The Hotel Guru
20 Best Honeymoon Hotels in California

20 Best Honeymoon Hotels in California

California’s sunsets are spectacular. Whether overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, the Pacific Ocean, the vineyards of the Napa Valley, or Yosemite National Park, these sunsets are unforgettable. Our Hotel Gurus think a spectacular sunset is a great starting point for choosing a honeymoon destination. They also wax lyrical about California’s food and wine culture, and about the incredible level of pampering you can find in spas here. They've scoured the state and come up with a selection of Californian hotels perfect for honeymooners because of their romantic seclusion or views, special packages for newlyweds, special occasion vibe, or simply because they're one of the most romantic hotels in the region. Use our guide to the best honeymoon hotels in Calfornia and start to plan your special break!

For a Honeymoon Escape

The Auberge du Soleil is perfectly positioned on a raised, green bank, overlooking acres of St. Helena’s best vineyards and olive groves — some of them owned by the property. The outstanding restaurant draws many guests, and those who stay overnight in one of the 50 elegant rooms can enjoy the luxurious accommodation, views, pool and spa, and sample some of the 15,000 strong wine cellar.
The Kenwood Inn & Spa has the air of a Spanish mission or Italian villa about it, nestling in the heart of Napa’s wine country. There are just 29 rooms and suites, all of them large, with beautiful bathrooms and private terraces. There’s also a pool and spa, and the inn will lend you a bike so you can cycle round the vineyards, or to one of the region’s fabulous restaurants. The property also has a wedding licence.
The Chateau at Lake La Quinta is something of a desert oasis, close to Palm Springs, and overlooking the water of Lake La Quinta, as the name suggests. There are just 24 rooms (each has been individually designed and decorated recently), and the furniture, as well as the details, are all custom made. All rooms have a private patio, fireplace and lake views. This is a very adult retreat, with a fine dining restaurant and a pampering spa.

For an Ocean View Honeymoon

The Kona Kai Resort & Spa is a large and luxurious resort occupying a man-made sweep of land running alongside the Kona Kai Marine in San Diego. The facilities are excellent: there’s a private beach, a spa and two chic pools-with-a-view, along with two bars and two restaurants — and all of them have views. In the evenings they do romantic bonfires on the beach.

For a Honeymoon Adventure

The Chateau du Sureau is a European villa surrounded by manicured grounds, but beyond that the views take in all the glory of Yosemite. There are just nine rooms, all of them light and classically decorated, with hard wood floors and fireplaces. The fine dining restaurant is elegant, and there’s a spa and a library too. And of course all the appeals and adventures of Yosemite National Park!
The Applewood Inn is a 19 room inn in the Russian River Valley, a region of impressive Redwoods and wineries. The cosy rooms are arranged across three buildings, one of which is a 1922 Mission-revival Historic Landmark. The gardens are lovely, the pool looks Mediterranean, the solarium and spa are beautiful, and the Italian restaurant is very romantic and has an excellent wine list. Adults only.

For a Chic Honeymoon

La Serena Villas are a luxurious collection of 28 villas in Palm Springs, making up a chic little resort village, complete with a palm-lined pool, an excellent Mediterranean restaurant and an elegant spa with a long menu.
Originally built in the 1950s when Palm Springs was a glamorous Hollywood haunt, Holiday House still benefits from being small and having mid-century chic; though now it has all the mod. cons. too, and quite a boutique feel. The 28 rooms and suites share a bold blue and white colour scheme, and feature unique retro and vintage details, and gallery grade art. The pool and neighbouring cocktail bar are hip places to hang out, and the restaurant does Californian cuisine, from morning ’til 4pm. No kids.

For a Spectacular Honeymoon

Sacred Sands is a real one-of-a-kin; it's a two villa property close to the entrance of the Joshua Tree National Park. Each villa has its own outdoor bath, shower and day bed so you can make the most of these incredible surroundings — day and night. There’s no restaurant, and there’s not one nearby, but both villas have a kitchenette, and guests arrive to a stocked fridge. Unforgettably, spectacularly romantic.
Small and intimate, the Eden Vale Inn sits in the foothills of the Sierras, so the views are spectacular, and the walking terrain bliss. There are just ten rooms and suites, and all have a fireplace, wonderful rural views and outdoor whirlpool baths. The inn’s communal spaces are peaceful, relaxing and beautiful too.

