California is a state in the western side of the United States. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations on account of its beautiful beaches, the movie industry at Hollywood, its wineries and its redwood trees. The state is home to over nine national parks and these offer countless opportunities for outdoor pursuits. Napa Valley is world-famous for its wines but also attracts nature lovers with its sweeping landscapes. A few days spent among the rolling vineyards tasting fabulous wines will be a great stress-buster. In addition to this, California is home to fantastic amusement parks such as Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland Park.
All these are reasons to plan a trip to this fascinating state. Aside from famous cities such as Los Angeles or San Francisco, there are many other interesting destinations to visit in California. Scroll down for a list of the best resort towns in California, USA, for a wonderful trip.
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 29, 2024.
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1. Mammoth Lakes (from USD 541)
To see a different side of California, make your way to Mammoth Lakes, located on the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, about six hours away from Los Angeles. Over 800 campsites in the town offer various options for camping out and enjoying the beautiful landscapes. It is also a great place for winter sports such as snowmobiling or dog sledging. Try skiing or snowboarding on runs such as Gremlin’s Gulch and Wipeout Chutes. The relaxing hot springs of Mammoth Lakes are worth a visit, too.
Juniper Springs Resort and Empeiria High Sierra Hotel are good options for plush places to stay in Mammon Lakes.
Juniper Springs Resort
Address: 4000 Meridian Boulevard
405.75 km (252.2 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Empeiria High Sierra Hotel
Address: 3228 Main St
407.03 km (253.0 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
property manager was very responsive when i contacted her prior and during visitjen was a great host very responsivevery accommodating and graciousowner clearly takes pride in this townhomewe had a couple of small issues at the property the property management was extremely responsive and communicativeLocation:
location was great for usbeautiful home and loved how close to everything it wasthe property is in an ideal location the atmosphere is very comfortablebeautiful home is a most convenient locationCleanliness:
the place is very clean and all the beds were very comfortableRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
beds were comfortable as beds can get and amenities are beyond most anyone's needsperfect comfortable plenty of spacethis house has everything you could want - nice beds good internet tv's nice kitchen on-site swimming pool etccomfortable couches and bedsthanks so much jen we love the condo wished the pool was cleaner but overall enjoyed our stay
2. Carlsbad (from USD 673)
If you love LEGO, you should head to Carlsbad, situated about 87 mi (140 km) from Los Angeles. This city is home to LEGOLAND California Resort, which offers exciting shows and rides. Another feature of Carlsbad that attracts tourists is Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. This is a 50-ac (20.23 ha) farm filled with flowers in rainbow hues and is an idyllic setting that’s sure to delight nature lovers. As with many coastal Californian cities, there are beautiful beaches here, too, and many sites for surfing and other water-based activities are available.
If you plan to visit Carlsbad, you can check out these popular places to stay - Hilton Grand Vacations Club MarBrisa Carlsbad and Hampton Inn Carlsbad North San Diego County.
Marbrisa Carlsbad Resort
Address: 1594 MarBrisa Circle
147.03 km (91.4 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County
Address: 2229 Palomar Airport Rd
150.05 km (93.3 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
this property is nice clean and close to everything the host is extremely nice and responsiveLocation:
the location was wonderfulgreat location near the beach and the villagethe location in carlsbad was perfectperfect location and such a nice house for a family of fourperfect for walking to restaurants and beachRead more reviewsCleanliness:
house is clean and well stocked
3. Carmel-by-the-Sea (from USD 393)
Lovely onsite restaurant, limited dining options, good breakfast at nearby Wagon Wheel
Pricier than average, additional costs for amenities
Great location for golf and exploring Carmel area, tranquil environment, close to local attractions
Beautiful grounds, 8-hole putting course, heated pool, workout area, free wine in the lounge
Carmel-by-the-Sea or Carmel is a quaint city on California’s Central Coast, just a five-and-a-half-hour drive away from Los Angeles. When you are here, one of the must-do things is embarking on the 17-mile drive, which will take you through all the scenic spots. Stop by the cute Tuck Box eatery for afternoon tea and then plan wine tasting at one of the boutique wine-tasting venues here. Carmel is also home to many performing art centres and you can try to catch a show at Sunset Center.
While here, indulge in a warm and comfortable stay by choosing L'Auberge Carmel, Relais & Chateaux or Quail Lodge & Golf Club.
The Quail Lodge
Address: 8205 Valley Greens Drive
413.95 km (257.3 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
L'Auberge Carmel, Relais & Chateaux
Address: Monte Verde & Seventh Avenue, P.O Box J
420.45 km (261.3 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
our hosts are knowledgeable about the area and were helpful with any questions we hadlarry and linda are adorable and are the sweetest hosts with local recommendations if you desirecharming cottage hosted by lovely people in a wonderful part of the worldRead more reviewsLocation:
lovely property and location
4. Malibu (from USD 3149)
Malibu is a beach city, about 40 minutes west of Los Angeles. Popular beaches such as Surfrider Beach and Zuma Beach attract surfers from all over the world. Another famous spot is Malibu Pier. Here you can dine on fresh seafood and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. For expansive views of the ocean and the cliffs that surround the area, you can try cycling along Pacific Coast Highway.
