35 Best Hotels in Orange County and Catalina Island, California

Stacked neatly on the rocky hillside at the north end of Laguna’s Main Beach, Casa Loma Beach Hotel is the only hotel offering unrivaled ocean views steps from Main Beach and Downtown Laguna Beach. Just park your car and walk to restaurants, shops, cafés and Laguna museums. The property-wide renovation was completed in Summer 2024, and pays homage to this region’s creative heritage with a Tulum, Mexico vibe, tapping into the beachside tones and textures of its surrounding landscape.

The hotel's daily $35 nightly amenity fee includes fresh baked cookies in the evening, access to the heated pool, whirlpool and cabanas, plus high-speed internet. Up on the fifth floor the Pacific Terrace rooftop overlooks the scenic beach town. Later in the evening fire pits are lit and the area provides a romantic vibe. Rooms have a beachy feel with ceiling fans, and most have full or partial ocean views and balconies. The pillow-top mattresses and luxurious European linens heighten one's sleep. There's a beach valet to set out chairs and umbrellas. Pets 40 pounds or less are welcome with a nonrefundable $100 deposit.

Near the entrance to both Disney parks, families love coming back to this hotel after visiting the parks to play in the Surfside Waterpark. The colorful fun splash zone, waterslides, and a heated swimming pool, is not typical of Courtyard by Marriott. Rooms with microwaves, mini-refrigerators, coffee makers, and sturdy bunk beds cater to groups and families. Room options include ADA suites, and spacious king suites with two sets of bunk beds. The double queen suites also have bunks that accommodate six people. The water park and some guest rooms overlook Disneyland's iconic Matterhorn; other rooms have views of the firework shows. There is a Life Fitness center open all day, and a Bistro that provides quick breakfast, lunch, and dinner items to sit and enjoy before heading back across the street to the Disney parks. A souvenir and mini-mart on the lobby level offers snacks, drinks, and Disney-themed apparel and accessories.

The most opulent of Disneyland's three hotels, the Craftsman-style Grand Californian offers views of Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney. Guests enjoy sitting in the lobby in rocking chairs with a drink and small bites by a crackling fire. The orange-blossom tree theme guest rooms have wood floors, plenty of outlets for charging devices, and sleeping chairs and bench beds for families. Some guest rooms look out onto Downtown Disney, while others have views of the pools and woods. There are also club-level rooms and one to three bedroom suites with access to the hotel's concierge club. This elegant 6th floor concierge room offers helpful service, plus complimentary food, treats, drinks, and afternoon tea. Wine, desserts, and firework viewing is offered in the evening.

Restaurants include the refreshed Napa Rose, Hearthstone Lounge and Storytellers Cafe. Overlooking the multiple swimming pools is Craftsman Grill for all-day dining and Craftsman Lounge offering a lunch and dinner menu.

Tanya Stone Spa is inspired by the spirits of nature. When the spa was built, the designers repurposed the wood from this site to create the beautiful flooring.

Guests can enter both parks 30 minutes earlier than everyone else not staying at one of the Disneyland Hotels.

Fun Fact: There are hidden Mickeys and the faces of Chip and Dale in the pretty poppy theme carpeting throughout the hotel, and on a clockface of a grandfather clock near the Arts-and-Crafts-style wood-panel lobby.

Staying at one of the happiest places on Earth is almost as fun as visiting both Disney parks. The lobby has giant teacup seating, and a memorabilia wall of historical photos featuring Walt and Roy Disney breaking ground to build this imaginative land. There are four different towers: Fantasy Tower, Adventure Tower, and the new Discovery Tower Villas offering more of the comforts of home. In the Fantasy and Adventure Towers, guest rooms have blue and gold theme carpeting, plus wood wall reliefs above the bed of Sleeping Beauty's castle; push a button and a firework display of white lights appear above the castle, while soft Disney theme music plays. The Adventure Tower offers Signature Suites that include a Mickey Mouse Suite, an Adventure Suite with clawfoot bathtub, and a Pirates of the Caribbean suite. The newer Discovery Villas offer a variety of themed guest rooms with magical touches. These rooms are available to the public until they sell out with Vacation Club owners.

After exploring the Disney parks, come back to the tropical oasis pool area offering two towering monorail theme waterslides, a fun water play area, two different swimming pools, and Mickey and Minnie hot whirlpools. Disney characters join in the fun, greeting guests throughout the day during the summer.

Dining options include the Polynesian Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar, and Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar and Grill. Goofy's Kitchen offers all-you-can-eat buffets with character meet-and-greet opportunities.

Located one block from the beach in the heart of Avalon, Hotel Atwater originally opened in 1920 and was recently redesigned in 2019, offering an impeccable sense of style and Catalina Island memorabilia. The hotel honors Helen Atwater Wrigley (daughter-in-law of famed local William Wrigley). Splits of champagne await in each guest room mini refrigerator, as a nod to her favorite before-bedtime beverage. Explore the soaring lobby to see two of Helen's prized instruments: a Dellape Stradella and a golden harp. There are curio cabinets filled with photos of the Wrigley family and an old bank safe filled with books and board games for guests to borrow during their stay.

The exceptional attention to detail includes a color palate of cream, blues, greens, and a pop of Garibaldi orange. Views from the rooms include Avalon Bay, Catalina Canyon, and businesses below. There is a $40 destination fee per room per night includes a split of sparkling wine; a $20 credit per day for Catalina Island Company restaurants; 15% off Catalina Island Company activities and tours; Wi-Fi; the use of beach towels; and luggage service to and from the ferry terminal in Avalon. The Bistro at the Atwater offers coffee and pastries in the morning and grab-and-go items for a picnic on the beach.

A boutique hotel with a playful modern nautical theme throughout that downplays the corporate, the highlight here is the TopSail rooftop pool and bar that offers panoramic views of the harbor complemented by craft cocktails. The Watercraft Market + Lounge offers breakfast (try the surprisingly good breakfast burritos), all-day dining, and snacks. The hotel is nestled in the Pike, which a century ago was an oceanfront amusement park with a wooden roller coaster; today it hosts convenient and tempting outlet stores and restaurants alongside a Ferris wheel and carousel.

The appealing Andalusian design of this sprawling resort incorporates arched courtyards, beautiful tiled fountains, and flickering firepits. Nearly all the spacious upper floor rooms have a balcony with ocean views. There are 12 deluxe rooms near the main pool with private firepits. This Hyatt Regency offers 57 two- and three-bedroom suites ideal for multigenerational families. Guests enjoy the exclusive beach access via a bridge over the Pacific Coast Highway and SHOR concession stand. Set up your beach chair and have food and beverages, wine and cocktails delivered to your chair. In the evening Hyatt Regency has bonfires in the sand for hot chocolate and s'mores. 

There are multiple pool areas including a swimming lagoon, bubbling whirlpools, three waterslides, a kiddie wading pool, and a seasonal snack bar. Watertable is the onsite eatery offering elevated fare for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a day at Pacific Waters Spa for a special body treatment, facial, or massage. There are 17 treatment rooms, a dry sauna, steam rooms, hot whirlpools, and waterfall showers. Other resort activities include swimming like a mermaid: rent a mermaid magic tail for a great core workout, plus during the summer a mermaid will meet and greet guests, and offer swim instruction and photo opportunities. Over at Slyders Pool there are three exciting waterslides, a children's wading pool, cabanas, two firepits and a hot tub. Families can feed the colorful koi fish near the entrance of the Pacific Waters Spa. Reserve a Pacific Views firepit at the heated lagoon-design Mankota's Pool during sunset. Order a mai tai or favorite beverage to sip while watching the sun dip into the sea.

This beloved resort-style low-slung Newport hotel offers 26 lushly landscaped acres overlooking the Back Bay. The casually elegant architecture appeals to travelers weary of high-rise hotels. Most rooms, suites and private 3+3 villas have patios or balconies. There's a complimentary 9-hole golf course for guests, and access to lighted tennis and pickle ball courts. One of the three swimming pools is a family pool featuring waterslides and a water play area for little ones. Take one of the complimentary cruiser-style bicycles and ride along the back bay on a paved bike nature trail for wildlife and water views. The signature SHOR American Seafood Grill offers a Southern California coastal-inspired menu. The first weekend in June, the resort is home to the annual Newport Beach Jazz Festival. This dog-friendly Hyatt has a $150 pet fee.

This family-friendly hacienda-style boutique hotel is located across the street from the famed San Juan Capistrano Mission. This property incorporates the history of the area with glass mission bell lighting fixtures and equestrian decor and art. There are 72 Mission olive trees located throughout the Adobe, Monterey, and Spanish Revival--theme guest rooms and suites. All rooms have luxurious linens on the beds, high ceilings, walk-in showers, and separate bathtubs. In some of the rooms there are fire pits on the patios, and some have balconies overlook the ruins of the Great Stone Church and Mission. The on-site restaurant Ysidora presents a Spanish-themed menu, with options like hot and cold tapas, wood-fired seafood, local meats, and seasonal produce. After a day exploring the charming town, take a dip in the heated swimming pool or visit the fitness center or on-site spa with four treatment rooms. There is a daily $45 destination amenity fee added to the room rate. Guests receive a daily $45 food and beverage credit, and general admission to Mission San Juan Capistrano for two guests per stay. Guests can also take beach cruisers out for two hours to explore the town by bicycle. 

Just blocks from Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center, this newer luxury four-diamond hotel is the first and only JW Marriott in Orange County. Off the open lobby bar is a swimming pool terrace with cabanas to relax in after a day in the parks. The on-site dining includes Tocca Ferro Italian Chophouse, where the chefs grill proteins and makes their own pasta and sauces. The best sunset view spot at the resort is at Parkestry Rooftop Bar. Enjoy a cocktail and light bites while taking in the panoramic Anaheim views and Disney's firework show. Splurge to stay on the 10th floor for access to the Executive Lounge for a full breakfast in the morning and snacks and beverages throughout the day. A $30 daily destination fee is added to the room rate. It does include a $30 hotel food and beverage credit, enhanced high-speed Internet, and wine tasting for two at Tocca Ferro.

This surfer-style boutique Kimpton hotel is the closest hotel to the Huntington Beach Pier, beach, and Main Street. It's an ideal hotel for couples, families, and the hipster-surfer crowd. The lobby is the heart of the hotel, offering a Ping-Pong table, the Pacific Hideaway restaurant, and lounge areas. Every Wednesday they offer $15 burgers all day with the purchase of beer, wine or a cocktail. Rooms are bright and stylish with surfer-themed art, flat-screen TVs, and a yoga mat and print robes in the closet. There is a vinyl record player and plenty of records to check out at the front desk. Some rooms have ocean views, and all guests have access to a 24-hour fitness center, Wi-Fi, and a cozy courtyard with firepits where guests can roast s'mores. Take one of the complimentary Kimpton custom-designed beach cruiser bikes for a spin. Store your board in the hotel's surf locker. Off-season rates are considerably lower than in summer.

This Marriott Autograph Collection resort is located at the gateway of the exclusive Lido Island and three blocks from the beach. Modeled after a New England--style beach house, the Cape Cod decor is cheerful with hints of nautical from the high-gloss hardwood floors in the lobby to the blown-glass chandeliers in the restaurant. Miniature yacht models are found throughout, along with playful decor such as a partying mermaid and octopus mural near the elevator.

The lively rooftop named Topside is the only rooftop lounge in the area where locals and guests gather for sunset cocktails. There is a full service bar, and a vibrant sound system for live music.

Guest rooms offer comfy beds and flip-flops instead of slippers for a beach house vibe. There is a heated swimming pool and hot whirlpool to unwind and relax after a day at the beach or boating in nearby Newport Harbor. Five on-site cottages cater to families with two bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and rooftop views. Pets are welcome for a $150 per room, per stay fee.

The onsite Boost Spa is near the fitness center and pool area. Dine at The Mayor's Table Pacific Pub + Kitchen for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant partners with Champagne brand Piper-Heidsieck to make their own Champagne blend.

Built on a picturesque coastal bluff above the Pacific Ocean and Treasure Island Beach, this elegant Craftsmen-style resort features 30 acres of grassy lawns, soft sand beaches, and a stunning mosaic tile swimming pool. Decorated in sophisticated soft coastal colors, guest rooms, suites, and large cottages balance ease and refinement. Every room has an ocean view from its patio or balcony, and an extra-deep bathtub. Of the restaurants, The Loft offers sweeping panoramic ocean views and a refined California-inspired contemporary menu. Locals and guests enjoy lunch and sunset dining  at the newly refreshed Mosaic Bar and Grille. The lobby lounge is popular to greet friends for for pre-dinner and after-dinner drinks. This pet-friendly resort charges a nonrefundable $220 fee for well-mannered dogs and cats weighing under 45 pounds staying in patio rooms. The resort fee includes a complimentary Cadillac car rental program. 

Experience the golden age of transatlantic travel without the seasickness: 1936 art deco style reigns on the Queen Mary, from the ship's mahogany paneling to its nickel-plated doors to the majestic Grand Salon. Docked for more than 50 years, the on-ship hotel attracts a mix of tourists and those attending events in the floating hotel's many party spaces. There are plenty of nighttime diversions, from a range of restaurants and the heavenly silver Observation Bar to paranormal tours, theatrical events, and jazz shows (check to see what's on during your stay). Holidays are big on the Queen Mary; New Year's Eve and July 4 are famously spectacular. Sunday brunch in the Grand Salon is a step back in time.

On an oceanfront bluff with an unparalleled view of the Pacific Ocean, you'll find the Ritz's signature top-tier service. On-site dining options offering oceanfront views include renowned chef Richard Sandoval's Pan-Latin RAYA restaurant with its coastal cuisine and elegant ambiance; KAHANI, a modern Indian fusion culinary journey; and Taikun Omakase, offering a curated 16-course one-of-a-kind dining experience. Sunset cocktails are to be sipped at 180blu. Book a massage or facial at the newly refreshed two-story spa near the ocean-view fitness center. Stroll down perfectly manicured trails to the popular public white-sand beach or take one of the beach shuttles to Salt Creek Beach and walk along the picturesque coastline. This playful luxury resort has an on-site EcoAdventure Center to reserve a whale-watching trip, e-bike rental, surf lesson or round of golf.

Resort fees include a beach shuttle ride down to the beach with beach butler service. Guests have use of umbrellas, towels, and beach chairs; unlimited use of tennis and pickleball courts and rackets; discount golf tee times at Monarch Beach Golf Links. Pets are welcome for a $150 pet fee, per room for up to two pets. The main swimming pool has been recently refreshed. There are two new two-bedroom and two-bathroom ocean front penthouse suites. Some rooms have a firepit on the patio. This hotel is dog friendly.

Located on an exquisite stretch of beach with picturesque thundering waves, this is a luxury getaway for those seeking surf, sand, and sun. The new refresh in all the guest rooms and suites includes tranquil coastal colors, private glass balconies for even better ocean views, and plush beds within earshot of the calming sea The fully refreshed spa offers wellness massages and facials. Dine at the on-site Splashes Restaurant and Bar for endless ocean views and top-notch seasonal California fresh cuisine; start with a beverage at sunset on the outdoor deck before enjoying their signature lobster bisque, freshly shucked oysters, grilled seafood, and petite filet steaks. The inviting pool, whirlpool and deck area offers ocean views, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable about local events. 

Centrally located, this newly renovated Marriott resort is across the street from the popular Fashion Island shopping-and-dining complex. Request a guest room with a balcony or sliding door facing the ocean. Not only will you appreciate the golf course views of the Newport Beach Country Club, but the rooms higher up also have spectacular Newport Harbor and Catalina Island vistas. There are plenty of ways to pamper yourself here: indulge in a massage at the full-service spa, drink cocktails at a poolside cabana, or the lounge with a digital aquarium ceiling. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner onsite at the hotel's VIEW Restaurant and Lounge.

This family-friendly hotel offers spacious guest rooms, two swimming pools, and Disney magic throughout, from the blue fiberglass-and-resin life-size Star Wars Stormtroopers who greet guests arriving from the parking garage to the whimsical Fantasia-style hallway carpet. Some of the guest rooms have bunk beds and the views of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park. It's less than a 2-mile walk or drive to Disneyland and the Convention Center. The ground floor heated swimming pool is family friendly and adults prefer the exclusive rooftop pool near the lounge and fine dining "Top of The V" food and beverage venue. It's a great spot for magnificent views of both Disney Parks, the city of Anaheim and those Disneyland fireworks. Pets are welcome. There is a $150 nonrefundable pet fee per room per stay.

Set on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, step into the Waldorf Astoria's grand lobby to take in an impressive view of the Monarch Pool, 18-hole Monarch Beach Golf Links, and the Pacific Ocean beyond. The extra large Monarch pool deck has luxury cabanas, and two infinity edge saline hot tubs angled for optimal views. Near the full service spa is another swimming pool for laps. The large refreshed guest rooms have spacious patios and balconies or balconies with views of the golf course, lush landscaping, or ocean. Some of the ground floor rooms have a private fire pit. Dining options include celebrity chef Michael Mina's Bourbon Steak, an elegant show-stopping restaurant serving modern, seasonally influenced seafood dishes and expertly prepared dry aged beef. The restaurant's wine selection is among the best along the coast, and the service is impeccable. Aveo Table + Bar highlights all-day Mediterranean cuisine or take a complimentary electric shuttle ride to the casual Monarch Cafe, a favorite for golfers and guests looking for casual fare. Stay on the shuttle for a ride through the golf course and monarch butterfly sanctuary garden to the private Monarch Bay Beach Club. It's a popular spot during the day and at sunset, offering coastal fare, craft cocktails and local beers. There are surf and paddle boards, beach volleyball, and plenty of chairs. The resort fee includes complimentary wellness classes with the sounds of waves crashing nearby, beach games and activities, house bicycles with self-guided tours, and discounted fees at Monarch Beach Gold Links. This is a pet-friendly property, however guests must pay a nonrefundable pet fee starting at $200.

This English Tudor looking hotel is a little prince or princess's dream. It's the castle of Princess Corinne and her white dragon friend named Shadow. She is friends with all of the nearby Disney Princesses, and her story is featured in the lobby and on each floor. Outside there is a pretty rose garden, white gazebo garden, and movie night on the lawn during the summer. Fountains and a pond with koi fish and ducks are serene water features. Princess Corinne invites guests to join her for fireside story time at the grand fireplace lounge on certain evenings, and visits guests on the weekend during Garden Court Bistro's breakfast buffet. She also will come tuck little ones in and read them a bedtime story in the evening. Rooms are sizable; some first-floor rooms open onto interior gardens and a pool area. Some premium rooms have royal headboards and others have castle bunk beds among misty forest walls. A complimentary Dream Machine shuttle takes guests to the entrance of Disney theme parks. Pets are welcome for an additional fee. The on-site Hanagi Japanese Restaurant is open at 5 pm, offering fresh sushi and an interactive hot pot and shabu-shabu Wednesday through Sunday.

This waterfront resort offers contemporary coastal elegance and one of the best harbor bay views, especially from the spacious bay-view guest rooms. Locals and guests gather at the lively A + O restaurant and bar to take in the pleasing sea breezes while overlooking million-dollar yachts. The resort offers a variety of land and sea wellness and enrichment activities. There is a sparkling swimming pool in the center of the hotel with poolside cabanas and daybeds. Rent a Duffy electric boat or stand-up paddleboard from the resort's private marina. The lawn area next to the marina is a popular spot for weddings, and there is a spa exclusive to hotel guests. Take one of the hotel bicycles for a spin to explore Newport Beach. Dogs are welcome with a non-refundable $200 one-time fee.

This family-built and -owned hotel is steps from Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park, and offers four different room categories (with some spacious enough to accommodate six guests). Some rooms have two queen beds, while others have a king bed and two queen beds. Rooms have two sinks conveniently in different areas for quicker mornings out the door to explore the parks. There is a castle theme pool area with a small kids pool, whirlpool, and swimming pool, plus tower lounge areas. There is no on-site restaurant, but there are a variety of dining venues next door and nearby. Guest parking is free.

This newly refreshed inn in the canyon is a quiet alternative to the hotels along the bustling waterfront. Swim in the heated pool after a day touring the island, and dine at the onsite Sunset Bar and Grill. A shuttle will take you into Avalon and down to the boat terminal.

This newly renovated Hilton Hotel is attached to the Anaheim Convention Center and is about a 15-minute walk to Disneyland, Downtown Disney, and Disney California Adventure. It's the largest Hilton hotel in Orange County. With its proximity to Disneyland, guest rooms have views of the Disney Parks and fireworks on certain nights. The refreshed heated outdoor swimming pool, deck and kid's splash zone is ideal after a day at the parks. This hotel is very popular with large groups with its extensive meeting and event spaces.

A great value for Long Beach, the family-owned, European-style Hotel Royal makes up for in kindness what it lacks in fancy extras. Think free breakfast, a lively wine happy hour, and free bike rentals. The hotel was built in 1923 in the art deco style and is in the center of Long Beach's au courant East Village arts district. In keeping with the building's age, the small lobby and some of the rooms have exposed brick walls. If you really want to live your 1920s dream, you can even reserve a room with a built-in Murphy bed, which folds out of sight when you're not using it. The decor is somewhat uninspired, but for the price, the Royal has all you need. The studios, lofts, and suites are individually decorated. Some rooms have en suite private baths, while less-expensive options share a bathroom with other rooms on the floor. Some rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, but there's a fully stocked community kitchen, making this a perfect stop for families, larger groups who want to spend time together, or those who prefer to cook. While not oceanfront, the hotel is a 15-minute walk from the beach.

On the bay-facing Crescent Avenue, this third-floor property is steps from the beach, so complimentary towels, chairs, and umbrellas await guests as do rooms with balconies, views, and fireplaces. Rooms are aligned along a lovely glass-covered promenade; the two suites face the waterfront. A generous continental breakfast, nightly milk and cookies, and in-room fireplaces and whirlpool tubs make the hotel a popular spot for honeymooners and couples seeking a quiet getaway. Furnishings are traditional, including the popular wicker rocking chairs on the balcony.