For a Luxurious Honeymoon

The Francis House is a beautiful, historic mansion turned five room hotel. The grand exterior is one of the Napa Valley’s most impressive, and inside you’ll find the antiques to match. As well as beautiful surrounds this hotel offers expansive landscaped gardens, an elegant pool, a salt room, sauna and billiards room. There’s no restaurant but they do offer breakfast..
Set on more than two hundred acres of its own vineyards, Montage Healdsburg is a luxurious, architecturally beautiful hotel, with 130 rooms and suites. The clever design of this hotel makes the most of the beautiful spot, and allows for many private views through plenty of glass walls. The clean lines and minimalist design carry through to the pool, spa, and French-feeling fine dining restaurant as well. Montage welcomes families, but they have a separate adults' pool and other facilities.

For an Intimate Honeymoon

Casa Laguna Inn & Spa is an intimate feeling hotel in a peaceful, palm-fringed spot close to Laguna Beach. The 22 rooms and suites have a choice of garden or sea views, the gardens are lush and lovely, and there's a spoiling spa. The decor is chic, without being too fussy, so the feeling is cosy and stylish. The location makes a great base, and while there’s no restaurant there are lots of really great options in the local area.
Hideaway Santa Barbara is a stylish B&B set in amongst the dunes of Santa Barbara’s West Beach. There are just nine rooms, all of them individually decorated in a blue and white colour palette with a nautical bent, and all with spacious marble bathrooms, fireplaces and plenty of natural light. There’s no restaurant, but there are lots of choose from within a short, sandy stroll.

A Honeymoon for Foodies

The Harbor House Inn is a wonderfully scenic and secluded restaurant with rooms cum lodge, on the coastline adjacent to the Mendocino National Forest. The two michelin starrred seafood restaurant is known for its 30 mile policy, and incredible views, and the accommodation is chic yet cosy, benefitting from those same views.
Vintage House is surprisingly contemporary, considering the name, and has 80 chic rooms and suites in the food and wine hub, Yountville. The suites are ideal for honeymooners, featuring fireplaces and two-person tubs, the farm-to-fork restaurant is beautiful, and wine list extensive.
Calistoga’s Cottage Grove Inn is a charming collection of private-feeling cottages in a secluded spot surrounded by green. The cottage design is traditional, with each having its own terrace, fireplace and two-person spa bath. The inn offers complimentary bike hire, if you want to tour the local wineries on two wheels.

For a Peaceful Honeymoon

The Summerwood Inn is a contemporary boutique hotel overlooking vineyards and manicured gardens, just outside Paso Robles. The nine rooms are all large, chic and simply dressed, the main focal points being fireplaces and balconies. Paso Robles is a great place for independent shops and restaurants, and you’re surrounded by vineyards and wineries, but you’re also just a short drive from the Pacific Ocean.

For a Great Value Honeymoon

The Eagle Inn is a small, family-owned hotel, perfectly positioned for both the beach and the appeals of downtown Santa Barbara. Expect cosy rooms and decor, with a Spanish flavour, plus whirlpool spa baths, fireplaces, private balconies and breakfast on the patio.
Del Marcos is a chic, adults only hotel of 17 rooms, all arranged around a large pool. There’s a retro feel of modern glamour to the decor, and the rooms have plenty of natural light. There’s no restaurant, but you can get breakfast and snacks or orders from local restaurants delivered direct to your room.

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse by location, consulting our list of the best hotels in Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Carmel-by-the-Sea, or Healdsburg for example.
Or you could consider our recommendations for the 14 Most Romantic Hotels in San Francisco, the 15 Most Romantic Hotels in Miami or the 20 Best Luxury Hotels in California
You could expand your search to include ALL the best places to stay in Californi
Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- The Eagle Inn Santa Barbara (West Beach) 37 rooms from £113
  
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  Local exploring  -  The inn’s proximity to both the harbour and downtown make it perfect for discovering the sights of Santa Barbara
  Honeymoons  -  There are various romantic getaway specials for honeymoon couples
  Sights nearby  -  Visit the historic Santa Barbara Missions, the oldest Mission in California
  Sailing  -  Enjoy a coastal Cruise and sunset cruise from Santa Barbara harbour
  
