16 top hotels in California recommended by TPG for all kinds of travelers

Whether you're visiting California to unwind by the beach, indulge in the renowned wines of the region, explore the vibrant cities, or take a family road trip, there are plenty of hotels to make your stay even more memorable.

Here’s a guide to some of our top California hotels, designed to cater to every traveler’s needs. And remember, you can elevate your experience by adding these expert recommendations to your itinerary.

The finest city hotels in California

The St. Regis San Francisco

Nestled in San Francisco's vibrant downtown art district, right next to the Museum of Modern Art, the St. Regis San Francisco offers the perfect blend of urban excitement and tranquil escape atop its 42-story tower. The Museum of the African Diaspora is housed within the hotel, and guests enjoy views of the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts and its public gardens. Don’t miss out on the renowned St. Regis butler service to help plan activities, followed by a relaxing time at the indoor infinity pool.

How to book: This Marriott Bonvoy Category 8 hotel is available starting at 70,000 points per night during off-peak times, with standard nights priced at 85,000 points per night. To top off your points balance, transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards to your Marriott account at a 1:1 ratio.

Andaz West Hollywood

With its rooftop pool, vibrant cushions, and igloo-shaped cabanas, the Andaz West Hollywood exudes the cool vibe you'd expect from its prime location on Sunset Boulevard. Once owned by Gene Autry, this hotel has a rich legacy as a favorite hangout for rock legends like the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin. Today, you can enjoy a taste of rock 'n' roll history while gazing over the lively streets of West Hollywood from your glass-enclosed sunroom, then head out to explore Melrose Avenue or catch a live show at Second City or the Comedy Store.

How to book: Enjoy a free night here by using just 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills

Experience a Hollywood-style getaway in the exclusive privacy of The Peninsula Beverly Hills, where lush tropical gardens and a luxurious 4,000-square-foot spa offer a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. Dining under the open sky is a Los Angeles tradition, and the Roof Garden excels at it, serving creative California dishes made with herbs and vegetables from its own rooftop garden. After a day of adventures, unwind around the fire pit with a drink in hand.

A standout feature of this iconic hotel is its fleet of stylish BMWs and Mini Cooper S Clubmans, available for guests who book suites. For those who prefer not to drive, the hotel offers complimentary chauffeur service in one of its luxury vehicles, including a classic Rolls Royce and other high-end rides.

How to book: This hotel is part of the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts program, so if you hold The Platinum Card® or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, you can use Membership Rewards points to book your stay or earn 5x points on prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel. Enjoy exclusive perks like daily breakfast for two, room upgrades (subject to availability), and property credits, among other benefits.

The Kimpton Sawyer, Sacramento

A sparkling rooftop pool, surrounded by outdoor living spaces styled straight from "Mad Men," is just one of the highlights of Kimpton Sawyer, a boutique luxury hotel that perfectly captures Sacramento's revitalization. Located in the trendy Downtown Commons district (also known as DoCo), right next to the new Golden 1 sports stadium, this hotel is a must-stay for IHG Rewards members. Guests will love the sophisticated mid-century modern design, the chef's garden, and the complimentary evening social hour featuring local wines.

The Kimpton Sawyer embraces Sacramento’s passion for fitness and the outdoors by offering complimentary custom cruiser bikes from local brand Public, along with Saturday morning yoga sessions. Every room also comes with a yoga mat. At the hotel's retro-inspired Revival lounge, guests can enjoy unique twists on classic cocktails crafted by mixologist Matt Betts.

How to book: Standard rooms here start at 40,000 IHG Rewards Club points per night, with prices fluctuating based on IHG's dynamic pricing system.

The best California hotels for food and wine enthusiasts

Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa

A hidden gem in Napa Valley, the Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa offers reward travelers the opportunity to redeem points for a stay and enjoy many of the same top-tier amenities found at the valley's more renowned resorts, including morning yoga sessions and on-site wine tastings.

The resort-style pool, one of the largest in Napa Valley, provides a refreshing escape after a day of hiking, cycling, or wine tasting. Recently remodeled, the spacious rooms now boast a sleek, Scandinavian-inspired design with matte wood floors, light tones, and luxurious touches such as plush robes. The lobby invites guests to relax with its cozy fireplace, deep leather chairs, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.

