California is a western United States state that stretches from the Pacific to the Mexican border. It is the third largest state and the most populated one too. It has the fifth-largest economy in the world. The state is also considered to be the origin of the American film industry and the frontier of popular culture, politics, and innovation.
With over 1,000 miles (1,609.34 km) of beaches in California, it can be more than daunting to figure out where the best views and places to stay might be. We’ve decided to help you out by giving our top recommendations. Whether you are looking for rugged landscapes or sunsets that fairytales were made from, we’ve got everything you need for your perfect beach-view holiday. Read on for the top hotels in California with beach views.
What’s new in California:
- The beaches in California have been shrinking due to erosion and the state has been trying to replenish the sand through costly procedures. However, according to Phys.org, a new study has revealed that technology can be used to scrutinize the movements of sand and predict vulnerable areas to help plan for replenishment. This is good news for both locals and tourists!
What you can look forward to in California:
- Visiting California with your four-legged buddy? You'll be delighted to know that the state has plenty of dog-friendly beaches where you can take your fur babies. You can find these beaches in major destinations such as San Diego, Long Beach, Santa Barbara, Carmel-By-The-Sea, and more. Just check leash and other info beforehand and have a great time with your pup!
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 03, 2024.
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1. SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel, Pismo Beach (from USD 308)
Complimentary breakfast with varied options, but some room for improvement in quality.
Reasonable pricing for oceanfront location and amenities.
Convenient location with easy beach access and proximity to Pismo Pier and San Luis Obispo.
Heated outdoor pool, hot tub, beach access, fire pits, and beautiful grounds.
The area of Pismo Beach is known for two things: beaches and wineries! The SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel is one of the top hotels in California on the beach that features a year-round outdoor pool, barbecue area, and sun terrace, perfect for enjoying those summer days. To be honest, the view can be enjoyed even during the winter days from the sun terrace because they have plenty of fire pits to keep you warm and toasty.
The hotel itself is just 3 minutes to the beach, down a series of steps meaning that you get an elevated angle for the perfect beach view. Some of the rooms offer private balconies so that you can enjoy a glass of wine alongside the excellent view whilst the bedrooms themselves are simply decorated and comfortable.
SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel
Address: 2241 Price Street
76.02 km (47.3 mi) from Hearst Castle
2. Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach - Hotel & Resort, Oxnard (from USD 295)
Situated on the beachfront just 5 miles (8 km) from downtown Oxnard, this is one of the best beach hotels in California that caters primarily to business guests. Alongside the expected amenities, it also has a fully equipped gym, hot tub, and even on-site tennis courts. But what about the view? Be sure to book an ocean-view room and you won’t be disappointed! The sun setting over the ocean can be enjoyed every night.
In the morning, the best way to enjoy the view is to grab a towel after finishing your cooked-to-order breakfast and relax on a sun-lounger on the manicured front lawn of the hotel, which then miraculously turns into the beach just a few meters ahead of you!
Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 2101 Mandalay Beach Road
243.09 km (151.1 mi) from Hearst Castle
3. Harbor View Inn, Santa Barbara (from USD 313)
Numerous dining options nearby, although breakfast is not included. Some guests found the onsite restaurant small with long queues.
Reasonable pricing for spacious, clean rooms with ocean views. Onsite parking available for a fee.
Prime location within walking distance to restaurants, shops, and attractions. Close to the beach and State Street.
Convenient location near the beach, pier, and dining options. Pool and gym facilities. Some rooms offer balconies and ocean views.
Surrounded by beautiful palm trees, Harbor View Inn is one of the top hotels with beautiful views in California, promising nothing but relaxation and comfort. The rooms here have a modern design and come with an HDTV, a safety deposit box, a work desk, and a terrycloth bathrobe. Some bedrooms even have private balconies with beautiful ocean views. The property is located at the beachfront so you can expect to hear the crashing of waves and feeling the ocean air.
Other amenities you can look forward to here is the stunning outdoor swimming pool with a seasonal bar. Other facilities include an on-site restaurant, spa, and fitness center.
Harbor View Inn
Address: 28 West Cabrillo Boulevard
195.34 km (121.4 mi) from Hearst Castle
4. Casa Del Mar, Santa Monica (from USD 965)
Featuring two on-site restaurants and an outdoor pool, Casa Del Mar boasts comfort and luxury, which you can see in its design and amenities. Each comfortable room features light neutral colors and floor-to-ceiling windows, which makes the space bright and relaxing. Other things you’ll find in the guestrooms are a flat-screen television, a coffee maker, a minibar, and a private bathroom with a hydrotherapy spa tub. Also, some rooms have amazing ocean views.
