and views of towering pines. Guests are treated to a full breakfast and a fireside wine reception each day. The inn is located a short drive from Dodge Ridge Ski Resort and Pinecrest Lake. Guests booking three or more nights over the Thanksgiving holiday will receive $100 off their stay. The offer is based on availability and must be reserved directly by calling the inn at 209-586-0757.

Best Boutique Hotels for Thanksgiving Dinner 2025

Posted on October 29, 2025October 27, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

This Thanksgiving, trade your oven mitts for a travel bag and turn the four-day weekend into a vacation getaway. California’s boutique hotels are rolling out the welcome mat with chef-driven feasts, cozy firesides, and a touch of luxury wrapped in genuine hospitality. The best part: you won’t have to wash a single dish. From wine country to the coast, here’s where to toast the Thanksgiving holiday with gratitude and style.

Prime rib, mashed potatoes, asparagus, pumpkin pie, and wine served fireside at Terra — Thanksgiving at Terra restaurant at The Steward

Terra at The Steward

Celebrate Thanksgiving with friends, family, and unforgettable flavors at The Steward in Santa Barbara. The hotel’s elevated restaurant, Terra, will feature a thoughtfully prepared Thanksgiving buffet with seasonal ingredients and chef-inspired touches. Savor a comforting butternut squash soup with pepitas and crème fraiche or start fresh with an apple and bibb salad featuring blue cheese, candied walnuts, and pickled onions. Enjoy classics like roasted turkey with all the trimmings alongside indulgent favorites like braised short ribs with red wine bordelaise and seared salmon in citrus sage. Finish on a sweet note with seasonal pies, plus a tempting selection of chocolate truffles and petite fours. The cost is $79 per person with seatings available between 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. Reservations can be made online. Also consider an overnight stay in one of the luxurious suites set amid a peaceful, verdant landscape.

Elderwood at The Darling Hotel

Create a new Thanksgiving tradition at The Darling Hotel in downtown Visalia. Bringing new life to a Central Valley landmark, the hotel blends original Art Deco style with modern-day amenities, including a rooftop restaurant and cocktail lounge. For Thanksgiving, Elderwood will host a four-course, prix-fixe dinner featuring seasonal favorites and elevated classics. Start with a comforting butternut squash soup or a crisp harvest salad. Entrée choices include roasted turkey roulade, braised prime rib, or mushroom leek potato pithiviers. Seasonal sides and desserts round out the offerings. Optional wine and cocktail pairings are also available. The cost is $85 per person for adults and $35 for children under 12. Reservations for dinner can be made online with seatings between 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Also, don’t forget to reserve a room to enjoy the beautifully restored woodwork, Art Deco furnishings, and luxurious modern comforts.

The Inn at Newport Ranch

The Inn at Newport Ranch invites guests to celebrate Thanksgiving on the edge of the Pacific, where each course reflects the bounty of Northern California’s coast and gardens. Join the ranch for a 5:00 p.m. seating in Newport Hall, surrounded by ocean views and the glow of a roaring stone fireplace. The evening’s menu features smoked turkey breast with ranch foraged mushroom gravy, local rockfish infused with wild ginger, and sweet potatoes glazed in mugolio and brown butter, complemented by winter squash salad with persimmons and candied walnuts and sourdough dressing with house-made sausage. Conclude with pumpkin pie crowned with fragrant bedstraw cream or spiced apples and brown butter crumb. It’s a celebration designed so you can savor the holiday with loved ones, free from the fuss. The cost is $200 per person plus tax and service charge. For reservations, call 707-962-4818.

Granada Hotel & Bistro

Join the historic Granada Hotel & Bistro in downtown San Luis Obispo for a three-course prix fixe Thanksgiving feast. The menu features festive dishes both classic and reimagined. For the first course, diners have a choice of kabocha squash soup, shaved carrot salad, or baked Morro Bay oysters. For the entrée, diners can choose from smoked turkey, pan-seared snapper, beef bordelaise, or harvest vegetable stew. Dinner is capped with a choice of pumpkin panna cotta, caramelized pear tart, or assorted gelatos and sorbets. The cost is $75 per person. Reservations are available online. Also consider an overnight stay at the hotel. The elegantly appointed guest rooms feature antique furnishings, rich textiles, and commissioned artwork that complement the historic property’s original hardwood floors and exposed brick walls.

