If there was ever a great time to splurge on a fancy hotel room, it’s on Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re a Los Angeles local looking to head up north for a romantic weekend or an out-of-towner hoping to whisk your loved one away for a beachside escape, several of the country’s most idyllic and lavish hotels are spread out across the Golden State. 

Part of what makes California so special is its diverse terroir, which ranges from the sweeping hills of wine country to the moody coastline of Big Sur to the mysterious, sandy desert. If you’re seeking unparalleled ocean views with five-star service to match, head to Malibu for the Nobu Ryokan. Prefer something more rustic and cozy? Nick’s Cove is a moody haven on Tomales Bay, while Alila Ventana Big Sur immerses guests in the middle of the redwoods. Those hoping to stay close to the city can enjoy the best of both worlds at Hotel Bel-Air, and travelers craving a Mediterranean escape minus the airfare will feel right at home in Palm Springs’ Korakia Pensione. 

From Montecito’s most exclusive accommodation to a luxury dude ranch in wine country, we’ve rounded up California’s most romantic hotels for the ultimate Valentine's Day celebration.

Nestled along the charming foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains in Santa Barbara, San Ysidro Ranch is Montecito’s most exclusive accommodation option. You’ll find sweeping ocean and mountain views from almost every angle of the Southern California property, creating the most romantic backdrop for your weekend away. Live out your real-life fairytale in one of the luxury hotel’s 38 vine-covered cottages, all of which feature premium outdoor spaces with private hot tubs. The all-inclusive design allows you to indulge in farm-to-table fare at The Stonehouse without second thought, but you can also imbibe and dine poolside before hitting the green for a friendly game of putt-putt. Splurge on the $550 Romance Package at the spa and enjoy exclusive access to the Love Birds treatment room, which includes a shareable soaking tub and steam shower. The experience starts with full-body exfoliation, followed by a couples soak complete with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. End your evening with a visit to the downstairs Speakeasy, where a sea of 12,000 hanging hearts and themed cocktails await. 

Seeking romantic indulgence with a heavy dose of nature? Escape to Big Sur with a restorative stay at Alila Ventana. Home to just 54 rooms and suites, this Northern California mountainside resort boasts serene views of the country’s most talked-about coastline, but its immersion in the towering redwoods gives it a special allure that feels totally disconnected from the outside world. Spend your days hiking, exploring nearby sights like Pfeiffer State Park or simply lounge about the resort at one of the many pools. For the ultimate couples massage, book a cliffside cabana and admire a sea of trees as........

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