Looking for a relaxing hotel escape before summer ends? USA TODAY has just announced its list of the nation’s best hotel amenities, and California stands out with top honors across several categories. From eco-conscious resorts to luxurious pools and rooftop bars, the Golden State offers travelers a wide range of unforgettable experiences.
Let’s take a closer look at the California hotels that earned national recognition in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
Top Eco-Friendly Hotels in California
Central Coast
– Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur: Ranked No. 1 in the nation for eco-friendly accommodations, this serene retreat offers 39 rooms with fireplaces and deep soaking tubs. Guests can enjoy a full-service spa, three outdoor pools, and a 24-hour fitness center—all set amid Big Sur’s natural beauty.
– Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay: Located near historic downtown Monterey, this family-friendly hotel offers coastal-inspired rooms with eco-friendly amenities. It’s a perfect base for exploring Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
San Francisco Bay Area
– Lodge at the Presidio, San Francisco: Overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge and nestled in a national park, this boutique hotel blends modern style with historic charm. It’s built with sustainability in mind, using non-toxic materials and water-saving features.
North Coast
– The Stanford Inn & Resort, Mendocino: This historic farm and eco-resort offers luxury with a green twist. It features a vegan restaurant, organic gardens, EV charging stations, and a heated indoor pool and hot tub.
Los Angeles Metro Area
– 1 Hotel West Hollywood: Located at the base of the Hollywood Hills, this LEED Silver-certified hotel emphasizes sustainability with energy-efficient systems, native landscaping, and a lobby farmstand offering fresh produce.
Best Hotel Restaurant
Central Coast
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Best Hotel Bar
San Francisco Bay Area
– Top of the Mark, InterContinental Mark Hopkins, San Francisco: This iconic sky lounge on the 19th floor offers sweeping views of the city and a famous 100 Martinis menu. Guests can enjoy cocktails, light bites, and live entertainment most nights.
Best Hotel Pools
Southern California
– Villa Royale, Palm Springs: This adults-only hotel features three pools with mountain views, private cabanas, and a lively poolside bar. It’s a stylish and social spot for travelers 21 and over.
– Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas: Home to HyTides Plunge, the largest hotel water park in Palm Springs, this resort is a hit with families. For a quieter experience, the Oasis Pool offers an adults-only escape with cabanas and cocktails.
Top California Hotels for a Restful Night
With sleep quality becoming a growing concern, Sleep Junkie analyzed Tripadvisor reviews to find the best hotels for a good night’s rest. Five California hotels made the national top 200 list:
– Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite, Fish Camp: Located near Yosemite’s south entrance, this family-friendly lodge is praised for its spacious rooms and high-quality bedding.
– The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe: This luxury alpine resort offers serene mountain views and plush accommodations that guests rave about for comfort and cleanliness.
– El Encanto, Santa Bárbara: Perched above the coast, this elegant resort features firm mattresses, a pillow menu, and spotless rooms designed for restful sleep.
– Fairmont Grand Del Mar, San Diego: Known for its opulence, this hotel delivers comfort with pillow-top beds and quiet, well-appointed rooms.
– Spindrift Inn, Monterey: Located on Cannery Row, this romantic inn offers ocean views and top-tier bedding, making it a favorite for couples seeking relaxation.
Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature, sip cocktails with a view, or simply catch up on sleep, California’s top hotels offer something for every kind of traveler.
Source: desertsun.com