HarborView Bistro & Bar at Noyo Harbor Inn

Perched above the Noyo River in Fort Bragg, the Noyo Harbor Inn features beautifully restored Craftsman details and lush gardens winding down to the water’s edge. The inn’s highly acclaimed HarborView Bistro & Bar overlooks the river and features an extensive whiskey library and a new outdoor cigar lounge tucked into a cozy gazebo with a fire pit. The restaurant’s five-course Thanksgiving feast kicks off with gougères stuffed with wild mushrooms and caramelized onions. Main courses include a choice of traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, grilled ribeye steak, local ling cod, or seasonal stuffed squash. The cost is $100 per person. Optional whisky flights and wine pairing flights are also available. Reservations can be made online. Guests can also book a stay in one of the inn’s luxurious guest rooms featuring fine woodwork, fireplaces, and soaking tubs.

Norman dining room booths — The dining room at the Norman at Skyview Los Alamos

Norman at Skyview Los Alamos

Perched on a hillside overlooking Santa Barbara wine country, Skyview Los Alamos is an iconic 1950s roadside motel turned luxurious boutique resort. The five-acre outpost in the Santa Ynez Valley merges mid-century style with modern rustic chic. The resort’s full-service restaurant, Norman, will serve a fantastic feast for Thanksgiving. The three-course, prix fixe dinner opens with a choice of white bean and sausage soup, cranberry apple salad, or smoked salmon crostini. For the main course, guests can choose between turkey two ways, osso bucco, cioppino, or butternut squash lasagna. Seasonal desserts and tempting add-ons round out the menu. The cost is $75 per person. Dinner and room reservations can be made online. The boutique hotel features stylish guest rooms, a heated swimming pool, a fire pit, and a working vineyard.

Blue Wing Saloon & Restaurant at the Tallman Hotel

The Blue Wing Saloon at the historic Tallman Hotel in Upper Lake is serving up a three-course, prix fixe Thanksgiving dinner with seatings at 1:30 or 4:00 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. The first course includes a choice of potato leek soup with crème fraiche or a salad with roasted butternut squash and candied walnuts. For entrées, diners can choose from roasted turkey with all the fixings, prime rib, pan-seared Chilean seabass, or vegetarian risotto. Desserts include pumpkin cheesecake and apple cobbler. The cost ranges from $65 to $75. In addition, overnight guests can enjoy a complimentary cocktail and rates starting at just $149 with the Tallman Hotel’s Sip & Stay winter special. The meticulously restored 1890s hotel features elegant guest rooms blending Eastlake style with modern comforts, including some with private Japanese Ofuro soaking tubs. Dinner and room reservations can be made online.

The modern fireplace in S.Low Bar at Hotel San Luis Obispo — The bar at Piadina at Hotel San Luis Obispo

Piadina at Hotel San Luis Obispo

To celebrate the season, Hotel San Luis Obispo’s Piadina is hosting an exquisite Thanksgiving Buffet served in the restaurant and outdoor courtyard. Whether guests crave a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings or prefer to feast on red-wine braised Wagyu short ribs, king salmon, or even mac and cheese, Chef Ryan Fancher has everyone covered. The chef’s special Thanksgiving menu will also feature an array of seasonal sides and tempting desserts. Seatings are available from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The cost is $79 for adults and $39 for children 12 and under. Reservations for dinner can be made online. To make a night of it, consider reserving one of the hotel’s spacious guest rooms featuring a mix of cozy and high-tech amenities and a playful, modern aesthetic that exudes SLO’s laid-back vibe.

The Genevieve's new restaurant, The Victor, with outdoor seating and a fire pit — The Victor and The Genevieve

The Victor Restaurant & Bar at The Genevieve

In the heart of Santa Barbara wine country, The Genevieve will host Thanksgiving at its casual-chic restaurant and bar, The Victor. Guests can order from the regular menu featuring chef-driven California cuisine or choose a classic turkey dinner that includes roasted turkey breast, sage stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, pan gravy, and cranberry sauce. Seatings are available between 3:00 and 7:00 p.m. The cost for the turkey dinner is $54 per person, with the option of adding a baker’s table pumpkin pie for dessert ($9). Dinner and room reservations can be made online. The inn offers an atmosphere of understated luxury coupled with warm hospitality. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, cozy up to the fire pits, enjoy a whiskey nightcap with dessert, and receive complimentary wine tastings for two with the inn’s exclusive tasting passport.

