25 Stylish Boutique Hotels in California, USA in 2023

Searching for the best boutique hotels in California? Well, you’re in the right place.

California boutique hotels are where it’s at these days. I mean, who doesn’t love the idea of sipping a cocktail poolside in a trendy hotel full of character, great service and curated amenities? And let’s not even get started about the on-site dining options these boutique hotels in California boast – yum!

When it comes to choosing a boutique hotel, California is by no means lacking. I’ve stayed at some of the top boutique hotels in California on several occasions and it’s honestly one of my favorite parts about traveling around the Golden State.

Since California is so big, countless luxury accommodation options breathe style through creative designs, vintage furniture, and soft palettes, and that’s before you head outside to the swimming pool.

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Besides the many cool hotels in California, this part of the US is unlike anywhere else. 

From tropical sandy beaches in Malibu to the crazy culinary scenes in Los Angeles and San Francisco, and not to forget all the wonderful experiences waiting to be had, like spending your days strolling along Santa Monica Pier, wine tasting in Napa Valley, glamping along Russian River or stargazing in Joshua Tree. California truly has it all.

Picking a unique hotel California has to offer won’t be difficult, as there’s an abundance of options to suit everyone’s needs. But for some, they may find it a tad bit difficult to choose, and that’s where I come in to fill you in on my favourite boutique hotels CA-style.

Enough of me harping on; it’s time for me to show you the best boutique hotels in California, so you can start planning your dream vacation.

Where to Stay in California, USA

Southern California

Without a doubt, the most visited part of California is the south, and for a good reason. 

All the best hotels in California on the beach reside here in cities like Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica and Malibu. 

Most first-time visitors will base themselves in Southern California because there’s just so much to see and do, like admiring the mid-century modern architecture in Palm Springs, trekking through Joshua Tree National Park, and appreciating the Hollywood Sign from a trendy rooftop bar in WeHo. 

Looking for a wellness retreat or to peruse artistic boutiques? Head to Ojai.

Central California

Central California doesn’t get as much attraction as the northern and southern parts of the state, but there’s so much for visitors to enjoy. Imagine staying in a high-end hotel in the picturesque Carmel By The Sea overlooking the Pacific Ocean or a boutique lodge along the rugged coastline of Big Sur. 

Anyone travelling on a budget must consider this part of California as their base; there’s just so much value waiting to be taken advantage of.

Northern California

Boutique hotels in Northern California are unlike anywhere else in the state, from design properties in the centre of San Fransisco to resorts embedded amongst vineyards in Napa or Sonoma Valley. Don’t forget about the chateau-style lodgings along the Northern California coastline.

Those who are after a more relaxed getaway should think about basing in Northern California for their trip. Or, if you’re a huge fan of wine, you’ll love the countless wineries in the region.

25 Best Boutique Hotels in California, USA

Whether you want a secluded stay in the charming boutique hotels in Northern California, or to experience the picturesque beaches, nightlife and culinary scene of trendy boutique hotels in Southern California, you are bound to find your perfect stay in the Golden State on this handpicked list of boutique hotels in California.

Best Boutique Hotels in Southern California

1. Santa Monica Proper Hotel

Where in California? | Santa Monica

✓ Rating: 8.8 / 10 | Reviews: 265+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Design lovers

Location | Boutique hotels in Santa Monica don’t get better than the Proper Hotel located only a 0.5 mile walk from the world-famous Santa Monica Beach and 800 feet from a range of fancy restaurants and wine bars like Cassia and Esters Wine Shop & Bar. It’s the perfect setup for your holiday.

Facilities | The Proper Hotel is Santa Monica’s first new luxury lifestyle hotel in over ten years, with a range of facilities for its guests to enjoy. 

Boasting a high-end pool deck with clear beachside vistas, two restaurants, and a bar, a 3,000-square-foot Proper x Surya Spa with an extensive list of Ayurvedic treatments, a fitness centre, and a terrace specifically for yoga classes.

Rooms | The awe-inspiring guestrooms at the Proper Hotel are hard to fault, with bespoke amenities such as extra large double beds covered in Fili D’oro Fine Linens and Bellino Italian comforters and pillows, en-suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and Kelly Wearstler (the hotel designer) parachute home custom bathrobes.

