Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Paradox

About a mile from the ocean and two blocks from Pacific Avenue, this stylish, forest-theme complex (part of the Marriott Autograph Collection) is among the few full-service hotels in town. Public spaces and rooms are designed to bring nature indoors—the reception desk is cut from an 18-foot reclaimed eucalyptus log, lamps resemble birds' nests, sculpted squirrels cling to the walls, and tree stumps serve as poolside tables. Room options range from kings with river-rock showers and double queens with tubs to six suites.