This 200-room hotel overlooking San Francisco Bay provides a popular “front row seat” for events like Blue Angels, America’s Cup, Super Bowl 50 celebrations, and fireworks displays. Even the curb factor says “party” because Americano Restaurant & Bar spills out onto its own patio. For families or friends traveling together, the oversized Family Studio room is a plus. All rooms have a mini-fridge, blackout blinds, plush robes, in-room safe and coffee maker. Spa? Dog-friendly? Absolutely. *Readers’ Choice Best Group Getaway Hotel in San Francisco. Splurge on the Bathing Ritual on the rooftop of this Embarcadero hotel. It’s not everywhere one finds an outdoor lavender-scented bathtub sprinkled with rose petals. Slip into the water with a glass of sparkling to gaze at the sky while coddled within the confines of a bamboo surround. Step out on the terrace in a plush robe for fresh air, bridge and bay views. Following a soak, what better than a massage?

About a block from the Mission San Rafael Arcángel, AC Hotel San Rafael by Marriott, marks the arrival of the boutique hotel brand to Marin. Floor to ceiling windows in the 140 guest rooms and fitness center offer views over the community, but the excitement is sure to be about Above 5th, the rooftop bar and lounge. Look for a seasonal cocktail program and menu of small bites at night or for brunch around the firepit. The brand’s signature AC Kitchen offers breakfast and the AC Lounge serves tapas alongside wine, craft beer and cocktails on the lobby level.

A hipster den, a mid-century modern gem in the desert — the Ace Hotel & Swim Club has been described in many similar terms since it opened in 2009. Formerly a Westward Ho with a Denny’s attached to it, this 179-room hotel is in a central location with plenty of restaurants and attractions like Joshua Tree, the Salton Sea, Salvation Mountain nearby. But with its onsite spa, restaurant and bar, two big pools — one of which has an old school bus that’s been converted into a DJ booth next to it — this is just as easily a place you never really have to leave.  Dog-friendly with a glamorous Sahara, bohemian-vibe, the rooms feels like being inside an air-conditioned luxury Sibley tent. But no two rooms are exactly alike. Some have a garden patio or a fireplace, others have record players, all have vintage furniture and original artwork created by local artists. A truly unique getaway. acehotel.com

Ideally situated for a quick ride into the city and easy access to Muir Woods and Stinson Beach, Acqua Hotel is perched on a spit of land just south of the town of Mill Valley and alongside Highway 101. Many rooms feature gas fireplaces but all are quiet — they face Pickleweed Inlet with views of migrating birds, kayakers and each day’s sunset over the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and nearby Mount Tamalpais. A complimentary American breakfast is included with every reservation and free mountain bike rentals are a bonus in the county where mountain biking was invented and is revered. Within steps of the hotel are two restaurants: Piatti for farm-to-table Italian and Robata Grill & Sushi.

Called Las Alcobas when it debuted in 2017, this unique property at the northern end of St. Helena’s Main Street includes a renovated 1907 farmhouse with restaurant and a half-dozen rooms plus a modern wing with spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling glass windows to soak in the vineyard views. Most offer large balconies or decks with sofas and fire pits; some even come with outdoor soaking tubs. Bathrooms provide rain-forest showers and separate tubs.

The Andaz Napa brings chic, modern design to downtown Napa. This Hyatt property features spacious rooms with hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a contemporary vibe. It’s the perfect place for guests who want to be right in the heart of Napa’s bustling dining and wine-tasting scene. With an open-concept lobby that feels more like a stylish lounge than a traditional hotel, Andaz creates a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. Their dog-friendly policy includes pet beds, bowls, and treats, making it a great option for travelers who don’t want to leave their furry friends behind.

Located in the vibrant center of downtown Napa, the Archer Hotel is a five-story luxury boutique hotel that blends urban sophistication with Wine Country charm. Known for its rooftop bar, Sky & Vine, which offers panoramic views of Napa Valley, Archer is a standout destination for both relaxation and nightlife. Rooms are beautifully appointed with elegant furnishings, spa-like bathrooms, and high ceilings, and the hotel’s central location provides easy access to local attractions like Oxbow Public Market and the Napa Riverfront. Pet-friendly rooms are available, ensuring your dog can enjoy a comfortable stay while you take in the stylish surroundings.

The forested complex of lodging and meeting spaces predates World War I, when it served as a YWCA Leadership Camp. It became a state park in 1956 and enjoys 107 acres of state beach, restored dunes and buildings. Those buildings earned architectural renown thanks to the legend of architect Julia Morgan, who designed 13 structures like soaring Merrill Hall that remain today, and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (Celebrated in his own right, John Carl Warnecke created seven more structures three decades later.) Between its diverse types of rooms and suites, winding paths, deeply natural setting and expansive halls, it’s a village-like destination on its own, with Carmel, Pacific Grove and Monterey all within a few minutes’ drive. Depending on the season, it’s also a good option for a vetted value hotel.

The grandpère of gracious Napa hospitality began life as an acclaimed California-French restaurant in 1981. Cottages added in 1985 took advantage of its hilltop location in Rutherford — the heart of Wine Country — with dazzling vistas seemingly all the way to San Francisco. Lavish Mediterranean landscaping and olive groves on its 33 acres continue the South of France ambiance found in its recently redesigned 50 rooms and suites. Fountains and courtyards also create a tranquil oasis for the Auberge du Soleil Spa, reserved for guests of the resort, which also offers soaking pools and hammam steam rooms.

It’s kind of like camping, but you’ll sleep really comfortably! AutoCamp Russian River in Guerneville features a fleet of shiny silver Airstreams with a bedroom, kitchenette, and full bathroom. April through October, canvas, platform tents with a queen size bed, electric outlets, lights, and ice chest are also available. (Showers and bathrooms are available in the AutoCamp clubhouse.) All accommodations have their own patio area with fire pit.

For eco-conscious luxury, Bardessono Hotel & Spa in Yountville offers the perfect balance of sustainable design and upscale living. This LEED Platinum-certified hotel features spacious suites with sleek, minimalist interiors, private patios, and outdoor showers. The on-site spa, along with farm-to-table dining at Lucy, enhances the serene, upscale experience. Bardessono welcomes pets with open arms, offering plush beds, water bowls, and a special dog menu for your canine companion. The hotel’s tranquil setting in the heart of Yountville makes it ideal for a relaxing retreat, with dog-friendly wineries and restaurants just a short walk away.

It’s no wonder Hollywood stars, BottleRock Napa Valley performers and other luminaries gravitate to this paragon of eco-luxury. The 62 rooms feature built-in massage tables, gas fireplaces, soaking tubs and private outdoor enclaves, while a rooftop pool and open-air fitness deck provide sweeping valley views. Lucy Restaurant & Bar celebrates “field to fork” California cuisine, sourced in part from the onsite gardens; guests can also dine poolside June through October.

The newer location of this modern, stylish, budget-minded hotel offers 24 rooms a mere five-minute walk to the lake in downtown Tahoe City. The lobby bar serves local micro-brews, wines and snacks, and s’mores are available for purchase to use at the outdoor fire pits. You’ll also find secure places to lock up your skis or snowboard, leaving more space for your four-legged friend in the designated pet-friendly rooms. The hotel welcomes pets without breaking the bank. They charge a one-time pet fee per visit of $40 plus tax and dogs are welcome in select rooms and the hotel’s common areas,

Whether it’s adventure or relaxation you seek, you can find it not far from the original Basecamp Hotel in South Lake Tahoe. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the lake’s edge or the Heavenly Gondola, this affordable, group-friendly crash pad offers 73 handicap-accessible guest rooms within stumbling distance of an on-site beer garden with live music every night. You’ll find secure places to lock up your skis or snowboard, leaving more space for your four-legged friend in the designated pet-friendly rooms. The hotel welcomes pets without breaking the bank. They charge a one-time pet fee per visit of $40 plus tax and dogs are welcome in select rooms and the hotel’s common areas, which include fire pits, a rooftop deck, and a courtyard with ping pong and lawn games. The motel also has an outdoor beer garden and live music nightly.

Find the unexpected in an airport property. Value-packed in Burlingame, this hotel is located on the bay with water views, two miles from San Francisco International Airport. Free airport transportation, free parking, free continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a fitness center. All rooms include a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker. There’s an old-world charm in the high ceiling lobby with dark wood touches and comfortable guest rooms traditionally furnished.