Some choices of places to stay in this lovely city are Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club and The Surfrider Malibu.
The Surfrider Malibu
Address: 23033 Pacific Coast Highway
16.83 km (10.5 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club
Address: 327 Latigo Canyon Road
30.81 km (19.2 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
jeffrey is a considerate and pleasant host and goes beyond the callthe owner went above and beyond to make sure we were well taken care of during our stayjeff the host was responsive from beginning to endjeff gave us a great check-in tour and was highly responsive throughout our staywonderful beach front property with amazing views and a great host thank you jeffLocation:
the house was in a great locationmodern home in a nice locationwe love the location right on the ocean and the house is stocked with everything we could wantCleanliness:
it was very cleanRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
everything was so well furnished extremy comfortable beds a fully stocked kitchen
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. San Diego (from USD 1126)
San Diego is a city located along the San Diego Bay on the Pacific Ocean, in southern California. It’s about 120.5 mi (194 km) from Los Angeles. It offers many attractions to tourists. Head to beaches such as Mission Beach or Black’s Beach to catch some waves and some sun. Animal lovers may enjoy a trip to San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park and SeaWorld San Diego. For a delicious treat, stop for a meal at one of the must-visit restaurants such as Jsix or Ironside Fish & Oyster.
Popular places to stay in San Diego include Loews Coronado Bay Resort, which comes with a full-service marina.
Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Address: 4000 Coronado Bay Road
198.7 km (123.5 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Fairmont Grand Del Mar This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court
169.41 km (105.3 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Location:
easy walk to the beach and storeswe picked the perfect house and location to explore all of what sd offersCleanliness:
the house was super clean well stocked and beautifully decoratedthis home was great it was exceptionally clean and seemed almost brand newRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the house accommodated our family well— ample and diverse space fun kitchen and appropriate supplieswe loved our stay here - and the beds were amazingly comfortable
6. Big Bear Lake (from USD 622)
Big Bear Lake is a popular outdoor sports destination located just about a couple of hours’ drive from Los Angeles. In warm weather, there are many hiking, biking and camping options here. In winter, the slopes of the San Bernardino Mountains offer more than 62 runs for skiers - from novice adventurers to professional ones. Fishing tournaments and the popular Oktoberfest also draw numerous tourists every year.
Embers Lodge & Cabins and Lakewood Cabins are good choices of accommodation here, offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
Embers Lodge & Cabins
Address: 40229 Big Bear Blvd
147.16 km (91.5 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Lakewood Cabins
Address: 586 Main Street
148.9 km (92.6 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
thank you kamille for being such a wonderful hostkamille was extremely pleasant responsive helpful and so accommodatingLocation:
location was perfect and the cabin is gorgeousRead more reviewsCleanliness:
everything was very updated comfortable and clean
7. Palm Springs (from USD 416)
Exceptional complimentary breakfast and lunch, with a well-stocked cantina for beverages.
Reasonable pricing for a luxurious gay resort with complimentary breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
Beautifully landscaped, private, and conveniently located near the main strip of Palm Springs.
Well-appointed rooms, outdoor shower, pool, hot tub, fire pit, and 24-hour pool access.
Palm Springs is a spa city in southern California, known for its beautiful scenery and great weather. Los Angeles is less than a two-hour drive away from this city. It was once the playing field of Hollywood stars and is now a resort town that attracts people from all over the world. Popular attractions include Moorten Botanical Garden, the annual Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
It is a wonderful place for a romantic getaway and you have many lovely options to stay here on your couple’s vacation. Some great places to stay include Santiago Resort - Palm Springs Premier Gay Men’s Resort and ARRIVE Palm Springs - Adults Only.
Santiago Resort - Palm Springs Premier Gay Men’s Resort
Address: 650 East San Lorenzo Road
181.96 km (113.1 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
ARRIVE Palm Springs - Adults Only
Address: 1551 North Palm Canyon Drive
181.02 km (112.5 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
jym was a great hostjym was a fantastic hostjym was one of the best host we've encountered in any of our staysjym was an excellent host and did a great job making us feel welcomejym the owner is very friendly and accommodatingLocation:
location was great with the ability to walk to downtown palm springswalking distance to downtown with great restaurants and shoppingthe location is perfect and just a short walk to restaurants and downtownthe location house and everything was perfectcasa zahara fit the bill perfectly and the location was even better - walkable to shops and restaurantsCleanliness:
the house was clean and well maintainedthis home was impeccably clean when we arrivedextremely clean and such a good vibethe house was very clean organized and well maintainedthe property is spotless cozy and romanticRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
bed and chairs were very comfortablethe master bedroom is big with calming views to the poolthe weather was extremely hot but the ac worked well and the pool was enjoyablewe loved it the saltwater pool/spa in the mornings and evenings is just the icing on the cakewe spent alot of time outside on the patio by the pool - very private and relaxing
8. Cathedral City (from USD 164)
Cathedral City, also called Cat City, is a resort city in Riverside County. It is located about 115.5 mi (186 km) away from Los Angeles. Year-round good weather makes it a great spot for a vacation. You can enjoy a relaxed day here by picnicking at Panorama Park. History buffs will enjoy spending a few hours at Museum of Ancient Wonders. If you are looking for scenic tours or hiking tours, you can reach out to Desert Adventures, a local eco-tour company, to organise one for you.