This property also makes a great choice for high-end hotels close to Venice Beach.

2. Hotel Per La

Where in California? | Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)

✓ Rating: 8.8 / 10 | Reviews: 765+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Young travellers

Location | The Hotel Per La is one of the top boutique hotels in Downtown Los Angeles, influenced by the historic 12-story building situated on the corner of Olive Street and conveniently close to Seven Grand whiskey bar, where most guests end up for a cheeky nightcap after a day of exploring.

Facilities | Like all luxury hotels in California, Hotel Per La has some excellent facilities. 

The property boasts a spacious outdoor swimming pool, a fully functioning gym with modern equipment, a cafe serving the finest coffee, a rooftop pool bar offering flavorful cocktails and onsite restaurant giving guests access to a range of international cuisines.

Rooms | The tranquil guest suites at Hotel Per La are French-influenced, designed by a set of developers from Paris. 

With all kinds of unique furnishings such as standalone pedestal bathtubs, Terrazzo floored walk-in showers, ample patios, king-size beds with fashionable linens, and exclusive bathrobes by Bellino.

3. Gold Diggers

Where in California? | Hollywood

✓ Rating: 9.0 / 10 | Reviews: 20+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Vintage lovers

Location | Are you ready to stay at one of the most unusual hotels in California? Gold Diggers lies in East Hollywood, down the street to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery and 3.5 miles from the Hollywood Sign, for those who want to make their way up there.

Facilities | While Gold Diggers isn’t like the typical boutique hotels in Hollywood, it sure has facilities that easily challenge the rest of them.

From a fully stocked bar with your favourite liqueurs to its very own recording studio. Additionally, for each night you book at Gold Diggers, you’ll receive two complimentary drink tokens available at the bar. Whoever said no to free booze?

Rooms | If you’re after a guest suite with modern interiors, outstanding amenities, and playful colours, the Gold Digger will tick all your boxes. 

Every guest space at Gold Digger has its own personality portrayed through hipster paintings, rich palettes, and vintage ornaments. Of course, you’ll have all the essentials, too, like wide-screen TVs, coffee machines, desk space, a full set of furniture, and a private terrace in some rooms.

4. 1 Hotel West Hollywood

Where in California? | West Hollywood

✓ Rating: 8.3 / 10 | Reviews: 565+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Luxury travellers

Location | The 1 Hotel is one of the West Hollywood boutique hotels that everyone’s talking about at the moment. It’s also a short cab ride away from the intriguing Hollywood Museum, the property’s location is superb.

Facilities | Guests can use the 1 Hotel’s communal working spaces, a 24 Fieldhouse fitness centre, a state-of-the-art outdoor swimming pool with vistas of LA’s skyline, two delightful restaurants and bars with unique menus, and a Tesla pick-up and drop-off service.

Rooms | Offering 286 carefully designed guest rooms at 1 Hotel, they showcase the grandeur Hollywood is known for through soft touches, marble bathrooms, organic cotton linens, sustainably sourced bedding, and wooden furnishings. 

If you have a furry friend at home, bring them along on your vacation, as the 1 Hotel is completely pet friendly. You may have to pay a small fee upon arrival, but having your pup around is well worth it.

5. The Maybourne Beverly Hills

Where in California? | Beverley Hills

✓ Rating: 9.3 / 10 | Reviews: 65+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Couples

Location | The cool-spirited Maybourne Hotel is the epitome of luxury hotels in Beverly Hills, with its lavish interiors and delightful location where all the action is in the city. 

The Beverley Canon Gardens and Beverly Hills Farmers Market can both be walked to and if you fancy a bite to eat, the unbelievably tasty Mastro’s Steakhouse is just steps away.

Facilities | As many modern hotels California have an insane number of facilities, the Maybourne is no different. 

Unwind in the on-site spa with a bubbling hot tub, dine at the Terrace restaurant looking out over the Beverly Canon Gardens, or simply grab your towel and book and lounge by the outdoor swimming pool for the day.

