The Ultimate California Summer Road Trip

With road trip travel continuing to trend in 2022 and with drive-to markets expanding from the traditional three to five-hour range and sometimes up to nine hours, this collection of hotel destinations across California are must-stops for the quintessential California road trip route.

Northern California

The Lodge at Bodega Bay | Bodega Bay, CA

Poised atop a tranquil bluff along the Sonoma Coast, The Lodge at Bodega Bay offers an unparalleled coastal escape with spectacular views from every room. A stay at the serene 83-room retreat is a taste of life in-tune with a rugged coastline and rolling vineyards. Amenities include a heated pool and infinity hot tub, a spa and fitness center. Two distinctive dining options reflect the rich bounty of Sonoma – signature restaurant, Drakes Sonoma Coast, and relaxed dining and bar lounge experience, Drakes Fireside Lounge. The hotel offers access to views of migrating whales down the coast and rare birds prized by the National Audubon Society. From Point Reyes to Tomales Bay, The Lodge at Bodega Bay serves as a guide to the adventures of the Sonoma coast.

Montage Healdsburg | Healdsburg, CA

Montage Healdsburg is a transformative hideaway where the renowned hospitality of Montage meets the authentic charm and scenic beauty of Sonoma wine country. The 258-acre resort provides a perfectly situated launching pad to discover the best of the region, from iconic wineries to legendary culinary establishments. The resort is set among historic groves and its 130 luxurious bungalow-style guestrooms and suites blend contemporary influence with environmentally conscious design. Top resort amenities include an 11,500-square-foot Spa Montage; a zero-edge pool overlooking the resort’s 15.5 acres of vineyards; and several distinct dining options inspired by the region’s culinary heritage.

Harvest Inn | St. Helena, CA

Harvest Inn is an idyllic resort situated in the heart of St. Helena, designed to celebrate the vineyard way of life with 81 luxurious accommodations nestled into four uniquely crafted neighborhoods – The Fountain, The Vineyard, The Grove and The Manor. The charming wine country ambiance is paired with a wealth of amenities, including the resort’s signature restaurant, Harvest Table, two secluded swimming pools and hot tubs, and in-room wine. In classic California fashion, the architecture and land are in harmony, making Harvest Inn an integral part of the terrain. The distinctive mixing of heritage and modern style is seen in the richly stained wood, leaded glass panels, exterior stone and Tudor stucco with timber framing; contributing to its timeless elegance. The resort’s grounds feature lush landscaping, including 320 California redwood trees, and vineyard views, further adding to its storybook setting.

The Sawyer Hotel | Sacramento, CA

Just steps away from the Golden 1 Center, home to the Sacramento Kings and the best concerts in California’s capitol city, The Sawyer brings a new kind of upscale, boutique hotel experience to Sacramento. The swanky 250-room hotel is at the center of the dynamic and expanding DOCO (Downtown Commons) area, boasting the city’s first-ever rooftop bar, lounge and pool, Revival at The Sawyer. With a chill poolside vibe and private cabanas during the day, Revival turns into one of the hottest spots in the city at night with a sleek and sexy energy brought to life with live music, DJs and poolside handcrafted cocktails under the stars and overlooking DOCO. There is a ton of upcoming programming at the hotel including movies on the rooftop deck, monthly wine dinners, and happy hours that change theme every day.

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa | Monterey, CA

A 13-time designated Forbes Four-Star rated hotel and rated the number one hotel in Monterey by TripAdvisor, Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa is situated along California’s rugged coastline in the heart of historic Monterey Bay, with an impressive legacy and heritage dating back to the early 1900s. Nicknamed “The Grand Dame of the Bay,” the hotel is home to 290 recently renovated guest rooms and suites; the signature Vista Blue Spa, with breathtaking Monterey Bay views; distinctive dining options at Coastal Kitchen, Schooners Monterey, Tidal Coffee and the Lobby Lounge; a grand lobby; and exterior plazas. Perched directly on Cannery Row, the hotel’s ideal location provides easy access to the area’s most vibrant attractions, including Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman’s Wharf and recreational activities such as world-class golf, sailing, scuba diving and whale watching.

