I'm confused!! Looking for luxury accommodations on the beach for $325/night maximum. Something like Shutters or Surf & Sand, which are too much bc. we're going in July. I like the idea of Laguna Beach but don't think I'd be happy at any of the "lesser" hotels. Am still considering the Beach House at Hermosa, but worried that it may feel too much like a condo and not very resort-y or luxurious. We're doing this instead of the Caribbean this year, but I'm still looking for that type of vacation experience. Want the best, very picky. Don't need opulence- like the Ritz though. We're 32, and like casual elegance, and the airy, modern feel. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks.

TROLL!!!!!!!!!!!!

What a bunch of crap. School is definitely OUT!!

Surf & Sand

After looking at this, it seems like typical Southern California attitude.

Native

Well, this is rude. I'm not in school and have no kids?? I'd appreciate hearing from any refined, educated travelers, whether California natives or not.

Hi Ashley,

I'm not sure why the other posters think you are a troll. Certainly not the first person I've heard of to want a luxury vacation in Southern California.

Here's my 2 cents. Consider La Jolla or Del Mar. There are some refined, charming hotels such as L'Auberge in Del Mar or La Valencia in La Jolla. Le Parisi in La Jolla is supposed to be a modern boutique hotel. I guess if you want resort-like amenities, you can try Loews Coronado in San Diego, or the Hotel del Coronado.

I mention san diego because I lived there for 8 years and think it's beautiful. Sorry I don't know much about Orange County or LA.

Hi Ashley -

Have a great time in So.Cal. Do a search on this site - I'm sure you wil find lots of information. I find the beaches farther south to be cozier than in Santa Monica. I agree with the suggestions of the last poster.

Ashley, How important is it to have a hotel right on the beach? Down here in the San Diego area, L'Auberge Del Mar is lovely, but not right on the beach. It's very close, and the beach there is great. Also, you'd probably like the atmosphere in Del Mar and there's upscale shopping and good restaurants, all within walking distance of the hotel. la Valencia in La Jolla has the shopping and restaurants, but the closest beach is La Jolla Cove and, while it's picturesque, it's not a personal favorite of mine. Not much sand, lots of rocks, and lots of scuba divers and snorkellers going to the adjacent underwater preserve. The Hotel Del, while right on a fabulous beach, is not modern or light and airy. Le Parisi looks lovely, but has the same beach and is further away from it, as La Valencia. You might also take a look at the Pacific Terrace hotel , which is right on Pacific Beach in San Diego. I'm sure you'll find something terrific. Have a good time in S. California.

How about Santa Barbara? They have lovely beaches there, less crowded than Santa Monica, and during the summers there are usually art fairs on the grass along the beach. Can't give pointers on hotels though, as I live in LA and just drive up for the day. I'm sure you can do a search and find some suggestions though.

We stayed at the Loews Hotel in Santa Monica last May ... which is just down the beach from Shutters ... and thought it was wonderful!

If the beach isn't an important factor, but the room is....which hotel would you recommend for the most luxury and pampering?