What to expect: Sheltered from the street by shops and clever landscaping, the L'Auberge blends gracefully into its postcard-perfect setting. The glass-covered entry leads to a regal, skylighted lobby with marble floors, leather armchairs, plush sofas, a fireplace, and a wall of French doors and windows. The resort-casual ambience appeals to leisure and corporate travelers, honeymooners, and locals on weekend getaways.

Amenity highlights: This California resort features manicured lawns, tropical plants, foot bridges, creeks, waterfalls, and nooks where guests can drink or dine; two outdoor pools (including a lap pool); a fitness room; two championship tennis courts; a spa that offers massage, facials, and other treatments; a clubby bar; and a restaurant that serves diners in a light-filled room set with white linens, or alfresco beside a waterfall. The resort is across the street from fine shops and dining.

Insider tip: In addition to the swimming pool and spa in the resort’s beautifully terraced and landscaped courtyard, an additional lap pool is available, accessible only via a pathway between the tennis courts.

What to expect: The atmosphere at this entirely nonsmoking hotel is friendly and casual. The entrance, with valet or self-parking, leads to a well-appointed, sky-lighted lobby where a reception area awaits guests. During the fair or racetrack season (approximately mid-June to mid-September), the place is packed with horseracing fans and fairgoers.

Amenity highlights: The pillared lobby features a light- and plant-filled restaurant at one end, and a step-down lounge with fireplace and TV at the other. A coffee bar, adjoining the gift shop, offers muffins and specialty coffees. A fitness room is located near the pool and spa tub, which are set within a courtyard splashed with chaise lounges and umbrella-covered tables.

Insider tip: Guests have more dining options than meet the eye. Although Silk’s Restaurant and Polo Lounge are at opposite sides of the lobby, guests who prefer the lounge ambience, or who want to watch TV, can sit in the lounge but order from the restaurant menu. The same goes for terrace, poolside, or room service dining—the restaurant comes to you. Silk’s sometimes offers great all-you-can-eat nights.