Rooms | Spacious suites at The Maybourne accommodate between two and three occupants. Visitors can relish serene touches, neat palettes, and a king-sized bed covered in Geometric linens guaranteeing a cozy sleep every night. 

If you happen to be travelling with family or friends, you can add a connecting room beside yours for an added fee.

6. Hotel June

Where in California? | Malibu

✓ Rating: 7.2 / 10 | Reviews: 15+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Two-person trip

Location | Hotel June is one of the many stunning Malibu boutique hotels, tucked away on four acres of private land next to the well-sought-after Pacific Coast Highway. 

If you need a dose of vitamin SEA, the beautiful Zuma Beach is less than a 3-mile drive away, and Paradise Cove Beach is just a 3-minute drive; you could easily walk there if you’re stuck (20 minutes).

Facilities | Not many boutique hotels California can match the facilities at the Hotel June. The one-of-a-kind property has an exclusive outdoor swimming pool open from 9 AM – 8 PM, bikes and surfboards for hire, virtual yoga and breathwork classes, surf lessons on request, and a helpful reception desk open for advice on the best experiences to be had nearby.

Rooms | Hotel June offers 13 newly renovated bungalows with a distinct charm and a wide selection of benefits, such as Bluetooth music speakers, extra large double Casper beds with crisp white linens, private patios protected by dutch doors, and creative works of art throughout. 

Furthermore, every room has a deskspace complemented with high-speed Wi-Fi if you have some work to catch up on.

Looking for something coastal? You can also check out the beautiful beachfront hotels in Santa Barbara.

7. Hotel Joaquin

Where in California? | Laguna Beach

✓ Rating: 8.7 / 10 | Reviews: 215+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Groups of couples, beach lovers

Location | Boutique hotels in Laguna Beach breathe the SoCal vibe, and Hotel Joaquin is one of them. 

Perched up above Shaw’s Cove, this adorable gem of the property faces the Pacific Ocean and is the ideal escape for anyone who wants to spend their vacation on the beach.

Fisherman’s Cove Beach, Crescent Bay Beach, and Emerald Bay Beach are all within walking distance, so you could easily spend a day at each of them.

Facilities | Since you’re staying at one of the main hotels in California on the beach, you’re guaranteed the best in class facilities. 

The Saline Restaurant‘s doors are open for breakfast and lunch, the onsite bar is where you’ll find yourself sampling more than a few of California’s finest wines, and the outdoor swimming pool is great for when you need a break from the beach. Just make sure you don’t forget your bathers.

Rooms | As for the rooms at this boutique hotel California Coast has to offer, they’re simple and smooth, with a relaxed ambiance as soon as you step past the front door. 

If you’re celebrating a special event, I encourage you to book the Mer King Room. It’s on the pricier side, but waking up to the sounds of the ocean crashing up onto Shaw’s Cove is well worth the splash.

8. The Capri Hotel

Where in California? | Ojai

✓ Rating: 8.9 / 10 | Reviews: 280+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Large groups

Location | For a truly memorable holiday, book yourself into the Capri Hotel. 

This is rumoured to be the best hotel in California, with a pristine location in the bang centre of Downtown Ojai and outstanding cabana-styled guestrooms. 

Fancy eateries such as The Ojai Beverage Company, Hakane Sushi, and Ca’ Marco Ristorante Italiano are all a stone’s throw away and perfect for an evening meal with your loved ones.

Facilities | If you can lure yourself away from your fabulous room, you’ll discover all the rest of what the Capri Hotel has to offer – my favorite designer hotel in Ojai. 

Book yourself in for some tender loving care with the onsite masseuse at the property’s spa, paddle the day away in the outdoor pool as the sun beams down on your face, or kick back in the heated Jacuzzi with a glass of bubbly. 

Boutique hotels in California’s Ojai don’t get much better than the Capri Hotel.

Rooms | Each suite at Capri Hotel takes gorgeous to a whole new level, providing 27 m² of space, massive extra large king beds, golden headboards, contemporary bathrooms with free toiletries and powerful rain showers, 42-inch flat-screen TV, and an ample balcony with peaceful garden views. 

The Capri Hotel is dog friendly and even has patio rooms to cater to your fluffy buddy. Be aware that if you want to bring your dog along, there’s a $50 charge per pup.