Coast Kitchen at Timber Cove Resort

On the Sonoma Coast, gather, give thanks, and gobble a three-course Thanksgiving dinner while taking in the sweeping ocean views at Coast Kitchen at Timber Cove Resort. Start with a choice of butternut and sage soup, roasted beet salad, or local dressed oysters. Main entrees feature traditional roasted turkey, nori-wrapped black cod, or stuffed delicata squash. Enjoy an array of family-style sides, then close out with a dessert duo of pumpkin cheesecake and a fresh fruit tart or seasonal gelatos and sorbets. The cost for the dinner is $85 per person for adults and $35 for children under 12. Make a weekend of it by booking a stay in one of the stunning oceanfront rooms featuring cozy fireplaces, luxurious linens, and record players with an extensive vinyl library.

Marble fireplace in the dining room of the Hotel Bel-Air

The Restaurant at Hotel Bel-Air

The legendary Hotel Bel-Air is a secluded oasis of luxury. On a sweeping outdoor terrace, the hotel’s restaurant is among the most elegant in Los Angeles, with a large marble fireplace, cozy booths, and private alcoves overlooking Swan Lake. On Thanksgiving Day, the culinary team will prepare a lavish buffet of classic comfort dishes featuring heritage turkey with all the trimmings and an array of tempting desserts. Thanksgiving dinner will be served from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The cost is $275 per person for adults and $95 for children 12 and under. Thanksgiving dinner reservations can be made online. Guests staying at the hotel between November 24 and January 9 will receive a $150 credit to use in the hotel’s restaurants or spa and a complimentary welcome drink upon arrival.

Mad & Vin at The Landsby

In the heart of Solvang, The Landsby’s signature restaurant, Mad & Vin, specializes in delicious wine-country-inspired cuisine. Each dish is made with fresh, seasonal ingredients from California’s central coast. This year, the chefs at Mad & Vin will prepare a special Thanksgiving meal alongside the restaurant’s regular menu from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. The Thanksgiving menu offers a choice of entrées with perfectly paired sides: roasted turkey breast ($60) or prime rib ($72). The Landsby’s bright and airy guest rooms are finished with blonde woods, brushed brass fixtures, leather accents, and warm, handcrafted furnishings, providing a refined, modern interpretation of Solvang’s Danish roots. Dinner and room reservations are available online.

Little River Inn

The Saturday before Thanksgiving, Little River Inn will host a special Friendsgiving on the Mendocino Coast. A twist on the traditional holiday, it’s an opportunity for friends to celebrate with their chosen families and enjoy a three-course feast on Saturday, November 22, 2025. In addition to the dinner, overnight stays that include Saturday night will be discounted more as the number of rooms increases. Two rooms receive a 10% discount, three rooms get 15% off, four rooms are 20% off, and there’s a whopping 25% discount on five or more rooms. A two-night and two-room minimum is required to receive the discount. Reservations must be made by November 9, 2025, by calling 888-INN-LOVE. With sweeping ocean views, luxurious soaking tubs, cozy fireplaces, and more than 60 rooms to choose from, the inn promises a getaway that will be the talk of the friends’ group chat for months to come.

Eloping in Style: California’s Most Romantic Boutique Hotels for Intimate Weddings

Posted on June 6, 2025October 29, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

Ready to run off together? From windswept coastal cliffs to sun-drenched vineyards and redwood retreats, California’s boutique hotels offer intimate, effortlessly stylish settings for tying the knot. Whether you’re planning a barefoot beach ceremony or a small garden gathering, these handpicked properties deliver charm, character, and curated elopement experiences to match your love story.

Inn at Occidental

Tucked among majestic redwoods in the historic Sonoma County village of Occidental, the Inn at Occidental is a dreamy retreat for an elopement. The inn’s romantic outdoor spaces bloom with garden flowers and fountains, perfect for exchanging vows privately or with a close circle of loved ones. An all-inclusive elopement package includes an officiant, photographer, floral design, live music, a cake, and a charcuterie board paired with Sonoma wines. Afterward, unwind in a luxurious guest room with a fireplace and spa tub.

Sand Rock Farm

Secluded amid the sun-dappled forest of a historic country estate, Sand Rock Farm is a premier choice for private elopements in Santa Cruz County. Once the site of the region’s first winery, the lovingly restored property now welcomes couples to say “I do” beneath the redwoods and toast in the barrel aging cellar or rustic carriage barn. Packages—available for two-person ceremonies or gatherings of up to 40 guests—include wedding coordination and exclusive use of the venue.

