Taking a trip looks a lot different these days. In the Old World we sought out hotels and resorts with nary a care about how many people we'd come into contact with during the trip. In fact, some of us chose spots to visit and places to stay at because of a lively social scene.
Alas, in the New World, more people are seeking out lodgings where they can be socially distant from others. But if renting a secluded cabin in the middle of the wilderness isn't quite your speed, you can still find plenty of luxe hotels with villas, bungalows, cabins and other stand-alone rooms, no elevator rides needed.
Here are our faves for California (we'll be working on lists in other areas too!)
Just remember, as a luxury travel advisor with Beyond Travel, I can sweeten your stay at these places with additional amenities such as resort credit, daily breakfast, welcome gifts, and when available, room upgrades.
The Lodges at Bernardus Lodge and Spa, Carmel Valley
All of the 73 guest rooms, suites and villas at this property in the wine country of Carmel Valley have expansive private patios and/or terraces, and since most guest room buildings are only two stories, there are no long, winding, enclosed hotel hallways to walk down. Add in two-person soaking tubs, plush bathrobes, fireplaces, and sumptuous king beds, it won't be because of social distancing that you won't want to leave your room. Of course, if you do decide to venture out the property, which resembles a quaint little village, much of the resort offerings are open, with some exceptions.
Lodges at Calistoga Ranch, Napa Valley
The property checks off two important boxes for us—we can drive there (a long drive from LA but still doable) and we can stay in one of 50 free-standing lodges that are perfect for social distancing. Of course, it doesn't hurt that these are luxury lodges outfitted with plush king beds, modern bathrooms, private teak decks, and even an outdoor shower.
The starter lodge, The Deluxe category, can sleep three people, so families of four or more will need to bump up to a one-bedroom or two-bedroom lodge. For those who are considering a multi-gen getaway, Calistoga Ranch also has vacation rentals too.
Cabins at El Capitan Canyon, Goleta
Located in Goleta, just north of Santa Barbara, El Capitan Canyon rests at the base of the Santa Ynez Mountains with the Pacific Ocean just a mile away. Yet you don't even have to bring your camp tents and sleeping bags. Instead, El Capitan has cozy cedar cabins of varying sizes for you to stay in overnight. All cabins have peak ceilings, beds, bathrooms, kitchenettes with microwaves and fridges, and heating. Each cabin also has its own picnic table out back and firepits.
The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Beach
The starting room category at The Resort at Pelican Hill, located near Crystal Cove State Beach, is a nearly 900-sq.ft. bungalow with fireplaces, private terraces and either a garden or ocean view. (Ocean view is a little more expensive.) These can easily sleep parents and two small children (on the pull-out sofa.) And since they are bungalows, there are no elevators to take. Simply pull up your car to your private parking space. If you need more room, opt for a Bungalow Suite which has nearly double the amount of space, an extra fireplace and a separate living room and dining area. The decor is oversized but comfortable and blanketed in neutral and cream colors. Fun family amenity: kids receive little stuffed pelicans on their beds!
The Beachfront Cottages at Hotel Del Coronado, San Diego
This quintessential beach resort on Coronado Island has a long history but the addition of its Beach Village several years ago upped its luxury status. Today, these beachfront cottages offer the perfect socially-distant getaway for families. Accommodations range from 1 to 3 bedroom cottages with private patios and balconies. Some even have outdoor tubs and kitchens. All guests who stay within The Beach Village have a peronsal concierge, access to exclusive pools, and gated access to beach village grounds. The resort is in the midst of a renovation and a few things are closed due to Covid-19 (such as the spa), however, all dining has been moved outdoors and the beach is still open.
Bungalows at Belmond El Encanto, Santa Barbara
The historic hotel, tucked high up in the hills of Santa Barbara, Calif., was originally built in 1918 but a few years ago, it emerged from a multi-million dollar makeover. Now each of its 92 bungalows (22 of them are suites) have been updated to the most modern luxury standards. Touches we loved include the heated bathroom floors, the massive soaking tub, the Aqua di Parma toiletries and the monogrammed pillowcases with our initials. A gorgeous swimming pool and incredible views from The Terrace outdoor dining spot round-out the open-air delights.
Looking to stay in one of these stand-alone spots? Email me your dates and I'll check the rates right away. For more about my services as a luxury travel advisor, go here.
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Images: All images are courtesy of the resorts except for El Capitan Canyon, Resort at Pelican Hill, Hotel Del Coronado, and Belmond El Encanto which are Trips + Giggles.
