We will be traveling up the coast in June from Arizona. We will stop at Lauberge in Del Mar and then head up to San Francisco. We wanted to make one more stop befor Carmel.
Which city is the nicest in between LA and Carmel. We like on the beach, charm, 4 or 5 star luxury places,quiet and not too touristy. Any recommendations? Romantic too if possible.
Thanks,
Helen

Try the Post Ranch Inn. HWY 1 Big Sur.
http://www.postranchinn.com/

Del Mar to Big Sur is very long in the neighborhood of 8 hours. Though I agree going from L'Auberge to the Post Ranch Inn makes sense, you probably need something before then. And can you believe that Mapquest instructs you to take I-5 ha from Del Mar to Big Sur?! now that's a laugh. Mapquest should have a box to check to request the routes that are the least miserable.

Cambria is about 6 hours from Del Mar, Santa Barbara is 3 1/3 hours, Morro Bay/Los Osos/San Luis is 5 1/2 or so. How far do you want to drive when you leave Del Mar?

I would make a stop in Morro Bay and stay at the Inn at Morro Bay. It fits all of your requirements and is a good midway point. From there, you can either take the coast up Hwy. 1 into Carmel, or head back over to the 101 north and head over to Monterey/Carmel on Hwy 68 out of Salinas. We have stayed there a number of times and have really enjoyed it.

I agree with Sherri about the Inn at Morro Bay if Morro Bay is a good stopping point for you. Nice place.

Thank you for your help, Morro bay sounds good or Pismo Beach. We only want to drive 4 hours from Del Mar.

We just spent three nights at the Spyglass Inn in Shell Beach, just north of Pismo Beach. The room was large, the bed was comfortable, and there was a great ocean view.

Or for a bizarre change of pace, try the Madonna Inn. It is the height of gaudiness.

Mark

Santa Barbara.

Hotel Oceana or Harbor View Inn or The Biltmore in Montecito.

There are several 4 star B&B's in the area as well, Inn at Summer Hill is nice.

I have to put in my vote for Santa Barbara!
What a wonderful, beautiful town. Romantic hotels, great restaurants, shopping.

Try the Bacara Resort if you are looking for luxury.

I just love Santa Barbara!