Whimsical and One-of-a-Kind Lodgings
For travelers seeking the unusual, California delivers lodging options that blur the line between fantasy and reality. From vintage railcars to safari retreats, these unconventional stays transform a night's sleep into an unforgettable experience.
Sleep in a Caboose
Located just minutes from the Pacific Crest Trail and the Sacramento River, Jubilee Railroad Park in Siskiyou County offers adventurers a stay in restored caboose railcars. Easily one of Northern California’s most unique lodging experiences, guests can also enjoy seasonal dining in the restaurant housed in an original train car.
Sublime Sleeps in Mendocino County
Trade your teddy bear for a redwood in Mendocino. At The Inn at Newport Ranch, you can be a tree hugger when you stay in a Redwood Suite that features actual tree trunks in the room. At Sweetwater Inn & Spa, guests can stay in a water tower suite with a deck that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Animal lovers will feel like they’re on safari when staying at one of four cottages at B Bryan Preserve, just steps from where giraffes, zebras and antelope roam.
Tree Topper
Live out your Swiss Family Robinson adventure in luxury at The Hometree Spyglass in Sonoma. Sleep in a giant Redwood tree with all the creature comforts of home, including a cedar hot tub overlooking the forest and an indoor sauna. Your perch in this stunning setting is perfect for sharing a bottle of Sonoma’s finest wine and drinking in the solitude and view.
Magical Monterey
Adventurers in Monterey can experience one-of-a-kind stays in the treetop “human nests” or cliffside yurts at Treebones Resort. Meanwhile, at Vision Quest Ranch, guests sleep in safari-style bungalows that include a behind-the-scenes tour at the Monterey Zoo. Luxury lovers will delight in a stay at the iconic Post Ranch Inn and enjoy stargazing from their glass-walled suite.
Hibernate in Big Bear
Live out your favorite fairy tale at Castle Wood Cottages in Big Bear. Stay in King Arthur’s castle, the swashbuckling Captain’s Quarters, or the new Woodland Tree House perched 15 feet off the ground. For those with nerves of steel, the horror movie-inspired cabin rental is like no other. Turn on the ghost effects, pop in a scary movie or summon spirits with a Ouija board.
Urban Glamping
Imagine sleeping under the stars, high above Rodeo Drive, with the Veranda Terrace of the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire all to yourself. The hotel’s new urban glamping experience transforms the 2140 sq. ft. terrace into a magical suite, complete with a luxury tent furnished with antiques, fur rugs, a crystal chandelier and a billowy bed. Sip a glass of wine while your private chef prepares a decadent eight-course meal for two.
More Than a Room: Stays That Make the Most of Your Day and Night
Why settle for a generic hotel room when your accommodations can be part of the adventure? These California stays will keep the fun going from sunrise to starlight.
A Vine Time
Spend your days visiting the Amador County wine region and your nights in luxury at the only five-star boutique hotel in the Sierra Foothills. Inspired by the beauty of Tuscany, The Grand Reserve Inn is set amongst 40 acres of rolling vineyards, offering guests gourmet meals, private outdoor patios with views of breathtaking sunsets and cozy fireplaces to unwind.
Yawns in Yosemite
Yosemite’s Evergreen Lodge launched a new glamping experience that lets adventurers explore the wilds of Yosemite and return to one of 22 luxury canvas tents featuring vaulted ceilings, screened windows and pillow-top mattress beds. Guests have access to the property’s historic tavern, restaurant, pools and outdoor games.
Winks in Wine Country
RV travelers seeking something beyond the typical RV park can enjoy two unique stays through Harvest Hosts in Lodi. Pull up your camper and wake up among the vines at Oak Farm Vineyards, a historic 19th-century estate surrounded by 70 acres of vineyard, or Van Ruiten Family Winery, known for its mom-and-pop charm and old-vine Zinfandel.
Dark Nights
The desert community of Borrego Springs was California’s first certified International Dark Sky Community. Travelers can hike, bike and explore the desert by day and then return for some of the best stargazing around at Borrego Valley Inn or its sister property, Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort. Borrego Valley Inn is an adults-only retreat featuring cozy pueblo-style buildings, while Palm Canyon is a Western-themed resort.
Beach Sleeps
Known as the dolphin and whale watching capital of the world, Dana Point is a destination made for the water. Enjoy a sunset wine cruise or twilight fishing trip leaving from Dana Wharf, then return to the boutique beachfront El Caminante Hotel and drift off to sleep to the gentle lapping of the waves.
One Stop Shop
Designed as a city within a city, San Diego’s historic Lafayette Hotel offers nonstop fun from morning to midnight. Relax by the pool, test your bowling skills at The Gutter, sip a Sazerac in the Lobby Bar, savor the smoky flavors at Quixote restaurant, catch a show in Lou Lou’s Jungle Room or indulge in a boozy midnight milkshake at the 24/7 Beginners Diner.
California's most memorable sleepovers prove that the adventure doesn't end at bedtime. These unique accommodations will turn every night into another highlight of your Golden State escape.