As 2025 winds down, we’re reflecting on the year—the places we visited, what we saw, the meals we shared, the memories we made, and of course, where we stayed.
Take a look below at the California hotels we loved best this year—just in time to add making a reservation to your 2026 New Year’s resolutions.
La Bahia Hotel, Santa Cruz
I was told on my initial tour that the theme at the La Bahia Hotel is “traveling the world,” with different global influences brought in by the owner’s travels. It’s meant to feel like entering your worldly aunt’s palatial home, comfortable and welcoming yet exotic and diverse. You get that sense even in the elevator, with the palm frond wallpaper feeling very White Lotus—which is kind of the point here. Plus, you can bring your dog or cat, as any good auntie would allow.
The guest rooms (including 29 signature suites) follow suit, with ornate, hand-painted headboards inspired by that auntie—specifically Aunt Elva, a character from La Bahia’s past whom the design team has appointed as muse. The colors and textures are oceanic and calming, with Spanish-inspired patterns, marble, and high-end touches like Le Labo bath products, Frette bathrobes, and a complimentary in-room minibar (think local saltwater taffy from Marini’s candy shop, caramel corn, tall boy cans of Giant Dipper Golden Ale from Discretion Brewing, and a full bottle of sauvignon blanc from Ensemble sister property, Bernardus, in Carmel Valley). Keep reading. -Amber Turpin
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215 Beach St. (Santa Cruz), labahiahotel.com