How to book: Rooms are priced at 60,000 points for standard nights. On off-peak dates, when rooms are available for 50,000 points, you can also redeem your annual 85,000-point free night certificate at Marriott Bonvoy hotels (certain locations may charge resort fees), such as the one you receive annually after renewing your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.

Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Stateline, Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe may not be the first place that comes to mind for food lovers, but the three dining options at Edgewood Tahoe Resort have made it a destination for those seeking culinary excellence in the Sierra Nevada. The resort's Edgewood Restaurant offers a dining experience with stunning lake views through the vaulted windows, while Chef Lonny Huot creates masterpieces like pinecone-smoked elk loin. The Bistro provides a more casual atmosphere with inventive dishes like curried mussels and gourmet fries with cheese curds, while Brooks Bar & Deck, located in the golf clubhouse, buzzes with energy all day long.

Of course, the exceptional dining is only part of the experience at Edgewood, which spans over 200 acres on the quieter Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, complete with a private beach and dock. As a year-round resort, activities are a big draw, from stargazing sessions and ukulele lessons to fireside storytelling and nightly gourmet s'mores. And let's not forget the George Fazio-designed golf course, which has been a local favorite since its debut in 1968 as the first course in the Sierra region.

How to book: You can use miles from your Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or the Barclays Arrival Plus® World Elite Mastercard® (no longer available to new applicants) to offset a charge categorized as 'travel' from your Edgewood Tahoe Resort stay.

The information regarding the Barclays Arrival Plus card has been independently gathered by Dinogo. The card details provided here have not been reviewed or endorsed by the card issuer.

California's Best Hidden Retreats

Ventana Big Sur

Located about two hours from San Francisco, Ventana Big Sur, a part of Hyatt's Alila collection, is nestled just off Highway 1 (the Pacific Coast Highway), offering one of the most breathtaking locations in the U.S. The rustic yet elegant rooms are complemented by excellent dining options included with your stay at this all-inclusive resort. Unwind by the two pools or enjoy a sunset soak in the large infinity-edge hot tub. With most of the public spaces outdoors, guests can fully immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings of Ventana.

How to book: This Category 7 World of Hyatt property requires 30,000 points per night, though availability for award stays can be scarce. It's recommended to book as early as possible to secure a spot.

Ojai Valley Inn, Ojai

With its charming red-tile roofs, white stucco walls, and lush lavender gardens, the Ojai Valley Inn transports you to the Mediterranean, just an hour's drive from Los Angeles. Spanning 220 acres of scenic oak woodlands and manicured lawns, the property boasts multiple pools, a golf course, and endless activities. The Moorish-style Spa Ojai draws on the area's legacy of wellness, offering everything from yoga and meditation to guided hikes, along with a full range of rejuvenating treatments.

How to book: Rooms are available through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal starting at 48,168 points per night, plus taxes and fees.

Holiday Inn Resort, Catalina Island

Wake up on Catalina Island and you might feel like you've been transported to the Caribbean or the Mexican Riviera. In reality, you're just over an hour by ferry from Los Angeles. With its Spanish colonial architecture and sweeping ocean vistas, the Holiday Inn Resort Catalina Island fully embraces its secluded, island getaway feel. Set against the foothills, the resort is a peaceful retreat, yet close enough to the beaches of Avalon Bay and Lovers Cove. The Catalina Express offers regular ferry services from Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point to Avalon, and there's also ferry access to Two Harbors.

How to book: A recent search showed availability for award nights, with rates starting at 26,000 IHG points in October and going up to 40,000 points in November.

The Nakoma Resort, Clio, California

Nestled among the high meadows and towering pines of the Plumas National Forest, the Nakoma Resort fully embraces its serene and remote location in the Northern Sierra. Despite its peaceful setting, the resort offers a luxurious, comfortable experience with spacious guest rooms averaging 400 square feet. Guests can enjoy a range of dining choices at three on-site restaurants. The architecture, including a striking four-sided fireplace and the clean lines of the facade, is based on an original design by Frank Lloyd Wright. The resort's airy spaces and abundant glass and natural wood provide a seamless flow from the indoors to the outdoors. Families will appreciate the on-site gym, climbing wall, kids' center, and movie theater. Plus, an 18-hole championship golf course is just steps away.