9. Sands Hotel & Spa

Where in California? | Palm Springs

✓ Rating: 8.8 / 10 | Reviews: 125+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Architectural enthusiasts

Location | Produced by the well-known designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, the Sands Hotel & Spa knocks all the other cool hotels to stay in California out of the park with its lovely location encircled by the dramatic mountains in Indian Wells. 

Not only are the hotel’s surroundings stunning, but also you’ll be a short walk from excellent restaurants like the Nest and Eureka! Burger.

Facilities | Drop your bags and discover what the Sands Hotel & Spa has available for its guests. 

The Pink Cabana Bar and Restaurant are open for a nourishing breakfast, lunch, and dinner inspired by Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine; you’ll really get that tropical feeling. Nestled away in the olive grove is the Sand’s signature spa, providing a range of intimate treatments guaranteeing ultimate relaxation.

Rooms | The chic guest rooms at Sands rival the rest of the boutique hotels in Palm Springs, featuring quirky colour blends, Dyptique bath amenities, in-room mini bars with vintage crystal stemware, and spacious beds with Revival New York bed linens. 

There are also in-room entertainment systems you can hook up to your favourite media platforms like Spotify, Netflix, etc.

10. AutoCamp Joshua Tree

Where in California? | Joshua Tree

✓ Rating: 8.9 / 10 | Reviews: 250+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Adventure travellers

Location | The AutoCamp Joshua Tree is the perfect example of cool hotels California. Built in a desert just outside the Joshua Tree National Park, this property will make you feel like you’re in a country and western movie. 

While you may be in the rural part of town, you won’t have too far to go if you want an evening drink to watch the sun go down, as the Joshua Tree Saloon’s doors are always open.

Facilities | From bike rentals to an outdoor swimming pool with clear mountainscapes, to call the AutoCamp Joshua Tree one of the best boutique hotels California would be an understatement.

One of the main selling points of this top Joshua Tree accommodation is the selection of experiences they offer guests; whether you want to embark on a full moon hike or indulge in a wellness fireside retreat, there’s so much to do.

Rooms | Following a long day of exploring the region’s great outdoors, treat yourself to some alone time in your luxe Airstream Suite, fitted with queen-sized beds dressed in high-thread count linens, sleek bathrooms with rain showers, and vanity areas. 

The garden furniture and firepit are always there if you fancy a small bbq with a nice glass of Californian wine.

11. The Guild Hotel

Where in California? | Downtown San Diego

✓ Rating: 8.4 / 10 | Reviews: 575+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | History lovers

Location | If you want to stay in one of the best hotels on the California Coast, The Guild Hotel will surely tempt you with its unique residence inside a historic Armed Services Building situated in Downtown San Diego. 

Little Italy, Petco Park, the San Diego Convention Centre, and the notorious Gaslamp Quarter are all within walking distance.

Facilities | You’ll really enjoy sipping on some crafty cocktails shaken up by a professional team of mixologists in the Guild Bar. No doubt, they’ll be able to make your favourites. 

If you need a break from the booze, the fitness center may tempt you to blow off some steam. Refuel in the Guild Cafe‘s courtyard with a fresh lunch, from kale caesar salads to caprese paninos; there will be something for you to tame your hunger.

Rooms | As you would expect from a luxury hotel California has to offer, The Guild Hotel’s guest spaces scream opulence, with rich decor, sophisticated furnishings, and voguish lighting. 

The Ritz-Carlton beds by Stearns & Foster with tufted leather headboards will never let you leave, a Keurig Coffee Machine will always be there to give you a lift in the early hours of the morning, and the walk-in showers are similar to cascading waterfalls.

Best Boutique Hotels In Central California

12. White Water

Where in California? | Cambria

✓ Rating: 9.0 / 10 | Reviews: 435+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Small families

Location | The White Water Hotel is one of the boutique hotels central coast California has that lies along the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, about 1 mile from San Simeon Natural Preserve. 

It’s also near two of the area’s most visited eateries, the Moonstone Beach Bar and Grill and The Sea Chest Oyster Bar.

