35 Best Hotels in North County and Around, California

Thirty years in the making, this striking hotel perched on the ocean bluffs has successfully captured the essence of SoCal's luxurious beach culture with sleek rooms and spaces that pay tribute to its environment. The adult-centered property caters to active and pampered travelers who maximize such perks as complimentary electric bikes, surfboards, wet suits, yoga, welcome cocktails, and a golf cart that zips around the Leucadia community. The brains behind the beauty are top architectural-and-design firms Joseph Wong and MARKZEFF who infused nature into the blueprints by creating curved entryways and a layout that frames the coast. From sustainability efforts and barefoot luxury, to sound mediation and curated works by surf photographer, Aaron Chang, this lifestyle resort pours both soul and harmony in this majestic slice of Encinitas.

One of only four SoCal hotels directly on the sand, this former 1960s Best Western was remodeled in 2011 as a boutique inn with plantation shutters, luxurious linens, and open floor plans. Additional upgrades in 2018 keeps it contemporary with neutral tones, granite counters, and slate-tile bathrooms. Included in the small amenity fee are Wi-Fi, breakfast, bike rental, and beach equipment. Every room has an oceanfront terrace, except for rooms 30–35, which are slightly more affordable. The swimming pool and breakfast lounge are bonus spots for relaxation. For more space and privacy, request one of the four corner units. 

Those looking for desert landscapes and some stargazing—guests must be 21 or older—may enjoy the adobe Southwestern-style buildings here that house spacious rooms, which boasts plenty of natural light, original art, pine beds, and corner fireplaces. Rooms also feature desert gardens of mesquite, ocotillo, and creosote right outside. Every room opens onto its own on the enclosed garden, which includes chaises, chairs, and a table. The high-desert hot tubs add a romantic touch. For more space, request the cozy casita.

This beautifully landscaped inn on a 3-acre hilltop is cordial and romantic, with knotty-pine ceilings, Laura Ashley accents, and rooms with nice touches, such as fireplaces or wood stoves and private entrances. The property has terraced rose gardens and a gazebo surrounded by oaks, and there are plenty of books, movies, and board games to pass the time. If you're making a meal, you can store your food in a guest pantry with refrigerator.

Sea and sand loom large at this Hilton property, where the fitness center has an ocean view and guest rooms have sitting areas so you can easily enjoy the sea views and breezes when you're not exploring South Carlsbad State Park nearby. Most rooms have pool or partial ocean views, and the small spa is inspired by the healing powers of the sea. The beach is just across the highway, but most guests find themselves drawn to the pool, firepits, and live music after dark (weekends in summer). Chandler's Restaurant offers a locally sourced menu and popular happy hour, when you can watch the sun settle into the sea while sipping a martini.

In the heart of Carlsbad village, this sprawling inn and time-share condominium complex is popular with families and has a variety of rooms, ranging from cramped to large, including many with ocean views, balconies, and kitchenettes, and some with fireplaces and Jacuzzis. Public areas—a lobby with a library with overstuffed sofas and chairs—are warmed by big rock fireplaces. The entire facility surrounds brilliant seasonal gardens and a small pool that faces the ocean. The property offers a schedule of activities that includes a beach cabana fully equipped with toys in summer, and crafts classes.

Enter by way of a long driveway lined with olive trees, past the automatic gates, and suddenly you’re in a Mediterranean-inspired neighborhood of freestanding bungalows that overlook the vineyards and mountains. Exquisitely designed in hues of white, cream, and royal blue, each bungalow has a lounge area, fireplace, and enormous marble bathroom. The pool, room service, and tasting room (tastings from $25) give little need to leave this pleasant property, but, if you want to explore South Coast Winery Resort, the neighboring sister property, a complimentary shuttle transports guests to their spa, gym, and restaurant; charges can be signed back to your room at Carter Estate.

Close proximity to the beach and train, coupled with plenty of modern amenities, make this SoCal-style Marriott a great Oceanside option. The well-maintained property has just about everything you need for a North County holiday including spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, ergonomic workstations, HDTVs, and mini-refrigerators. Guests can grab a bite to eat at Bistro (complete with a Starbucks), or relax on the terrace by the pool and firepits. Additional perks include an on-site gym and market, free parking, and a business center.

It's proximity to highways 78 and 5 make it a great base for anyone wanting to be near Marine Base Camp Pendleton or the SoCal Sports Complex.

