The Best Oceanfront Hotels in Southern California

Booking a vacation to sunny California? While there are a ton of amazing hotel and resort options spread out across the county, staying right along the Pacific Coast Highway in Southern California is the best way to go. No matter what you are looking for, one thing is for sure – a breathtaking sunset every single evening. Here are a few of our favorite hotels to stay near the beach that will make your Southern California vacation truly unforgettable.
North Orange County
Pasea Hotel & Spa Huntington Beach
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
Highly Walkable
Pets Allowed
Oceanfront
Pasea Hotel & Spa is ready to accommodate any of your needs from weddings, meetings, and events to luxurious, treat-your-self vacations. The hotel has everything right at your fingertips – delicious food, beach access, spa and fitness centers, and live music. In case you’re traveling with the whole family, Pasea was even rated one of the best dog-friendly hotels in the US.
Balboa Bay Resort
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
Children Activites
Pets Allowed
Marina View
Balboa Bay Resort is a beautiful place to stay right along the Newport Beach Marina. This resort has a little something for everyone from spas and fitness rooms to days on the water or the golf course. Centrally located in the county, getting to Disneyland, local attractions, or the beach is a breeze.
South Orange County
Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
Tennis Court
Poolside Bar
Oceanview
Staying at Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas is a guaranteed great time for the whole family. Newport Coast Villas has a great selection of activities for every age, a fitness center, and volleyball and tennis courts. It’s also located by the beautiful Crystal Cove State Park which is ideal for hiking and swimming.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
87 Acre Canyon Oasis
Children Activites
Golf Course
As soon as you turn into The Ranch at Laguna Beach you will immediately see why it is named one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World. Nestled in a canyon, you will feel like you are somewhere completely out of this world. The Ranch offers its own golf course, spa center, pool, and dining options. If you can bring yourself to venture out of the resort, you are located in the charming Laguna Beach and can enjoy visiting all the galleries, locally-owned shops, and hanging out at some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Orange County.
14 West Boutique Hotel
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
Modern Studios
Centrally Located
The location of 14 West Boutique Hotel is almost impossible to beat. Laguna Beach offers too much to see in just one day so you will love the walkability of this hotel. After the beaches and the galleries, you will love relaxing in your modern studio.
Surf and Sand Resort
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
Pets Allowed
Oceanfront
Fitness Centers
Each room at Surf and Sand Resort in Laguna Beach offers an incredible view of the ocean so you can wake up to the waves crashing and never miss a sunset. Surf and Sand really takes it up a notch by having seasonal infusions into both their spa treatments, as well as, their culinary dishes. Their attention to detail is something you’ll love throughout your stay!
Capri Laguna on the Beach
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
Boutique Hotel
Pets Allowed
Kids Stay Free
Capri Laguna on the Beach is a charming boutique hotel that will keep your focus on the family. No matter what you’ve packed your day with, you’ll love to come back, relax, and enjoy the ocean view.
The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
Bay Views
Tennis Court
Babysitting
The Ritz-Carlton Resort in Laguna Niguel will truly show you all the beauty Southern California has to offer. Enjoy beach views, lay poolside, experience fine dining, and even watch the dolphins swim all without leaving the resort. Your stay at The Ritz-Carlton will be unforgettable.
Riviera Beach Resort
Trip Advisor Rating – 3.5 Stars
Oceanfront
Game Center
On-Site Grilling Areas
The Riviera Beach Resort is perfect for reconnecting with the whole family. Enjoy onsite game centers, an outdoor pool and spa, and grilling areas. The best part is, it’s just a quick walk to the beach!
San Clemente Cove
Trip Advisor Rating – 4.5 Stars
Oceanfront
Full Kitchen
Walk to Pier
Enjoy San Clemente at it’s finest with this oceanfront resort. Each room will make you feel right at home will full amenities offered in each studio or one-bedroom suite. Live like a local and enjoy all the activities that San Clemente Cove has planned to showcase the best of the city.