Tucked 25 miles south of San Francisco, population-12,000ish Half Moon Bay is named for the crescent shape of its coastline, and is world famous for its legendary — and lethal — big-wave surf spot, Mavericks. The bay’s visitors bureau likes to call the healing powers of its stunning coastline “vitamin sea.” That’s not lost on the leadership of the boutique operation that is the Beach House, which is laid out to seize views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz Mountains from the separate living room and bedroom areas in each suite. Each space also has a balcony or patio, multiple flat panel TVs, fireplaces, refrigerator, microwave, oversized bathrooms, and custom-designed king beds with down pillows.

Opened during the Prohibition as the Sir Francis Drake, this completely renovated and renamed version debuted in June 2022 with a bright new design that nevertheless complements its storied heritage. Blackout shades and plush-top, gel-foam mattresses in the 418 rooms help bring sweet dreams in the midst of vibrant Union Square nightlife — including the Starlite Room, the latest incarnation of the late Harry Denton’s hotspot, due to open in early 2023.

Home to vineyards since 1879, this 105-acre “regeneratively farmed” ranch in rural Glen Ellen also includes olive and heirloom fruit orchards, produce gardens, chickens, sheep, donkeys, bee hives and a five-room inn. The light-filled guest rooms with queen beds combine Victorian and modern furnishings; some also offer a twin daybed. All have private entrances and outdoor porch seating for enjoying the complimentary, ranch-sourced breakfast.

“The Little Castle” earned this name because its esteemed architect, Julia Morgan, also designed the famous Hearst Castle on a mountaintop south of Big Sur. Opened in 1930, this elegant property — which is on the National Register of Historic Places — is all about its gracious presentation and urban location in downtown Berkeley. Thirty-eight rooms and suites total, some have views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Amenities include complimentary breakfast, overnight parking, bocce, a courtyard and a heated indoor pool. There’s on-site dining at Julia’s.

The sun-kissed resort is barely two decades old, but like a swath of European countryside, feels like it’s been there for centuries. More than 70 villas, suites and guest rooms echo that style but provide state-of-the-art technology and creature comforts ranging from couples’ soaking tubs to fireplaces to king-size feather beds with goose down comforters and Italian linens. Its Lucia restaurant is considered one of the best between Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara, with an emphasis on hyper-local cuisine. All told, it’s a poetic expression of Carmel Valley, with the special event and meeting space to host traditional gatherings and more playful meetings — think bocce ball or cooking classes — alike. It also makes our list for best spa and wellness hotels in Carmel.

For travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing comfort, Best Western Dry Creek Inn offers a Tuscan-inspired setting just minutes from downtown Healdsburg. The hotel’s Villas building provides upgraded rooms with fireplaces, jetted tubs, and private patios, ideal for relaxing after a day of wine tasting. The hotel features two pools, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast. Dry Creek Inn also offers dog-friendly rooms with private patios, making it easy for you and your pet to enjoy the fresh air. Several dog-friendly wineries are located nearby, offering the perfect blend of budget-friendly comfort and local charm.

An 81-room sister property to the Executive Inn next door, this is Tripadvisor’s top rated hotel in Oakland. A hot buffet breakfast is available daily. There are spacious “city view” or “water view” rooms (to sleep a maximum of four), some with sofa seating areas and balconies, plus numerous accessible rooms. All have 42” LCD TVs with cable channels, a microwave, refrigerator, in-room safe, coffee and tea maker, blackout blinds, and free Wi-Fi. Facilities include a fitness center, on-site dining and coin laundry. Patrolled on-site parking is available at a nominal fee.

Within walking distance of downtown Napa’s culinary cornucopia, this Craftsman-style mansion was built in 1902 and faithfully restored nearly a century later by craftsman Scott Warren, who also created period-style furniture to match the original’s rich wood and stained glass interior. Its eight guest rooms offer king or queen beds, most with private patios, fireplaces and spa tubs. A short walk across a parking lot lies the Finch Guest House, which adds another four, similarly appointed guest rooms. Rates include individually plated breakfasts (served at 8:30am or 9:15 am), afternoon hors d’oeuvres with wine or tea, and freshly made cookies.

Blue Door Inns is made up of three separate Victorian mansions a few blocks apart, which between them offer 19 plush rooms, each with its own whimsical elegance. Privacy and communal spirit go hand in hand here; the rooms are set apart and most have separate entrances, but numerous common areas offer plenty of chances to hang out and meet fellow guests. All three inns are in the heart of the absurdly picturesque village, which is chock-a-block with eclectic boutiques, bookstores, cafes and restaurants. They’re also within walking distance of Mendocino Headlands, the open bluffs between the town and the sea criss-crossed with walking paths.

Entrepreneur Sam Brannan opened the Calistoga Hot Springs Hotel in 1862, taking advantage of the geothermal waters to turn rustic Calistoga into a resort destination. Some 150 years later, the family-run Anvaya Group bought the remaining cottage on site and thoroughly renovated it, adding sophisticated modern style to its Victorian detailing. The six rooms feature pillow-top beds with plush headboards and high-end linens, with antique prints, headphone jacks and USB ports above beadboard walls. Bathrooms offer heated tile floors and rainforest showers.

If you’re seeking privacy and charm, Bungalows 313 offers five individually designed bungalows, each with its own private courtyard or patio. These chic, fully-equipped units offer a home-away-from-home feel, complete with kitchens and comfortable living spaces. Located just blocks from Sonoma Plaza, it’s easy to explore local shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms on foot. Bungalows 313 welcomes pets in style, offering dog beds, bowls, and private outdoor spaces where your pet can safely roam.

Gazing at the picture-perfect stone chapel with its red-tiled roof, you can’t help but to feel like you’ve been transported to the French countryside of Provence — with the lavender-kissed landscape, grapevine patchwork and pops of colorful bougainvillea in view. While the 200-acre Cal-a-Vie is nestled above San Diego in the sleepy rolling hills of Vista, its clientele jets in from around the globe as this destination spa is a magical portal to wellness. Guests can luxuriate for 3-, 4-, 5- or 7-night stays that include, 160+ fitness classes, mindfulness and mind/body sessions, hiking, world-class golf, lectures, soulful spa therapies and garden-fresh gourmet cuisine paired with estate’s own wine from the grapes grown onsite. With a 5-to-1 staff to guest ratio, elevated service and pampering abounds. After leaving the comforts of your private villa, your morning commences with stretching and movement whether you prefer an energetic hike or relaxing stroll through the gardens. Guests can curate their days with aqua circuits, personal trainers, CBD Himalayan coffee wraps, sound bowl meditations, trapeze yoga, pickleball, jewelry making, nutrition classes, meditative strolls in the stone labyrinth and stargazing with a professional astronomer in the new observatory. The owners, Francophiles originally from New Orleans, have filled the estate with inimitable antiques and even offer an onsite shop for take home treasures they have collected from around the globe. Their commitment to Old World aesthetics and authentic architecture is also reflected in the 400-year old Chapel, imported from Dijon, France, and painstakingly rebuilt piece by piece on property, which now serves as the meditation center. Rotating themed weeks fill the calendar like Mom & Teens, Staying Youthful While Aging, and Mental Fitness: Mindset Matters — truly something for everyone.

Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa offers a playful, retro-inspired stay with modern comforts. This reimagined roadside motel features colorful rooms designed for fun and relaxation, and the property includes mineral pools, a full-service spa, and outdoor fire pits. The geothermal mineral pools flank the onsite spa, and live music is a regular occurrence at onsite restaurant Fleetwood. The relaxed atmosphere and unique design make it a great spot for travelers looking for something different. The hotel’s dog-friendly rooms come with pet beds and treats, and nearby hiking trails offer great opportunities for outdoor adventure with your dog. Downtown Calistoga is about a half-mile away.

Although the simple decor at Camp Richardson in South Lake Tahoe is a throwback, staying at this classic Tahoe institution is a rite of passage reminiscent of a bygone era. There are so many affordable lodging options to choose from at the family-friendly resort, and the prime location right on the lake and numerous amenities mean there’s never a shortage of things to do. Whether you opt to stay in the cabins, historic 1920s hotel, beachside inn, marina duplex, campground or even a whole house that sleeps up to 20, there’s an option to suit every group.

