What to expect: Four separate courtyards, fountains, and lush gardens accentuate this hotel’s Mediterranean feel, underscored by Venetian glass chandeliers, fireplaces, and rich gold-and-red decor. This Southern California beach resort caters to guests needing relaxation and pampering, families seeking beach time, wedding parties, and conventions.

Amenity highlights: Guests enjoy access to the beach by a walkway over the Pacific Coast Highway. This 1-minute walk includes a lighthouse elevator transporting passengers to the Strand, a paved bike/walk path traversing eight miles of coastline. The on-site spa offers a range of treatments, including its signature hydrotherapy bath. The hotel also has a large freeform pool and several spa tubs. Guests can enroll children ages 3–12 in day or evening programs.

Insider tip: Huntington Beach is Surf City with good reason. The beach hosts the U.S. Open Surf Championship, and the International Surfing Museum is located downtown, one mile from the hotel.