Southern California is one of the most attractive locations in the United States of America, featuring some of the most developed urban areas. It has a Mediterranean climate with warm and dry summers and mild and wet winters that are perfect for travelers all year. Aside from its perfect climate, Southern California also has pristine beaches, picturesque mountain ranges and rivers, and exciting theme parks and attractions. Bring out the kid in you at Disneyland Park or enjoy nature and wildlife at San Diego Zoo. What makes this region more appealing is that it has various lodges and hotels that can make your holiday truly a remarkable one with their unique and quirky themes. Check out these best themed hotels in Southern California, for a fun stay.
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 March 03, 2024.
1. Andaz West Hollywood - a Concept by Hyatt , West Hollywood (from USD 271)
Reasonable rates for upscale experience, but additional fees for parking and breakfast
Rooftop pool with stunning views, well-equipped gym, free evening wine tastings
Convenient Sunset Strip location with easy access to attractions, restaurants, and bars
Delicious breakfast but overpriced, limited dining options, complimentary evening wine
Located just 2.8 miles (4.5 kilometers) from Hollywood, Andaz West Hollywood - a Concept by Hyatt promises a fabulous experience for its guests. The swimming pool is wonderfully set on the roof where you can bathe in the Californian sun. The sundeck by the poolside creates the perfect atmosphere for a romantic dinner. At RH Bar, be sure to be surprised by inventive cocktails and snacks.
Rooms at Andaz West Hollywood are loaded with amenities, including spacious bathrooms, fast internet, and seating furniture. If you don’t want to break your exercise routine, the on-site gym has an extensive set of equipment. Your fur pals are welcome here, though extra charges may apply.
Andaz West Hollywood - a concept by Hyatt
Address: 8401 W Sunset Blvd
13.26 km (8.3 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
2. Petit Ermitage, West Hollywood (from USD 399)
Petit Ermitage is a Moroccan-inspired, all-suite hotel situated in West Hollywood, California. Its design is inspired by creating an environment that feels more like an artist or entertainer’s residency than just a normal room to stay in. The suites feature vividly painted walls and antiques stuffed with homey decor that is guaranteed to make your stay unforgettable.
A bohemian bar and a Mediterranean restaurant with cabana dining await its guests on its rooftop with great scenic views. The bar is known for its innovative drinks, while the restaurant is open all day long. Be sure to explore the iconic Santa Monica Boulevard, which is just 2.9 miles (4.6 kilometers) from the hotel.
Petit Ermitage
Address: 8822 Cynthia Street
13.89 km (8.7 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
3. Madonna Inn, San Luis Obispo (from USD 199)
Located in the historic town of San Luis Obispo, California, Madonna Inn is an exceptionally bizarre Swiss Alps-inspired hotel room, distinct for its whimsical charm and unique amenities. The predominant exterior color of this place is pink, and the lavish common rooms are accented by pink roses.
Each of its 110 guest rooms is uniquely designed and named, such as “Just Heaven” and “Cloud Nine”. The common lounge area has a quirky fireplace, where you can enjoy a quiet time with a book or chat with the other guests.
Dining options are plentiful here. Sink your teeth into succulent steaks and seafood at Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House or sip on creative cocktails at Silver Bar Cocktail & Lounge. For coffee and light treats, Copper Café & Coffee Bar as well as Bakery and Pastry Shop will show you a good time.
Madonna Inn
Address: 100 Madonna Road
260.59 km (162.0 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
4. Hotel Erwin, Venice (from USD 269)
Pricey for the location and amenities offered, with additional charges for sea view rooms and valet parking.
Free bike rentals, welcome drink, beach towels, and rooftop bar with stunning views. However, some noise and maintenance issues.
Prime location right on Venice Beach, close to local coffee spots, restaurants, and beach activities. However, noise from nearby clubs and limited parking.
Great food at the hotel cafe, but limited breakfast options and some mixed reviews about the rooftop bar's menu and service.
If you’re looking for a place near Venice Beach, Hotel Erwin might be an excellent choice for you. It is a 70s-inspired hotel with a modern touch. From its orange pendant lamp to its green bolster pillows, you will definitely feel the old 70s vibe. High Rooftop Lounge with an ocean view is definitely something to look for. If you are craving pizza, there is no need to step outside as the hotel’s own Venice Way Pizza is at your disposal. The hotel also has an in-house restaurant that serves cooked-to-order breakfast and dinner meals.
Bicycling and rollerblading are popular activities in the area. You can rent a bike at the hotel and make a fleeting visit to the famous Santa Monica Pier, which is just 2.3 miles (3.7 kilometers) from the property.
Hotel Erwin
Address: 1697 Pacific Avenue
22.43 km (14.0 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
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 the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
Tours by Stephanie
5. Estancia La Jolla Hotel and Spa, La Jolla (from USD 329)
High pricing matches quality, but additional fees for parking and spa services
Beautiful, well-kept grounds, fully equipped fitness center, and lovely pool area
Great location near UCSD, with beautiful gardens and a tranquil, quiet environment
Limited food options, with some restaurants offering average to mediocre food and service
Located just 0.2 miles (0.3 kilometers) from University of California San Diego, this boutique property is nestled in the seaside community north of San Diego. This Spanish-colonial-style hotel has 210 rooms and is well known for its lush green and picturesque grounds.