Cat City is a resort town, so there are plenty of options to stay in. Among the best accommodations are Raintree’s Cimarron Golf Resort Palm Springs and Best Western Plus Desert View Inn & Suites
Raintree's Cimarron Golf Resort Palm Springs
Address: 67707 30th Avenue
187.11 km (116.3 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Best Western Plus Desert View Inn & Suites
Address: 31450 Bob Hope Dr
194.23 km (120.7 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
she was extremely responsive to questionsmaria was an amazing host and very accommodating to our requestsmaria was an amazing hostmaria is a wonderful host and very responsive and accommodatingmaria (connie) was a gracious host and she literally thought of everything when preparing her home for guestsLocation:
this was such a lovely spot it was close to everything - airport groceries food downtowmaria’s place is a sweet place for our family of four (with two teens) to explore palm springs fromCleanliness:
the house was clean and well-stocked backyard is huge and the pool was just rightvery clean central location close to a lot of activitieswe loved this house it was clean and comfortable and close to all the fun things we didRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
pool and hot tub are greatthree rooms upstairs and a great living/family room downstairsbeautiful pool hot tub and back yard exactly as pictured well stocked kitchen and comfortable beds
9. Laguna Beach (from USD 719)
If you love outdoor activities, you will love Laguna Beach. You can reach the lovely city within a 50-minute drive from Los Angeles. There are many trails here that can be explored by hiking. Mountain biking is also an exciting option! In addition, the sea caves are fun to explore, especially as they are accessible only during low tide. Visit Laguna Coast Wilderness Park for a selection of trails that run through various landscapes. The Water Tank Trail is a good one to try.
If you’d rather engage in more relaxing activities, you can take in the artworks displayed at the Festival of Arts which happens in summer. For accommodation options, consider Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa and The Ranch at Laguna Beach.
Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa
Address: 2510 South Coast Highway
86.6 km (53.9 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Address: 31106 Coast Highway
88.56 km (55.1 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
and a gracious and helpful host to complete the experienceRead more reviewsLocation:
a cute clean cottage conveniently located for walking to the beaches town center and many fine restaurants
10. Aptos (from USD 328)
Aptos is a picturesque town on Monterey Bay, about 334 mi (537 km) from the city of Los Angeles. Head to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park to walk among the tall Californian redwood trees. There are many trails here for hiking or running. For some family fun, you can spend some time at beaches such as Seacliff State Beach and Rio Del Mar State Beach. The food scene in Aptos is excellent, as well, and you can try delicious Mexican food at Manuel’s Mexican Restaurant or ribs at Aptos St. BBQ.
Among the best accommodation options here are Seascape Beach Resort and Seacliff Inn Aptos and Tapestry Collection by Hilton, both featuring stunning outdoor pools.
Seascape Beach Resort
Address: 1 Seascape Resort Drive
447.82 km (278.3 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Seacliff Inn Aptos, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Address: 7500 Old Dominion Ct
452.22 km (281.0 mi) from Santa Monica Pier
Top guest reviews
Host:
Colm was great to communicate with and he made everything smooth and easyThe patio with the hammock and bocce ball court is amazingto beach and bikes boards games etc all available at houseLoved having two patio areasprovided all the information we needed and more to enjoy our trip to AptosLocation:
Great location on a very quiet streetA great beach house within walking distance of a beautiful beachWe enjoyed the 10 min walk to the beach and the bocce ball in the backyardThe Kennedy Beach house is remarkableWonderful tidy cottage just a 10-minute walk from the beach on a quiet street Fully equipped Everything worked beautifullyCleanliness:
Everything was neat and clean and comfortableeverything was very clean and accessibleGreat location neat and clean with everything you needThe house is clean and everything is updated and good qualityexcellent beds were very comfortable (best of our vacation)Read more reviewsAmenities & Room:
Plenty of room comfortable bedsThe binder left on the kitchen counterIt was also so nice to have a fully stocked kitchen towelsEverything you need to feel comfortable while visiting the Santa Cruz areaI was expecting the House to be nice
Explore the cities of the Golden State
There are so many exciting places to visit in California, from beautiful national parks to lovely resort towns. If you have always dreamed of a Californian vacation, take the help of this list to plan your visit and have a great time!
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