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15 Stylish Boutique Hotels in Northern California

designer boutique hotels in Northern California with red brick curved ceiling and modern white furnishings
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | Sea Cove Inn via Booking.com

Searching for the best boutique hotels in Northern California? I’ve got you covered.

There are plenty of unique places to stay in Northern California. whether you are looking for a romantic vineyard getaway, a serene coastal retreat or a buzzy urban escape, there is a Northern California boutique hotel for you.

I’ve visited Northern California several times in the last 10 years and San Francisco always acts as a great base for adventures all over this part of the state. I am particularly fond of driving along the coastline up to the enchanting redwood forests and booking a stay in Bodega Bay or Trinidad. And partaking in a relaxing spa hotel in Sonoma Valley or Napa.

You can pick from a range of cool hotels in Northern California depending on the area you want to stay, the vibe you want to experience, or the features and amenities that appeal most to you. 

Without further ado, let’s find you the perfect hotel in Northern California for your getaway.

My Favorite Boutique Hotels in Northern California

In a hurry? These are my top recommendations for hotels in Northern California for a memorable stay.

*This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my full disclosure for further information.

TOP PICK COASTAL.

best boutique hotels on the Northern California coast with luxury fire pit overlooking grasslands along the ocean
Photo Credit: Booking.com

The Lodge at Bodega Bay

Rating: 9.1 / 10 | Reviews: 300+

Private view balconies, onsite spa & gourmet farm-fresh kitchen.

TOP PICK WINE COUNTRY.

Best boutique hotel in Northern California The Archer Hotel with decorative curved roof in a lobby with comfortable seating
Photo Credit: Booking.com

Archer Hotel Napa

Rating: 9 / 10 | Reviews: 565+

Central location in Napa, restaurant & intimate rooftop bar.

Where to Stay in Northern California

San Francisco

The capital of Northern California, San Francisco offers a vibrant urban landscape mixed with history and scenic coastline. Explore all the top attractions, nightlife and food scene from these top San Francisco boutique hotels.

I love to stay at one of these best Union Square SF hotels for a central spot to explore the entire city.

Napa Valley

Experience the world-renowned wine country of Northern California’s Napa Valley, intertwining taste, elegance, refinement, and fabulous wine into one magnificent travel destination for wine lovers and a boozy girl’s trip. 

vineyards stretched across rolling green hills close to Northern California boutique hotels
Northern California Vineyards

Sonoma Valley

For a less crowded option, head to Sonoma Valley for sips of premium wine collections and vineyard views on a romantic getaway. The Kenwood Inn & Spa is just the ticket for a couples retreat, one of the top romantic hotels in Northern California. 

Northern Coastal Villages

When you drive north of San Francisco along the scenic coastline towards the redwood forest, you will hit charming historical villages like Mendocino, Bodega Bay and Trinidad.

Perfect for either a serene getaway with a glass of wine in hand and watching the lapping waves from your Northern California Coast hotel, or for an adventurous vacation enjoying hiking, surfing, beaches and beautiful nature.

Oakland & Berkeley

For a more affordable stay than downtown San Francisco, consider a stay in a Berkeley or Oakland boutique hotel with access to the area’s most sought-after attractions within a 20-minute drive without breaking the bank.

15 Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California

From the sites and sounds of boutique hotels in San Francisco city center, and the serene outdoor atmosphere of the Northern coastline, to the charming and romantic Sonoma Valley, I’ve curated the perfect list of the best boutique hotels in Northern California for you to choose from.

Best Boutique Hotels in Napa Valley, Northern California

1. Archer Hotel

Northern California Area | Downtown Napa

White king-sized bed with black wooden frame beside a black leather bench in one of the luxury hotels in Northern California.
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | Archer Hotel via Booking.com

Rating: 9 / 10 | Reviews: 565+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | First-time visitors, sightseeing, girls’ trip, wine lovers

Location | If you’re looking for boutique hotels in wine country California, look no further! Perfectly settled in downtown Napa, this upscale boutique hotel is one of the most famous boutique hotels in Napa Valley, California, only a 12-minute walk from the renowned Napa Valley Wine Train

Choose from Napa Valley’s nearby top attractions, like shopping at the prosperous riverside Oxbow Public Market selling local produce and products, only a ten-minute stroll from Archer Hotel.

