10 Specialty lodgings in California: Best hotel deals for 2023

April 18, 2023 Karren Gelb

California is a fertile, peaceful place where you’ll find a near-equal balance of vineyards and deserts, beaches and mountains, hippies and traditionalists. Catch an epic wave in Big Sur or swirl a glass in Napa Valley. Be dazzled by the Joshua Tree night sky or just star-gaze in Hollywood. Swish down the slopes of a Tahoe ski resort, or cruise across the Golden Gate Bridge with the top down and the music blasting. Above all, don’t forget to soak up some Golden State sunshine.
Things to do in California

1. Grand Hyatt at SFO

55 South McDonnell Rd, San Francisco, CA 94128-3104
Excellent
88%
Good
7%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 843 reviews

Grand Hyatt at SFO

This is a lovely hotel, very welcoming.

Reviewed By Abhayakara

I stay here whenever I have a morning flight out of SFO. I've never had a bad experience. The staff are always polite and welcoming when I check in. I wish the restaurant was a little less fancy and had vegetarian food, so that's a minus, but the cafe/store is open 24 hours, and honestly that's what i really care about—I can get a yogurt parfait at 4am before I head into the terminal for my flight. The decor here is rich and understated. Lots of dark woods. Everything feels solid. Beds are comfortable, views are fine, taking into account that this is right at the airport, so that's what you're going to see. Despite being right on the airport, the noise is muted. I did hear some machine noises at night, but they were not loud, and didn't disturb my sleep. I think it was probably the HVAC. It's reasonably priced for what it is. I would consider it a splurge if I were traveling for personal reasons. 10/10, will stay again.

2. Tahoe Beach and Ski Club

3601 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150-8946 1 (866) 979-0466
Excellent
58%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
5%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 634 reviews

Tahoe Beach and Ski Club

Come experience our quiet, lakefront retreat just outside of downtown South Lake Tahoe. In summer, relax on our private, 400-foot beach while your kids play in the water. When you stay at Tahoe Beach & Ski Club, you’ll enjoy all the amenities of a fine resort, including two outdoor spas and a year-round heated pool, plus the space and cozy feel of a vacation rental home. Our friendly associates take great pride in providing you with exceptional service for a Lake Tahoe experience that is truly second-to-none. There is a nightly USD 5.50 local tax fee for the Tourist Improvement District - TID. Tahoe Beach & Ski Club amenities include internet, beach, and pool. Please note a Daily Resort Fee of $15 plus tax will be collected at time of booking. Guests must be 18 years of age or older with a valid ID and credit card to book and check-in.

A beach and a room

Reviewed By Irmgart G

A wonderful private beach with huge fire-pits and multiple BBQ's (clean and ready to go), Room well appointed, bed super comfortable, and friendly staff. They have activities, a pool overlooking the lake and two spas.

3. San Remo Hotel

2237 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94133-1899
Excellent
45%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1376 reviews

San Remo Hotel

We are a family-owned historic boutique pension-style hotel located in North Beach, one of San Francisco's oldest and most popular tourist destinations, and only a few blocks from Fisherman's Wharf. Built in 1906, our hotel maintains an atmosphere of Old-World charm and ambiance with specially selected antique furnishings - no two rooms are alike. The walls of the hotel are filled with a collection of memorabilia and history. Our style is simplicity and sanctuary - there are no room telephones, no televisions, and on the order of European pensions, shared baths which are meticulously cleaned daily, and are private when in use, but for all guests to use. Our rooms are cozy and small, our prices are proportional. Our staff is available while our Front Desk is open to help you find anything your heart desires. A truly unique, non-standardized hotel experience.

Lack of communication is disgraceful

Reviewed By L5590MUmichelleh

Like many others in the world, our honeymoon booked for July 2020 from Australia to the US was cancelled due to COVID-19. I have contacted this company for a refund via telephone, countless emails and via social media and NOT ONCE have I received a response. Whilst I understand the huge impact this time has had on businesses, we have had our own financial difficulties as well. Very disappointed in this business and I would not recommend booking.

4. Sonder V Palm Springs

333 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92264-8803
Excellent
37%
Good
11%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
17%
Terrible
22%
Overall Ratings

3 based on 240 reviews

Sonder V Palm Springs

Let your California dreams flourish at vibrant V Palm Springs, a modern oasis at the foothills of the San Jacinto mountains. Lounge at the poolside cabanas, encircled by luscious palm trees, and treat yourself to a refreshing cocktail from Elixir. Dip your feet in the crystal-clear pool while soaking in the exciting atmosphere. In the mood to explore? Venture out to Palm Canyon Drive and make your way through mid-century modern boutiques, welcoming pubs, and colorful art galleries. As evening falls, sip on a cold beer while dining al fresco at GiGi’s (we also recommend the tacos at breakfast time). Watch the sunset from your cozy space and plan out your adventures for tomorrow.

Party Hotel

Reviewed By wendym6322022

Great for people wanting to party. Live DJ at the pool. Poolside bar. Not a place for a quiet getaway. You can here the music inside your room. Room floor needed cleaning and food prices were too high.