Owners Laura and Mike opened the most romantic estate in Temecula to bring exclusivity, perfection, and a splash of Tuscany to the heart of San Diego’s wine country. A bottle of wine, produced on-site by Mike, soaking tubs, walk-in closets, marble showers, and a full organic breakfast (delivered to your room) await guests. Enter the gates and prepare to be awed with manicured gardens and a stone mansion connecting their main residence to three private suites, ranging in size from 400 to 600 square feet. While there’s no shared common area, privacy is pinnacle with individual patios overlooking the five-acre vineyard. Bathroom amenities infuse lavender and other herbs from the onsite garden. As an interior designer, Laura curated every inch of the elegant property, right down to the hand-painted floors; while Mike, a landscaping architect and wine maker, unveiled his craft from first step to final sipping. Each morning, hot air balloons float above the vineyard, meaning you capture the moment in the comfort of your bathrobe with an espresso in hand. A behind-the-vines tour and other elevating tasting experiences are available upon request.

Mind-blowing indulgence in serene surroundings, from drop-dead-gorgeous guest accommodations to myriad outdoor adventures, sets the opulent Mediterranean-style Fairmont Grand Del Mar apart from any other luxury hotel in San Diego. Inspired by the palaces of Spain and the villas of France, the resort is set in a secluded canyon surrounded by the 4,100-acre Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve; every window, deck, patio, balcony, and lawn affords a view of the surrounding mountains. Guests can hike tree-lined trails and dip their toes in streams, fish-filled ponds, or waterfalls, or take advantage of the resort's four pools (playing classical music underwater), and the Tom Fazio–designed golf course. Marble, crystal, gold, brocaded corner love seats, fine European linens, crystal lamps, and marble bathrooms with separate soaking tubs and showers—and more—embellish the guest rooms. If you need a lot of space, request one of the 5,000-square-foot royal villas that feature three bedrooms, 4½ baths, state-of-the-art kitchens, and sweeping entertainment areas. Among the resort's many amenities are complimentary shuttle service (within 14 miles), child care during spa treatments, and an equestrian center. 

Built in 1897 by freed slave Albert Robinson and his wife, Margaret, this old hotel is Julian's only designated national landmark and the oldest operating hotel in Southern California. The hotel offers antique-filled rooms with American period pieces, canopy beds, and handmade quilts. Cottage accommodations have private entrances, claw-foot tubs, and cast-iron fireplaces. Owners Steve and Gig Ballanger brought the old place into the 21st century, but it still feels thoroughly Victorian—afternoon tea is served and guests are invited to linger on the porch and watch the world go by. Complimentary full breakfast is served 8–9:30 in the parlor.

Near shops, this small hotel is a replica of the late-19th-century Washington Hotel. Fronted by wild blackberry bushes, rooms and public spaces are furnished with lovely antiques, beautiful cotton quilts, and historical photographs. This property is a favorite with hikers hitting the Pacific Crest Trail who utilize the hotel's laundry service and community supply box during hiking season.  

An $11 million remodel in 2021 revamped this oceanfront luxury hotel, taking it from beach cottage to coastal modern with subdued colors, contemporary pieces, and an elevated vibe reminding you that you're in Del Mar. From the lobby reminiscent of a chic living room, to the guest rooms in warm hues of tan, ivory, and gray, the hotel spared no expense in comfort or design. Balconies face the ocean and pool where guests lounge in private cabanas. Active travelers can surf 15th Street (there's surfboard rental next door), hike neighboring Torrey Pines, or hop on one of the complimentary beach cruisers to explore historic Del Mar. For wellness by the sea, book a facial, wrap, or massage at the on-site spa, where treatments integrate seaweed extract and other nourishing marine-based minerals. The pool-view, ocean-driven restaurant, Adelaide, has the power to eat away your day as you sip cocktails and dip into fresh ceviche.

Even though it has changed hands multiple times since it was first built in 1933, Casa del Zorro is still a secret desert hideaway for those looking for spacious and comfortable accommodations—many with private pools, surrounded by gorgeous desert mountains. Huge rooms have desert views from balconies and fireplaces for cool winter nights. Bathrooms, done in granite and glass, are bright and modern. Resort facilities include a restaurant, bikes, yoga, tennis courts, five pools, and a spa.