Casa Del Mar
Address: 1910 Ocean Way
307.43 km (191.1 mi) from Hearst Castle
California Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more
Tours by Stephanie
5. Shoreline Inn...on the beach, Cayucos (from USD 271)
This hotel offers a perfect view right in front of Cayucos Beach! The hotel offers afternoon cookie time, which I think we just fell in love with and so will you! The sun sets right over the pier, and you can select a room that has this view. The rooms themselves are comfortable and clean, and a continental breakfast is offered every morning.
Shoreline Inn...on the beach
Address: 1 North Ocean Avenue
35.63 km (22.2 mi) from Hearst Castle
6. Monterey Tides: a Joie de Vivre Hotel, Monterey (from USD 339)
You want a somewhat simple hotel, with a beach view and hot tub?! Ah, sure we’ve got that for you. Monterey County has over 99 miles (159 km) of beaches, and so at this hotel you won’t be disappointed with the view, that’s for sure! We particularly love the view from the lounge that offers full floor to ceiling windows, perfect for watching the sunset with a glass of wine. We particularly recommend booking in for dinner at the fourth floor restaurant before retiring to your clean and relaxing bedroom, with many offering seating areas.
Monterey Tides This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 2600 Sand Dunes Dr
120.18 km (74.7 mi) from Hearst Castle
7. Beach House, Half Moon Bay (from USD 321)
This beach front hotel in Half Moon Bay overlooks Pillar Point Harbor and is sure to be relaxing; they even offer in-room spa treatments! The suites each come with a private balcony so that you can watch the sunset with red and pink hues over the the bay. We’re swooning just by looking at the pictures! The rooms are cozy and quaint with a homey feeling and the staff make sure that you feel welcome. You’ll really enjoy your stay at Beach House in Half Moon Bay.
Beach House Half Moon Bay
Address: 4100 North Cabrillo Way
233.26 km (145.0 mi) from Hearst Castle
8. Best Western Beach View Lodge, Carlsbad (from USD 279)
Delicious and varied breakfast options, with a fantastic view of the ocean from the dining area.
Reasonable pricing for the area, with free parking and breakfast included.
Prime location near the beach, restaurants, and shops, with easy walking access to attractions.
Convenient location with easy beach access, spacious rooms, and a lovely ocean-view deck.
Located right on the 7-mile (11-km) coastal stretch called Carlsbad in northern San Diego County, this hotel has the beach on its doorstep and has the views to prove it. After your breakfast, included in the price, head to the beach, which is very easy to access. Or, if you just want to enjoy the view without the sand, make yourself at home on the sundeck where you can relax with a book or watch fellow beachgoers enjoy their day. The sundeck also offers incredible views of the sunset, which is often enjoyed communally. Rooms are clean and comfortable, ensuring a thoroughly pleasant stay.
Best Western Plus Beach View Lodge Carlsbad
Address: 3180 Carlsbad Boulevard
449.1 km (279.1 mi) from Hearst Castle
9. Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, San Simeon (from USD 246)
Delicious dining options with accommodating staff and gluten-free menu adjustments
Reasonable rates for oceanfront rooms with cozy fireplaces
Scenic oceanfront location with proximity to Hearst Castle and elephant seal rookery
Spacious grounds, oceanfront fire pits, and a pool with fluffy robes provided
This hotel has got it figured out when it comes to best enjoying the view as they offer fire-pits right on the beachfront… you can stargaze all night! It’s also a fantastic way to make some new friends whilst on your travels. The bedrooms are spacious and offer both a writing desk area and indoor seating, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the view.
Oceanfront
Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
Address: 9415 Hearst Dr.
8.2 km (5.1 mi) from Hearst Castle
10. North Cliff Hotel, Fort Bragg (from USD 301)
With a view that is known as both breathtaking and beautiful, our list wouldn’t be complete without this hotel. The views take in both Pacific Ocean and Noyo Bay. So you can wake up fresh and early from a relaxing night in your traditional wood furnished room and enjoy the fresh hot buffet. We’ll let you into a secret, some of the rooms have the bath next to the window with the view…. did someone say the word ‘perfect’.
North Cliff Hotel This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 1005 South Main Street
476.82 km (296.3 mi) from Hearst Castle
11. Crowne Plaza Hotel Ventura Beach, Ventura (from USD 181)
Featuring a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean, Crowne Plaza Hotel Ventura Beach offers a wide array of amenities that will surely be enjoyed by everyone. The hotel comes with an outdoor pool, where you can swim and relax, an on-site restaurant, a bar, a fitness center, a parking area, luggage storage, and a concierge service. Each room here comes with a private balcony, where you can have a beautiful view of the ocean. Also, you’ll find inside a flat-screen television, an air-conditioning unit, and an aromatherapy kit for a more calming sleep.
Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, an IHG Hotel
Address: 450 East Harbor Boulevard
231.74 km (144.0 mi) from Hearst Castle
12. Bodega Bay Lodge, Bodega Bay (from USD 478)
Good dining experiences, but some guests found the menu limited or overpriced.
Luxurious resort with stunning ocean views, but prices can be high.
Beautiful location overlooking Bodega Bay, short drive to town, and walking distance to the beach.
Spacious rooms, heated pool, jacuzzi, outdoor space, and attentive staff.
Set on a hill, Bodega Bay Lodge has spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, Doran Regional Park, and Bodega Bay. The property is also close to many points of interest, including wine-tasting, hiking, and whale-watching spots. It is also a walking distance to Doran City Park. The hotel features various amenities such as an outdoor pool, a wellness spa, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, and more. The guestrooms are furnished with a flat-screen television, free Wi-Fi, an air-conditioning unit, and a private bathroom that comes with a microfiber bathrobe.
The Lodge at Bodega Bay
Address: 103 Coast Highway One
336.24 km (209.0 mi) from Hearst Castle
13. Best Western Plus Lighthouse Hotel, Pacifica (from USD 162)
Beautiful restaurant with ocean views, nearby dining options, but breakfast reservations may be required.
Reasonable pricing for oceanfront location and amenities.
Convenient location steps from the ocean, close to dining and hiking trails.
Heated pool, comfortable beds, on-site restaurant, lovely ocean views.
Located just south of San Francisco, this hotel is recommended above all else for its fantastic view. There are several different views available, from partial to full beach views, so be sure to check online before booking. Although there is no restaurant on site, the hotel itself is just walking distance from a number of local bars and restaurants. In the bedrooms, you can expect plenty of space and relaxing neutral colours.
Pacifica Lighthouse Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Address: 105 Rockaway Beach Avenue
244.61 km (152.0 mi) from Hearst Castle
14. Surf and Sand Resort, Laguna Beach (from USD 1280)
Impeccable dining experience, especially the breakfast burrito and French toast.
Premium rates for oceanfront rooms, worth the cost for stunning views and beachfront access.
Prime spot on Laguna Beach, with easy access to restaurants and shops.
Beachfront property with pool, spa, and exceptional staff service.
Located in the center of Laguna Beach, facing the Pacific Ocean, Surf and Sand Resort is one of the few holiday accommodation that comes with private beach access. Aside from the beach, it also features an outdoor pool that is open all year round and has a shallow end where kids can swim. Another thing to look forward to here is their wellness programs including yoga and fitness classes, spa treatments, massages, and many more. Other facilities include an on-site restaurant, a concierge service, a parking space, a tour desk, and daily housekeeping, among others.
Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Address: 1555 South Coast Highway
392.29 km (243.8 mi) from Hearst Castle
15. SeaVenture Beach Hotel And Restaurant, Pismo Beach (from USD 345)
Exceptional seafood choices, excellent room service, and cozy restaurant ambiance.
Slightly expensive, but worth it for beachfront location and amenities.
Prime location right on Pismo Beach, walking distance to shops and pier.
Spacious rooms, hot tubs, beach access, and excellent restaurant on-site.
Enjoy peace and tranquility at SeaVenture Beach hotel located in Pismo Beach, California. This hotel is best known for the ocean views and a private terrace with hot tub best for relaxation. Each guest room has a fireplace and a TV with cable at the seating area. Laundry and reception services are available all around the clock. Some of the facilities offered are free WIFI, facilities for disabled guests, family rooms and a bar. The seaVenture hotel offers rooms ranging from deluxe king rooms to deluxe king rooms with ocean view.
SeaVenture Beach Hotel
Address: 100 Ocean View Avenue
77.45 km (48.2 mi) from Hearst Castle
16. Santa Cruz Dream Inn Hotel, Santa Cruz (from USD 496)
Delicious pool bar food, nice morning coffee, and good choices of wine and food at the restaurant.
Pricey, with additional fees for parking and amenities.
Prime beachfront location, walking distance to wharf, boardwalk, and downtown.
Heated pool, beach access, poolside bar, restaurant, bike rental, and friendly staff.