The suites sit within several surfboard lengths of one of the area’s most popular beaches. Little Capitola also enjoys an outsized number of restaurants, bars, shops and walkable wanders — don’t miss the canal-side trails that head inland from the village. This recently redone destination occupies a central spot within Capitola, featuring ocean views best soaked up from balconies or a rooftop terrace with 360-degree vistas and a cozy fireplace. All but one of the custom-designed suites offer full kitchens.

Across from the Carmel Crossroads center off Highway, Carmel Mission Inn is centrally located for either exploring Carmel, wine tasting in Carmel Valley or breezing down the road to Big Sur. Its recently renovated rooms and public spaces also feature a breezy, contemporized midcentury modern style. Handsome wood-paneled walls are brightened by light flowing through large windows that open (more breezes!) King rooms, some with private balconies or decks, offer roomy seating areas and workspaces. The new casual-chic Shearwater Tavern serves daily breakfast and, Tuesday through Saturday, regionally inspired dishes and libations for happy hour and dinner.

While classic Carmel Valley Lodge charges a fraction of what other hotels around the valley do, it proves more conveniently located. That means walkability to rolling community parks, homespun restaurants and — wait for it — an absurd amount of locally sown wine tasting rooms, with roughly 30 ready to have you swirl and sip their small-batch Pinots and Chardonnays within 1,000 steps. The grounds deploy old-growth oaks, water features, a welcoming pool, modest spa and integrated fire pits, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Carmel Valley hills. Each lodge unit benefits from a wood deck, balcony or flagstone patio, exposed wood-beamed ceilings, refrigerators, flat-screen TVs and convenient free parking.

Want to try your hand at archery? Falconry? Beekeeping? Or maybe you just want to play a round of golf on a par-70 Pete Dye-designed course? Spread across 500 acres in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains, Carmel Valley Ranch has space for it all — including three different swimming pools. The almost overwhelming activity menu also might include cooking classes, foraging hikes, or yoga in a hilltop pavilion. The extensive fitness program includes barre, circuit training and water yoga while the menu at Spa Aiyana features ten different types of massage. Among the resort’s 181 rooms are a variety of accommodation styles and levels, many featuring fireplaces, private decks or both for a true hideaway vibe. Carmel Valley Ranch also makes our lists for best Carmel hotels for group getaways and spa and wellness.

This feels like a home away from home in the Wine Country, thanks to free-standing cottages and vacation homes with private fenced yards and gardens dotting the 28-acre vineyard resort. The recently renovated lodgings offer contemporary chic decor, plus cozy luxuries like fireplaces and heated bathroom floors, good for taking the chill off on cool evenings or mornings in the Carneros district. Outdoor showers and two pools will hep you cool off on sunny days. Dining is always first-rate, with new culinary gardens surrounding the indoor-outdoor restaurant and market. Exclusive to in-house guests, the Spa at Carneros provides exquisite treatments inspired by the Wine Country. The 3,000-square-foot fitness center, next to the heated lap and family pool, offers many complimentary yoga and other fitness classes, including a walk/run through the vineyards. Private instruction is also available. Dining is always first-rate, with lots of open-air seating and family-friendly options, too.

From its perch above the Sausalito waterfront, Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa gazes down with patrician elegance, the tall windows taking in the whole of San Francisco Bay. The hotel started life as a Victorian mansion built in 1885, and even with numerous additions it maintains that crooked-pinky feeling. A 2002 addition houses 31 more modern rooms, many of them with private balconies. Tucked amongst the extensive gardens are casitas designed for the utmost privacy. Seaweed wraps and salt scrubs are among the sought-after spa treatments; once you’re suitably relaxed, enjoy a custom cocktail on the roof deck, considered among the best in the North Bay. *Readers’ Choice Best Luxury Hotel in the North Bay

From the hacienda décor-inspired rooms to the lush grounds surrounding the swimming pool, the historic Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa pays homage to its origins as the 1824-built home of Spanish diplomat Don Estéban Munras. Despite the hotel’s nod to the past, however, it also provides the modern amenities today’s travelers expect, with plenty of perks for groups traveling together. Estéban Restaurant, serving Spanish-influenced cuisine, is a favorite gathering place for indoor and alfresco dining on the newly remodeled Mediterranean garden patio, and the onsite spa, Peloton indoor cycling room and complementary bike rentals ensure there’s plenty to do for everyone in your party.

The Casa Palmero is a small, ultra-luxury resort on the first tee of the Pebble Beach Golf Links. And yes, it’s very expensive. Fashioned after a European villa with every modern comfort and a staff to anticipate your every wish, it has 24 cottages and suites with amenities that include wood-burning fireplaces and soaking tubs that open to the main room. The Spa at Pebble Beach is right next door, offering “Post-Golf Therapy,” couples massage, and even acupuncture.

Look around Cavallo Point today and you’d be forgiven for likening the extensive horseshoe-shaped compound to one of the Adirondack resorts renowned for Dirty Dancing-style revelry. But in fact this enclave of isolation directly underneath the Golden Gate Bridge was once Fort Baker, a military installation dating back to 1902. One of the best spas in the Bay Area is the beautiful Healing Arts Center & Spa at Cavallo Point Lodge, situated in the serene park-like setting opened its doors in the summer of 2008 to much national acclaim and anticipation after nearly a decade in the making. The lodge also offers an interesting mix of classes and activities, from cooking school to sunrise yoga sessions. Their Signature Massage, and blend of several massage techniques, is 90 minutes of bliss. Rooms in the historic officers’ quarters are reminiscent of a Greek revival mansion, with wide front porches and turn-of-the-century woodwork, while rooms in the new wings feature radiant heat floors and plate-glass windows, some with stellar views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Dogs living their best lives frolic on the property’s expansive front lawn and are arguably just as pampered as two-legged guests.

Want to pretend you own a cottage in Tahoe? You can do just that at Cedar Crest Cottages, located in Homewood on the West Shore. The property is locally owned by the Olson family, who have attended to every detail in each of the nine uniquely furnished cottages, from the color palette and custom wood or stone flooring to the luxurious linens and modern amenities. Cottages range from one to four bedrooms to accommodate groups of different sizes, and each are equipped with a gourmet kitchen and washer and dryer.

Cedar Glen Lodge in Tahoe Vista is popular with the doggy crowd who can snag one of their three “One Bedroom Suite-Pet Friendly” room types. These cabins allow up to two dogs, 50 pounds maximum, and four people.

“The White Castle on the Hill” is set on 22 acres of landscaped grounds, an elegant landmark since 1915, and just moments from the Oakland side of the Bay Bridge. In addition to superior accommodation in its 276 rooms and suites (many with views of San Francisco Bay), plus chef-led dining at Limewood Restaurant, hotel guests enjoy member privileges and facilities: tennis, swimming, fitness classes and spa treatments. Three outdoor heated pools include a children’s activity pool plus a whirlpool. Valet parking.

Located minutes away from Heavenly Village and Lakeside Beach, Coachman Hotel is well-suited to hosting groups and families. Accommodation options include one-bedroom suites featuring a separate bedroom with a king-sized bed and a spacious living area with a couch that converts into a twin bed and twin trundle, as well as a spacious three-bedroom suite for up to 11 guests that combines a king room, two-queens bedroom and bunk room with a living area boasting extras like a fireplace, microwave and mini fridge. Some rooms are pet friendly, too. Also on-property are a pool, hot tub and fire pits, and a new space for hosting special events. There is a one-time pet fee of $75. The hotel also offers extras like S’more kits, coffee in the lobby, and electric vehicle charging.

Few group destinations marry nature and the visitor experience so smoothly. Versatile options for stays include the lodge, cabins, tents and even RV camping. Broad windows, ample patios and slick technology empower meetings. Kid-friendly activities are a strong suit. Adventure Associates partners on team-building adventures. An organic garden fuels Cascade Restaurant & Bar, while Pine Tent and the General Store provide more locally sown epicurean options.

Eleven cottages set on a high bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean are set in a semi-circle around a green garden and lawn, a tranquil setting with sounds of waves crashing into the rocks below. Ranging in size from studio that sleeps six to a two-story home with a separate, upstairs bedroom, the cottages all have a full kitchen, gas fireplace and sun deck with ocean and garden views. Ask for the Caspar Cottage if your vacation dream includes a wish for a private hot tub or the Little River House — it’s got canopied beds that close like curtains for canoodling like royalty.

