Top Luxury Hotels in California

Once you have stayed at a 5-star resort and have come to understand the true meaning of the 5-star treatment, it is hard to go back to the mediocrity that is the traditional hotel stay. Sure, a Hyatt or a Marriott will suffice, offer comfortable rooms and some run of the mill amenities, but nothing quite compares to a top-notch luxury resort.  In the same vein, nothing quite compares to the beautiful people, coastline and weather that defines California. So, combine the 5-star luxury with some of the most picturesque cities in California, and the result is an experience you’ll never forget, and an experience you will hope to recreate time and time again.

We’ll start in the Southern most part of California, in the city dubbed “America’s Finest.” While there are a few stand out options such as the Hotel Del in Coronado and The Grand Del Mar, those who have discovered San Diego’s hidden gem understand why Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa in Rancho Santa Fe is hands down the most luxurious resort in San Diego.  From the smallest details, like fresh squeezed Valencia orange juice left at your door each morning, to the more outlandish amenities, like the fleet of Porsches that are owned by the hotel and available to guests for use to get to and from the track or take a leisurely drive up PCH at sunset, they have thought of everything. The Spa is to die for, the service impeccable and the private bungalows are unlike anything else you will find in the city.  Tucked away into one of the most upscale corners of San Diego, Rancho Valencia is sure to take your breath away and set the bar for all future hotel stays.

About an hour north of San Diego, you will reach Orange County.  Orange County is the blend of the laid- back nature of San Diego and the wealth and excess that defines LA.  Luxury is an expectation and a state of being for residents of the OC and their ocean-front resorts reflect that.  Many people who live in the area frequent the resorts because it is hard to justify traveling when you live along some of the most scenic coastline in the world.  The AAA Five Diamond Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point shines bright as the area’s top choice for travelers and locals alike. The beach front setting, expansive grounds, award winning golf course and tranquil spa are all reasons to book a stay at the Monarch.  It is the ultimate Southern California luxury destination.  

As we travel north to the city of Angels, the list of luxury accommodations becomes quite overwhelming. It goes without saying that in a city inhabited by the rich and famous, there is no shortage of lavish options. So, when determining the top luxury hotel, one must consider the history and culture of Hollywood and the surrounding areas, and it is hard to surmount the iconic grandeur of the Beverly Hills Hotel.  The Beverly Hills Hotel is situated in the quintessential upscale zip code of 90210 on and sits directly on Sunset Boulevard. It has been the self-proclaimed playground to the stars for decades and has mastered the delicate balance of blending old Hollywood charm with modern amenities and the unmatched service its clientele has come to expect. Stays at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel are considered by many to be legendary and will leave you feeling like Hollywood royalty.

Further north we reach Santa Barbara, which is the quieter, more private version of LA, but home to some of the MOST rich and famous stars in California. Montecito, a much sought after subarea of Santa Barbara boasts residents such as Oprah and Ellen. Santa Barbara has stunning coastline views and gorgeous wine estates, ranches, mansions and of course, some of the most luxurious hotel accommodations in the world.  The one we found to be most representative of the title most popular luxury hotel in Santa Barbara is the unsurpassed Ritz Carlton Bacara. The resort spans over 78 water- front acres and spread throughout are Mediterranean-style villas that encourage guests to slow down and take it all in. If ocean air is what you’re looking for, the Pacific Ocean is the focal point of the resort. When you are ready to experience some of the magical wines the region has to offer, you can visit the resort’s signature restaurant, Angel Oak, and peruse their 12,000-bottle wine collection.  Romance and relaxation await at the Ritz Carlton Bacara.

The final point on the map of California luxury is the sophisticated city of San Francisco.  Unlike the glitz and glamour of cities to the South, San Francisco is more about old world luxury.  Take a day trip to wine taste in Napa or a ferry ride to Sausalito to visit art galleries and look back at a stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge.  But when the day is done, make sure your stay is booked at the Fairmont Heritage Place in Ghirardelli Square. The Fairmont brand went above and beyond with this property and you will really feel like you are in your home away from home.  The accommodations are lavish, the location incomparable and the service unparalleled. As a guest at the Fairmont Heritage you will have around the clock butler and concierge service. If that is not the definition of luxury, I don’t know what is.  And to top it off, if you love It so much you want to move in permanently, there are second home residences available for purchase. Imagine living the luxury hotel life day in and day out, in the heart of one of America’s most bustling, progressive and historic cities. 

There you have it, a list of some of the most luxurious hotels in the most beloved state in the country.  So, what are you waiting for, get to planning. Beauty, luxury, romance and relaxation are all just a reservation away.