Classic Spanish decor and courtyard views await each guest in the spacious rooms of this uniquely designed hotel. Greenfinch Restaurant and Greenfinch Bar offer guests exquisite cuisine choices, along with indoor and outdoor dining arrangements. The Spa at Estancia guarantees that you will have a relaxed time at the hotel, while the fitness center ensures that you don’t miss out on your exercise regime.
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
Address: 9700 North Torrey Pines Road
159.07 km (98.9 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
6. Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles (from USD 199)
Reasonable pricing for downtown LA with additional fees for parking
Well-equipped gym, stylish rooftop pool and bar, and unique historic building
Convenient downtown location with walking distance to attractions and dining options
Delicious food at the on-site restaurants and cafe, with a variety of options
The location of this hotel in the Broadway Theater District has endowed the property with a unique charm. The hotel boasts a classic Broadway-style auditorium, where theater enthusiasts can enjoy live plays and shows. The historic grandeur of the hotel is further accentuated by the fact that it is housed in a building that once served as the headquarters for the iconic United Artists Theater.
Inside, the property provides a host of comforts for its guests. All rooms here are equipped with free WiFi and cable TV, both of which you can enjoy while pouring a drink from the minibar. There is a swimming pool on the rooftop where you can spend quiet evenings. The rooftop bar is also the perfect place to chat with friends and gaze at the city skyline.
Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles
Address: 929 South Broadway
1.71 km (1.1 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
7. Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection, San Diego (from USD 299)
The exterior of this hotel will remind you of the seminal movie theaters that dotted the east and west coasts of America in the 50s and 60s. The property has stylish and contemporary decor. The high-ceiling lobby welcomes guests in a grandiose fashion, while the rooms are luxurious in the true sense of the word. They are also pet-friendly.
The three on-site restaurants will delight you with all kinds of preparations, from light fares to gourmet courses. Topside Terrace Kitchen & Bar is likely to be your favorite spot in the hotel if you enjoy drinks and city views in late evening hues. The hotel is also ideal for a short, one-night stay before boarding a flight, as San Diego International Airport is just 1.9 miles (3 kilometers) away.
Hotel Republic San Diego, Autograph Collection
Address: 421 West B Street
178.47 km (110.9 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
8. Hard Rock Hotel San Diego (from USD 249)
Feel the night come alive at this music-themed hotel as you enjoy your favorite drink at Float, the in-house bar set by the poolside. Guests can download hit tracks for free and play their favorite songs as they wine and dine here. For sushi lovers, the hotel features Nobu San Diego on-site. Maryjane’s promises quintessential American fare all day long.
This 4-star property promises an ultra-luxurious experience for visitors. The rooms have an elegant decor and include all the comforts of a modern hotel, such as satellite TV, WiFi, and well-equipped bathrooms. The rooftop pool and the surrounding deck area are popular spots at this hotel for musical soirees.
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Address: 207 5th Ave
179.75 km (111.7 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands.
9. Castle Wood Theme Cottages, Big Bear Lake (from USD 189)
Quirkily designed, these cottages are intended for couples looking for unusual romantic getaways. Each cottage here has an individual character, styled on homes seen during olden times. The cabins are located at a convenient distance from marinas and ski points.
Elaborate comforts await guests here. Fitted in every room are a spa bath and a hot tub for weary couples who wish to unwind with a glass of wine. The fireplace in your room will provide you with the coziness required to warm yourself on a harsh winter night. If you really want to get into the skin of a person from the medieval age, era-appropriate attire is also provided in every room.
Castle Wood Theme Cottages- COUPLES ONLY
Address: 547 Main Street
124.71 km (77.5 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
10. San Luis Creek Lodge, San Luis Obispo (from USD 342)
This boutique hotel is a fantastic choice for a vacation. The property is located a comfortable distance from popular tourist attractions. For example, the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is just 1.1 miles (1.7 kilometers) from the hotel, while California Polytechnic State University is just 1.3 miles (2 kilometers) away.
Rooms here have all the necessary amenities. If you wish to spend the entire day in your room, you have satellite TV for entertainment. Your morning coffee is taken care of by the in-room coffee machine. Those who wish to work can utilize the dedicated work desk provided in every room. You are also allowed to bring your furry friends here. For large groups, there are family rooms that are available.
San Luis Creek Lodge
Address: 1941 Monterey Street, Mill Street Historic, San Luis Obispo (CA), United States, CA 93401
259.99 km (161.6 mi) from Japanese Village Plaza
Energize with the essence of America
Southern California, with its unconventional buildings, the promise of exotic gastronomic experiences, and breezy lifestyle, offers unforgettable encounters with the spirit of America. Book any of the Airbnbs listed above for an unforgettable and unique experience.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to