There is a reason that people deem the West Coast the ” Best Coast”. I think it is is because there are so many fantastic hotels from beginning to end. The drive up the West Coast of the United States (and Canada!) is well worth doing. The scenery alone is enough reason to get in the car. When you do decide to take that road trip from San Diego to Vancouver, here are eight places that will keep you inspired to drive on.
A member of the Kor Hotel group, this Beverly Hills hotel used to be a famous silent film star’s apartment residence. Their style is impeccable, combining modern touches with traditional french design. Located on a tiny side street on a quiet block in uber -posh Beverly hills, this hotel has a lot to offer for not a ton of cash.
Inn at The Spanish Garden – Santa Barbara, CA
I love this hotel because it has amazing accommodations and an amazing location. It is just steps away from State Street in downtown Santa Barbara. (For those of you not familiar with SB, State Street is where it all pretty much happens). The hotel only has twenty-three rooms, so it definitely has an intimate and cozy feel.
Old Monterey Inn – Monterey, CA
The Old Monterey Inn is a ten room delight located in a beautiful Tudor home surrounded by a lush garden in Monterey, CA. Each room has it’s own unique style, but they are all equally well-appointed with luxurious amenities. A perfect honeymoon destination, this Inn recently made Travel and Leisure’s prestigious Gold List.
The Hotel Healdsburg- Healdsburg, CA
Located about seventy miles above San Francisco, The Hotel Healdsburg is about the coziest place you would want to spend a couple of days. I was there in November and it rained the whole time but I couldn’t have cared less as the beds are so delicious that I can’t imagine why you would need to leave them. They are like giant marshmallows, complete with a down duvet and a down feather-bed (not necessarily recommended for those allergic to down). Each room is a suite and there are giant soaking tubs in each of their humongous bathrooms. If you must leave your room, head down to the lobby, which is warmly decorated and features a bar for wine tasting and a great big roaring fireplace.
Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino, CA
Brewery Gulch is an Inn where the proprietors go above and beyond their duty as hoteliers. The Inn offers a Pre-Concierge service which allows you to set up all sorts of things to make your stay more enjoyable. For instance, you can pre-arrange flowers or wine to be brought to your room upon arrival. The Inn was also recently restored by proprietor Guy Pacurar and incorporates eco-friendly practices. An added bonus is that their kitchen only uses organic and locally grown produce.
Tu Tu Tun Lodge – Gold Beach , Oregon
This phenomenal hotel is definitely worth checking out if you have the stamina to get to it. Located on the California/Oregon border, it is definitely not what you would call conveniently located. However, if you can out a little effort in, you will be handsomely rewarded. Perched atop the Rogue River approximately seven miles from the Pacific Ocean, this wonderful hideaway combines rustic charm with lux accommodations. The lodge itself is a wood and glass and this creates a fantastic feeling of warmth to the entire place. An added bonus is that each of the sixteen rooms has a balcony or patio with views of the scenic river below.
After spending a significant amount of time in rural destinations, your arrival at The Hotel Lucia in Portland will be a welcome change to your previous destinations. Fantastically located in Downtown Portland, the hotel is within walking distance to exceptional restaurants and shopping. A co-worker of mine stayed here last week and he absolutely raved about Lucia’s accommodations and service. Book on-line for the best rates! Oh..and did I mention this hotel also made Travel and Leisure’s Gold List for 2008?
The Aerie Hotel, Vancouver Island, BC
If I ever get married, I want it to happen here. A member of the distinctive Relais & Chateaux collection, this hotel boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean along with the best in gourmet dining AND (my personal favorite) cooking classes! There is also an award -winning spa on site which features treatments ranging from massages to acupuncture. Now if only I could find an excuse to go there….
One final note. If you are a AAA member, you can head down to your local office, tell then exactly where you plan on stopping on your road trip and they will provide you with a road map specially designed to get you where you need to be. All for free!
Better Living Through Travel 
