From the pristine white sandy beaches to the crystal clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, the state of California is among the best places for a fantastic summer holiday. That is why it is no wonder that you might be looking for a luxurious and comfortable stay to make your vacation extra special. Keep reading as today we are revealing the 5 best beach hotels and resorts in California.
1- The Ritz-Carlton Bacara

Situated in what is known as the American Riviera – Santa Barbara, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is among the best beach hotels and resorts in California. Covering a territory of almost 80 acres, the five-star hotel is not only overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Pacific Ocean, but it is also surrounded by lush natural greenery. As one of the most luxurious resorts in the area, the hotel offers fabulous spa facilities and three infinity pools. If you decide to book your stay at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, your mornings will start as you are waking up at one of the deluxe, spacious suites, while the evenings you can be spending while indulging into some delicious Californian specialties.
The guests will be surprised by the large number of different restaurants and bars they can choose from, which are all part of the resort. Order a traditional steak, while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Pacific Ocean from the Angel Oak restaurant. Immerse yourself into a world of wine at the Foley Tasting Room or grab a delicious cocktail from the Pool Bar.
Besides the fine dining experiences, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara will also impress you with its luxurious spa and wellness center. Regardless if you just want to take a dip into the infinity pool, relax at the sauna or try some of the classic massages, you are up for a real treat, which will allow you to fully recharge your body into this heavenly sanctuary.
Those of you looking for some sports activities will not be disappointed either. You will be able to find a golf course and a few tennis courts just a few steps away from your hotel room. In addition to that, the resort offers unique and interesting experiences through their special Bacara Adventure services. From horseback riding to hiking in the nearby Channel Islands National Park, the hotel will have everything arranged for you.
Despite the fact that The Ritz-Carlton Bacara will provide everything you have ever wanted and needed when it comes to the perfect summer holiday, do not forget to visit the nearby Haskell Beach, which is literally just a few steps away from your door. You can either enjoy the tranquility and quietness of the area early in the morning, as you are taking a walk along the beach or you can pay a visit at dusk and admire the stunningly beautiful sunset colors as the sun is kissing the ocean goodnight! That’s why The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is starring at our number one of the 5 Best Beach and Resorts in California.
Address: 8301 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93117, United States
2- Terranea Resort

Immerse yourself into a world of luxury by staying at the Terranea Resort. From the breathtaking Pacific Ocean views to the affluent amenities, you will be guaranteed a truly unique experience. Spreading on over 100 acres, the five-star hotel is located along the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
Start the day with a sunrise by one of the four massive swimming pools and end it with a relaxing massage at the spa center. Guests can choose between a wide range of massage and wellness therapies, which will allow them to find a balance and harmonize the body and the mind. Besides relaxing, however, you will be also able to experience the award-winning nine-hole golf center and treat your taste buds to a delightful culinary Californian dining. With nine different restaurants and bars, the Terranea Resort is a gastronomic heaven for those looking forward to trying various unique meals.
Another reason why Terranea Resort is starring at number two of the 5 Best Beach Hotels and Resorts in California, are the comfortable, deluxe rooms and villas. Each suite has a balcony overlooking the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. Those who would like to enjoy their privacy can also choose between a few deluxe villas, which not only have spacious living and dining areas, but will also impress you with their powder rooms and outdoor hot tubs. All of the amenities are accompanied by beautiful design and décor.
While Terranea Resort offers beyond everything you could ever ask for and it is so well equipped with everything you would ever need while on a holiday, it is also worth exploring the nearby area. You can use the special services provided by the hotel and book a hiking tour, sailing experience, water adventure, etc. It is also a great idea to take a cruise to Catalina Island and enjoy its beautiful beaches.
Address: 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275, United States
Bookings at: https://www.terranea.com/
3- Hotel Casa del Mar

If you are planning a visit to the charming coastal city of Santa Monica, you should certainly be staying at Hotel Casa del Mar. From the sweeping views to the exceptional service, this five-star hotel can impress even the most pretentious taste. With history dating back to the 1920s when the property was a beach club, Hotel Casa del Mar has a luxurious, elegant and timeless design, starring at number three of the 5 Best Beach Hotels and Resort in California.
Not only is the hotel situated on the beach, but it also provides its guests with panoramic views of the Santa Monica Pier. Can you imagine anything better that dipping your toes into the refreshing waters of the Pacific Ocean and taking a long walk along the beach early in the morning?! After this you can head to the Italian inspired Terrazza Beachside Patio where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at, while still admiring the breathtaking scenery.
The evenings you can start at the Sea Wellness Spa with a relaxing massage. Those craving some fresh seafood meals should dine at the Catch. The combination of modern interior and panoramic sunset views will welcome you in the restaurant and you will be then taken on a mouth watering cuisine journey with the chef’s seafood specialties. A quick stop at the Cabana Lounge, on the other hand, is the perfect way to wave goodbye to the day with a few delicious cocktails.
It would be a shame if you have visited Hotel Casa del Mar without going for a swim in the large outdoor swimming pool as well. In addition to this, the resort offers special experience offers, so you will be able to book a surf lesson or a yoga class on the beach. Those of you who are also looking for the more creative art vibe of Santa Monica, can take their holiday beyond the beach and dive into the city’s chic atmosphere by visiting the best art galleries and museums in the area.
Regardless if you would like to spend a relaxing, quiet weekend in a modern, luxurious setting or you would like to make the most of your days by exploring the coastal city of Santa Monica and its fabulous beach, Hotel Casa del Mar is the perfect choice for your stay at one of the 5 Best Beach Hotels and Resorts in California!
Address: 1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405, United States
4- The Resort at Pelican Hill

