18 Best Hotels and Resorts in California, From Malibu to Napa Valley

"The name evokes a lazy, relaxing shack where barefooted surfers lounge by an open fire on the beach. While it may not be exactly that, there’s something oh-so-Californian about this place, named for the beach in front of it that is in fact a classic Malibu surf spot. The former mid-century motel has been renovated into a 20-room luxury hotel. Still, some of the homeyness seeps through: the lobby is designed to resemble the living room of a beach house, and the rooms are light and bright, engendering good vibes. There’s lots of natural materials—limestone, white oak, teak—and rooms are decorated with locally-made ceramics. Splurge on the Surfrider Suite and you can lounge on the outdoor terrace’s hammock before suppering at the alfresco dining table facing the beach. The roof deck is the perfect spot to escape to, as it’s open only to hotel guests."