 The Stanford Park Hotel | Menlo Park, CA

The Stanford Park Hotel is an oasis in the heart of Silicon Valley featuring sophisticated accommodations – many with private balconies and fireplaces – a refreshed lobby and welcoming meeting space. A true gem among Menlo Park hotels, the property is infused with a welcoming estate-like ambiance, offering respite in one of the world’s most innovative cities. Conveniently located near Stanford University, the hotel features relaxed dining at American restaurant and bar Menlo Tavern, whose menu offers elevated tavern fare prepared with a California cadence. The perfect summer destination, The Stanford Park Hotel’s secluded pool area, tucked behind the hotel’s classic architecture in a quaint garden courtyard, offers poolside dining from Menlo Tavern and fully-furnished cabanas for the ultimate, tranquil outdoor oasis.

Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa | Lafayette, CA

Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa is a charming hotel located in the heart of the East Bay in Lafayette, California. Inspired by the countryside that was home to Marquis de Lafayette, Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa is reminiscent of a sophisticated European chateau set amidst the backdrop of historic oak trees, rolling hills and romantic courtyards. Guests often indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at The Spa at the Park, food & beverage service by the pool or a French-inspired dining experience at The Park Bistro & Bar, a favorite of locals and travelers alike.

Central California

Flying Flags Avila Beach | Port San Luis, CA

Flying Flags Avila Beach is a new coastal RV resort and campground boasting sweeping ocean views located in the quaint fishing and boating town of Port San Luis, CA on the Central California Coast. Situated above Port San Luis Harbor just steps from the beach, Flying Flags Avila Beach offers a collection of fully turnkey cottages with a modern beach aesthetic, Jupes (the ultimate in design-forward glamping offerings, created by a team of ex-Tesla, SpaceX, and Airbnb employees) and RV sites along with a collection of car-tent, hike- or bike-in tent camping sites, all featuring stunning vistas.

Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground | Buellton

Flying Flags is a glamping resort in Santa Barbara Wine Country. Through a series of multi-million-dollar renovations, Flying Flags has transformed from a campground to a glamping resort with full amenities. The resort offers themed cabins and cottages, as well restored airstreams, vintage trailers, safari tents and tiki tents. Glampers and RV campers receive full access to the resort’s on-site amenities, including pools, spas, the activity center, playgrounds, bocce ball courts and programming. Flying Flags has taken glamping to a whole new level with the introduction of eight Jupes—fully-equipped, high-design tents created by ex-Tesla, SpaceX, and Airbnb employees. The space-like travel pods are also equipped with solar panels to generate power for USB charging stations, Wi-Fi network, electrical outlets, and dimmable LED lighting.

Sideways Inn & Lounge | Buellton, CA

Sideways Inn & Lounge captures the history of the Santa Ynez Valley and its place in wine country – reminiscent of The Netherlands with its striking windmill; part of the hotel’s unique lobby design. The famed 112-room hotel features chic design aesthetic and offers amenities including a pool, spa and lounge concept, among access to all amenities at sister property Flying Flags, just steps away. The recently updated Sideways Lounge offers an array of sharable items, innovative cocktails, local beer and fine wines, celebrating the best of the region – another culinary delight found throughout The Netherlands/Europe.

The Winston | Solvang, CA

The Winston is an upscale boutique hotel that opened in summer 2020 with just 14 rooms built in the charming Danish village’s historic Old Mill Clock Tower – an iconic structure, and one of the most photographed buildings in town. This was built as a replica of the clock and bell towers found in Copenhagen. The repurposed building adds old world charm to the new hotel, while vibrant and daring décor, outfitted with pieces personally collected from around the world, gives a contemporary feel. Each room is uniquely designed with oversized headboards and bold colors, interesting textures, and contrasting patterns. As the iconic clock tower has remained intact, there is arguably no more iconic place to stay in the entire city of Solvang than The Winston’s Clock Tower Suite with a light-filled grand entry foyer leading to a sitting room with a separate bedroom. A clock-face mural provides a reminder of the tower’s exterior charm.