Catching a flight? Save even more using the free airport shuttle to and from Oakland International Airport, just one mile away. Extras for guests also include free Wi-Fi, in-room coffee and tea, mini-fridge and microwave, cable TV, coin-operated laundry and a fitness center. The front desk can provide car rental, safe deposit box, a baby crib/play yard, a barber, nail services and more. Multiple accessible rooms.

Turn into the (first-come, first-served) parking lot just off El Camino Real and find a 136-room independent property. It’s an oasis with a heated outdoor pool, garden and a terrace for a picnic under the oak trees. Rooms have a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, hairdryer, robes, free Wi-Fi. Two miles from Stanford Stadium, three miles from Stanford Clinic/Hospital, and a 10-minute drive to Shoreline Amphitheater, all your needs can be met here.

Long co-owned by actress and animal activist Doris Day, Cypress Inn has been popular for even longer as a stylish boutique hotel in central Carmel. But during her tenure, it has blossomed with Old Hollywood-meets-Morocco flair and has become the pet-friendliest of all Carmel’s famous pet-friendly hotels. Layouts of its 44 rooms and suites (some with courtyard entrances) vary greatly, but many have fireplaces and all include delicious buffet breakfast in Terry’s Lounge, a compellingly casbah-inspired enclave all of its own.

Dating back to 1905, there’s a long list of reasons this charming riverfront property has been attracting visitors for more than a century. 52 cabins dot the 15 acre property in Guerneville. Along with river access, redwood trees and long stretches of green grass, there’s an apple orchard believed to be around 120 years old.

If Desolation Hotel Hope Valley’s incredible setting doesn’t win you over — a remote, aspen-ringed valley 30 minutes from South Lake Tahoe near Kirkwood Mountain Resort — its rustic yet luxuriously appointed lodgings sure will. There are cabins, luxury yurts, off-grid yurts, and a luxury Airstream trailer. There are even camping sites. Sorensen’s Cafe’s serves up hearty fare like its legendary beef burgundy stew (on the menu for 40 years) and berry cobbler. The property’s onsite perks include an outdoor fire pit, wood-fired sauna, general store and outdoor equipment rental shop. They spread out the royal treatment for canines, providing bowls and pet waste bags. Dogs are allowed in all accommodations with a fee of $55 plus tax, per dog, per night.

Billing itself as a micro resort, Desolation Hotel arrived on South Lake Tahoe’s lodging scene in 2021, offering 21 modern townhomes and suites, a saltwater pool and whirlpool open year-round, sauna, fitness center, laundry room, poolside bar, and onsite restaurant serving elevated brunch and dinner. Adventure awaits outside your doorstep — both the beach and Heavenly Valley Gondola are walking distance — and four-legged friends are welcome too, with dog-friendly amenities like pet food and water bowls. Desolation Hotel spreads out the royal treatment for canines. Dog friendly rooms come with food and water bowls and pet waste bags.

Perched above the sweep of Dillon Beach in the northern reaches of Marin County, Dillon Beach Resort is built to maximize views of the Pacific Ocean while providing guests on a group getaway a homey feel. To think of Dillon Beach Resort’s rental homes as Airstreams without the wheels gives prospective “renters” a sense of the cool design and thoughtful features that went into this coastal community. Though they are not sheathed in aluminum, rental homes maximize natural light and ocean views but provide privacy between units. Each unit has a kitchen and a private deck, accessible only from each home. In some homes, the bedroom is downstairs for single-story living while others have an upstairs bedroom for additional privacy.

Located between San Jose and Oakland, this AAA Three-Diamond Newark hotel is near many corporations and is just 20-30 minutes from the San Jose, San Francisco, and Oakland International airports. A fresh, warm chocolate chip cookie welcoming guests is an added bonus.

A Calistoga icon since 1952, Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs is known for its famous mud baths and healing mineral springs. Recently renovated, the resort combines vintage charm with modern amenities, offering stylish rooms with mid-century flair. Located in downtown Calistoga, the resort is close to local shops and dog-friendly parks, and guests can enjoy mineral pools, spa treatments, and a relaxed outdoor area with fire pits. The dog-friendly accommodations ensure your pet can join in on the fun while you treat yourself to some R&R.

Located on the quiet side of Santa Cruz Beach, Dream Inn Santa Cruz is within easy walking distance of the boardwalk and is steps from the beach. The pool has beach views, too.

Majestic may be the best word to describe The Lodge’s floor-to-vaulted-ceiling views of Lake Tahoe. But it is more than just a pretty face. When not luxuriating in impeccably-appointed rooms and suites, or dining at one of three distinctly different restaurants, guests can take in a round of golf, schedule a spa treatment, join a yoga class, or belly up to the S’mores Bar. A deep commitment to sustainability and philanthropy rounds out the character of this unforgettable alpine retreat.

For an affordable option in the heart of St. Helena, El Bonita Motel offers clean, comfortable rooms with a retro flair. Located along Highway 29, it’s a convenient base for exploring Napa Valley’s wineries and attractions. The motel features an outdoor pool, garden areas, and dog-friendly rooms for guests traveling with pets. El Bonita’s casual vibe and budget-friendly pricing make it a popular choice for travelers looking for comfort and convenience without the high-end price tag.

With just 27 rooms, this boutique hotel and companion restaurant provide an intimate oasis on Sonoma Plaza. The rustic-industrial chic rooms, featuring terrazzo tile floors and wrought-iron bed, overlook the pool, patio with fig trees or the historic town square; all offer plush bed linens and comfy robes, and many have plantation shutters and French doors leading to a private balcony or terrace. El Dorado shares its name and address with El Dorado Kitchen, whose executive chef Armando Navarro lists Daniel Boulud and Le Bernardin in New York as well as Napa Valley’s Auberge du Soleil, and Redd among his culinary credits. His Sonoma-sourced menus are available daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, with brunch on weekends.

From summer 2021, el Prado Hotel is a makeover of the former Garden Court Hotel in its enviable location just off University Avenue within easy walking distance from Caltrain. Mediterranean-inspired, set around a central courtyard, the property keeps the theme going with Spanish tapas and craft cocktails served in the upstairs lobby lounge. Spacious, well-appointed rooms with French doors let out onto views of tree-lined downtown streets or the interior courtyard.

It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic and romantic coastal retreat than the Elk Cove Inn. Situated on 1.5 acres of quiet and secluded oceanside property about 15 miles south of Mendocino, the 15-room inn offers a variety of romantic cottages and luxury suites. But you’ll be spending most of your time luxuriating at the inn’s European-style day spa, which offers an array of therapeutic treatments such as their “Couples Renewal,” where you and your lover “renew and reconnect” with a 1-hour massage together, then enjoy a private aromatherapy steam shower and sauna.

Just steps from Marin County Civic Center, Embassy Suites San Rafael is within easy walking distance of the Sunday and Thursday Farmers’ Markets, events at the Marin Center and the Sonoma-Marin Area Rapid Transit train system. Large corner suites feature a large living area and separate bedroom and a three-room suite accommodates larger groups with two separate bedrooms.

On the sunny side of the bay at Oakland’s waterfront Embarcadero Cove. An outdoor pool and spa with chaise lounges overlook the water’s edge; inside the hotel, there’s a 24-hour fitness center. Rooms have free Wi-Fi, hair dryers, refrigerator, microwave, a safe, and complimentary toiletries. Bathrooms have walk-in, glass-enclosed showers (top two floors) or bathtub/shower combination (ground floor). The Lounge serves complimentary breakfast. On-site parking is available at a nominal fee.

This Euro-chic resort invites guests to relax and rejuvenate in their Forbes Five-Star elegant spa spa where you can enjoy a gentleman’s facial, aromatic body wrap, or hydrotherapy and then lounge by the adults-only pool savoring a healthy spa lunch.

Friends and family traveling together can comfortably spread out in the Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square’s spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom suites and residences, all with ensuite bathrooms, full kitchens and in-suite washers and dryers. Many of the accommodations at the pet-friendly hotel feature fireplaces and share the original brick wall from the neighboring Ghirardelli Chocolate factory as well. With Ghirardelli Square at your doorstep, there’s no shortage of restaurants, bars and shops located just steps away.

Atop the crest of Nob Hill, this is quintessential, pedigree San Francisco. Flags of the world adorn the classical entrance, limos navigate the driveway, and cable cars crawl by. On the front lawn, a larger-than-life statue of Tony Bennett greets passersby, a tribute to the city’s anthem, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” first performed here in 1961. Take afternoon tea with honey harvested from the beehives on the hotel’s rooftop garden and don’t miss the legendary Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar.