Facilities | All the great hotels in California offer incredible facilities, and the White Water isn’t any different. 

The lobby lounge serves all kinds of the region’s best wines, craft beers, spirits, and ciders, and some yummy snacks to go with them, like cheeses, meats, and more. 

There are enough Linus Bikes to go around for every guest, just pop down to reception, and they’ll be able to arrange a rental for you; helmets and safety gear will be provided.

Rooms | The flawless 250 square-foot guestrooms at the White Water Hotel are styled with the local area in mind. Designed with crafty works of art, pristine furnishings, custom tiled gas fireplaces, Fili D’oro bed linens & Terry, a mini bar with Erewhon treats, and Honeyco coffee and fresh pastries every morning. 

It sounds almost like heaven.

13. The Landsby

Where in California? | Solvang

✓ Rating: 8.8 / 10 | Reviews: 70+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Young travellers, small groups

Location | With all the amazing hotels in California to choose from, they may all start to look a little similar after a while, except for the sumptuous Landsby in the mesmerizing Santa Ynez Valley. 

Staying in this lush property puts you close to attractions like the Alisal Commons Park and Alisal Commons Park, plus Santa Barbara and Vicinity are just 24 miles away, a fun day trip that you have to take.

Facilities | When you’re not chilling out in your swanky room, you can order yourself a nice cold glass of wine to have in the courtyard and chat with other guests around the firepit. 

Or book a table in The Landsby’s Mad & Vin restaurant to try some of the tastiest dishes from Californian cuisine. The Santa Ynex Burger is undoubtedly the most scrumptious thing on the menu and will have you wanting to return back for more the following day.

Rooms | The 51 elegant guestrooms at The Landry offer hand-crafted furnishings, newly remodelled bathrooms with soft bathrobes and boutique toiletries, 47″ inch flat-screen HDTVs, fully stocked minibars, and comfy extra large double beds. 

If you happen to have your car with you, there’s a protective car garage on site to store the vehicle overnight, just be sure to mention it to the hotel prior to your arrival.

14. Skyview Hotel

Where in California? | Los Alamos

✓ Rating: 8.9 / 10 | Reviews: 165+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Couples

Location | The Skyview is one of the best hotels in California for couples. 

It’s a property that was once a motel but has recently been transformed into a magnificent resort in the quaint town of Los Alamos; near Babi’s Beer Emporium, Los Olivos Park, and the Foxen Winery & Vineyard is only a 17 mile drive away.

Facilities | What sets the Skyview Hotel apart from other options on this list of interesting hotels in California is that it’s 21 and over, so you don’t have to worry about young groups of friends showing up and ruining the vibe. 

Pull up a lounge chair by the heated outdoor swimming pool and grab a Sunrise Mimosa at the Norman Restaurant and Bar or stroll through 2.5 acres of pinot noir vineyards next to the grounds, they’re like something you’d see on the front of a postcard.

Rooms | You’re going to love the innovatively designed guestrooms at the Skyview Hotel, offering standing showers, stocked minibars, Bluetooth speakers, Nespresso machines, and king-sized beds with plush mattresses and cozy covers. 

Some of the spaces even have mountain views which you can request upon booking.

15. Hotel San Luis Obispo

Where in California? | San Luis Obispo

✓ Rating: 9.1 / 10 | Reviews: 190+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Friend groups

Location | Hotel San Luis Obispo is one of the more hip hotels California and happens to be just 650 feet from Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and 160 feet from must-try restaurants like Mee Heng Low Noodle House and Mint + Craft.

Facilities | If you’re one for hanging around the hotel for most of the day making the most of the provided facilities, this is one of the best boutique hotels central California has for you. 

Find a new passion at the onsite art bar; it’s sure to bring out your creative side. 

The Sol Spa really does have it all, from a steamy salt sauna to a secluded meditation room. Be sure to spend at least one evening dining at the SLO restaurant, run by Executive Chef Ryan Fancher. 

Finish up your days unwinding at either the S.Low Bar or Rooftop high bar; both have sizable menus with an array of drinks to suit your taste.