Santa Cruz Dream Inn Hotel is located on 175 west cliff Santa Cruz, California. Perfect place for couples, this hotel offers spectacular ocean views just by the beach. The hotel has an awesome deck with a pool and a hot tub. Its perfect location and luxurious amenities offered makes this an ideal place for vacationers. Rooms are exclusively and wonderfully decorated and range from Ocean View Cloud with a king-size bed to Ocean View Poolside with two double bed. This is a non-smoking hotel with mini market on site and facilities like free internet, a bar and facilities for disabled guests are available.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Address: 175 West Cliff Drive
161.37 km (100.3 mi) from Hearst Castle
17. The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay (from USD 1691)
Treat yourself to that world-class service at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. The hotel, built on a cliff just by the sandy beach with magnificent oceanview is located at 1 Miramontes Point Road, Half Moon Bay, California. Enjoy massages, facial treatments, and manicures at the in-house spa. Some of the facilities offered are free internet and parking, an awesome swimming pool and a bar. Rooms offered range from a one-bedroom suite with a king-size bed and fireplace.
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: One Miramontes Point Road
225.3 km (140.0 mi) from Hearst Castle
18. Pismo Lighthouse Suites, Pismo Beach (from USD 339)
Plentiful and tasty breakfast offerings, though some guests found room for improvement in variety.
Reasonable pricing for spacious family suites with ocean views.
Prime beachfront location with stunning cliffside views and easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.
Abundant family-friendly activities, including a play deck, pool, and electric vehicle chargers.
The Pismo Lighthouse Suites is well known for its outdoor pool and hot tub. The Pismo Beach and pier are about 10 minutes’ walk away from the hotel. All suites offer a large living area opening up to a beautiful private patio. Guests can enjoy a game of badminton or relax at the in-house spa. Some of the facilities offered are non-smoking rooms, free internet, and parking among others. All suites have two TV sets and a small kitchenette with the basic necessities.
Pismo Lighthouse Suites
Address: 2411 Price Street
75.84 km (47.2 mi) from Hearst Castle
19. Cottage Inn by the Sea, Pismo Beach (from USD 222)
Limited breakfast options, nearby dining alternatives, some on-site food options
Reasonable pricing for oceanfront location, but additional charges for some amenities
Beautiful oceanfront location with easy access to the beach and nearby attractions
Fire pits, pool, hot tub, EV charging stations, beach access, spacious rooms
The Cottage Inn by the Sea is located in Pismo Beach offering a captivating view of the ocean. It has a magnificent sun deck that overlooks the ocean with perfect ocean views. This hotel offers daily continental breakfast during your stay. For outdoor activities, you can go for a swim in the heated outdoor swimming pools. Guests are served hot coffee and fruits at the lobby and fresh cookies in the afternoon. Some of the facilities offered are an internet connection, designated smoking area, free parking, and a business center.
Cottage Inn by the Sea
Address: 2351 Price Street
75.89 km (47.2 mi) from Hearst Castle
20. Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore, Santa Barbara (from USD 595)
Feel like a million dollars at this Spanish inspired resort; from the cosy dressing-gowns in your rooms, to the cuisine at the restaurant everything oozes luxury and the view doesn’t disappoint. Be sure to book a room with an ocean view and you’ll feel like you have your own slice of beach paradise. We also particularly love the room from the communal veranda areas because it feels like you’re sitting on top of the water! Bedrooms are spacious and elegant with stocked mini-bars and more than comfortable beds.
Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
Address: 1260 Channel Drive
197.94 km (123.0 mi) from Hearst Castle
21. Monterey Beach Dunes Hotel, Marina (from USD 94)
Located at 3280 Dunes Drive, Marina, California, Monterey Beach Dunes Hotel, Marina, offers continental breakfast daily during your stay. Although the property may not have a beach view, it’s located across the street from Marina State Beach. So, whenever you feel like enjoying beach views, just take a quick walk to the shore!
This hotel is ideal for business travelers since facilities like free internet connection, fax service and a meeting room accommodating 25 guests are a few amenities. Non-smoking and handicap accessible rooms are also available along with suites and rooms with a double bed. A spa and a wellness center are also available or you can choose to go for a swim in the hotels’ swimming pool.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Monterey Beachfront-Marina, CA
Address: 3280 Dunes Drive
126.43 km (78.6 mi) from Hearst Castle
We don't encourage just sitting indoors
A nice view can make or break a holiday, so we’re happy in the knowledge that by booking one of these best hotels with ocean views in California, you’ll be thrilled when you open your eyes in the morning. But, that doesn’t mean that we recommend just sitting indoors idly watching the view and the world pass you by from your room because do you know what makes a good view even better? Getting out there and exploring it!
Frequently asked questions about hotels in California with beach views
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