«West's Best Seaside Inns
AVALON
The Inn on Mt. Ada
For those of us not fortunate enough to have a chewing-gum magnate in the family, this is the next best thing. Built on a hilltop in 1921 for William Wrigley Jr. (then-owner of Santa Catalina Island), the inn balances patrician elegance with the relaxed feel of a summer home. There may be no more beautiful spot in Southern California to spend a sunny winter afternoon than out on the inn's veranda.
Seaside exposure: Take in the commanding perspective over Avalon Harbor, with clear-day views to the mainland — "overtown," in island parlance.
Unexpected pleasure:Virtually the full run of the house, including access to an ice cream stash in the pantry and Port and sherry in the living room.
On the menu: Early risers wake up to muffins and coffee even before the full breakfast, such as apple pancakes or frittata, is served. Light lunch is available, and fresh-baked cookies are always waiting.
Nearby treat: Take your complimentary golf cart for a spin around Avalon.
Details: Six rooms from $340 weekdays, from $375 weekends (includes breakfast, lunch, Champagne, and the use of a golf cart). (310) 510-2030. — Matthew Jaffe
DANA POINT
Blue Lantern Inn
Cape Cod architecture isn't what you expect in Southern California. But the inn's New England style is actually a fitting design in a community named for Boston seaman Richard Henry Dana Jr. High on the bluffs that Dana celebrated in Two Years Before the Mast, the inn was recently updated. Airy and light, all but four rooms have ocean views. There are also touches to warm the body and soul: fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and memorable sunsets.
Seaside exposure: A somewhat strenuous walk to the beach has an uphill return, but the inn's location takes in an impressive coastal view.
Unexpected pleasure: Bicycles and a fitness room are available for guests.
On the menu: Homemade baked goods and granola complement main courses such as the inn's French-bread custard; free wine and hors d'oeuvres are served 4:30 to 6:30 daily.
Nearby treat: Whale-watching trips leave from Dana Point Harbor; the inn offers packages that include whale-watching outings.
Details: 29 rooms from $155 (includes breakfast and afternoon wine). (800) 950-1236. — M.J.
NEWPORT BEACH
Doryman's Oceanfront Inn
Stepping from the action of a Southern California beach scene into the quiet, skylit mahogany recesses of this inn is a bit like going back in time. Dating to the late 1800s, when it was a commercial building, the inn is one of Newport Beach's oldest structures. But it's the thoughtfully selected design touches — including antiques, sunken Italian marble tubs in each room, and canopy beds — that nearly place Doryman's in the Old World.
Seaside exposure: The inn sits just yards off the sand, and many rooms have ocean views.
Unexpected pleasure: The Victorian style is romantic and evocative without being overdone.
On the menu: Fresh baked goods and continental breakfasts, plus fresh seafood and prime steaks for dinner at the inn's 21 Oceanfront Restaurant (949/673-2100).
Nearby treat: Head over to Newport Pier around 9 a.m. to watch the Dory Fishing Fleet bring in the catch.
Details: 11 rooms from $199 (includes breakfast). (949) 675-7300. — M.J.
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| John Granen |
| Clark Gable and Carol Lombard didn't sleep at Casa Malibu, but they should have. With renovated rooms and gardens just above the surf line, this inn is a south coast classic that invites a dramatic rendezvous.
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MALIBU
Casa Malibu Inn on the Beach
The perfect place to play mogul for a weekend, Casa Malibu sits right on the sand just down the beach from some of Southern California's priciest oceanfront homes. The renovated 1949 hotel encloses a flowery courtyard. Rooms in oceanfront buildings have decks that face directly onto the beach. With its exposed-beam ceilings, salt air pouring through sliding doors, and casual beach vibe, it's everything you would want from a beach house.
Seaside exposure: Walk down a few steps and you're on the inn's private beach.
Unexpected pleasure: With Malibu's east-west orientation, you get both sunrises and sunsets over the ocean.
On the menu: Order room service from Marmalade Cafe (310/317-4242), or dine at local Italian favorite Allegria Ristorante (310/456-3132).
Nearby treat: Long, low-tide walks along the shore take you up the coast to one of the world's legendary surf spots, Surfrider Beach.
Details: 21 rooms from $115 weekdays, from $129 weekends (includes breakfast). (800) 831-0858. — M.J.
SAN CLEMENTE
Beachcomber Motel
B&B Bargain
A loyal clientele returns year after year to this red tile–roofed motel for its family atmosphere and easy access to the beach and San Clemente Pier. When you're not on the sand, you can hang out at the picnic tables, throw burgers on the barbecue, and warm yourself around the firepit in the evenings.
Details: 12 rooms from $100 weekdays, from $125 Fri, from $150 Sat (breakfast not included); three-night minimum on holidays. (888) 492-5457. — M.J.
«West's Best Seaside Inns
