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Top California Coast Vacations

With over 550 miles of coastline, California is a fantastic destination for vacations – but the options are endless: Do you prefer a vibrant boardwalk culture or a serene beach with few people? A charming inn near Napa Valley or a spectacular resort right next to the Golden Gate Bridge? From San Diego to San Francisco, there are hundreds of locations to choose from, and our Top California Coast Vacations list should help you narrow it down a bit. But luckily, no matter where you visit, you’ll return home with the sun-kissed glow that California is known for!
1

Pajaro Dunes Resort

Watsonville, California

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+1 (800) 564 - 1771
Pajaro Dunes Resort, a secluded, gated community featuring a collection of beautiful beachfront houses, townhomes, and condominiums, presents the quintessential Monterey Bay beach vacation!While staying at the... read more

Pajaro Dunes Resort, a secluded, gated community featuring a collection of beautiful beachfront houses, townhomes, and condominiums, presents the quintessential Monterey Bay beach vacation!

While staying at the Pajaro Dunes, you can enjoy their one and a half mile strand of sandy white beach and natural habitat surrounding their community of beautiful shoreline vacation rentals, all overlooking the magnificent pacific ocean. Grab a book and relax on the beach or take a refreshing swim in the water; whatever you choose, it’s sure to be invigorating. After a beautiful day exploring the coast, come back to one of their one, two, three, or four bedroom condos. Their accommodations are well-equipped with full kitchens, large living spaces, private balconies, and much more. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a family vacation, or a perfect meeting spot, Pajaro Dunes Resort has everything you need for an unforgettable Monterey Bay getaway.

Address

105 Shell Drive Watsonville, California 95076

Highlights

Located only 15 minutes from the resort, Kahuna Sportfishing offers private fishing charters or open party fishing trips.

Related activities

Do some bird watching at the mouth of Pajaro River, hike the Santa Cruz Mountain Redwoods, or let a professional guide help you explore the beauty of Monterey Bay and Elkhorn Slough via kayak!

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2

Alegria Oceanfront Inn & Cottages

Mendocino, California

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+1 (855) 593 - 2199
Discover a state of pure bliss with the Alegria Oceanfront Inn & Cottages.This bed and breakfast inn in Mendocino, California, wants you to leave all your worries behind and enjoy the present. The little details... read more

Discover a state of pure bliss with the Alegria Oceanfront Inn & Cottages.

This bed and breakfast inn in Mendocino, California, wants you to leave all your worries behind and enjoy the present. The little details like the birds flying around the property, the sound of the waves crashing on the shore, and the calm ocean breeze. Choose among a wide variety of cottages and houses, each with their own unique flair. On top of the natural beauty, you’ll find in the area, you’ll also discover a rich culture of art, food, and wine. Traverse the waters with a river canoe or kayak from a local renter, or pack your bicycle and explore the nearby restaurants and shops in an eco-friendly manner. Flexibility and freedom of choice come naturally at Alegria Oceanfront Inn & Cottages.

Address

44781 Main Street Mendocino, CA 95460

Highlights

Possibly the most unique of all the homes offered is The Dolphin House. Perched on a bluff-top, you’ll discover incredible ocean views from nearly every room in the house and appreciate the uncommon architecture and interior of the house.

Fun facts

The Main House at the Alegria Inn dates back to 1861 as a family residence.

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3

Inn at the Pier

Pismo Beach, California

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+1 (805) 295 - 5565
This upscale, craftsman-style oceanfront hotel in Pismo Beach is ideal for any occasion!Overlooking the golden sand of Pismo Beach and just footsteps from the pier and boardwalk, the Inn at the Pier invites its... read more

This upscale, craftsman-style oceanfront hotel in Pismo Beach is ideal for any occasion!

Overlooking the golden sand of Pismo Beach and just footsteps from the pier and boardwalk, the Inn at the Pier invites its guests to experience a superior kind of vacation. From boutique guest rooms to first-class amenities reminiscent of a luxurious beach house, you'll be swimming in class from the moment you arrive. Each and every of the Inn's 104 rooms is beautifully appointed and features flat-screen TVs, private balconies, and indulgent bath amenities, in addition to sparkling ocean views. Meanwhile the wealth of surrounding fun, food, and experiences will make sure you have a vacation you'll never forget!

Highlights

Check out the year-round heated rooftop dipping pool and spa with panoramic ocean views!

Fun facts

Make sure you check out Blonde, the full-service restaurant where classic meets contemporary California.

Related Onsite Offerings

With warm hospitality, delicious catering, and brand-new event space, this is a perfect place for your next meeting or reunion!

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4

URelax Vacation Rentals

Morro Bay, California

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+1 (805) 528 - 1082
Once you experience the beauty and charm of a URelax Vacation Rentals, you’ll never want to leave! From Morro Bay to Encinitas, URelax features properties all along the California coast, and all are perfect places... read more

Once you experience the beauty and charm of a URelax Vacation Rentals, you’ll never want to leave! From Morro Bay to Encinitas, URelax features properties all along the California coast, and all are perfect places to relax!

