These Epic Surf Hotels Are the Best Way to Ride out the Heat Wave
With the heat dome spreading in the west, we’re craving a beach vacay at these coastal properties.
Read McKendree
Wayfinder Waikiki guest room
A record-breaking heat wave is punishing the West, with a heat dome that just won’t let up. But, there’s no better way to cool off than hopping in the ocean. Thankfully, the region is home to some of the world’s best surf hotels. With hundreds of miles of coastline dotted with tiny charming towns to explore, it’s no wonder the classic coastal road trip originated here, and still has staying power to this day. Here are some of our all-time favorite surf hotels along the way, including newcomers that have just opened in time for summer.
Surf Lodge in Stinson Beach, California
Opened this March, the Surf Lodge is walking distance to the white sand beaches of the Pacific Ocean and located right in the middle of Stinson Beach, known for great hiking and lazy beach days within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Start the day by strolling through the surrounding trails of Muir Woods, then relax in the rooms inspired by modern California surf culture. Think vaulted ceilings and boho decor that throw back to the heyday of surfing in the ’60s. There are rentals at Live Water Surf Shop next door for all your water-based needs.
Thomas J. Story
The Surfrider in Malibu, California
The Surfrider sits snugly amidst the steep hills of Malibu and is a postcard of the California dream. From the roof deck you get unparalleled intimate views of Surfrider Beach and the Malibu Pier, where you can take complimentary stand-up paddle boards and surfboards out for a session. Even if you don’t want to get in the water, it’s a great spot to surf watch. This is the world-famous long boarding break that’s been notable ever since the Gidget movies were filmed here.
The Pacific Motel in Cayucos, California
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The Pacific is a 20-room newly designed motel steps from Cayucos Beach, featuring a mix of 1920s historical bungalows that have been given a fresh makeover by owners and Central Coast locals Ryan and Marisa Fortini. The result is a playful beachside getaway with contemporary flair that brings a new level of style and taste to the quirky coastal community that sits just about halfway between San Francisco and L.A.
Mariko Reed
The Wayfinder Waikiki in Honolulu, Hawaii
A new boutique lifestyle hotel in Honolulu, Hawaii has officially opened its doors, and the only thing that’s more exciting than its supremely adorable surf-y decor is the partnership with Oahu’s most iconic poke grocer, Foodland, for the second location of their Redfish Poke Bar restaurant. At Wayfinder Waikiki, travelers can rest their heads just a 5-minute walk from the beach. It doesn’t get more dreamy than that.
Nick Hall
The Cape in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
The 161-room Cape boasts a prime location fronting Monuments Beach, home to a bucket-list left-hand surf break, plus a restaurant from Mexico’s star chef, Enrique Olvera, a serious small-batch tequila collection, and a buzzy rooftop bar with live music. If you want to splurge with your buddies, book the two-story, three-bedroom Surfer Villa. Set a dozen steps from the ocean, the home features a private barbecue, plunge pool, sauna, and a screening room for surf flicks; plus, your stay comes with two surfboard rentals.
Dream Inn: Carrie Browde
Dream Inn in Santa Cruz, California
Recently renovated, the 165-room Dream Inn is the sole beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz. The surf theme extends to walls decorated with brightly-hued surfboards and murals of surfers, as well as a restaurant and bar honoring local surf legend Jack O’Neill. Cowell Beach is just out back, and Club Ed surf school sets up a trailer here to rent boards and offer lessons. More experienced riders can head to Steamer Lane, one of the Central Coast’s best-known breaks.
Courtesy of Hotel Joaquin
Hotel Joaquin in Laguna Beach, California
The laid-back, 22-room Hotel Joaquin occupies a traditional white-shingled California bungalow set just off Highway 1 on Shaw’s Cove. Designed by Robert McKinley, the visionary behind the renowned Surf Lodge in Montauk, New York, the interiors reference 1950s SoCal beach culture and the boho-chic style of St. Barts. Guests have access to a private beach plus an Adventure Garage stocked with surfboards, boogie boards, beach toys, and more.
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