Features & Facilities | Bask in the refined elegance of Napa Valley atop the Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar with astounding overlooking views of downtown

Savor romantic intimacy at the reservation-only Whiskey Bar on the rooftop of Archer Hotel, featuring a stone fireplace, Sonoma redwood Adirondack chairs, and rare whiskeys.

Sink into relaxation at the Rooftop Spa for the ultimate retreat from the hustle and bustle of life. The spa offers signature massages and facials for everyone, with premium treatments and products to refine the spirit, mind, and body.

Rooms | At Archer’s Napa Hotel, one of the elite boutique hotels in California wine country, expect to be inspired by stunning design palettes that blend luxury, elegance, relaxation, and inspiration.

Guests can choose from a variety of rooms at Archer Hotel. From sprawling suites, comfortable guest rooms, or exclusive balconies with breathtaking views of downtown Napa. 

Stays in the selection of chic rooms can expect a fully stocked mini-bar, Nespresso coffee, in-room dining, and a walk-in shower to establish complete refinement in the grandeur of Napa Valley. 


2. The Francis House

Northern California Area | Calistoga, Napa Valley

Bricked building with black gate with vintage fountain - one of the best hotels in Northern California.
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | The Francis House via Booking.com

Rating: 9.8 / 10 | Reviews: 10+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | First-time visitors, honeymooners, short stays, sightseeing

Location | Wonderfully placed in Calistoga, The Francis House is one of the best romantic getaways in Northern California. The stay is surrounded by the serenity of Napa Valley’s sprawling vineyards and hot air balloons that speckle the sky of the famous wine country.

A few of Napa Valley’s top wineries are nearby, including the Chateau Montelena Winery, Charles Krug, and the Schramsberg Vineyards.

Features & Facilities | The newest small luxury hotel in Calistoga, the Francis House, has established itself in a building on the National Register of Historic Places

Guests at The Francis House will be welcomed by a contemporary French-inspired design and French Second Empire architecture with the fresh scents of citrus trees and the tended herb garden on the grounds in what is without a doubt one of the best hotels in Northern California.

Bask in the sun’s rays and cool off poolside with fresh espresso. Replenish the senses in the salt room and infrared sauna. Grab a book from the library for a read surrounded by the countryside in this picturesque hotel.

Rooms | Experience polished Parisian refinement in rooms decorated with antique desks, chandeliers, and brass luggage racks. 

Savor the Aesop bathroom amenities, Toto heated toilets, Dyson hair dryers, heated floors, and plenty more in your selection of a room at this enigmatic stay.


Best Boutique Hotels in Sonoma Valley, Northern California

3. MacArthur Place Inn & Spa

Northern California Area | Sonoma

Yellow pillows on white arm chairs in front of a wooden sculpture display and a fireplace with a double bed in the background in one of the MacArthur Place's rooms.
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | MacArthur Place Inn & Spa via Booking.com

Rating: 9.2 / 10 | Reviews: 120+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | First-time visitors, short stays, sightseeing, girls’ trip

Location | One of the top boutique hotels in Sonoma California and only a mile from Sonoma State Historic Park, the MacArthur Place Inn & Spa is one of the most unique places to stay Northern California. 

The stay is an upscale boutique hotel in an 1850s manor. Landscaped gardens hug the historic manor, with masterful sculptures penetrating the grounds with impactful creativity perfect for reminiscing about on an afternoon stroll through the gardens.

Features & Facilities | Guests can experience three unique culinary experiences depending on mood and appetite. Layla Restaurant is a three-meal dining occasion with Sonoma and Mediterranean inspirations for cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. 

The Bar at MacArthur serves up American cocktails and craft beers paired with a quality menu for delicious eats surrounded by wood and custom-crafted furnishings. 

The Porch intertwines grab-and-go options and pairs with fresh coffee, organic soft-serve ice cream, and pressed paninis for a delicious treat.

Rooms | One of the top unique stays in Northern California, expect the crème de la crème from MacArthur Place Inn & Spa. Pick from this award-winning Sonoma hotel‘s selection of guest rooms, suites, and premium suites!

Access rejuvenation in the European walk-in shower, or take a refreshing stroll through the semi-private garden surrounded by hidden nooks and thriving plant life. 
Pick from the specially selected amenities, food, and wine list for a one-of-a-kind stay at this historic residence.


4. Harmon Guest House

Northern California Area | Healdsburg, Sonoma Valley

modern wood slatted exterior of a 3 story hotel
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | Harmon Guest House via Booking.com

Rating: 9 / 10 | Reviews: 195+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Sightseeing, girls’ trip, wine lovers

Location | A modern hotel surrounded by dense trees and shaded sidewalks, the Harmon Guest House is situated in downtown Healdsburg

Only two miles from Fitch Mountain and a six-minute walk from Healdsburg Museum, guests can expect quick access to many of the area’s top activities with a chance of basking in the naturous green downtown of Healdsburg.

Features & Facilities | Absorb the breathtaking scenery of Fitch Mountain, downtown, and Sonoma Valley from atop The Rooftop’s terrace. Socialize over food, wine, and crafted drinks around the firepit. 

Photograph the sunset to remember the trip by while basking in the lively ambiance of the hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant.

Ponder over the rotating art installations established by famous Sonoma County artists scattered throughout Harmon Guest House. Guests can experience local artists’ stunning elements, stories, and imaginations for a lifetime of momentous impact.

Rooms | One of the best retreats in Northern California, the chic modern Harmon Guest House is a home away from home with only 39 rooms and plenty of space to settle into after a long date exploring Northern California.

A selection of the Harmon Kings grants gloriously spacious window seats to sink into with a book or cup of coffee. The Founder’s Suites and Double Queens are available for conjoining into private wings for a girl’s trip to socialize, get ready together, you name it! 

Each room is paired with a patio or balcony to simmer in the scenery of the interior courtyard, mountains, or creekside deck.


5. The Madrona

Northern California Area | Healdsburg, Sonoma Valley

historic hotel suite with wood dresser and beams on a patterned ceiling with bathroom in the distance
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | The Madrona via Booking.com

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

Best For | First-time visitors, singles, short stays

Location | The best town in Northern California for an exceptional stay, Healdsburg is also home to The Madrona – a memorable boutique hotel. 

Only a mile from US-101, this historic Second-Empire manor hotel on a picturesque 8-acre estate is surrounded by orchards and woods. 

Features & Facilities | Go for an intimate dining experience at The Restaurant & Bar, the hotel’s creative and delightful culinary experience. Many ingredients on the menu are sourced from the garden, grown with dedication and heart on the estate’s grounds so that the hotel’s guests can savor freshness in each bite. 

The Madrona is a wonderland of beauty and grace for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and architecture enthusiasts. The historic home personifies an enriching atmosphere worthy of relishing during your stay. 

Peer at the Madrona’s vibrant art collection located throughout the hotel. The collection was magnificently curated by Dolby Chadwick Gallery, with some pieces available for purchase to memorialize the trip.

Rooms |  Every room and suite at The Madrona has been specially and intimately placed in the original estate’s 1881 mansion and carriage house of this historic hotel.

Guests can choose from studio suites in the original Carriage House or rooms in the Mansion, which sit above the estate’s lounge areas and restaurant

Or, for guests desiring a more secluded stay, there are the unique, secluded bungalows speckled along the estate’s property. These historic structures hosted guests back in the day who visited The Madrona.


6. Kenwood Inn & Spa

Northern California Area | Kenwood, Sonoma Valley

White room with brick design ceiling in one of the rooms in Kenwood Inn & Spa.
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | Kenwood Inn & Spa via Booking.com

Rating: 9.1 / 10 | Reviews: 90+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | First-time visitors, honeymooners, spa getaways, short stays, girls’ trip, adults only

Location | Gloriously planted on serene, landscaped grounds the Kenwood Inn & Spa embodies elegant and welcoming tranquility perfect for R&R as one of the best romantic getaways in Northern California.

Only three miles away is the spectacular Quarryhill Botanical Garden, and five miles out is the Jack London State Historic Park, both attractions wonderful activities to sink into the depths of nature.

Features & Facilities | Enjoy the peaceful oasis of the Spa at Kenwood. The spa’s customized approach dedicates a personalized, luxurious experience to relax the mind, body, and soul. 

Every morning, enjoy a full breakfast paired with sweet mimosas and every afternoon partake in Kenwood’s wine & cheese hour.

Rooms | Experience luxury in Kenwood’s redefining of a Mediterranean-inspired experience in the hotel’s comfortable setting of Italian furnishings, warming fireplace, cozy beds, and the choice of private balcony or terrace.