Vinland Hotel + Lounge | Solvang, CA

Vinland Hotel + Lounge is a modern, castle-like hideaway right in the heart of the charming Danish-inspired village of Solvang – is an oenophile’s dream with its specialty wine suites, in partnership with three nearby wineries, including acclaimed Alma Rosa, Westerly Wines, and Zaca Mesa. Guests receive complimentary in-room bottles of wine upon arrival, as well as tasting vouchers to get out and explore the area and meet the makers firsthand. The 82-room hotel features a clean, modern design and amenities including a heated pool and hot tub, cold brew coffee bar, and V Lounge, featuring fresh fare in addition to local wines, craft beer and innovative cocktails. Celebrating the bounty of Santa Barbara Wine Country, the hotel’s top suites are in partnership with three nearby wineries, offering guests exclusive experiences.

Southern California

Malibu Beach Inn | Malibu, CA 

Malibu Beach Inn is an intimate luxury boutique hotel located on the shores of Malibu with only 34 steps to the ocean from the private stairway descending onto the sands. Reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast, Malibu Beach Inn’s 47 well-appointed guestrooms showcase the proximity to the waves through full glass doors and private balconies enabling ocean views from almost any point in the room. Nestled on an exclusive strip of Carbon Beach nicknamed “Billionaire’s Beach,” the hotel’s opulent service and well-dressed staff is apparent. Whether seeking to indulge at CBC or simply relax on the privately-owned shore in Italian loungers taking the dramatic coastline, Malibu Beach Inn transport guests to the shores of the Amalfi creating an unforgettable seaside experience.

La Peer Hotel | West Hollywood, CA

Truly indigenous to its location, the design-forward property evokes a cool style that is quintessential West Hollywood. Located at the intersection of art, design and fashion in the vibrant Design District, La Peer Hotel appeals to the aesthetics and sensibilities of its neighborhood, while also being its own oasis amidst the City of Angels where locals and hotel guests alike can find their place. The property boasts 105 rooms and suites, a rooftop deck with 360 degree views perfect for private events, a pool and fitness center, and more than 8,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor dining and lounge spaces. The pool – while in the center of the bustling city – is an escape accented by lush landscaping and handcrafted lanterns hanging from above that set the tone for an urban retreat. Rounding out the property is Issima, the newest restaurant concept created by the minds behind LA’s hit Olivetta, which brings the style, beauty, and exquisite flavors of the Mediterranean coastline to the shores of West Hollywood.

Hyatt Regency Indian Wells | Indian Wells, CA

Hyatt Regency Indian Wells is nestled on 45 acres of lush landscape with towering palms and panoramic golf and mountain views. The resort recently underwent a multi-million-dollar transformation, including 26 remodeled penthouse suites with an upgraded modern design, wet bars, and private balconies with incredible views, as well as the signature Lantana restaurant, ballroom, outdoor event lawns, and more. The hotel also offers 43 two- and three-bedroom villas complete with a fireplace, furnished patios with grills and/or private hot tubs, and direct access to the adults’ pool. The recently opened HyTides waterpark is the largest in Greater Palm Springs, with dual waterslides, a lazy river and splash pads. The resort offers 530 guest rooms, a 30,000-square-foot spa & fitness center, and recreation activities including tennis and championship golf. Only 20 minutes from Palm Springs Airport, the resort is mid-valley with convenient access to shopping, dining, and outdoor wellness adventures, and popular local events.

Park Hyatt Aviara | Carlsbad, CA

Park Hyatt Aviara is an iconic Southern California resort, situated along the Pacific on more than 200 lush acres adjacent to the Batiquitos Lagoon, a natural wetland preserve. The Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond resort offers several distinct dining venues, a world-class wellbeing experience, adult and family pool experiences, two Topgolf Swing Suites, state-of-the-art tennis facilities, and California’s only coastal designed Arnold Palmer signature golf course, Aviara Golf Club, home of the LGPA JTBC Classic professional golf tournament. One of Southern California’s grand dame properties, Park Hyatt Aviara recently unveiled an enhanced look following a $50+ million property-wide transformation, refreshing all public spaces, guestrooms and suites and function/social spaces while introducing new amenities and immersive dining experiences, including Ember & Rye, serving vintage steaks, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables in collaboration with acclaimed celebrity chef Richard Blais, among signature ocean-view restaurant, Ponto Lago, serving inventive Baja cuisine with local influence.