Named for California’s northernmost mission of the 21 founded by Franciscan monks from Spain, which lies 2.5 miles south, this grande dame of Wine Country hotels was built in 1927 on the site of an earlier hot springs resort. In more recent years, it’s been renowned for its 40,000-square-foot, European-style Willow Stream Spa, including 30 treatment rooms, three mineral water baths, Watsu pool and a custom “rain tunnel.” Spa users have exclusive access to the outdoor geothermal pool, whose source spring contains 27 different minerals. Explore the gorgeous surroundings on a free, docent-led hike at 9 am Friday through Sunday.

A little more than 20 years ago siblings Catherine and Joe Bartolomei purchased a late 1800s vintage farmhouse. Today, it’s a luxe Russian River Valley property that’s become a regular on annual lists of top hotels in the world. Lounge by the pool, treat yourself to a massage at the spa, or unwind in the jetted tubs and steam showers that are standard in all 25 rooms. Make a reservation for dinner at the sought-after Farmhouse Inn restaurant; produce and livestock comes from the Bartolomei family ranch. It will be difficult, but try to save room for S’mores by the pool before calling it a night.

Centrally located in Sonoma’s most populated city, Santa Rosa, the historic Flamingo Resort has been a beloved landmark for decades thanks to the iconic 65-foot twirling flamingo in front. A favorite destination for the swanky Hollywood set in the ’60s, and a popular conference center in recent years, the entire 10-acre property has had a major renovation to bring it back to its well-deserved glory. Shaped like a wheel, the property has 156 guest rooms, 14 suites, two on-site eateries, and a centrally-located expansive heated pool. 

North County San Diego’s coolest holistic haven, tucked away in the coastal surf town of Leucadia, radiates as a spiritual vortex with exceptional therapists in a boho-chic setting. Think Balinese Bales (bungalows) and koi ponds with gurgling waterfalls, lounge-y daybeds and airy bright yoga rooms, and cottages with acupuncturists, naturopaths, energy healers and an aromatic apothecary. Their new Hammam Bathing Ritual is a perfect antidote to stress as you lie on the heated marble slab enjoying a body wash with Turkish olive soap, followed by a papaya and bamboo exfoliation to stimulate the lymph system. After a warm water rinse, a hydrating mineral mask is applied from head to toe. Cocooned, you’ll melt into a meditative state while receiving foot reflexology, scalp tension release and a facial massage with lovely Eminence stonecrop oil. After a final rinse you’ll float out the door altered and energetically ready for a tarot or spirit reading. Four Moons also rolls out the mats for Thai massage where a practitioner stretches the body and walks gently on the back, or you can opt for a prenatal or lymphatic drainage body work. After, soak in the outdoor seawater tub then further detox in the infrared sauna. Get your glow on with the famed Blood Moon PRP (Vampire) facial that uses your own blood plasma or try “Notox” facial rejuvenation with the acupuncturist’s adept placement of needles and massage. Four Moons is naturally on trend with the NAD IV Therapy that supplies the body with the energy it needs to heal on a cellular level and is said to promote longevity. Marvelously, you can get your healing drip while relaxing during an organic facial. Wellness gatherings also include naturopath doctor talks, group acupuncture, sound bathing rituals, full moon circles, and more. High vibration healers and the best therapists flock to this female co-founded and locally owned spiritual center as it’s the best kept secret in town.

Find well-appointed accommodation in East Palo Alto right off Highway 101, just 2.5 miles from the campus of Stanford University. True to the reputation of the brand, standards are high, conveniences are modern, design is sophisticated, tech touches are personalized in 200 sunny rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Craft cocktails and dinner are served at Quattro, the Italian-inspired in-house restaurant and lounge with an adjoining outdoor terrace.

Located on the Silverado Trail, just a few minutes from downtown Calistoga, the long-awaited Four Seasons property is the only Napa Valley resort located within a working winery. All 85 guestrooms and suites boast a vineyard view, some feature vines within arm’s reach. Along with Spa Talisa and a 24/7 fitness center, there are two pools, and two onsite restaurants.

Rising above Market Street at Fourth Street, the hotel’s spacious guest rooms are comfortable, distinctive sanctuaries with five-star benefits: overnight shoe shine, one-hour pressing, 24-hour laundry and dry cleaning service, complimentary Wi-Fi and an in-room safe large enough for a laptop. On the fifth floor, the MKT lounge and restaurant serves California-inspired cuisine and has 180-degree city views. Never miss a workout while on the road. With complimentary access for hotel guests and under the same roof as the hotel on Market Street, the Equinox Sports Club is one of the city’s best. The basketball court, full-service spa, unlimited fitness classes, and veranda terrace are favorites. The junior Olympic-sized lap pool answers the question of “where?” for even the most avid swimmers looking for a place to go.

This sophisticated yet relaxing hotel facing Healdsburg Plaza helped put both the town and the town square on the map as a Wine Country destination when it opened in 2001. Newly renovated, its 56 rooms offer subtle reflections of the rustic surroundings with salvaged wood dressers and bed frames and original cloud paintings among the modern, neutral-toned furnishings. Oversized bathrooms and balconies with country and city views also add to the sense of spaciousness. Dining at Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen draws patrons from miles around, as does the first-rate spa.

Steeped in history and a favorite since 1911, the property’s attractive Art Deco bones remain evident after a top-to-bottom refurbishment. The lobby “living room” has a two-story tall ceiling, where small groups gather around a handsome fireplace. Adjacent, the French-inspired Gaspar Brasserie is a duplex space for dining and intimate cocktails upstairs. This central location is where the Financial District meets Union Square, for maximum walkability.

Behind the bejeweled golden doors, a holistic sanctuary like no other awaits. Fashioned after a Kyoto country inn, here you’ll find bamboo forests, koi ponds, finely raked sand gardens and museum-quality Japanese art. But this Zen sanctuary goes beyond being a pampering spa, as for many a visit here means a life-altering experience, a perfect chance to rejuvenate and reset one’s path. Remarkably much of the clientele (60%) are repeat customers willing to dole out $11,000 for a wellness week. So what’s the secret golden elixir? The Golden Door offers a perfect blend of mind/body/spirit experiences: meditative silent hikes, mountaintop Tai Chi in the morning sun, shaman rituals, reiki, yoga and sound healings in the treetop studio, Soul Vision board making and more. When it’s time to move and sweat you can try TRX or find your rhythm in a Broadway show tunes dance class with a Hollywood choreographer. Each night a fan is placed on your pillow with the following day’s bespoke experiences, curated just for you whether it’s an Ayurvedic massage, Watsu water therapy, a rosemary-infused herbal wrap or a fencing class. Look for Chef Greg Frey in the biodynamic gardens pulling produce or tending his bee hives. His California fresh cuisine favors hyper local sourcing with orchards and organic gardens on property and chicken coops for fresh morning eggs. You’ll sip the famed potassium broth and crave the ginger honey tea long after you’ve returned home. Newly added is the Golden Flight, a private airline service to and from the Door featuring a wellness kit, personalized meals, guided meditation and in-flight stretch videos to set the tone for your stay. If you are seeking shelter from the daily noise and chaos of life, this idyllic refuge is the perfect place to quiet the mind and dig deep.

Forget minimalism. Graduate Hotels go for maximum impact and a hyper-local approach, always in tune with the nearest center of higher learning — in this case, UC Berkeley, a less than a five-minute walk. Formerly Hotel Durant, the 144-room property housed in a historic building was newly branded in 2017. This hotel doesn’t take itself too seriously. A lobby mobile is made from books, the walls are decorated with yearbook photos and shower curtains are dictionary-themed. A gastropub inside the hotel is Henry’s Public House, named for the university’s founder, Henry Durant.

You’ll be greeted with a hearty cardinal welcome at Graduate Palo Alto. Located in the thick of downtown Palo Alto, just blocks from Stanford University, the property is one of nearly three dozen Graduate Hotels located in college cities across the U.S. and U.K. From photos of famous alumni on guestroom keycards to school chants embroidered on throw pillows, there are nods to Stanford traditions at every turn. Formerly known as Hotel President, the Spanish-Colonial building dates back to 1929; though the property went through an extensive renovation before opening as Graduate Palo Alto in 2023, many fabulous details, like the hotel’s original elevator remain.