Inn at the Opera

Just two blocks from the iconic San Francisco City Hall, the European-inspired Inn at the Opera is a refined and romantic hideaway for eloping in the city. Built in the 1920s to house visiting opera stars, the hotel still hums with artistic spirit and old-world glamour. The staff specializes in tailoring each stay with celebratory amenities and thoughtful touches, making every couple feel like the stars of their own love story. Hayes Valley and the city’s performing arts venues are just steps away.

Timber Cove Resort

Set against the wild beauty of the Sonoma Coast, Timber Cove Resort is a stunning elopement destination. With 26 acres of native vegetation and dramatic ocean views, the resort offers a variety of breathtaking ceremony spots. For elopements with up to 10 guests, couples can follow their vows with an elegant dinner in the private Coast Commune room—complete with a live-edge redwood table, fireplace, and panoramic windows framing the sea and sunset.

Stanford Inn by the Sea

Overlooking the Pacific on the Mendocino Coast, Stanford Inn by the Sea is a one-of-a-kind, 100% plant-based resort and an inspiring setting for saying “I do.” Two elopement packages include a private ceremony by Rev. Jeff Stanford and photography. The enhanced option adds in-room champagne and a three-course dinner at the inn’s acclaimed restaurant. Packages are priced from $675, excluding accommodations.

The Genevieve

Nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez wine country, The Genevieve is a storybook hideaway for couples craving romance and seclusion. The hotel’s outdoor spaces exude secret garden charm with vine-draped archways and sunlit corners. Inside, the historic carriage house glows with exposed beams and twinkle lights—ideal for a first dance or cozy celebration. Guest rooms are equally dreamy, some featuring jetted tubs and private balconies for post-vow relaxation.

Aurora Hotel

Just a short boat ride from Southern California’s mainland, the romance of Catalina Island feels a world away—and the Aurora Hotel adds extra magic for eloping couples. Its Romance Package includes a flower bouquet, bottle of wine, couples massage, round-trip boat transportation, and taxi service from the Avalon dock. Priced from $580, excluding accommodations, this add-on makes the planning seamless. Celebrate with a toast on the hotel’s rooftop deck overlooking the harbor.

Brewery Gulch Inn & Spa

An intimate Mendocino Coast escape embraced by ocean waves and towering trees, Brewery Gulch Inn & Spa feels tailor-made for elopements. Two thoughtfully designed packages simplify the experience: the Simply Beautiful package is just for two, while the Deluxe version includes romantic extras and welcomes up to four guests. Both include an intimate ceremony by a resident celebrant, floral designs, and photography. A two-night minimum stay is required.

Drift Santa Barbara

For couples looking to elope in style, Drift Santa Barbara offers a fresh take on the traditional wedding venue. Set along downtown’s vibrant State Street, this modern boutique hotel blends coastal cool with minimalist design. The hotel’s new 2,200-square-foot indoor-outdoor space provides a blank canvas for bespoke celebrations. It’s also just steps from the iconic Santa Barbara Courthouse—perfect for couples planning a civic ceremony. Special packages make it easy to personalize your day.

Fess Parker Wine Country Inn

Tucked in the heart of Los Olivos, Fess Parker Wine Country Inn offers a refined yet relaxed setting for an intimate ceremony. The beautifully landscaped garden and terrace provide a naturally elegant backdrop, while the on-site restaurant, Nella Kitchen & Bar, serves up seasonal cuisine with wine country flair. With just 19 rooms, the inn feels like a private escape designed for romance.

Elk Cove Inn & Spa

Perched high above the Mendocino Coast, Elk Cove Inn & Spa is a windswept wonderland of cypress trees, lush gardens, and panoramic ocean views. Couples can exchange vows in the oceanfront gazebo, open-air amphitheater, or fireside indoors. The inn’s elopement packages are thoughtfully curated and include a licensed officiant, a custom bouquet and boutonniere, and a cake for two—everything you need for an unforgettable celebration.

Petit Soleil

Bringing a French countryside flair to San Luis Obispo, Petit Soleil charms with its cobblestone courtyards and Provençal details. Ideal for a just-for-two wedding or an intimate gathering, couples can rent the courtyard—or even the entire inn. Curated cocktails and custom catering elevate the occasion, while in-room extras like fresh-cut flowers and champagne add even more romance.

