Southern California is a haven for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture vultures alike. With its stunning coastline, towering mountains and vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone in this sunny corner of the Golden State.
Los Angeles
The City of Angels is a sprawling metropolis that offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. From luxury hotels in the heart of downtown to charming bed and breakfasts in the charming Santa Monica neighborhood, there’s no shortage of places to lay your head in Los Angeles.
The best places to stay in Los Angeles for:
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles ($600+ per night)
- Mid-range: The Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles ($200-$300 per night)
- Budget: The Hollywood Roosevelt ($100-$200 per night)
San Diego
San Diego is a laid-back beach town with a rich history and culture. It’s home to some of the best beaches in the world, as well as world-class museums, attractions and restaurants. There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to choose from in San Diego, ranging from affordable motels to luxurious resorts.
The best places to stay in San Diego for:
- Beachfront: The Hotel del Coronado ($500+ per night)
- Downtown: The Omni San Diego Hotel ($200-$300 per night)
- Family-friendly: The Bahia Resort Hotel ($100-$200 per night)
Orange County
Orange County is a wealthy and diverse region that’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California. It’s also home to Disneyland, the Happiest Place on Earth. There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to choose from in Orange County, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxurious resorts.
The best places to stay in Orange County for:
- Disneyland: The Disneyland Hotel ($300+ per night)
- Beachfront: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel ($600+ per night)
- Luxury: The Montage Laguna Beach ($800+ per night)
Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a desert oasis that’s known for its stunning mountain views, world-class golf courses and luxurious resorts. It’s a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, and there are plenty of romantic hotels and vacation rentals to choose from.
The best places to stay in Palm Springs for:
- Luxury: The Parker Palm Springs ($500+ per night)
- Mid-range: The Saguaro Palm Springs ($200-$300 per night)
- Budget: The Ace Hotel & Swim Club ($100-$200 per night)
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city that’s known for its Spanish-style architecture, vibrant arts scene and stunning beaches. It’s a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, and there are plenty of romantic hotels and vacation rentals to choose from.
The best places to stay in Santa Barbara for:
- Luxury: The Belmond El Encanto ($500+ per night)
- Mid-range: The Hotel Milo ($200-$300 per night)
- Budget: The Santa Barbara Inn ($100-$200 per night)
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is a mountain resort town that’s located in the San Bernardino Mountains. It’s a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, hiking and fishing. There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to choose from in Big Bear Lake, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxurious cabins.
The best places to stay in Big Bear Lake for:
- Skiing: The Snow Summit Resort ($300+ per night)
- Hiking: The Big Bear Lake Village ($200-$300 per night)
- Fishing: The Boulder Bay Resort ($100-$200 per night)
Other great places to stay in Southern California
- Catalina Island: This charming island is located just off the coast of Los Angeles and is a popular destination for day trips and overnight stays. There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to choose from on Catalina Island, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxurious resorts.
- Joshua Tree National Park: This stunning national park is located in the Mojave Desert and is home to some of the most unique and beautiful scenery in the world. There are a few campgrounds located within the park, as well as a number of hotels and vacation rentals located just outside the park boundaries.
- Death Valley National Park: This vast and unforgiving national park is located in the Mojave Desert and is home to some of the most extreme temperatures on Earth. There are a few campgrounds located within the park, as well as a number of hotels and vacation rentals located just outside the park boundaries.
How to choose the best place to stay in Southern California
When choosing a place to stay in Southern California, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Budget: Accommodations in Southern California can range from budget-friendly motels to