The selections are vast at Kenwood Inn & Spa. The Petite Poolside King on the ground floor is a peaceful hideaway near the spa and pool. It features a private outdoor entrance, a walk-in shower, a lavish king bed, and a gas fireplace. 

The Luxury Grand View guestroom presents awe-inspiring views of the vineyards. This luxurious room has an enticing oversized soaking spa tub, walk-in shower, private outdoor entrance, Nespresso coffee maker, and a king bed clothed in soft linens.


Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Coastal Villages

This is my list of hand-picked and carefully selected Northern California coast boutique hotels. From charming Mendocino, scenic Bodega Bay and beyond.

Northern California Town | Bodega Bay

Exterior panoramic of a boutique hotel along the Northern California surrounded by green landscape and trees under a clear sky
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Coast | The Lodge at Bodega Bay via Booking.com

Rating: 9 / 10 | Reviews: 300+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples and families 

Location | Nestled in Bodega Bay, a gem on the northern California coastline, this haven is perfect for both the adventurous and those seeking a tranquil retreat. Imagine waking up at The Lodge at Bodega Bay, where the trails and panoramic views of Doran Regional Park are literally steps away from your doorstep.

Features & Facilities | At The Lodge at Bodega Bay, luxury meets charm, solidifying its status as one of northern California’s finest boutique hotels. Start your day with a beach walk, then indulge in a delectable meal at Drakes Sonoma Coast Kitchen, featuring the freshest of local ingredients.

Need some pampering? The on-site spa awaits. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the top-notch gym and expansive swimming pool. And for those perfect end-of-day moments, there’s nothing like unwinding in the hot tub after exploring the nearby trails.

Rooms | Each spacious room at the Lodge at Bodega Bay boasts stunning ocean views, and many include balconies for those magical sunset moments. Guests enjoy access to an inviting outdoor picnic area, complete with cozy furniture and a warming fireplace – ideal for stargazing evenings.

Every room is equipped with essentials like a coffee maker, flat-screen TV, and complimentary Wi-Fi. For an elevated stay, opt for a room that includes a minibar, spa tub, and your own private fireplace – the ultimate in coastal luxury.


8. Agate Cove Inn

Northern California Town | Mendocino

Northern California Beachfront hotel surrounded by a variety of trees and plants
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Coast | Agate Cove Inn via Booking.com

Rating: 9 / 10 | Reviews: 620+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples and honeymooners 

Location | Tucked on the edge of Mendocino, Agate Cove Inn offers a serene yet accessible retreat. This charming spot is a stone’s throw from the cultural heartbeat of the town, including the renowned Mendocino Art Center, and boasts unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean.

Features & Facilities | At Agate Cove Inn, your day begins with a sumptuous two-course breakfast, lovingly prepared on-site. The concierge service makes it easy to arrange tickets and tours for local attractions and activities, including canoeing and windsurfing adventures.

However, spending the day lounging at this premier oceanfront hotel is equally tempting. From the porch and shared lounge, the ocean’s rhythmic waves offer a tranquil backdrop. The terrace and garden, adorned with comfortable outdoor furniture and a cozy fireplace, invite guests to unwind in the serene ambiance.

Rooms | Rooms at Agate Cove Inn are havens of comfort, each offering views of either the sparkling ocean or the lush courtyard and garden. Many rooms also feature a private balcony, perfect for soaking in the scenic beauty. Essentials such as Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, wardrobes, and coffee machines are standard in every room.

For those seeking a touch of romance, opt for a room with a spa tub and seating area. If space and privacy are your priorities, the larger suites with two bedrooms provide the perfect coastal sanctuary on the Northern California coast.


9. Timber Cove Resort

Northern California Town | Timber Cove

Northern California hotel entrance surrounded by plants and has a ceiling-to-floor windows
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Coast | Timber Cove Resort via Booking.com

Rating: 8.6 / 10 | Reviews: 95+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Honeymooners and solo retreats 

Location | In the quaint, under-the-radar locale of Timber Cove, with a population just shy of 200, you’ll discover a secluded gem on the Northern California coast. Perfect for romantic escapes or nature enthusiasts, this beach resort sits where Timber Creek merges with the Pacific, offering one of the most enchanting retreats in the area.

The resort’s setting is a masterpiece of nature, with cliffs towering over 500 feet above the Pacific and close to natural marvels like Fort Ross State Historic Park.

Features & Facilities | Timber Cove stands out among Northern California coastal resorts with its modern gym, offering stunning coastal views, and a cozy shared lounge.