The Inn at Newport Ranch

Stretching across 2,200 acres of the rugged Mendocino Coast, The Inn at Newport Ranch offers the ultimate in secluded romance. With windswept bluffs and woodsy trails, it’s a magical backdrop for elopements. The midweek-only package for two includes everything from an officiant and photographer to florals, sparkling wine, and a custom cake. Accommodations are extra, and restrictions apply.

Seal Cove Inn

Tucked on a bluff above Half Moon Bay, Seal Cove Inn is a European-inspired estate wrapped in gardens and cypress trees. A private path leads to the beach and Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. The Elopement Package—crafted just for two—includes an officiant, bouquet, photographer, and a two-night stay in the luxurious Cypress Grove Suite, complete with a fireplace and spa tub.

De La Vina Inn

Just steps from downtown Santa Barbara’s State Street, De La Vina Inn blends historic Craftsman charm with private, tranquil gardens. Couples looking for an intimate ceremony can explore buyout options or tailored service packages. The Penthouse Suite is a standout with its private deck, spacious layout, and spa-inspired bathroom—perfect for newlywed indulgence.

Gingerbread Mansion Inn

In Ferndale, Gingerbread Mansion Inn is a romantic Victorian landmark that transports guests to a bygone era. The Lost Coast Elopement Package is designed for just two and includes a ceremony in the English garden or a parlor, two witnesses, champagne or wine, and attentive day-of assistance—plus countless romantic extras to complete the storybook setting.

Alisal Ranch

Set on 10,500 acres in Santa Barbara wine country, Alisal Ranch is a luxe Western retreat offering tailored elopement experiences. Packages can accommodate as few as three to five guests and often include a two-night stay for midweek ceremonies. Between horseback rides, golf, spa treatments, and starlit dinners, the ranch transforms elopements into full-fledged romantic escapes.

Old Monterey Inn

An elegant Tudor-style escape, Old Monterey Inn exudes Old World charm with an English cottage feel and captivating gardens. The all-inclusive Elopement Package, priced from $4,000 through October, includes two nights’ accommodations, exclusive use of the gardens, a ceremony with coordination, champagne, and more. It’s perfect for just the two of you—or up to four guests.

Eden Vale Inn

In the Sierra foothills near Placerville, Eden Vale Inn is a hidden romantic retreat with an intimate wedding pavilion and a beautiful pond. Packages for up to 14 guests start at $699 and cover every detail for a serene, love-filled day. The inn offers just seven rooms, all of which feature fireplaces, romantic lighting, and private patios with outdoor soaking tubs for unwinding after your “I dos.”

Inn at Zaca Creek

Reminiscent of a 17th-century English estate, the Inn at Zaca Creek offers Old World romance in Santa Barbara wine country. Couples can choose ceremony sites near the lagoon pool or overlooking the rolling hills of Santa Ynez Valley. An on-site coordinator helps ensure each elopement is as effortless as it is enchanting.

MacCallum House

In the heart of Mendocino village, the storied MacCallum House is steeped in romantic history. The builder gifted the Victorian mansion to his daughter for her wedding in the 1800s. The inn’s experienced team provides complete wedding coordination and decadent meals from the onsite restaurant. End your day in the honeymoon suite with its ocean views and claw-foot tub.

Hotel Cerro

Chic and contemporary, Hotel Cerro in downtown San Luis Obispo offers multiple stylish spaces to say “I do”—including the breezy Fig Veranda and rooftop deck with mountain views. Couples benefit from the hotel’s in-house wedding specialists and elevated touches that make even the smallest ceremony feel personalized and memorable.

Lavender Inn

In Ojai, the Lavender Inn is a romantic retreat between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Its colorful gardens, oak trees, and tranquil pond offer serene ceremony spots for tying the knot. Elopement packages are available, and the inn’s coordinator can help plan your perfect day. The Provence Cottage—with a private yard and fireplace—is a honeymoon dream.

Inn at Opolo

The Inn at Opolo offers the ultimate in seclusion among the rolling hills and vineyards of Paso Robles. A grassy hilltop site offers a romantic spot for exchanging vows with panoramic views of wine country. With just three luxurious rooms and acres to explore, it’s an ideal destination for couples seeking solitude. Add the Celebration Package to your stay for champagne, a bouquet, and a personal-size cake.