How to book: Use your credit card points or miles to 'erase' the charges for your stay at Nakoma Resort.

Top California Hotels for Family Fun

Embassy Suites, Napa Valley

How to book: A recent search revealed award night availability starting at 26,000 IHG points in October, rising to 40,000 points in November.

How to book: Depending on your travel dates, expect to pay between 62,000 and 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night to book a stay here.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

With its private Lake Club offering exclusive access to lakeside lounge chairs and a dock for boating and watersports, the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe is a dream come true for families. Children can enjoy running on the large lawn or swimming in the expansive pool, while parents can unwind at the spa, play a round of golf, or stay active at the fitness center. Dining options cater to all tastes, including the fussiest eaters. Families looking for extra space can opt for one of the resort’s two- to four-bedroom suite-style cabins. In winter, guests can enjoy the luxury of ski-in, ski-out access to the Northstar Ski Resort, a rare perk in the Tahoe region.

How to book: This Category 8 Marriott Bonvoy property requires 70,000 points per night during off-peak dates, 85,000 points for standard award nights, and 100,000 points for peak dates.

The top California hotels for sun lovers

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Situated just across from East Beach, the iconic palm-lined stretch of sand in Santa Barbara, and only a short walk from the pier, the Hilton Santa Barbara Beach Resort is the perfect beachfront retreat with convenient access to the town's attractions. Be sure to check out the nearby Funk Zone, a lively area filled with galleries, cafes, surf shops, and unique boutiques that showcase the local arts scene. The resort also offers easy booking for kayaking, paddleboarding, and whale watching tours, with bike rentals available onsite. For the best experience, book a beachfront room to enjoy Santa Barbara's renowned salmon-colored sunsets.

How to book: A standard room for one night will cost between 69,000 and 80,000 Hilton Honors points, depending on the date, according to a calendar search for the remainder of 2021.

Ventura Beach Marriott

Imagine a tropical patio with the relaxed vibes of a Maui luau, complete with a palm-lined pool. It's no wonder the Ventura Beach Marriott is a local favorite among SoCal beach resorts. Located just three minutes from San Buenaventura State Beach, it offers an ideal setting for those who crave wide sandy shores, breathtaking sunsets, and beachside dining. With 10 miles of uncrowded coastline stretching from Ventura to Santa Barbara, this hotel makes the perfect starting point for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

How to book: A stay at this Category 5 Marriott Bonvoy hotel starts at 30,000 points per night during off-peak times, 35,000 points for standard nights, and 40,000 points on peak dates.

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Santa Monica

The ocean views are so captivating at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows that guests may find it hard to tear themselves away from their private balconies. But once they do, they’ll discover a historic gem nestled in the heart of Santa Monica, where this iconic hotel has stood since 1923. With its golden gates and star-studded history, the Miramar has long been the destination of choice for celebrities and world leaders, including President John F. Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe. The charming stucco bungalows in the back offer a quiet retreat, but you might just bump into a star. For the ultimate beach experience, take a ride in the hotel’s open-air jeep to the exclusive Miramar Beach Club, where every sun-seeker’s dream is fulfilled.

How to book: Since Capital One miles now transfer to Accor's loyalty program, Accor Live Limitless (ALL), at a 2:1 ratio, transferring 4,000 Capital One miles will grant you 2,000 ALL Rewards points, which is equivalent to a discount of about 40 euros (around $46) on your stay. Room rates start at approximately $450, and Accor Live Limitless members can enjoy a 10% discount.

Kona Kai Resort and Spa, San Diego

Set at the edge of Shelter Island, Kona Kai Resort spans 11 acres, offering sweeping views of Point Loma, the Kona Kai Marina, and a private beach. Guests can relax by one of the multiple pools or enjoy some of Southern California’s finest sunsets. Dining options include the resort's Vessel Restaurant and the adults-only Paloma poolside bar, which features craft cocktails and farm-to-table dishes. Evenings come alive with beach bonfires, and you can rent private cabanas during the day for a more secluded experience.

How to book: You can reduce the cost of your stay at Kona Kai Resort by redeeming credit card points or miles to cover the charges on your statement.