Dining at the Coast Kitchen is a celebration of local flavors, featuring fresh seafood and exquisite Sonoma County wines. Even during your workout or meal, the breathtaking cliffside vistas remain your constant companion. Evenings are magical here, with the outdoor firepit providing the perfect spot to watch the Pacific sunset.

Rooms | Rooms at Timber Cove Resort are more than just comfortable, they offer an immersive experience with ocean views and private balconies, defining it as one of the finest boutique hotels along the Northern California coast. For those desiring added indulgence, room upgrades include luxurious bathtubs and well-stocked minibars.


10. Benbow Historic Inn

Northern California Town | Garberville

historic hotel in Northern CA manor patio with brown wicker tables and chairs with foliage in the distance
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Coast | Benbow Historic Inn via Booking.com

Rating: 8.6 / 10 | Reviews: 500+ | View on Expedia.com

Best For | Couples and families 

Location | In the quirky town of Garberville, Benbow Historic Inn serves as a perfect gateway to the majestic Redwoods. Just a short, scenic drive of less than 30 minutes will take you to the renowned Avenue of the Giants.

While a bit further from the coast than some Northern California hotels, the stunning bluffs and beaches are still easily accessible, with the added convenience of a complimentary shuttle to the airport.

Features & Facilities | Immerse yourself in a peaceful retreat that marries the historical charm of Northern California with luxury amenities. The Inn offers the option to include breakfast with your stay, and the onsite restaurant prides itself on local, fresh ingredients and seafood.

Spend your evenings in the vast outdoor garden and seating area, an idyllic setting for a meal after a day of adventure. The property provides free bicycles for exploring the serene country lanes. During the warmer months, the large outdoor swimming pool offers a refreshing respite.

Rooms | All of the rooms at Benbow Historic Inn offer picturesque views of the mountains, river, or garden. In line with the finest Northern California hotels, each room is equipped with free Wi-Fi, a coffee maker, flat-screen TV, and air conditioning.


11. Lost Whale Inn

Northern California Town | Trinidad

wood framed entryway at a unique hotel in Northern California
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Coast | Lost Whale Inn via Booking.com

Rating: 9.7 / 10 | Reviews: 7+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Couples and families 

Location | Perched on a serene shoreline, the Lost Whale Inn distinguishes itself even among the top beach hotels in Northern California. Located in Trinidad, one of the oldest coastal towns in the region, this inn is a blend of historical allure and breathtaking landscapes.

A stone’s throw away is Trinidad State Beach, a haven for photographers seeking the perfect sunset shot. The South entrance to Redwood National Park, a mere short drive away, opens up a world of exploration among these awe-inspiring trees.

Features & Facilities | At the Lost Whale Inn, the promise of adventure meets relaxation. Whether from the expansive sun terrace or the inviting hot tub, guests can relax to the soothing sounds of the waves.

Each afternoon, the inn serves appetizers accompanied by local wines and craft beers. Evenings are magical here, with opportunities to mingle around an outdoor campfire, roast marshmallows, and stargaze on the private beachfront.

Rooms | Accommodation options at the Lost Whale Inn cater to all needs, from cozy single queen rooms to spacious multi-room suites, perfect for those seeking oceanfront stays in Northern California.

Rooms are appointed with comfy bathrobes, free toiletries, and a choice of ocean or garden views. The elegant wooden furnishings, antique-style décor, and large windows bathing the rooms in natural light add to the inn’s enchanting charm.


Best Boutique Hotels in Lake Tahoe, Northern California

12. Desolation Hotel

Northern California Area | South Lake Tahoe

modern hotel suite with grey and white linens on a king sized bed, wood slat feature wall with couch in the distance
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | Desolation Hotel via Booking.com

Rating: 9.5/ 10 | Reviews: 125+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Honeymooners, short stays, sightseeing, outdoor enthusiasts, family-friendly, pet-friendly

Location | A premier micro resort, and one of the best resorts in Northern California, the Desolation Hotel is perfectly nestled in an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise at the picturesque Lake Tahoe. 

Less than a 30-minute drive from the hotel is the famous Emerald Bay State Park, overflowing with sightseeing, hiking, and water recreational activities like swimming and boating. 

If you’re searching for the best time to visit Northern California, Lake Tahoe welcomes guests year-round to take part in summer and winter activities, with no better place to stay during your trip than at the Desolation Hotel.