Rooms | Hotel San Luis Obispo has a total of 78 pleasing guestrooms available for booking, including extravagant suites such as the Morro Suite and compact studios like the Tolosa Studio. Each comes gifted with bright colours and natural aesthetics, oak floors, handmade Nani Marquina rugs, and out-of-the-box architectural designs. 

The extra large double beds all have down comforters and fresh linens, all bathrooms have a set of soft slippers and robes for every guest, and there’s a bathtub just in case you’re not feeling the swimming pool. 

Additional amenities include filtered water and snacks, 50-inch LCD-HDTVs, Vifa Bluetooth speakers, a Nespresso coffee maker, a powder room, and outdoor balconies. 

Moreover, some suites have pull-out Queen sofa beds for whoever gets the short straw.

16. Palihouse Santa Barbara

Where in California? | Santa Barbara

✓ Rating: 8.8 / 10 | Reviews: 185+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Quick stays

Location | One of the best boutique hotels in Santa Barbara is the Palihouse, a four-star property in the downtown area of the city close to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Presidio of Santa Barbara and East and West Beach are both under two kilometres away, so you can easily take a short cab ride or walk if you can brave the heat.

Facilities | Give your batteries a charge by the outdoor swimming pool, where you can put your feet up on one of the private cabanas and order your favourite cocktail.

You can get your hands on some goodies into you at the in-house pantry after a strenuous workout in the fitness centre boasting the latest equipment. Before the sun starts to set, take one of the Linus bicycles out for a ride and discover parts of the city you’ve never even heard of.

Rooms | The Palihouse has four room styles on offer for visitors, Grand Studios, Deluxe Studio, Deluxe King, Classic Rooms, and El Apartamento, including ample floor plans, extra large double beds with fine Italian linen, toasty fireplaces, espresso machines, and tempting bathtubs.

Some suites have kitchenettes with refrigerators, which is ideal if you prefer to cook your meals on vacation.

Best Boutique Hotels In Northern California

17. 1 Hotel San Francisco

Where in California? | Downtown San Francisco

✓ Rating: 8.8 / 10 | Reviews: 105+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Sustainability enthusiasts

Location | If you would like to stay in one of the boutique hotels in San Fransisco that are all about sustainability, book yourself in for a couple of nights at the 1 Hotel San Francisco. 

Adorned with organic fibres, local greenery, and elemental stones, this property goes out of its way to give back to the environment.

Situated on the Embarcadero, where many waterfront attractions are, you’ll only have to walk a couple of steps to be at the Exploratorium and the Aquarium of the Bay.

Facilities | You’ll love the holistic treatments available in the Bamford Wellness Spa and the 24/7 Fieldhouse Gym, where group classes are held throughout the day. 

The 1 Hotel has rightly earned the title of one of the best boutique hotels in San Fransisco with a view because of its incredible terrace with bay and skyline vistas.

Rooms | There are 186 guestrooms and 14 suites at the 1 Hotel, all of which showcase modern interior designs, plush pillow-top beds with sustainable duvet covers, filter water taps, yoga mats, five-minute shower timers, Bamford bath products, and a Nespresso machine.

This is also one of my favorite San Francisco hotels with a view.

18. The LINE San Francisco

Where in California? | Union Square

✓ Rating: 8.5 / 10 | Reviews: 190+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Those who want a city view from their room

Location | Next up, we have one of the boutique hotels in Union Square San Fransisco, The LINE. 

Union Square is a bustling commercial complex where locals and tourists come together to socialize. You’ll be placed near some of the city’s main points of interest, like the La Cocina Municipal Marketplace (the food there is amazing) and one of my favorite restaurants in San Francisco, Kin Khao.

Facilities | We all tend to forget some bits and bobs when we head away on vacation, but you don’t have to worry about that because the Line has its own convenience store filled with travel essentials. 

A 24/7 gym with seven cardio machines, two Peleton bikes, free weights and benches, and Bosu balls is there for every guest for them to stay on top of their workout routine.

Rooms | Waking up in your room at The LINE every morning will be the favorite part of your day simply because of the jaw-dropping skyline views seen through every room’s large double pain windows. 

There are also plenty of other nice amenities available, including deep soaking tubs, walk-in showers, grind coffee machines, work tables, a 55″ LED TV with Apple TV, Cowshed bath products and a loaded mini bar.