There are tons of things to see and do in the sunny land of California, and URelax makes the most of them with their superbly located and meticulously cared-for properties. Each exudes class and luxury, but they’re just where you’ll spend a fraction of your time. You came to coastal California to get outside and get active, and URelax has you covered in that department! Kayaking, biking, fishing, beach-combing and just plain relaxing. The list goes on and on. One thing is for sure- you’ll have a fantastic time.

Address

259 Morro Bay Blvd, Morro Bay, CA 93442

Highlights

URelax has properties in five cities!

Fun facts

Lake Nacimiento is famous for its 165 miles of unspoiled shoreline, its reputation for the greatest water skiing in California, and its great White Bass fishing.

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5

Cal Vacation Homes

San Diego, California

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+1 (619) 224 - 4643
Are you trying to find a memorable vacation rental on the California coast? California Vacation Homes would like to introduce you to their spectacular oceanfront vacation rentals.Cal Vacation Homes offers luxury... read more

Are you trying to find a memorable vacation rental on the California coast? California Vacation Homes would like to introduce you to their spectacular oceanfront vacation rentals.

Cal Vacation Homes offers luxury vacation homes in San Diego, in and around the stunning area of Sunset Cliffs. This friendly and quiet neighborhood is famously known for its panoramic ocean views and breathtaking sunsets. Guests get the best of both worlds at Cal Vacation Homes, they can experience the most amazing views of San Diego from their accommodation, while also only being 5-15 minutes from all the major San Diego vacation attractions. Some of these attractions include La Jolla, Balboa Park, and Old Town. Cal Vacation rentals are fully equipped and conveniently located near beautiful beaches and some of California’s best restaurants. The vacation homes offered feature a variety of amenities, including a private pool and Jacuzzi, an oceanfront deck, and a private beach.

Address

815 Cordova St San Diego, CA 92107

Population

San Diego, California has a population of 1.42 million.

Related activities

San Diego offers endless activities for the whole family. Learn about all kinds of wildlife at the San Diego Zoo, walk along the boardwalk at Mission Beach, or go hiking at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.

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6

Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa

Monterey, California

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+1 (800) 334 - 3999
The unparalleled natural beauty of California's coastline is on full display at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa!This historic beachfront property has charm, natural beauty, and hospitality galore, and makes an... read more

The unparalleled natural beauty of California's coastline is on full display at the Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa!

This historic beachfront property has charm, natural beauty, and hospitality galore, and makes an ideal destination for a multitude of occasions. Inside each elegantly-appointed guest room you'll find ample amenities and luxury touches throughout. Meanwhile, the chef-driven oceanfront restaurant and award-winning rooftop luxury spa will make you feel like royalty. Finally, all you need to do is step out the front door and you have access to the iconic attractions of Cannery Row, Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. What more could you want?!

Address

400 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940

Extra Stops

The hotel is a block from Cannery Row, a 10-minute walk from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and a 15-minute walk from Fisherman’s Wharf.

Highlights

Dining options include a cafe and a seafood restaurant with an outdoor patio, and a lounge bar offers regular live music.

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7

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa

Pismo Beach, California

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+1 (805) 773 - 4300
Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is the ideal beach vacation-offering superb amenities, luxurious accommodations, and, of course, pristine beaches.Nestled snugly between midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the... read more

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is the ideal beach vacation-offering superb amenities, luxurious accommodations, and, of course, pristine beaches.

Nestled snugly between midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the unparalleled service and stunning ocean views of Dolphin Bay Resort draw guests from all over the country. But there's so much more! Whether you're on a romantic escape or family vacation, Pismo Beach offers a wide range of fun activities that appeal to everyone. There's the old standbys: swimming, hiking, tanning on the beach. But how about mountain biking, waterskiing, or bird-watching? It's all possible at Dolphin Bay. Just make sure you book that extra day- you'll thank us later!

Address

2727 Shell Beach Rd, Pismo Beach, CA 93449

Extra Stops

The hotel is 6 miles from Oceano Dunes Natural Preserve and 10 miles from downtown San Luis Obispo.

Related Onsite Offerings

Wine-tasting sessions, parking and loaner bikes are complimentary.

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8

The Eagle Inn

Santa Barbara, California

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+1 (805) 965 - 3586
If you're seeking an unforgettable romantic getaway, The Eagle Inn is merely ideal. Grab your sweetheart by the hand and lead them to Santa Barbara!With its proximity to the water and its world-famous hospitality,... read more

If you're seeking an unforgettable romantic getaway, The Eagle Inn is merely ideal. Grab your sweetheart by the hand and lead them to Santa Barbara!

With its proximity to the water and its world-famous hospitality, it's easy to see why nautically-inclined couples have frequented The Eagle Inn for years. The marina and beach are just three minutes walk away, while a multitude of shops can be found on nearby Stearn’s Wharf and State Street. Each guest room at The Eagle Inn is unique, spacious, and filled with quality furnishings and details, with many containing amenities fit for royalty! This includes, but is not limited to, large whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and balconies from which you can watch the glorious sunset after glorious sunset. All this, and we haven't even mentioned their breakfast (it's excellent, by the way)!