Dating back to 1947, when Norwegian Kjell “Rusty” Rustad first leased the land just outside Tahoe City and gave the property its name, Granlibakken may not be most luxurious resort in Tahoe, but the wide range of accommodations available — from standard rooms to suites and townhouses — as well as its many amenities, make it a good choice to accommodate groups all sizes. A breakfast buffet is served daily, along with nightly dinner at the Cedar House Pub.

Located in the mountain sports mecca of Truckee, Gravity Haus inspires guests to treasure the great outdoors. The ski-chalet architecture reflects and respects the surrounding landscape, incorporating both recycled and pure materials. You can “Build Your Own Cocktail” at Callaghan’s Bar and feast on locally-sourced seasonal cuisine at Stella restaurant.

A contemporary and eco-friendly option, H2hotel offers sleek, minimalist design paired with sustainability-focused features. Located just steps from Healdsburg Plaza, the hotel boasts bamboo floors, organic bedding, and energy-efficient amenities. The on-site restaurant, Spoonbar, focuses on fresh, local ingredients and offers a dog-friendly outdoor patio. H2hotel also provides eco-conscious pet amenities like biodegradable poop bags, alongside dog beds and bowls. The nearby Foss Creek Trail offers a scenic route for walking your dog, and the solar-heated pool is a relaxing spot for guests after a day of exploring.

It’s a two-minute walk from 12th St. Oakland City Center BART station to this affordable downtown hotel with free Wi-Fi, free hot breakfast, and a fitness center. Complete with flat screen HDTV, a mini-fridge and microwave in all rooms, among the 121 comfortable guest rooms, there are hearing and mobility accessible guest rooms also equipped with a roll-in shower.

Set into the hills midway between Calistoga and Clear Lake, Harbin Hot Springs is a health spa inspired in equal measure by European and Native American hot spring traditions and Japanese onsen. Watsu, a type of water massage inspired by shiatsu, was started here and the many thermal pools are used for aquatic healing modalities — if that’s your jam. Warm, hot and cold plunge pools are just the beginning — Harbin has six additional pools at varying temperatures for relaxing, sweating, socializing, swimming and experiencing Watsu or other water-bound body work. Significantly impacted by fire in 2015, Harbin Hot Springs is an on-going work in progress. Many former structures have been rebuilt and spaces reimagined to be a more integral part the natural world. The Dancing Bear Café ably stands in for a full-service restaurant and the Yoga Room remains a sacred space. Hiking trails have been restored and new trails have emerged.

A $10 million makeover in 2018 continues to show well in this historic building on the Embarcadero. A spacious lobby lounge has sofas around a fireplace and private glass-walled meeting cubicles. An appealing blue, cream, and charcoal color palette carries on into contemporary guest rooms, on the small side, some with bay views. Fans of sushi and saké know Ozumo, adjacent to Harbor Court. There’s a pet-friendly policy and charitable partnership with a local senior dog rescue organization.

Set in the charming thick of things in downtown Healdsburg, this modern, eco-friendly hotel with 39 rooms is loaded with thoughtful touches at every turn. All rooms have balconies or patios with views of the mountains, interior courtyard, or Creekside Deck. Works created by California artists are displayed in guestrooms as well as public spaces including halls and the main stairwell. Green elements and amenities include LED lighting, a solar thermal water heating system, electric car charging stations, and a rainwater harvesting system. The property earned the prestigious LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council in 2019.

Tucked among vineyards, the Harvest Inn in St. Helena offers a peaceful, luxurious retreat. The hotel’s 81 rooms and suites are beautifully designed with a rustic elegance, many featuring fireplaces, vineyard views, and private terraces. Some offer views of Whitehall Lane’s Leonardini Family Vineyards and the Mayacamas Mountains, while others overlook tranquil gardens, fountains and courtyards. The lush gardens, two outdoor pools, and an on-site restaurant make it an ideal spot for relaxation. Pet-friendly rooms come with easy access to outdoor spaces, ensuring your dog can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Guests can explore nearby wineries or simply unwind in the tranquil setting that Harvest Inn provides.

Another well-priced property for wooing in the Wine Country, this is right on the trendy main square of Healdsburg. The 12 guest rooms in this 1901 building offer high ceilings and tall windows, and some sport balconies, exposed brick walls and/or period details like claw-foot tubs and crown molding, creating a sense of spaciousness and intimacy at the same time. As a member of the Four Sisters Inns collection, rates include a chef-made breakfast for two, delivered to your room, as well as a “mini-picnic” bag of wine, cheese and homemade cookies.

This former farmhouse is set in a sweep of 37 acres perched at the cliff’s edge overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Panoramic views from every room offer an opportunity to watch whales migrating and abalone divers searching for treasure off the resort’s own beach. Rooms are set into blocks behind the resort’s main rooms, all with individual entrances and rainfall showers and some with fireplaces (gas or wood-burning) and kitchens.  Enjoy a drink and a meal at the onsite 5200 Restaurant & Lounge. The bar’s comfy chairs face the sea and the French-accented American menu features locally-sourced seafood and many foraged foods. Martinis, such as a Lemon Gin Collision, are modern riffs on classic cocktails and suit the updated hotel’s time-honored spirit. There’s a full slate of spa services and yoga on the Deerfield Meadow or get your sweat on in the fitness room or on one of the many onsite hiking trails. Heritage House Resort and Spa offers Tesla and generic electric vehicle charging for all resort guests. You may even spot a couple saying “I do” at the oceanfront gazebo.

A family-friendly gem in Carmel Valley, Hidden Valley Inn welcomes guests with simple pastimes that never go out of style, including swimming in the seasonally heated swimming pool and picnicking on the inn’s grounds outfitted with classic lawn games like cornhole and ladder ball. Best of all, downtown Carmel Valley is right at your doorstep, with wine tasting venues, boutique shops and farm-to-table restaurants all within easy walking distance. Choose from 21 rustic country-style rooms. Morning coffee and pastries are on the house.

Looking for value with a view? Look no further. This waterfront hotel in Emeryville is at the foot of the Bay Bridge overlooking San Francisco Bay. Some guest rooms are “bay view;” others looking toward Mount Diablo are called “mountain view.” Guest rooms have free Wi-Fi, a desk, a 42” flat screen HDTV,  microwave, Keurig coffee maker and a mini-fridge. Some rooms sleep four. There’s a fitness center and a casual restaurant.

With its traditional European country décor, family-owned Hofsas House evokes a bygone era of Old-World charm and romance in a convenient Carmel-by-the-Sea location that is easy walking distance to restaurants, shops and the beach. The inn is a favorite getaway for couples: Each of the 37 rooms are uniquely decorated, and some have ocean views, fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars or kitchens. Two dry saunas feel delicious post-swim.

Holiday House also in Tahoe Vista has six lakefront suites that allow dogs of all sizes. With panoramic views and an expansive deck, it’s a great place to relax and watch the world go by. In the summer they offer lessons for people and dogs in the art of stand up paddleboarding.

Who wants to go to the beach? This property is four miles from Alameda Beach, a 2.5-mile sandy (manmade) expanse that’s safe for swimming and wading. It’s also conveniently located to Oracle Arena and Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. Back at the hotel, there’s a 24-hour front desk. Amenities include a free daily hot breakfast, a laundry, free Wi-Fi, 42-inch flatscreen TV with HBO. In-room microwaves, refrigerators and coffeemakers are available for those who want to enjoy coffee in peace or tuck into tasty leftovers.

With so many thoughtful amenities, Hotel Abrego gets high marks for adding value to its reasonable room rates. Located in downtown Monterey, the hotel’s 93 rooms feature. Bluetooth stereos, eco-friendly bath products and even microwaves upon request—and some include outdoor balconies and fireplaces, too. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s heated swimming pool and hot tub, fitness center and Bistro Abrego restaurant.

Hotel Azure is within walking distance of one of South Lake Tahoe’s dog-friendly beach, Regan Beach. This hotel is located in midtown on the South Shore and directly across the street from Lakeview Commons. The hotel charges a $25 per day pet fee.

To stay like a local takes on true authenticity at this historic Edwardian property in residential Pacific Heights, a.k.a. Billionaire’s Row. Old-fashioned tasseled keys and a gracious curved stairway speak to the elegance and hospitality of bygone days. Known for sophistication, meticulous attention to detail, and personal service, the complimentary breakfast and evening wine and cheese reception are welcome benefits. Forty-eight rooms including 16 suites. Small fitness center, no on-site restaurant.

