The 9 Best Boutique Hotels in Southern California

The Nobu Ryokan hotel in Malibu offers guests a beachfront oasis with touches of its original 1950s style, an earthy Japanese-inspired design, and modern upgrades for a luxurious Californian stay.

SoCal is blessed with blue skies, near-constant sunshine, and loads of premium oceanfront real estate. It’s sort of hard to believe that there aren’t that many hotels directly on the sand. (We’re not counting places across the street from the beach.) For a seaside getaway with tons of luxury and serenity, Nobu Ryokan Malibu is in a league of its own.

A contemporary twist on a traditional Japanese inn, this exclusive destination delivers a major dose of peace and a spectacular oceanfront setting that you won’t get anywhere else. Having just 16 rooms heightens the intimacy of it all. And that just adds to the cache. Sure, it’s a splurge. But can you really put a price on teak soaking tubs, fireplaces, and private decks? How about staying inches from the waves? Yeah, we didn't think so.

Surfhouse is the perfect destination for guests of all types to live like a local, and this community-focused boutique hotel offers surfboards and beach gear on-site for a simplistic experience.

Based on the name, can you guess the overarching theme of Surfhouse? If you said surfing, right on! Conceptualized for the adventurer with a penchant for carving (though shubies will be stoked to stay here, too), this rad hotel reflects the wave-chasing, grab-your-board-and-go culture of Encinitas.

Perched on Highway 101, a stone’s throw from the sand and swells, it puts thrills at your fingertips, er, feet. Decorated with coastal colors and the works of hometown artisans, each of the eight airy units pays reverence to a different legendary local break.

Going on a buddymoon? The room known as Pipes comfortably sleeps four in custom bunk beds. Beachy interiors are complemented by outdoor showers and cabanas. Guests also have access to yoga, stand-up paddleboards, and cruiser bikes. Of course, there’s no shortage of beer or burritos either. 

The Surfrider makes an excellent pit stop on the Pacific Coast Highway, featuring an old-school motel aesthetic with modern amenities.

The Surfrider is a prime example of what’s so wonderful about the growing trend of converting roadside motels into boutique hotels. This spot is an homage to old-school Americana that serves up retro realness in a totally fresh, modern way.

Set along a scenic stretch of the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, the classic motor lodge turned contemporary seaside retreat captures the essence of Malibu with its crisp linens, natural bath products, and loaner boards. The hotel even offers complimentary Mini Coopers for guests to drive around and explore the area.

After a few days of gas station and diner grub, we’d be willing to bet you’ll appreciate the deliciously fresh food even more. Did we mention the roof deck overlooks the beach? Just another reason to linger a little longer over guacamole and ceviche. As the sun moves closer to the horizon, cheers to this magical pit stop with a spicy margarita or glass of organic wine.

Petit Ermitage is an eclectic hidden gem in West Hollywood, convenient to all of the neighborhood's iconic attractions and filled with character from its one-of-a-kind rooms to its private hummingbird and butterfly sanctuary.

Tucked away on a side street in the most walkable part of West Hollywood, Petit Ermitage is a Moroccan-influenced refuge that’s perfectly positioned just blocks from hotspots such as Gracias Madre and Cecconi's.

The dreamy hotel feels like a true bohemian hideaway that’s anything but boring. Art-clad hallways lead to eclectic suites dripping in antique furnishings, fireplaces, printed textiles, and whimsical flourishes.

The private rooftop lures an impossibly good-looking crowd with its heated saltwater pool, striped cabanas, stiff cocktails, and faux fur blankets for snuggling up on the handful of borderline brisk nights Los Angeles experiences. There’s also a hummingbird and butterfly sanctuary as well as a candle-lit Mediterranean restaurant.

For a place that’s so hip, it’s pretty miraculous that Petit Ermitage remains so blissfully unaffected and laid-back. 

The Hotel Californian's modern-day luxury is complemented by its rich history and high-class vintage design.