Outdoor event space at the Dunbar House Inn

Dunbar House Inn

Located in the historic gold rush town of Murphys, the Dunbar House Inn is an Italianate-style estate offering beautiful outdoor garden spaces for exchanging vows. The inn’s midweek Elopement Package, starting at $3,995, includes two nights’ accommodations, a garden ceremony with coordination, a small cake, sparkling wine, and more—for the couple and up to 10 guests.

Churchill Manor

Straight from the pages of a romance novel, Churchill Manor is a grand 1889 mansion in Napa offering timeless elegance. The Simply Elegant Elopement Package includes a two-night stay, ceremony in the gardens or on the veranda, bouquet and boutonniere, cake, bubbly, and minister. Everything is designed for an effortlessly refined celebration.

McCaffrey House Bed & Breakfast Inn

Majestic cedars and pines stand witness to private “I dos” at the McCaffrey House Bed & Breakfast Inn in Twain Harte. The romantic mountain lodge offers three wedding packages, including the Wedding and Honeymoon bundle designed for elopements. Priced from $1,595, the package includes a ceremony, a cake, a champagne toast, and two nights’ accommodations.

The Gables Wine Country Inn

Located in the heart of Sonoma County, The Gables Wine Country Inn is a historic Gothic Victorian mansion trimmed in romance. The inviting grounds offer several backdrops for tying the knot, including a redwood grove, a historic barn, and a vineyard. The Intimate Family & Friends Wedding Package, priced from $1,500, includes venue use for 90 minutes, an officiant, and seating for up to 15.

Milliken Creek Inn

On the banks of the Napa River, Milliken Creek Inn offers a peaceful garden setting for elopements. The midweek package includes two nights in a luxury suite, a private ceremony with an officiant, a romantic turndown service with sparkling wine, and a gourmet breakfast served anywhere on the property. The package is available Sunday through Thursday.

Mill Rose Inn

The classic Mill Rose Inn bed and breakfast in Half Moon Bay has long been known for its romantic English country garden-style weddings. The meticulously manicured grounds are framed in colorful blooms offering couples an intimate setting for exchanging vows. Elopement packages include full-service planning and accommodations. The Bordeaux Rose Suite—complete with an oversized whirlpool tub—is a favorite among honeymooners.

Nick’s Cove

Tucked into a peaceful cove along Tomales Bay, Nick’s Cove is a soulful setting for an elopement. Vows can be exchanged on a rustic pier, a beach, or from the back of a chartered boat. 14 romantic waterfront and waterview cottages offer cozy luxury—think wood-burning stoves, soaking tubs, and heated floors—with views that make you want to stay forever.

Simpson House Inn

An acre of private gardens and a Victorian estate tucked within Santa Barbara make the Simpson House Inn feel like your own secret sanctuary. All weddings require a full inn buyout for two nights, ensuring complete privacy. The estate includes 15 opulent guest rooms, including four cottages, offering luxury and intimacy for you and your guests.

9 Quick Getaways from San Francisco

Posted on May 27, 2025October 15, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

When summer arrives in the Bay Area, the open road beckons—with sea breezes, sun-warmed vineyards, and charming towns all within a two-hour drive of San Francisco. Whether you’re craving coastal calm, wine country indulgence, or a dose of small-town nostalgia, these quick escapes promise maximum reward with minimal planning. Think oyster picnics, blufftop strolls, and vineyard rides on vintage railcars—all designed to refresh and recharge in just a weekend’s time.

Tomales Bay: A Coastal Haven of Culinary and Natural Delights

Just 90 minutes from San Francisco, Tomales Bay is a slender, tranquil inlet flanked by protected parklands and oyster farms. It’s a haven for summer kayaking, picnicking, and basking in the beauty of Northern California’s unspoiled coastline. Glide across the calm bay in a kayak or SUP, watching for seals and sea birds, or hike into Point Reyes National Seashore for sweeping coastal vistas.

This is oyster country and tasting them fresh from the source—at dockside shuck-and-slurp spots or rustic outdoor eateries—is a quintessential summer ritual. Farms, cheese shops, and roadside bakeries complete the culinary circuit. Slow, scenic, and salt-kissed, Tomales Bay is summer in its most satisfying form.

Where to stay

Nestled along the water’s edge, Nick’s Cove is a collection of meticulously restored cottages that have been welcoming travelers since the 1930s. Two newly updated cottages honor Nick’s Cove’s rich history while incorporating GreenRow’s sustainable, vintage-inspired furnishings and cheerful aesthetic.