Inspired by the Beat Generation — think eclectic, creative, rebellious design, plus book-lined walls and typewriters. Located in downtown San Francisco, a few blocks from Union Square, Nob Hill and the Theatre District, this Urban Retreat by the Viceroy is a haven for creative thinkers and doers. Come to relax and be inspired. And if you choose to venture out into the unknown, their concierge is equipped to give you personalized, under-the-radar recommendations to make your trip to San Francisco truly memorable.

Some of the 57 guest rooms have waterfront views at the Hotel Griffon on the Embarcadero. Contemporary rooms are stylish in muted tones of chocolate and taupe. High walkability scores for the Ferry Building, Financial District, and offices of many tech giants. A dozen excellent restaurants are neighbors and the well-loved Perry’s is adjacent to the lobby, also with outdoor seating.

This sophisticated yet relaxing hotel facing Healdsburg Plaza helped put both the town and the town square on the map as a Wine Country destination when it opened in 2001. Newly renovated, its 56 rooms offer subtle reflections of the rustic surroundings with salvaged wood dressers and bed frames and original cloud paintings among the modern, neutral-toned furnishings. Oversized bathrooms and balconies with country and city views also add to the sense of spaciousness. Dining at Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen draws patrons from miles around, as does the first-rate spa.

Authenticity is drawn from San Francisco’s Japantown where the Hotel Kabuki greets guests with minimalist style surrounding an interior Zen garden. Tall picture windows allow natural light throughout the living room, a.k.a. common areas. A cool lobby bar overlooking the garden serves Japanese whisky, saké, and beer. The hotel’s new Thai restaurant, Nari, earned top-notch national awards among America’s best in 2020.

Just a block away from Healdsburg’s town square, but brimming with French charm, this elegant 16-room inn opened in 2005 with 16 individually appointed rooms, featuring 17th and 18th century antiques, four-poster beds with custom linens, sitting areas with gas fireplaces and handsome writing desks. Complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese bracket a day’s foray into Wine Country; valet parking is also included.

Find the feeling of a sun-splashed Mediterranean villa in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Los Gatos has a small town charm and easy access to hiking, biking, and wine tasting. In the courtyard of this Tuscan-inspired 72-room hotel, there’s live music on evening weekends for guests’ entertainment. Popular for weddings and corporate retreats, benefits include an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, a spa, complimentary access to a fitness center across the street, meeting rooms and facilities for small groups.

Built in 1910, The Marker Hotel has long been a San Francisco treasure. The recently reimagined and renovated lobby and event spaces were created to blend the property’s storied past with the future, creating a pitch perfect harmony. Offering over 12,000 square feet of event space, with up to 9 breakout rooms, The Marker Hotel is the perfect setting for corporate events and social gatherings for 10-300 attendees. With 20-foot ceilings and the natural light of oversized windows, The Bellevue Ballroom easily transforms from meetings that mean business to the social gathering of the year. The hotel’s team of experienced professionals is both flexible and creative, and brings your event to life.

Just off Union Square, a jewel box of a live entertainment supper club is one of the things that makes this hotel an especially attractive destination for a romantic weekend. Intimate and sophisticated, Feinstein’s at the Nikko features top name visiting performers managed in partnership with multi-platinum artist Michael Feinstein. The Japanese-inspired Imperial Club guest rooms have views of San Francisco and elevated amenities like luxurious Subarashi Ame rain showers.

Hotel Petaluma is a charming, historic property located in downtown Petaluma. Originally built in 1923, the hotel’s vintage style is preserved through its beautifully restored lobby, with marble floors and grand archways. Rooms feature a blend of modern and antique furnishings, providing a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. The hotel is located within walking distance of Petaluma’s many shops, restaurants, and parks, making it an excellent base for exploring the town. For pet owners, Hotel Petaluma offers dog-friendly rooms complete with pet beds, bowls, and easy access to nearby dog-friendly trails.

When it comes to Berkeley, this property is all about old world style — with modern touches, naturally — and a central, highly walkable location. No two guest rooms are alike but they all have complimentary Wi-Fi, flat screen HDTVs, in-room safes and more conveniences. Also convenient, the University of California Berkeley campus is two blocks away and the Downtown Berkeley BART station is just across the street. *Readers’ Choice Best Luxury Hotel in the East Bay

The lights of San Francisco, the breeze of the bay, sipping champagne with the one you love. If this sounds like the romantic getaway you want, Hotel Spero is the hidden gem you need. Steps from Union Square and the Theatre District, relax in fully renovated guest rooms, City View Suites or the exclusive Serenity Suites that feature a shower made for two. In the morning, indulge in a mimosa flight and avocado toast at Jasper’s Corner Tap & Kitchen.

Just off State Route 82, this family-owned and -operated hotel provides a free shuttle to and from downtown Mountain View, less than one mile away. There are also three, timed complimentary morning shuttles to many Silicon Valley companies within five miles, including Google. Delivering more value: free high speed Wi-Fi and a complimentary hot buffet breakfast with cheese omelets and bacon/sausage waffles, pancakes, and fresh fruit.

The vibe is old world Spain at the only hotel in San Jose’s preferred location, Santana Row. Surrounded by shops and restaurants, this upscale hotel is just a bit bigger than “boutique,” at 215 guest rooms and 17 suites. In addition to the rooftop pool, hot tub, and fitness center, there’s an on-site restaurant, a swanky full service bar, and outdoor service on the covered patio adorned with strings of lights in the evening. Free Wi-Fi.

If a roof terrace with fire pits plus a baseball game sounds like a romantic urban stay, this hotel across the street from Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants, is a home run. Consider spending a romantic evening under the stars drinking Champagne served with caviar in a cozy, intimate rooftop cabana. Retire to a park view suite or a courtyard room with a private terrace. The gym is open 24/7.

Nestled in the heart of Wine Country, Hotel Yountville offers a rustic yet refined experience with its stone fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, and oversized soaking tubs. The rooms and suites are spacious and designed with a blend of Napa Valley charm and modern luxury, many featuring private patios for added privacy. The property’s lush gardens and peaceful ambiance make it a perfect escape for those looking to unwind. Dogs are warmly welcomed, with pet-friendly rooms offering easy access to the outdoors. With its central location, guests can easily explore Yountville’s renowned wineries and culinary delights. Enjoy the hotel’s easy access to downtown Yountville’s fine dining and shops, not to mention the myriad of wineries. Its spa, exclusive to guests, and Heritage Oak restaurant are also destinations in their own right.

Step in and look up at a one-of-a-kind chandelier made from glasses. Recycled and upcycled art installations are in the hip DNA at Hotel Zetta. The lobby lounge is called Salvage & Rescue and the playroom is inspired by startup culture. Just off Market Street in the heart of SoMa, this 121-room Viceroy Hotel is known as home of the Cavalier for British-inspired classics at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Those in the know head for Marianne’s, an intimate club and salon for cocktails by candlelight.

Get style, cleanliness and comfort combined with old world charm and value in this hotel that’s five miles from Googleplex, the Mountain View company headquarters, and eight miles to Mineta San Jose International Airport. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, newspaper, fitness center, business center, in-room facilities include fridge, microwave, safe and flat screen TV. Guests give high marks for the friendly front desk staff, generous hot breakfasts (with omelettes made to order), hot chocolate in the rooms, and plenty of free parking.

A hillside compound in Carmel Highlands, just south of the spectacular Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and only a 10-minute drive to Carmel-by-the-Sea, Hyatt Carmel Highlands has had several incarnations since it opened in 1917. Today its 48 luxurious guestrooms, scattered across rustic buildings, include 11 suites, 32 ocean-view rooms and five garden-view rooms with modern Mission-inspired furnishings; some have full kitchens, as part of the onsite Hyatt Residence Club (which goes by the resort’s original moniker, Highlands Inn.) The highly esteemed, California-inspired Pacific Edge restaurant provides a sweeping vista to the striking shoreline just across Highway 1.

The guest rooms and suites are particularly spacious, decorated in pleasing taupes and warm wood finishes, and provide a cozy corner with a sofa sleeper to better accommodate families or to simply spread out and relax. Hyatt Grand Beds™ are known for comfort and rooms all feature granite countertops, a media/workstation, 49” flat-screen TV, single serve coffee maker, mini-fridge and more. Large windows give views of the San Francisco Bay and the Bay Bridge.