The slogan in the lobby, “Paddle your own canoe” sets the tone at this maritime-themed hotel reminiscent of a lake house with subtle nautical touches and private patios overlooking the marina or pool. On the shores of San Marcos lake, this property is ideally located between coastal Oceanside and inland Escondido. Select from pool-side cottages or marina suites with plenty of complimentary perks including coffee, paddleboards, kayaks, and s'more kits for roasting on the open fires. For dining, there’s room service, the Canteen café, and The Grill on the golf course half a mile away.

This is the place for the family that eats, sleeps, and lives LEGO; check out the neighboring LEGOLAND Castle Hotel with rooms themed around knights, dragons, wizards, and royal princesses. Family rooms are themed LEGO Friends, LEGO NINJAGO, Pirate, Adventure, and Kingdom, with corresponding LEGO-style decor, and each room offers a separate kids' sleeping area with bunk beds, a TV with kid-friendly programming, abundant LEGOs, and a sign that says, "Adult explorers Keep Out!" There are build-me LEGO structures and puzzles throughout the property, as well as interactive play areas, a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.

In 2021, Oceanside awakened with major redevelopment due in part to this beachfront boutique hotel across from the pier, which beckons young couples with perfect martinis, chill vibes, and sleek water-facing rooms. Built with thoughtful preservation, modern beautification, and an entrepreneurial spirit, this Hyatt property at the heart of the Mission Avenue Improvement Project joined with Oceanside Museum of Art to curate the artwork, and with Baja’s Chef Roberto Alcocer’s at the fine-dining Valle. To step up the energy, head to the Rooftop Bar, or simply catch some waves in front of the hotel. For spa services, head across the street to its sister property, The Seabird, and sign charges back to your room.

Just 40 steps from the sand, bring your kids (furry or not) to this delightful pet- and family-friendly hotel where the staff go out of their way to please guests. The property features 13 different room types—multibedroom villas, suites, and studios—that come equipped with full kitchens with stainless steel appliances, white wooden floors, distressed furniture, and hints of lime and turquoise. Families and friends of four should request No. 107, a precious two-bedroom unit with a wraparound porch, wainscoting ceiling, Dutch doors, and ocean views. Adirondack chairs frame a heated pool and Jacuzzi where you can listen to the crashing waves while you catch some rays. Guests have access to a fitness center, Weber grills, firepits, a laundry room, surfboards, beach gear, Starbucks coffee, and putting green. The gazebo with misters cools off a hot summer day, and the simple breakfast and healthy snacks make for happy bellies.

This chic Spanish colonial oasis on 400 tree-shaded acres has ample guest rooms, two golf courses, and is known for being family-friendly, with plenty of kids' activities (including a kids' club, a game room, eight swimming pools, three waterslides, and a water play zone). Guest rooms are in shades of brown and sand with oversize chairs and sofas, while public rooms feature open-beam ceilings and leather furnishings. Among the six dining options is Bob's Steak & Chop House serving fine wines and large cuts of prime steak, chops, and seafood. There is a large tennis center, a family entertainment area, a shopping complex, a wellness spa, and two PGA championship golf courses. Marketplace is convenient for those grab-and-go lunches to enjoy poolside.

On a hill above town, this true country inn experience with a lodge and 12 Craftsman-style cottages offers luxurious accommodations decorated with antiques, original art, and handcrafted quilts, complemented by sweeping views of the countryside; some of the cottage suites have see-through fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, sitting areas, and private patios or balconies. Within the main lodge are slightly more affordable rooms with a coffee bar shared between each floor. Guests gather in the late afternoon for wine and hors d'oeuvres in the Great Room, where a fire blazes in the stone fireplace; breakfast is included and dinner is served weekends to guests only at an extra $55 charge.

As one of the most luxurious hotels in San Diego, this retreat completed a $50 million resort-wide transformation in 2020, with redesigned rooms, a new lobby, family pool with water park, luxury cabanas, and three new restaurants including Ember & Rye by celebrity chef Richard Blais. It's a play-and-relax haven with an Arnold Palmer–designed golf course, a tennis club, two pools, and views overlooking Batiquitos Lagoon and the Pacific among its 250 acres. The 540-square-foot rooms are remarkably spacious and feature every possible amenity including private terraces with water views and deep soaking tubs. The romantic Couple’s Suite has a semiprivate whirlpool spa courtyard, Swiss shower, and fireplace for the ultimate relaxation. Despite the lavishly appointed grounds, the resort is exceptionally family-friendly. Children have their own pool, nature walks, surf lessons, and VIP LEGOLAND tours. A shopping shuttle transports guests to the Carlsbad Outlets, and a beach shuttle makes a daily trip to Moonlight Beach in Encinitas during the summer upon request.