If the idea of staying in downtown SF has you anxious, you can opt for a more economical boutique hotel in Oakland which will still get you close to the action.

19. Archer Hotel

Where in California? | Napa Valley

✓ Rating: 9.0 / 10 | Reviews: 525+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Wine lovers

Location | The Archer Hotel is a luxury escape in Napa Valley near everything a wine connoisseur could want; the Napa Valley Wine Train is only a 12-minute walk away, and the Shadybrook Estate Winery is a 10-minute spin. 

Additionally, there are lots of other fantastic attractions close to this luxury Napa hotel if you’re not interested in wine, like the 9/11 Memorial Garden, Napa Riverfront Green and the Oxbow Preserve.

Facilities | You’ll never have to go too far for some food and drinks because the Archer Hotel has two bars, the Whiskey Bar and the Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar, one restaurant, Charlie Palmer Steak and its own coffee cart, OHM Coffee Roasters. 

The water deck allows you to dip your feet in the ice-cold water while you take in the spectacular views of Napa Valley. If you’re still struggling to relax, you can always gift yourself with a treatment at the Rooftop Spa, whether you want a single treatment or would prefer a couples session.

Rooms | After sampling more than a handful of glasses of the best of Napa’s wine, you’ll want a comfortable space at The Archer Hotel to stumble back to, and wow, does this property provide just that

The country retreat style sets the tone while amenities add to the magic, like the Austrian-crystal-studded headboard and the pebble stone flooring. The 49-inch HDTV will be a game changer when you’re trying to brush off the hangover the following morning.

20. The Madrona

Where in California? | Healdsburg (Sonoma Valley)

✓ Rating: 9.7 / 10 | Reviews: 10+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Vintage interior lovers

Location | The Madrona comprises 24 vintage guestrooms and private bungalows, offering something a bit to the other boutique hotels in Sonoma Valley. 

It’s located a short drive from the centre, but around the corner, you have two terrific wineries, the DaVero Farms & Winery and Bacchus Landing.

Facilities | Drinking and dining are at the forefront of the Madrona with their hugely popular restaurant and bar, a place for guests to experiment with new flavours. Their weekend brunch is one of the most delicious I have ever had. 

On the day of your departure, the hotel reception is able to organize an airport transfer upon request; just be sure to let them know in advance.

Rooms | Described as a home away from home, the rooms at The Madrona in this lavish mansion are fitted with fireplaces, kingsized beds with Italian linens, old-style furnishings, and distinctive mirrors. 

Every night you book at the Madrona, you receive a complimentary cooked breakfast, pastries, and fresh orange juice.

21. Seal Cove Inn

Where in California? | Half Moon Bay

✓ Rating: 9.4 / 10 | Reviews: 340+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Families

Location | Only 30 minutes south of San Fransisco is a gem of a property, The Seal Cove Inn. 

Settled up above the Pacific Ocean, you’ll be nicely placed atop Moss Beach and at the gateway to a number of recreational areas superb for bringing the little ones for a stroll, like the J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and the Seal Cove Cypress Tree Tunnel.

Facilities | Even though the Seal Cove Inn doesn’t have as many facilities as other top boutique hotels in Half Moon Bay, they sure do know how to look after their guests. 

A complimentary ‘Be Replenished’ breakfast is served every morning, free-to-use tea and coffee stations are set up in reception, Tesla car charging stations are provided, and a nightly wine reception is held every night.

Rooms | All of the ten 33 m² guestrooms at The Seal Cove Inn are newly renovated to replicate those found in a European-styled grand manor. Each one comes with either a private balcony or terrace, French doors, a fireplace, exclusive toiletries, and a jetted spa bathtub.

22. Alila Ventana Big Sur Adults Only

Where in California? | Big Sur

✓ Rating: 9.5 / 10 | Reviews: 35+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Adults only

Location | The picture-perfect Alila Ventana Big Sur is adults only and is one of the best hotels in California. 

It’s an all-inclusive resort in Big Sur with breakfast, lunch and dinner, hidden away deep in a family of lush green forests. When you see the grounds for the first time, your breath will be taken away by the astonishing landscapes surrounding the property.