Bodega Bay: A Charming Fishing Village with Natural Splendor

Two hours north of San Francisco, Bodega Bay pairs rugged Pacific beauty with the charms of a working fishing village. Its dramatic coastline is ideal for scenic drives, bluff hikes, and quiet beaches, while the harbor below hums with activity. The Bodega Head Trail is a must for panoramic vistas and possible whale sightings in early summer.

Back in town, feast on just-caught seafood or browse the galleries, boutiques, and quirky gift shops. The harbor and marina are great for paddleboarding or renting a kayak to explore the waters. Bodega Bay’s landscape may be windswept and wild, but its appeal is deeply relaxing and refined.

Where to Stay

Just 300 yards from Bodega Bay and steps away from restaurants and galleries, Bodega Bay Inn offers laid-back vibes, pet-friendly accommodations, and warm hospitality. Family-run since 1983, the inn was originally built as an art gallery and studio and retains its artisan roots.

Sonoma Court shops and tasting rooms in downtown Sonoma

Sonoma: Sophisticated Wine Country Charm

Sonoma’s sophisticated summer charms are just an hour away, with its historic town square anchoring the experience. Taste your way through boutique wineries and seasonal menus, all within walking distance of shaded gardens and open-air patios. The plaza itself buzzes with galleries, shops, and a farmers’ market on Tuesday nights and Friday mornings that is rich in local flavor.

Beyond the town, meandering roads invite vineyard drives, scenic bike rides, and stops at roadside fruit stands. Outdoor trails offer valley views and a touch of serenity. Whether you’re swirling wine, shopping antiques, or watching the sunset over the hills, Sonoma’s relaxed rhythm is an ideal summer balm.

Where to stay

At the southern gateway to Sonoma, the brand-new Casia Inn is a soothing oasis that blends rich history with modern elegance in a tranquil garden setting. Just two blocks from the plaza, the Inn at Sonoma features newly renovated interiors and a rooftop deck with a hot tub.

Grapevines in rows with mountains in the background at sunset in the Napa Valley — A Vineyard at sunset in Napa Valley

Napa: Effortless Indulgence in the Valley

Napa’s golden light and vineyard-laced roads set the stage for summer indulgence less than two hours from the city. With more than 400 wineries, the valley invites leisurely tasting experiences that range from sleek modern estates to ivy-covered classics. Outdoor garden pairings, vineyard picnics, and al fresco flights are especially idyllic in summer’s warmth.

Journey aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train for a restored vintage railcar that’s part moving postcard or rent a bike and pedal your way to tasting rooms along the Napa Valley Vine Trail. Napa’s downtown district tempts with galleries, wine bars, and riverfront dining. In the upper valley, mud baths and mineral pools make for a rejuvenating break between tastings. Whether sipping a cabernet or cycling through vines, this is wine country summer at its finest.

Where to stay

A short drive from downtown Napa, the Candlelight Inn is an English Tudor estate nestled in a secluded setting. Guests can relax poolside beneath a wisteria-draped arbor or enjoy lawn games in the yard. Completely redesigned in 2021, Milliken Creek Inn is an exclusive hideaway tucked along the banks of the Napa River. The tranquil, three-acre setting offers sleek fire pits, trickling fountains, a koi pond, and intimate seating areas.

Benicia: Bayfront Artistry and Historic Allure

Benicia is the kind of place you stumble upon and wonder how you didn’t know about it sooner. Just 45 minutes from San Francisco, this historic waterfront town blends maritime charm with a thriving arts scene. First Street is the heart of it all, with working artist studios, galleries, antique shops, and water-view cafés.

Take a walk along the marina or launch a kayak from the public beach. The town’s history lives on in preserved Victorian homes and the state’s original capitol building, while arts events and outdoor concerts animate this charming town throughout the year. For a low-key escape, Benicia is a true summer sleeper hit.

Where to stay

Built in 1854, The Inn at Benicia Bay is a beautifully renovated inn blending period architectural details and modern amenities while honoring the town’s rich seafaring history. It’s located just a block from downtown Benicia and features wine tastings on Thursday nights and jazz on Fridays.

Blacksmith Square in downtown Livermore, photo courtesy of Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa

Livermore: Wine Country with a Downtown Beat

Just 50 minutes east of San Francisco, Livermore offers a warm, sunny escape with a refreshingly down-to-earth vibe. As one of California’s oldest wine regions, its rolling vineyards and heritage wineries deliver elegant tastings without the pretense. Sip estate blends at Wente or Concannon or discover small-production labels on a scenic wine trail.