Features & Facilities | Grab a bite to eat at Maggie’s Restaurant, an elevated dining experience that intertwines elegance and casualness for a savory experience. Bite into fresh seasonal fare for a pleasing meal surrounded by warm hospitality.

Head to Velma’s Pool Bar for food and drinks on the pool deck. The hotel’s app allows ordering poolside for a refreshing crafted cocktail, so you stay soaking up the sun’s rays by the pool.

Rooms | A bonafide getaway in the renowned grandeur of Lake Tahoe, a stay in Desolation Hotel grants a unifying experience to be shared. 

Choose from quaint, comfy studios, roomy suites, or premium, spacious townhomes for a unique mountain retreat. Sink in the soaking tub on a scenic private balcony as the fireplace warms the space. 


Best Boutique Hotels in San Francisco, Northern California

13. The Proper San Francisco

Northern California Area | Downtown San Francisco

Orange comfy couches matched with white table in one of the unique places to stay in Northern California - The Proper San Francisco.
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | The Proper San Francisco via Booking.com

Rating: 7.9 / 10 | Reviews: 115+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | First-time visitors, cocktail fans, foodies, luxury hotel lovers, sightseeing

Location | Presenting a favorable location in downtown San Francisco, one of the best places to visit in Northern California, this luxury boutique hotel is in the Mid-Market district, near all the top local attractions and activities. 

The Asian Art Museum and City Hall are only a 5-minute walk away from The Proper, and the Golden Gate Theater, hosting Broadway shows throughout the year, is less than a five minutes stroll from the hotel. 

Features & Facilities | This flatiron-designed hotel is the best place to visit in Northern California. It personifies masterfully designed interiors by award-winning American designer Kelly Wearstler in an inspiring setting packed with accommodating features, including impeccable rooftop scenery of San Francisco’s downtown. 

Guests can indulge their appetite with a private romantic meal at Gilda’s Salon Dinners for chef-driven menus, delicious craft cocktails paired with tapas at La Bande, or bask in the award-winning pre-Modernist design of Villon welcomed by stunning art, refinement, and sensual eats.

Rooms | The Proper San Francisco’s 131 rooms make it one of the top hotels in Northern California. Selections vary from rooms to suites, though every one of these stunning choices boasts spectacular natural lighting and awesome views of San Francisco.

Get a “Proper” night’s rest in one of the hotel’s California-made mattresses fitted in smooth Italian bed linens. Enjoy downtime in the walk-in showers paired with Aesop bath indulgences, sinking into your favorite music played over the Vifa Bluetooth speakers. 

Snag a midnight treat at the minibar stocked with locally-sourced snacks and refreshing bottled cocktails to end the perfect day in San Francisco. This is one of my favourite San Francisco boutique hotels.


14. 1 Hotel San Francisco

Northern California Area | Downtown San Francisco

Wide room with multiple windows with cozy bed in one of the luxury hotels in Northern California
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | 1 Hotel San Francisco via Booking.com

Rating: 8.7 / 10 | Reviews: 150+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Pet owners, sustainability pursuers, short stays, sightseeing

Location | If you’re searching for the best stay with views of San Francisco Bay, then this sustainable, pet-friendly hotel is it! 

There’s no better place than 1 Hotel to bask in the glory of Northern California than in San Francisco’s Financial District, where guests can easily access the Golden Gate

Features & Facilities | One of the best spa hotels in Northern California, prepare to unwind and relax at this boutique hotel’s Bamford Spa, where guests receive a $100 credit to the spa during their stay. 

Using sustainable practices, the spa incorporates premium calming essential oils to enhance rejuvenation. During your stay, each guest will receive a silk sleep mask by Slip and a Bamford pillow mist to make falling asleep each night that much easier.

Rooms | Embrace sustainability the best way possible in rooms at 1 Hotel San Francisco are equipped with smart heating and cooling and low-energy LED light bulbs. 

This eco-friendly hotel is one for every traveler looking to travel wisely, having purchased carbon offsets to reduce its operational footprint.

A majority of the materials within the hotel are made from reclaimed and regional materials, such as the redwood lumber of the elevator landing, which was sourced from the Old San Francisco Bridge. 

Every room is developed with water filtration systems for enhanced hydration paired with in-room carafes and cups assembled from recycled wine bottles. And the beds are made from non-toxic, eco-friendly, sustainably-sourced bed linens and mattresses.