Address

232 Natoma Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

Extra Stops

The Inn is only three miles from the Santa Barbara Zoo.

Highlights

Freebies include afternoon cookies, on-site parking and loaner bikes.

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9

Bluewater Vacation Homes

San Diego, California

View call direct
+1 (800) 243 - 3588
For quality vacation rentals in San Diego, Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla, Bluewater's catalog is incomparable.With such a huge selection of premium rentals, it's more than likely Bluewater... read more

For quality vacation rentals in San Diego, Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla, Bluewater's catalog is incomparable.

With such a huge selection of premium rentals, it's more than likely Bluewater has a home that perfectly fits your taste and budget. Simply browse their online catalog or give their friendly staff a call! They'll be more than happy to assist you in finding your dream rental. All rentals have a close proximity to the crazy amount of things to do and see San Diego is notorious for. Check out luxury restaurants and spacious beaches- you won't regret either!

Address

926 Turquoise St F, San Diego, CA 92109

Population

San Diego had an estimated population of 1,394,928 as of July 1, 2015.

Fun facts

In 1850, San Diego became part of the United States following the Mexican–American War and the admission of California to the union.

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10

Carmel River Inn

Carmel, California

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+1 (800) 966 - 6490
Visit the charming town of Carmel for relaxation, amusement, and spectacular Big Sur beauty! This upscale village began as an artist's community and is now home to the Carmel River Inn, a charming 10-acre garden... read more

Visit the charming town of Carmel for relaxation, amusement, and spectacular Big Sur beauty! This upscale village began as an artist's community and is now home to the Carmel River Inn, a charming 10-acre garden oasis of activities and leisure.

Stroll along the mile-long Carmel Beach adorned with cypress trees and view the impressive Pebble Beach Golf Links. Walk to Carmel Mission where you can shop and dine on Ocean Avenue. For even more adventure, head up to Monterey Beach where the dramatic cliffs along the coast serve as the perfect setting for kayaking, surfing, and fishing. Plus the Monterey and Carmel Beach areas are dog-friendly, so you're able to bring your furry friend along for all the fun! When you're not out and about, relax back at the inn which features country-style hotel rooms complete with modern amenities.

Address

One Old Ranch Rd, Carmel, California 93923

Highlights

You're just minutes from the beach. You'll love looking for seashells to bring home, or splashing around in the low waves along the shore. For even more fun, head over to the Monterey Bay Aquarium to learn all about the local ocean wildlife!

Related Onsite Offerings

Carmel River Inn welcomes pets to come enjoy all that sunny Big Sur has to offer.

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11

Cupertino Hotel

Cupertino, California

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+1 (408) 996 - 7700
Having an ideal location in the center of the Bay Area between San Jose and San Fransisco, the Cupertino Hotel has enough offerings to tempt you from even leaving.The convenient location at the intersection of... read more

Having an ideal location in the center of the Bay Area between San Jose and San Fransisco, the Cupertino Hotel has enough offerings to tempt you from even leaving.

The convenient location at the intersection of Highway 280 and De Anza Boulevard lends itself wonderfully to any and all vacation plans. Nearby are some of Silicon Valley’s largest tech companies including Apple and Hewlett-Packard, as well as Stanford University and a few of California’s most famous shopping and dining establishments. Onsite though, you’ll find an array of amenities that will make any stay more enjoyable. Stretch out in your spacious rooms that feature a comfortable bed, an LCD television, and a full-size bathroom complete with granite countertops and vanity mirrors. A full breakfast buffet is offered and also a heated pool where you can swim or layout under the California sun. Your Bay Area trip will be as grand as it is luxurious when you stay at Cupertino Hotel.

Address

10889 North De Anza Boulevard Cupertino, CA 95014

Highlights

Regardless of your schedule, the hotel will be able to accommodate you with round the clock room service offered.

Related Onsite Offerings

Cupertino Hotel also offers the use of a luxury house car that will ring you anywhere within a 2.5 radius of the hotel.

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12

Aqua Breeze Inn

Santa Cruz, California

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+1 (831) 426 - 7878
Just minutes away from the Pacific Ocean, Aqua Breeze Inn provides an unbeatable setting for a California coast vacation.Find your slice of paradise on the soft, sandy shores and go for a swim or ride the waves as... read more

Just minutes away from the Pacific Ocean, Aqua Breeze Inn provides an unbeatable setting for a California coast vacation.

Find your slice of paradise on the soft, sandy shores and go for a swim or ride the waves as you surf the day away. Fun-seekers will get their adrenaline rush at the nearby Beach Boardwalk amusement park where you will be able to experience the drops of a roller coaster, play arcade games at Neptune’s Kingdom, and grab a refreshing ice cream cone. Back at the inn, you’ll have access to free wireless internet and a 40-inch LED television so you can kick back and relax after a day exploring the beach.

Address

204 2nd St, Santa Cruz, California, 95060, United States

Highlights

Lay out on the sundeck overlooking the boardwalk or take a dip in the pool onsite to cool off.

Related Onsite Offerings

Aqua Breeze Inn is proud to say they are a pet-friendly property, so every member of your family is welcome on your trip.

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