Downtown Livermore is a destination in itself—inviting with tree-lined streets, public art, chef-driven restaurants, and frequent summer events like open-air concerts and farmers’ markets. The area also boasts outdoor recreation, with trails winding through golden hills and open preserves. With its balance of wine country charm and vibrant culture, Livermore makes a summer day trip feel like a true getaway.

Where to stay

Located just 10 minutes from the Livermore Wine Trolley, The Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa provides a tranquil retreat amid rolling hills and olive orchards. Unwind in a poolside cabana, indulge in spa treatments, and sample olive oil made from olives grown onsite.

Kayaking at Pillar Point Harbor – photo by Kevin Henney courtesy of Visit Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay: Coastal Drama Meets Country Calm

A breezy 45-minute drive from the city delivers you to Half Moon Bay, where dramatic cliffs meet golden beaches and rustic farms. Summer brings clear mornings perfect for hiking the Coastal Trail or horseback riding on Poplar Beach, followed by afternoons tide-pooling at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve or browsing seasonal farmstands.

The working harbor bustles with fishing boats and crab shacks, while elegant seaside restaurants offer sweeping ocean views. Inland, flower farms and art galleries nod to the town’s creative, agricultural spirit. Whether it’s surfing, cycling, or sipping wine over coastal views, Half Moon Bay strikes the perfect balance of sophistication and salt air.

Where to stay

Inspired by European country manors, Seal Cove Inn is a secluded, elegant coastal retreat. A garden path from the inn leads directly to Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and Seal Cove Beach. The Inn at Mavericks is nestled on a small bluff overlooking the ocean and the harbor. The six spacious suites offer luxurious amenities and panoramic views. The Cypress Inn on Miramar Beach is nestled along a sandy beach with stunning ocean views. Be lulled by the waves while enjoying a massage by the hotel’s in-house massage therapist.

Sea Swings at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Santa Cruz: Surf, Sun, and Seaside Nostalgia

Santa Cruz is a classic California beach town with a playful spirit. The historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk brings carnival magic with its vintage rides and seaside games, while the adjacent Wharf buzzes with seafood, ice cream, and sea lion sightings below the planks.

Cowell’s Beach is the go-to spot for beginners learning to surf, where mellow swells and welcoming instructors make it easy to catch your first wave. From there, stroll or cycle along West Cliff Drive, an oceanfront path offering cliff-top views and photo-worthy moments at every curve. At Lighthouse Point, check out over 100 years of surfing history at the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum. Or watch from the cliffs as fearless surfers try to tame the point breaks at Steamer Lane. This laid-back surf town packs sun-kissed charm into every summer day.

Where to Stay

Across from the Main Beach and the Beach Boardwalk, Marea Sol is a hip, new boutique hotel with a rooftop deck and thoughtfully designed rooms that pay homage to Santa Cruz’s seascapes. Also across from Main Beach, the family-friendly Beach Street Inn & Suites serves up a colorful, contemporary beach vibe with free snow cones and a swimming pool. Chic and elegant, the West Cliff Inn is a beautifully renovated Victorian featuring breezy, coastal-inspired décor and blufftop views of the beach and Boardwalk. Perched on a cliff directly above the wharf and Cowell’s Beach, the oceanfront Sea & Sand Inn offers warm hospitality and exceptional ocean views from every room.

22 California State Parks to Inspire Wonder

Posted on April 29, 2025October 29, 2026 by Ranee Ruble-Dotts

California’s State Parks are a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure. From ancient redwood groves to sun-drenched coastlines, and alpine lakes to granite spires, each park offers its own sense of place and wonder. This year, discover trails that wind through California’s history, beaches that hush the mind, and vistas that rearrange your sense of scale. Whether you’re chasing solitude or shared discovery, these handpicked parks promise to be unforgettable.

Golden Gate bridge as seen from Angel Island, California — View of Golden Gate Bridge from Angel Island State Park

Angel Island State Park

A short 10-minute ferry ride from Tiburon leads to Angel Island with 360-degree views of San Francisco Bay, the city skyline, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Hike or bike the Perimeter Road or climb to Mount Livermore for sweeping vistas. Explore historic sites including a former U.S. Immigration Station and several military installations. With picnic areas and peaceful coves, it’s a day trip that blends nature and history.