5. Mayumi

5630 Sawtelle Blvd, Culver City, CA 90230-5554
Excellent
63%
Good
27%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
1%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 83 reviews

Mayumi

Mayumi gives you the best of both worlds a private haven and social hub. Created to provide an unparalleled living experience crafted on a foundation of design, flexibility, and community, Mayumi members can enjoy luxurious private rooms and common areas to connect with others. Private Rooms: Each member is provided their own unit, with an ensuite private restroom featuring a soft water system and rain shower. As well as, an in room touchscreen managing lights, shades and thermostat provides full control of your environment at your fingertips. 50" Smart TV with DirectTV service. Mayumi also offers a free private network with high-speed fiber and weekly housekeeping services. Common Kitchen: Members have full access to a spacious kitchen, including high-end appliances, plates, refrigerator and dining area.

Comfortable and welcoming

Reviewed By F8585GGsandraw

I happened to come across this property and really enjoyed my stay. It is easy to access and just a few minutes from the airport and quite close to downtown Culver City. The indoor courtyard is lovely (as shown on the photographs). The room is comfortable--more for one person than two--with a spacious desk, comfortable bed, nice bathroom. The lights, blinds, fans/AC are all controlled from a panel for ease and practicality, although there are also switches in the room. The Wi-Fi was superb. Breakfast is light but well staged. I really enjoyed the set up, convenience, and decour of this hotel. I strongly recommend it.

6. L3 Oasis Hotel

2000 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92262-2922 1 (760) 896-2747
Excellent
86%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 7 reviews

L3 Oasis Hotel

We loved it here- newly renovated with excellent staff

Reviewed By Charlotte785

The hotel was fabulous and great value for money. Lois at check in made us feel extremely welcome as did Nelson and the rest of the staff. The rooms are tasteful with large tv screens, modern furniture, hairdryers etc. The pool area is clean and has some really lovely chilled music playing. We'd highly recommend staying here. Thanks L3.

7. 1906 Mission

1906 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103-3405
Excellent
53%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 111 reviews

1906 Mission

Originally built in the months following the great earthquake of 1906, the hotel saw a complete renovation in 2013-2014. During the project, we had one goal: create an atmosphere with you, our guest, in mind. Where you might find a bit of sanctuary from a day busy with meetings or just out seeing the sights. A place to relax and recharge. From our lounge areas, patio and great, comfortable beds to our complimentary continental breakfast, all are just some of the thoughtful details to enhance the experience of your stay. At Nineteen 06 Mission we proudly provide our Guests with 100% GREEN Terra Nova toiletry items, complimentary eco-friendly slippers, and a great continental breakfast to kick start the morning. Our single person Luxury Showers might be just down the hall but wait until you try them. We think you are ready for something a little different, something a little special. Welcome to both!

Great value, very friendly

Reviewed By lc23_13

Really good value- good size room, big showers, heaps of towels, shampoo, body wash on offer. We appreciated the tea and coffee stations and the chap on the desk was super friendly, with great recommendations and really accommodating of us leaving our bags, helping us print boarding pass out etc- he's a real gem and totally made our stay.

8. Hyatt Place LAX/Century BLVD

5959 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045-6517
Excellent
55%
Good
13%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
6%
Terrible
15%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 79 reviews

Hyatt Place LAX/Century BLVD

Great LAX Hotel

Reviewed By Suzy_AzureBlue

Terrific new hotel, large rooms, great breakfast. Very modern and has a lovely, friendly staff. Tip: to go up the elevator, press which for you want on the iPad and it will tell you which elevator to take.

9. Inn at Palm Springs

2525 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, Greater Palm Springs, CA 92262-1831 1 (855) 509-0186
Excellent
91%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 32 reviews

Inn at Palm Springs

The Inn at Palm Springs is the first hotel when you come into town. Studios to a King Suite, all rooms have a pool and/or mountain view. Cruiser bikes, in-room coffee makers, microwaves, mini-fridges, a fitness center, and business center are all included. Situated just off Hwy 111 + Racquet Club the property is nestled between the prestigious Little Tuscany area and the Uptown Design District.

You are in good hands.

Reviewed By BeachHappyMan

Great location, strong wifi, onsite parking, unlimited towels, great choice of free coffee and sodas. Free breakfast at a very popular Rick's restaurant. Microwave and refrigerator and many conveniently located power outlets to charge electronics. Great relaxing atmosphere around the pool. Gym room. Everything is super clean. Absolutely unique colors, furniture, trees, shrubs and waterfall design around the property create an unforgettable experience to stay in your memory for long. Management is very friendly and highly professional. Enjoy while staying in the hotel. You are in good hands.

10. Venice Suites

417 Ocean Front Walk, Los Angeles, CA 90291-2402
Excellent
51%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
5%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 459 reviews

Venice Suites

Discover LA during your stay at Venice Suites, featuring spacious suites near Santa Monica with full kitchens that are perfect for extended stay lodging.

Just Okay

Reviewed By jenniferpM4547ND

Guest parking is expensive at $20 a day/night and inconveniently located several blocks from the hotel. You pull into a narrow alleyway and put on your hazard lights to unload, then you have to go park your car several streets away in a garage (unless you can find street parking-good luck with that!) It's about a 10 to 15 minute walk, not the five they tell you. The building itself is funky, old carpeting in hallways, with an ancient elevator. However the rooms are fine, clean. Dishes and glasses were left in the dishwasher, rather than put away in the cabinets. For our "partial" ocean view room (east of the stairway), you had to crane your neck around the corner to see a smidge of water. The windows faced other building windows. The rooftop lounge area does not look as nicely staged as this photo shows. Neighborhood is sketchy, lots of people hanging around, and can be noisy certain times of the day. Quiet in morning and at night for the most part. Would I stay here again? No.

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