If you can bear to leave the comfort of your spacious room or private waterfront cottage, treat yourself to a little tranquility following an outdoor activity recommended by one of Hyatt Regency’s Adventure Specialists. The specialists offer lessons in archery, hatchet throwing, line dancing, meditations, and guided hikes to name a few. There is plenty to do here to keep individuals and groups of all sizes occupied. Take a relaxing dip in the heated outdoor pool, and then pamper yourself at the Stillwater Spa and Salon. Next, enjoy award-winning cuisine from your choice of seven on-site dining options before gambling the night away at the resort’s Grand Lodge Casino. The resort welcomes dogs of all shapes and sizes with a daily fee of $50 per pet.

The full name of the recently renovated Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course emphasizes one part of its appeal: It overlooks the oldest continually operated golf course west of the Mississippi, whose first nine holes opened in 1897. Although Pebble Beach Resorts operates the historic course, guests at the Hyatt Regency have easy access to it. Besides golf, there’s so much to do here, it’s no wonder it’s a popular choice for groups, from families to business execs: two heated outdoor pools, tennis courts, a new 3,000-square-foot fitness center, walking paths, a hammock garden and outdoor lounge with fire pits. Plus, wellness devotees will enjoy one of the region’s top spas at family-owned Spa Adeline.

Business trip? Five minutes from San Francisco International Airport and convenient to Silicon Valley as well, the value in this 789-room property adds up nicely. Pet-friendly, a heated pool and whirlpool, free Wi-Fi, fitness center, business center, concierge, and conference facilities. As a Hyatt benefit, members enjoy extra value in a continental breakfast, snacks, hors d’oeuvres and a private fitness facility at the 9th floor Regency Club with runway views.

The Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country offers upscale accommodations in the heart of Santa Rosa, near the shops and restaurants of Santa Rosa’s Railroad Square. The hotel’s 253 contemporary rooms are spacious and stylish, with some offering views of the beautifully landscaped gardens. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and fire pits for evening relaxation. The on-site Sonoma Café serves locally sourced dishes, with a dog-friendly outdoor dining area. The Hyatt Regency is particularly welcoming to pets, offering dog-friendly rooms, plenty of outdoor walking paths, and pet-friendly courtyards. Renovated, expanded and rebranded in 2018, the hotel has a casually elegant, rustic-chic vibe. 

Four thermal geysers attracted entrepreneur Sam Brannan to create a mineral baths resort on this hilly 17-acre retreat in 1861. Now adults can stay in the 24 thoroughly renovated and tastefully updated rooms of the historic lodge, while another 75 “view rooms,” cottages, bungalows and houses accommodate all ages. Many come just for the Olympic-sized mineral water pool, others for spa treatments using the resort’s mud of volcanic ash. Walking trails wind through rose and lavender gardens and groves of palm and olive trees.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to find a romantic oasis in Sonoma. Just a block off the town of Sonoma’s historic plaza, this member of the Four Sisters Inns boutique hotel brand offers gas fireplaces in its 27 rooms, with 19 in the modern main building and eight in the neighboring, renovated Vintners Cottage. While amenities like private patios and jetted tubs and the palette vary among the rooms with a queen, king or two queen beds, all benefit from the daily hot breakfast and wine and cheese “mini picnic” in a brown bag, with fresh-made cookies also tucked inside.

There’s plenty of space for everyone. This historic boutique hotel (yes, there’s a fireplace and a front porch with rocking chairs) is a former military officers’ barracks. Inside San Francisco’s largest green space, which also happens to be a National Park, there’s peace and quiet, nature hikes, and superb views. Hotel guests are in the city yet in the forest and steps from the golf course. Make it a group getaway, hanging out with friends and family around the cozy fire-pit beneath the cypress pines and eucalyptus grove.

High atop Nob Hill, Top of the Mark is the dining destination and cocktail lounge (boasting 100 different variations of a Martini on the menu) with wrap-around views to the Golden Gate Bridge and beyond. Come for sunset or Sunday Champagne Brunch. The hotel’s guest room décor speaks to a classic style with an emphasis on comfort with modern touches such as free Wi-Fi,  an in-room mini-fridge and Keurig coffee maker.

Some properties earn the nickname “suits and suits,” and this is one such place. An indoor swimming pool for laps and a hot tub are built-in benefits for hotel guests, primarily a business-oriented crowd for the proximity to the Moscone Center that’s within a five-minute walk. There’s a selection of treatments, from Ayurvedic and Swedish massage to body wraps, scrubs, manicures, pedicures, and waxing.

One of the newest structures in historic Cannery Row is the 220-room InterContinental The Clement Monterey, which spreads its rooms and facilities between a waterfront building and one across the street, connected by a second-story bridge. Both are an easy walk to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, shops and dining. The rooms here feel luxurious, with ocean views, balconies, gas fireplaces (perfect for foggy nights), soaking tubs, and plump beds with Frette linens. The street-side building hosts the well-regarded spa that pampers guests from head to toe and the fitness center, both of which overlook a courtyard with a heated pool.

Glen Ellen is a sylvan bend in the road in the heart of Sonoma Valley, which celebrates the legacy of former resident and author Jack London at Jack London State Historic Park and at the vintage Jack London Saloon on the grounds of this quaint, 22-room lodge on Sonoma Creek. Rooms have hardwood floors, carved headboards and antique furnishings; outside a leafy courtyard awaits with pool, spa and views of the hilly Valley of the Moon.

When getting the group together for a football game at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, this Curio Collection by Hilton in Cupertino fits the bill. The location has a few more plusses for a fun group getaway — the Winchester Mystery House and the dining and entertainment of San Jose’s Santana Row are just five miles away. There’s free parking, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi and a pet-friendly policy.

A member of the Four Sisters boutique hotel group, this Mediterranean-style hideaway in Sonoma’s rural Valley of the Moon gives guests a significant discount on treatments at the Spa at Kenwood Inn, which focuses on personalized therapies. The hotel also abounds with tranquil enclaves for rejuvenating forest bathing, with huge oaks, vineyards and orchards surrounding the 2.5-acre grounds, including three garden courtyards, two pools, and a hot tub. The 29 rooms in vine-covered brick or stone buildings all offer private outdoor entrances, gas fireplaces, feather beds; some include jetted tubs and private balconies or terraces.

Locals and visitors alike flock to this chic hotel’s sun-drenched lobby with 1970s-inspired lounge furniture for a cocktail with friends. Rooms, many with views of the bay, are designed for rest and rejuvenation after a day spent exploring the city’s many nearby attractions, with a relaxing color scheme, luxurious robes, Frette linens and soft lighting. Perks abound at the pet-friendly hotel, including in-room yoga mats and record players, complimentary bikes and kids’ scooters, a nightly “wine hour,” retro board games and even a local scavenger hunt highlighting the hotel’s favorite secret spots in San Francisco.

Right in the center of quaint Carmel, boutique L’Auberge Carmel was built in 1929 as an elegant chateau blended with a cozy cottage. Today modern amenities like heated bathroom floors and walk-in showers complement antique furnishings (some 18th century), wrought-iron canopy beds and deep standing bathtubs. With only 20 rooms, guests receive plenty of individual attention, including the perks of valet parking, made-to-order hot breakfast and room service (from Michelin-starred Aubergine), twice-daily housekeeping and in-town Volvo car service — hence it also makes our list of top luxury hotels in the area.

Designed by noted landscape painter Chris Jorgenson for his wife, a member of the noted Ghirardelli family, La Playa Carmel melds the Spanish colonial style of the California missions with European old-world elegance. Growing from its 1905 origins to a sprawling complex set amidst colorful gardens, La Playa perches above Carmel’s village streets and sparkling white beach like the Grande Dame she is. Choose an ocean room to gaze out at the deep blue waters or a garden room with a sunny tiled patio. Best of all are the poolside casitas with their carved wooden fireplaces. A $3.5-million restoration completed in 2012 buffed the historic hotel to a high shine and it has continued to modernize, becoming a favorite of those seeking a romantic getaway with easy access to Carmel’s walkable downtown and its 90-plus galleries.

When the group getaway is a bachelorette party, this is the place. Indulge in a European chateau feeling of exclusivity. Thirty miles east of San Francisco, the property has been rated AAA Four Diamond for 25 consecutive years. Features include a full-service spa and a heated outdoor swimming pool. An outdoor fireplace adds sophistication to the getaway and the Park Bistro & Bar is a magnet for groups. There’s parking, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center and room service.