Those of you planning a family trip and looking for a kids-friendly hotel equipped with deluxe amenities to guarantee a comfortable and luxurious stay should head to The Resort at Pelican Hill. The five-star hotel can be found at the vibrant and colorful harbor city of Newport Beach in Orange County. Aiming to make its guests feel like home, the hotel offers residential type villas with modern and cozy design.
Just one glimpse of the property and its Italian inspired architectural style, opening to a large perfect circle outdoor pool and an award-winning golf course is enough to understand why The Resort at Pelican Hill is among the best beach hotels and resorts in California. Covering a territory of over 500 acres, the resort has 204 bungalows and 128 villas, each tucked into the lush greenery of the Pelican Hill. While the bungalows are perfect for a romantic getaway, the villas come with two to four bedrooms and are the perfect option if you will be visiting as a family. Either way, each suite has a large private terrace guaranteeing a panoramic scenery of the Pacific Ocean.
To make the most of your stay at The Resort at Pelican Hill, you should book a healing massage at the spa center. Among the other wellness experiences guests will find yoga and meditation classes, beauty salon, happiness workshops, etc. The golf enthusiasts, on the other hand, cannot miss the world-class 36 golf course part of the resort. Also known as one of the best places for golfing in the area, visitors will not only be impressed by the the excellent amenities, but also the truly outstanding vistas.
At the resorts, guests will find three primary restaurants. Dive into the Italian cuisine with a local twist at Andrea or taste the traditional Californian seafood dishes at the Pelican Grill. If you would like a quick salad or refreshing drink while spending the day by the pool, you can also indulge in a delicious lunch at the Coliseum.
While you can spend your entire stay at the premises of The Resort at Pelican Hill, it is also a good idea to explore the coastal city of Newport Beach. The early mornings you can spend at the nearby Crystal Cove State Beach. You can either sunbath and swim into the refreshing waters, or you can also go on a hiking trail as you take one of the winding paths along the preserved area. The city’s harbor packed with colorful boats, on the other hand, is excellent choice for a sunset walk at the end of the day.
Address: 22701 S Pelican Hill Rd, Newport Coast, CA 92657, United States
5- The Lodge at Pebble Beach

Despite the fact that The Lodge at Pebble Beach is situated in Northern California, which is not as popular when it comes to the ultimate summer holidays, it is one of the best beach hotels and resorts in California and it certainly deserves your attention. The five-star resort can be found on the Monterey Peninsula known for its stunningly beautiful vistas of white waves breaking into the steep cliffs.
It is the combination of relaxing, yet luxurious atmosphere which makes The Lodge at Pebble Beach the perfect destination for a romantic or family getaway. Situated in the golf mecca of the United States, the hotel features four award-winning golf courses, which have even hosted some of the most prestigious world championships through the years. So make sure not to skip this truly unique experience! If you would prefer a more laid-back, relaxing day, you can head to the spa center. The signature services offered use local herbs and minerals to help your body release the stress and recharge.
With 5 different restaurants and bars, The Lodge at Pebble Beach is a delicious paradise for your taste buds as well. While you can grab a delightful breakfast at the Gallery Cafe, The Stillwater Bar and Grill is perfect choice for a mouth watering Californian style lunch. The Tap Room, on the other hand, is perfect for a late evening traditional steak dinner accompanied with a tasty glass of red wine from the local wineries.
The entire resort offers three different accommodation options to choose from. The Lodge is like taking a step back in time with its glamorous timeless design, whereas Casa Palmero is perfect option for an exclusive holiday with its private villas and personal concierges. The entire resort is so well equipped with luxurious amenities that you do not need to get outside of its premises. Even still, the adventure enthusiasts may want to go on a day of exploration. From biking along the 17-mile scenic drive along the coast to hiking up to the Big Sur, there are so many options to choose from. If you are a wine lover, you would certainly enjoy visiting the Carmel Valley Vineyards as well.
Address: 1700 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, CA 93953, United States
Have you been to any of these 5 Best Beach Hotels and Resorts in California? If yes – which one and what was your experience like? If you are still planning your summer holiday, which one of these best beach hotels and resorts in California would you like to stay at?