If you love history, prepare to be enticed. Hotel Californian—or at least, the redux—may have launched in late 2017, but its story begins long before.

Situated in downtown Santa Barbara, between the waterfront and what’s now lovingly referred to as the Funk Zone, the iconic property first opened its door in 1925. Following a glamorous launch party, it was nearly destroyed by the Santa Barbara earthquake 11 days later. Bigger and better, the reboot stretches three blocks while still incorporating the original Spanish Colonial Revival façade.

Martyn Lawrence Bullard-designed interiors take a more of-the-moment approach, weaving modern Moroccan influences and glamour. Saturated hues, intricately painted tiles, plush fabrics, and gilded mirrors adorn the guest quarters, which range from luxurious rooms to a 1,700-square-foot presidential suite.

Hotel Joaquin is a laid-back, quiet hotel in Laguna Beach for a romantic getaway at an adults-only destination.

Hotel Joaquin is a seaside escape with romance written all over it. Conveniently located within walking distance of downtown and a short drive to Alta Laguna Park, it’s a wonderful getaway if you’re looking for a beach trip that doesn’t entirely revolve around the waves. Couples can explore miles of hiking trails or catch some rays by the pool.

No doubt, the adults-only policy also increases the appeal of Hotel Joaquin. As there’s no denying that a lack of kids makes for a more relaxed (less noisy) atmosphere. Rooms exhibit a sense of serenity with vaulted ceilings, coastal-chic accents, and record players to spin your favorite slow jams. Thoughtful touches like hand-delivered coffee service and a spritz menu also feel decidedly grown-up. 

Santa Monica Proper Hotel offers a luxurious contemporary design to complement its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture for an upscale stay with character.

Since debuting in August 2019, Santa Monica Proper Hotel has become a bonafide hotspot. Inside the 1920s Spanish Colonial Revival landmark, there is a contemporary vibe that flows from the gallery-like lobby lounge to the 267 luxuriously appointed rooms.

While its instant success is largely due to the Instagram-worthy design, the appeal extends well beyond its immaculately decorated spaces. In addition to impeccable aesthetics and an impressive art collection, the buzzy property also boasts an Ayurvedic spa, indoor-outdoor bistro, and only-in-SoCal extras like electric bikes.

Chateau Marmont is known as a West Hollywood staple for celebrities and visitors alike, and this luxury destination is filled with unique designs from its common areas to its private rooms.

C’mon, did you really think we were going to get through a Southern California story without mentioning the “best for celeb-spotting” category? Of all the A-list hangouts in Los Angeles, none hold a candle to 8221 Sunset Boulevard. That is, of course, the address of Chateau Marmont. The infamous den of nocturnal happenings has served as the backdrop for some of Tinseltown’s most famous people.

On any given night, you might see Keanu Reeves eating dinner or the star-studded cast of the next big blockbuster flick toasting to a successful film wrap. It’s not just the restaurant and cocktail bar that has major star power. Those with deep pockets can stay in the same history-steeped bungalow where rocker Jim Morrison snoozed on more than one occasion. Oh, if those sound-proof walls could talk…

Pendry San Diego is conveniently located in one of the city's most walkable neighborhoods with plenty of on-site and local entertainment to enjoy.

For couples who want to be in the heart of the action, Pendry San Diego makes it happen. With an enviable location in the Gaslamp Quarter, it’s steps from a whole host of lively bars, restaurants, shops, beaches, and attractions.

So it should come as no surprise that this boutique gem handily wins the honor of the top basecamp in America's Finest City. Though guests don’t actually need to leave the hotel to sample tasty cuisine or partake in the nightlife scene.

Ready to unwind after a fun-filled day and night? Once you step foot in the sophisticated rooms, the chaos of the outside world fades away. Cozy up in a king bed with sumptuous linens and gaze upon the glimmering skyline as soothing ocean hues induce a sense of calm.