15. The LINE San Francisco

Northern California Area | Union Square, San Francisco

A modern style single couch with black and white pattern in the corner of one of the Northern California boutique hotels.
Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California | The LINE San Francisco via Booking.com

Rating: 8.4 / 10 | Reviews: 350+ | View on Booking.com

Best For | Honeymooners, girls’ trip, business travelers

Location | This modern stay is in the heart of the Theater District, where entertainment is funky, lively and upscale. It is located just off Market Street’s Mid-Market, where guests can expect to take their pick of unique hotels and shops while walking amongst enigmatic architecture. 

While staying at The LINE in the Theater District, don’t miss out on performances at nearby renowned theaters such as Golden Gate, Orpheum, and Curran.

Features & Facilities | Featured on the top of The LINE’s rooftop is the trendy New American restaurant and rooftop bar, Rise Over Sun.

Begin – or end – the night with cocktails crafted by local legend Danny Louie, with views of San Francisco stretching out before you for an outstanding experience at this top-notch boutique hotel. 

Hop on one of the Peloton bikes in the gym to burn some calories. Or, reserve an in-room spa treatment customized to your needs, from the long, circular strokes of a Swedish massage to a Theragun percussive therapy treatment.

Rooms | When it’s time to hit the hay, pick from a selection of rooms, studios, or suites at The LINE. Every room is intrinsically conceived with modern comfort, local art, and impeccable views of San Francisco. 

No matter the selection, guests can simmer in quality, creativity, and luxury with walk-in showers, bathrobes, Cowshed bath products, slippers, a fully stocked minibar, and a Grind coffee machine to savor during your stay.

The LINE makes it to the top of my list of recommended Union Square San Francisco boutique hotels.


Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Map

Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Map

Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I stay on the Northern California Coast?

The Lodge at Bodega Bay is the best boutique hotel on the Northern California Coast. It is located in charming Bodega Bay and is surrounded by nature and stunning coastlines. This boutique hotel is one of the most romantic hotels in Northern California.

What is the best luxury hotel in Northern California?

The Proper San Francisco is the best luxury hotel in Northern California. This hotel is located in downtown San Francisco, one of the must-see spots in Northern California.

This boutique hotel is the best place because of its proximity to the San Francisco attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square and the Ferry Terminal to the Golden Gate Bridge.

What are the best boutique hotels in Northern California for couples?

Kenwood Inn & Spa is the best boutique hotel in Northern California for couples. This boutique hotel is one of the best romantic getaways in Northern California for its location in the heart. Enjoy day trips to the surrounding Sonoma wineries and enjoy each other’s company at the luxurious onsite spa and private pool cabana just for you.

What are the best boutique hotels in Northern California for families?

Desolation Hotel is the best family-friendly boutique hotel in Northern California. This hotel in South Lake Tahoe is the perfect spot for an active family vacation with a lot of outdoor activities like sightseeing, hiking, and water activities such as swimming and boating in the famous Emerald Bay State Park.

What are the best boutique hotels in Northern California for a girls trip?

The LINE San Francisco is one of the best boutique hotels in Northern California for a girls’ trip. You and your girlfriends will enjoy this luxurious accommodation in the heart of San Francisco’s nightlife with an in-room spa bathtub exclusively for you.

What is the best boutique hotel in Napa Valley?

Archer Hotel is the best boutique hotel located in Napa Valley. This boutique hotel is surrounded by top attractions and wineries. And because you are in the center of Napa Town, shopping at the riverside Oxbow Public Market is only a ten-minute stroll from the hotel.

What is the best boutique hotel in Sonoma Valley?

The MacArthur Place Inn & Spa is the best boutique hotel in Sonoma Valley. This boutique hotel also serves refreshing cocktails and craft beers and has an outstanding delicious menu for guests served in a picturesque courtyard.

What are the best boutique hotels in San Francisco?

The Proper San Francisco is the best boutique hotel in San Francisco. It comes with the perfect combination of beautiful design with the best amenities a hotel can offer. The hotel is located just minutes from many of the city’s attractions.

Best Boutique Hotels in Northern California Conclusion

For unique places to stay in Northern California, this list presents an unrivaled and curated selection to choose from for a memorable stay.

These stunning boutique hotels in Northern California are an exceptional opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of select locations, including Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley.

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