What to expect: This hotel has two personalities: one an 1885 Victorian mansion and another a contemporary Mediterranean-style wing resulting from 2003 renovations. The brick-paved hotel entrance leads through tall glass doors to slate floors, plants in oversized urns, and walls adorned with local artwork. Business travelers, wedding parties, and celebrating couples are among the frequent guests.

Amenity highlights: The Spa at Casa Madrona offers a variety of spa services, complemented by locker rooms, showers, steam rooms, and a relaxation room. On the grounds of the hotel, brick paths meander through gardens lushly landscaped with flowering plants and fountains.

Insider tip: Sausalito is home to a community of artists, showcasing their work in many of its local galleries. Every second Wednesday evening of the month, Sausalito hosts an open house “art walk,” with informal receptions and art showings at many downtown galleries within walking distance of the hotel. The front desk can provide more information.