Facilities | If you’re hungry, one of the few onsite eateries will surely tickle your fancy. Why don’t you reserve the Ventana Glass House, a private eating room with its own patio offering striking ocean views? 

It’s perfect if you have an event coming up, like a birthday party or an anniversary. You can’t leave without indulging in a therapy session at Spa Alila, a retreat like no other.

Rooms | The rooms at Alila Ventana Big Sur Adults Only have everything you need for an undisturbed getaway, including a deck with a window seat, a full artisan-curated mini bar, a king-sized bed complemented with a snug rug, and a fancy bathroom with free toiletries.

23. Hotel Carmel

Where in California? | Carmel-by-the-Sea

✓ Rating: 8.2 / 10 | Reviews: 115+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Young travellers, deal finders

Location | Based in the enchanting city of Carmel By The Sea, the Hotel Carmel is among the most booked boutique hotels in Carmel By The Sea for its old-school aura, advantageous location beside the beach and last-minute deals they have available if there aren’t many people staying.

Facilities | When it comes to dining, the Hotel Carmel has you covered; a champagne continental breakfast is offered every morning with yoghurt, granola and other nutritious bites, and Brophy’s Tavern serves up some of the nicest pub grub in town.

Rooms | The 30 well-appointed guestrooms at the Hotel Carmel are beautifully designed with cottage architecture. 

Admire the wooden furnishings, platform double beds with pillow-top mattresses, USB charging ports, and gleaming bathrooms equipped with bathrobes and new hairdryers. 

Five room styles are available to choose from; the hotel has some with courtyards and others with balconies. Book before it’s too late.

24. Desolation Hotel

Where in California? | South Lake Tahoe

✓ Rating: 9.6 / 10 | Reviews: 85+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | Outdoorsy travellers

Location | Positioned down the southern part of Lake Tahoe is the Desolation Hotel, an eco-resort popular among adventure lovers with access to a range of outdoor experiences like Jobs Sister mountain peak, Fallen Leaf Lake, and no other than the world-renowned Lake Tahoe.

Facilities | Utilise the Desolation Hotel’s facilities during your stay; the pool and jacuzzi are lovely for a soak after a day of trekking through the mountains.

The sauna and cold water plunge pool will give you a taste of the Nordic lifestyle, and the fitness studio is the place to be if you find yourself needing to stretch your muscles.

Rooms | Following the forest vibe, the rooms at the Desolation Hotel are alpine-inspired, with humongous kingsized beds covered with an alternative down comforter and Frette linens. 

A spacious private balcony equipped with a bubbling hot tub, and a fully functioning kitchenette with Bertazzoni a gas range are also features. To top it all off, each space has a scorching fireplace, so you’re nice and toasty during the evenings.

25. Timber Cove Resort

Where in California? | Jenner / Timber Cove

✓ Rating: 8.6 / 10 | Reviews: 100+ | View on Booking.com

Best for | A quiet escape

Location | The pinnacle of luxury boutique hotels California Coast has to offer is the Timber Cove Resort, located on the edge of a cliff with clear views of the Pacific. 

A stay at this property will cut you off from the hustle and bustle California is known for and give you that quiet escape you’ve been craving for so long.

Facilities | Since there’s not much around the area, Timber Cove goes out of its way to ensure guests have everything they need for a pleasant stay. 

Embark on a wine-tasting experience alongside a professional sommelier, and play a game of ping pong in the outdoor living area, the fitness centre is open from 9 AM and 8 PM, or you can pull up a blanket and gather around the fire to seek out some of the stars in the sky.

Rooms | The guest rooms at the Timber Cove Resort come with a diverse mix of amenities like Crosley LP record players, eco-friendly toiletries, high-end linens and towels, SMEG refrigerators, hot tubs, and a minibar with some snacks in case you get peckish in the evenings.

Best California Boutique Hotels Map

Best Boutique Hotels in California Conclusion

You’ve made it to the end of my list of unique hotels California. I have included options for all kinds of travellers, so there’s definitely something in there for you, regardless if you want to stay in one of the best hotels in California for families or hipster hotels California.

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