Dinner at Ember & Rye or a pampering treatment at the Aviara Spa are worth the splurge.

Comfortable and relaxed digs offer vineyard and garden views and are modeled after the Carmel Mission with lots of dark wood, massive doors, leather furnishings, and open spaces. Spanish-tile stairways lead to fountain courtyards and arched entries where Bouquet restaurant serves breakfast and dinner in the garden. Request a room in the newer wing where rooms have private sitting areas; separating the two sections is a swimming pool with pool bar offering service May–October.

The gorgeous, flower-decked 265-acre grounds draw a sophisticated clientele looking for a golf and spa getaway. Public areas throughout the resort are a collection of fountains, pools, and small sitting rooms, where Spanish mission–style sofas and fireplaces invite you to linger with a good book, and guest rooms hold platform beds tucked into corner upholstered banquettes, and great fairway or garden views are visible from private patios or balconies. A spa, complete with a saline pool, holds the ultimate treatment rooms: shuttered and heated garden casitas, where you can relax under the sun to the tune of moving water. Day passes ($75) are available to nonresort guests Monday–Thursday. The resort boasts the fine-dining venue, AVANT. Many guests select this property for the public 18-hole championship golf course that has hosted both PGA and LPGA events.

Elegant and luxurious two-level, hacienda-style casitas—appointed with corner fireplaces, luxurious bathrooms, and shuttered French doors leading to private patios—are nestled among 45 acres in one of Southern California's most affluent neighborhoods. Each of the 900- to 1350-square-foot units feels like a private home, with wood-beamed ceilings, hardwood floors, steam showers, and hand-painted tile bathrooms. Big spenders can reserve the three-bedroom hacienda for around $7,000 a night. Throughout the gated grounds are tennis courts, walking trails, and the enchanting spa with an adjacent fitness center, two pools, yoga pavilion, and Pilates studio. Daily resort activities range from tequila tastings and lawn croquet to fireside s'mores and yoga for kids. Stop by the Pony Room for cocktails and lunch. Privacy, though, is the amenity cherished by many guests of Valencia, who have included Bill Gates, Barack Obama, Tiger Woods, and Bill Clinton.

Accommodations in this three-story resort popular with golfers are clean, pleasant, and have mountain or golf-course views from balconies or patios. Perks include a driving range, heated pool, equestrian center, a spa, and two playgrounds. You can dine in the bright and airy Oaks Grill every day but Monday. The Par Lounge is locally popular for lunch and dinner.

At Temecula's largest winery, this resort offers your choice of a private villa or hotel room in the tower building, all surrounded by 38 acres of vineyards. Most guests opt for a villa, each designed for privacy with no common walls or entrances, with sweeping views of mountains and sky from a private patio. Back doors open onto trails that wind through vineyards and orchards, ideal for guests who travel with happy hounds; each dog is welcomed with a "sWag Bag" and owners are treated to a bottle of wine. There are hand-painted frescoes, in-room fireplaces, oversize marble bathrooms, and small dining areas. In the tower building, an additional 50 rooms are slightly less private but more affordable than the villas. The resort also has a spa with 22 treatment rooms and a saltwater pool. The resort offers a number of packages that make it a value choice when staying in the Temecula wine country.

This property sprawls over 360 acres, and rooms have private patios or balconies that overlook the resort's championship golf course. Renovated rooms are decorated in resort-lodge style, with soothing earth tones and plush furniture, while upper campus rooms are slightly more affordable; among these it's worth splurging for a corner premium suite with a wraparound balcony and mountain views or for privacy and space, request the three-bedroom Creek House. The restaurant, Cork Fire Kitchen, which serves California farm-to-table cuisine, has an inviting outdoor seating area and garden from which ingredients are harvested daily.

Guests can take advantage of three different level tracks at Temecula Creek Inn’s 27-hole golf course.

Offering a lovely hillside setting for an escape to the wine country, this B&B has additional lodging in the newer Spanish-style casitas at neighboring Bolero. Each room delights guests with old-world charm and modern amenities, while providing the perfect spot to unplug and watch the world—and hot-air balloons—go by. Most of the attractive, spacious rooms open to balconies, where one can take in sweeping views of vineyards and orchards. Complimentary perks include gourmet breakfast, daily wine, Wi-Fi, and a hot-tub terrace with panoramic views.