One mile south of downtown, this Laguna Beach property has been made over and is now even more fantastic than longtime locals remember. On an exquisite stretch of beach with thundering waves and gorgeous rocks, this is a getaway for those who want a boutique hotel experience without all the formalities. Expect clean white decor in the rooms, private balconies, slumber-worthy beds within earshot of the ocean, and a small yet full service spa—all within walking distance of downtown Laguna. The seasonal California cuisine at Splashes is top notch. Pros : easy beach access; intimate property; new gym facilities. Cons : expensive valet parking; surf is quite loud.
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip