Fodor's Expert Review Stanford Inn by the Sea

This woodsy yet luxurious family-run property a few minutes south of town feels like the Northern California version of an old-time summer resort, with an ecologically friendly twist. Several lodge buildings house guest rooms that range from cozy to chic, many with ocean views, fireplaces, and paintings by local artists. On the spacious, dog-friendly grounds you'll find organic gardens, llamas, and a sandy river beach where you can rent a kayak or canoe and head 8 miles upriver. Yoga classes and in-room massages and body wraps are complemented by the sophisticated, all-organic vegetarian cuisine at The Ravens restaurant ($$–$$$). Breakfast is vegetarian, too.