Hi there!
I don’t subscribe to the idea that a hotel is just a place to sleep.
When I’m planning a trip (and, let’s be real, when the budget allows), I try to prioritize booking stays at hotels that have a little something extra. Think incredible design, cool amenities, or unique perks (like a nightly cookie delivery…more on that in a moment.)
I wanted to highlight three top California hotels that I’ve stayed at over the past couple of years. All of them happen to be boutique hotels!
Bookmark these spots if you need inspiration for your next chill getaway…or are currently planning a trip to Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Santa Ynez Valley, or Palm Desert.
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Why Stay Here: Book a room if you want a chill, sun-drenched escape! Plans include nothing more than lounging by the pool (drink in hand, of course) and an appointment or two at the spa.
This spot had been on my bucket list for quite some time. Last year, I decided it would be the perfect stay for my birthday weekend getaway to the desert!
Sands Hotel & Spa is a beautifully designed and perfectly pink boutique hotel in Indian Wells, right on the border of Palm Desert. The design blends a laid-back California style with Moroccan influences and hints of mid-century modern style.
The secluded, adults-only property has a dip-worthy pool, surrounded by very comfortable lounge chairs and cabanas.
Sands Hotel is also home to a very photo-worthy restaurant called The Pink Cabana (check out this reel for a closer look!). If you go, go for breakfast/brunch and order the French toast. I didn’t get anything to drink, but I’ve also heard they have excellent cocktails!
While it’s a bit of a drive from all of the fun things to do in Palm Springs, it’s an amazing place to stay if you’re craving a relaxing, sunny trip to the desert!
Read my review of Sands Hotel & Spa for more details.
Why Stay Here: The central location makes it ideal for a Carmel-by-the-Sea trip…you can walk to everything! With its chic design and amazing amenities, it’s also such a nice spot to come back to after a day of exploring Monterey County.
I stayed at Le Petit Pali at 8th Avenue a couple years ago during a multi-day trip to the area. I was sold as soon as I saw photos of the coastal grandma-chic aesthetic. It perfectly meshes with Carmel-by-the-Sea’s luxe yet laid-back vibe!
Beyond the eclectic and cozy design, something that really stood out during my stay were all of the extra touches. Think a glass of rose at check-in (ok fine, twist my arm), and delivery of freshly baked cookies every single night (and they were delicious)!
I also have to shout-out the breakfast service. They had really yummy pastries from Rise and Roam (a local bakery located right down the street), as well as fruit, hard-boiled eggs, granola, yogurt, and (actually good) coffee and tea. Breakfast is also served right by the fireplace in the lobby…lovely!
The location of Le Petit Pali also couldn’t be better. You can walk to all of the best restaurants and shops in Carmel, and Carmel Beach is just about a 15 to 20-minute stroll away. You are also a short drive from Point Lobos and the north end of Big Sur!
Read my review of Le Petit Pali at 8th Ave. for more details, and my Carmel-by-the-Sea weekend getaway guide to plan your trip.
Why Stay Here: This boutique hotel is a short drive away from some of the best wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley, as well as the cutest towns! The peaceful property is also an ideal place to relax and take in the beautiful natural scenery of the area.
Hotel Ynez was my hotel of choice during my latest trip to the Santa Ynez Valley. I had considered a few different hotels, but ultimately the peaceful property and laid-back yet sophisticated design won me over!
One thing that’s amazing about Hotel Ynez is that each room and suite has its own outdoor space. My room had a patio with a fire pit! It was such a nice detail that made the trip that much more relaxing. Other rooms have hammocks…I may want to book one of those next time!
There’s also a lovely shared outdoor space that is complete with fire pits, daybeds and chairs, and a bocce ball court. Watching the sunset from the gardens was the perfect way to end a day in the Santa Ynez Valley!
The interior design of Hotel Ynez is equally as lovely. I loved sitting by the fireplace in the lobby and looking through all the books and knickknacks on the bookshelves!
Read my review of Hotel Ynez for more details, and my Santa Ynez Valley guide to plan your trip.
That’s all for now. I’ll be back next month with some updates on the blog!
Happy travels!
Kyra, Sea to Sequoia
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