California, the third largest state in the United States, offers a plethora of experiences. There’s the buzz of Los Angeles, the wine of Napa Valley, and the magical redwood forests. There are also the beaches and ski resorts of Lake Tahoe, which California shares with Nevada. Don’t forget the nine national parks—more than any other state.
Recently, Travel + Leisure asked readers their opinions about California’s best resorts. Some of their choices included San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa in Sonoma, and The Ranch at Laguna Beach.
Here are some of the most expensive resorts and villas in California.
Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur
Post Ranch Inn is quite serious about encouraging guests to live in the moment. So much so that there are no televisions or alarm clocks in the rooms, and there are no children or pets allowed.
When booking your room, the Inn asks you online what kind of view you’d like—ocean, mountains, or forest. You can even choose the bath type—an outdoor soaking tub, an indoor spa tub, or a walk-in shower. For an added layer of luxury, check out the private houses, Castro and the Post House.
Complimentary resort amenities include daily breakfast, a mini-bar, lap pools and infinity pool access, fitness center access, valet parking, and Lexus vehicles for guest use. Resort activities include yoga, outdoor meditation, guided nature walks, and garden tours.
Hotel Bel-Air – Los Angeles
You’re not likely to find anything inexpensive in Bel Air. It’s a contradiction.
Appointed with 12 acres, Hotel Bel-Air dates back to 1946. Back then, it attracted several of the classic Hollywood elite like Grace Kelly and Cary Grant. Over the years, the hotel underwent renovations and ownership changed hands. After one major renovation project, which took two years, Hotel Bel-Air opened for guests in 2011.
Accommodations here include several regular rooms, although nothing in Bel Air is regular, and suites of varying sizes. For a casual, but stylish dining experience, go to The Restaurant of Hotel Bel Air, which blends Californian and Mediterranean flavors.
At night, knock back a few cocktails at the bar and lounge, which also offers live entertainment.
The Landing Resort and Spa – Lake Tahoe
Look no further for the ultimate in lakeside luxury. The Landing is located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, on California’s side. All of the rooms and suites are charming, and the resort can arrange a range of activities for guests.
Go horseback riding along the trails of Tahoe with experienced guides. You can also try jet skiing, parasailing, sailing, and more in two of the protected marinas. If you really want to sweat, lace up your hiking boots or grab your bike. At the end of the day, unwind at the spa on the grounds.
The St. Regis Hotel – San Francisco
If you want luxury in the financial district of San Francisco, book a room at the St. Regis. It’s inside the Williams Building, a landmark structure.
It’s conveniently located to great museums including the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA).
For signature cocktails and fine dining, go to the St. Regis Bar and Astra Restaurant.
Grand Blanc Maison – San Diego
Rounding out our list is Grand Blanc Maison, an Art Deco mansion that has been written about by the Wall Street Journal and several other publications.
There’s so much here that you might not feel the need to venture outside. Cool off in the Roman-style lap pool, luxuriate in the living areas, or catch your favorite film in the home theater.
You’ll have full use of the six bedrooms, some of which face the golf course. You could take the stairs between floors, but why do that when you have an elevator? If you’re interested in special services, contact property management and ask if that’s possible.
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