  A charming family-owned hotel set in a quiet residential area but only a moments walk from downtown, the harbour and the beach. Romantic and cosy rooms feature Spanish style decor, whirlpool spa tubs, fireplaces and balconies. Delicious homemade breakfasts are served on the patio. A convivial stay. See More
  
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- Holiday House Palm Springs 28 rooms from £171
  
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  Total relaxation  -  An exceptionally cool and stylish spot, who's service is second to none, and surrounds are utterly tranquil
  Restaurant  -  Serves a menu of American fare daily, 11am-4pm. Several nearby restaurants to choose from for dinner. Complimentary breakfast
  Great walks  -  Go for hikes in stark Joshua Tree National Park, around the saline Salton Sea or San Jacinto Peak
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool (all year)
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  An elegant boutique hotel set in the desert in a renovated 1950s hotel. Design is Scandi-chic with pale wood furniture set besides bold blue and white patterns. Soak up the slow pace of Palm Springs, lounge by the pool sipping cocktails and enjoy California-inspired cuisine. A chic adult-only spot. See More
  
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- Kona Kai Resort & Spa San Diego 170 rooms from £173
  
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  Families  -  With its wide range of accommodations, private beach, and excellent on site amenities there's something here for all ages
  Honeymoons  -  A perfect place for a short but sweet honeymoon; spa, sea-view dining, romantic bonfires and pool-time with great views
  Beach Life  -  Spend the day on the resort's private beach, equipped with badminton, volleyball, bean bag toss, cabanas & bonfires
  Restaurant  -  As well as two pool bars, there's an outdoor dining marina-view terrace and 'Vessel' restaurant which serves SoCal cuisine
  
  Stylish luxury resort overlooking Kona Kai Marina. Contemporary rooms have bold prints and a fresh take on the classic nautical colour-scheme. Suites are more sophisticated with fireplaces. There's a man-made beach, two chic waterside pools, spa and al fresco dining. Romantic yet family-friendly. See More
  
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- The Chateau at Lake La Quinta California 24 rooms from £183
  
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  Views  -  Resort surrounds La Quinta lake and all rooms have a lake view
  Restrictions on children  -  This is an adults only property
  Restaurant  -  Melange- fine dining
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  Nestled in the Californian desert near Palm Springs, this contemporary and recently renovated hotel surrounds the serene and beautiful lake La Quinta. The luxurious suites all have individual custom furnishings, fireplaces, lakeside views and a private patio. A grown-up, romantic retreat. See More
  
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- Eden Vale Inn Placerville, California 7 rooms from £214
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Spend days boating or swimming on the lake or simply relaxing, before enjoying a quiet evening around the outdoor firepit
  Active Holiday  -  Active guests will love exploring river valleys, vineyards, mountain biking, hiking, skiing or white-water rafting
  Romantic Break  -  Parents-to-be will love the romantic 'Babymoon' spa package including relaxing treatments and spoiling gifts
  Honeymoons  -  After a relaxing couples' massage, enjoy a glass of wine watching the sunset from your private outdoor bath
  
  Romantic rural inn located in the Sierra Foothills. Surrounded by acres of wilderness, relax in the property's many indoor and outdoor shared spaces. There are 10 unique and luxurious rooms and suites, each with a fireplace and many boast charming balconies with garden views and outdoor baths. See More
  
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- Kenwood Inn & Spa Kenwood, California 29 rooms from £299
  
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  Kayaking - Hot days are geared for kayaking on the Russian River.
  Romantic - Good for couples.
  Outstanding location
  Full of character
  
  Romantic getaway in the heart of Wine Country has a pool, welcoming fireplaces and spa treatments for days. Large Italian style rooms - contemporary, yet cosy, with designer bathrooms. Dine at the hotel for Italian cuisine or the many local eateries. Explore the wineries by foot, bicycle or horse. See More
  
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- Summerwood Inn Paso Robles (California) 9 rooms from £234
  
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  Great walks - Roaming the countryside couldn't be more romantic than in this region.
  Views - Great views from hotel
  Full of character
  Boutique
  
  This modern boutique overlooks historical vineyards and beautifully manicured gardens. Renowned for its charm and hospitality; Large chic rooms are crisp black and white in decor with fireplaces and balconies. Breakfast is notably delicious, so be sure to rise in time. See More
  
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- Casa Laguna Inn & Spa Laguna Beach (California) 22 rooms from £273
  
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  Great walks  -  Crystal Cove State Park for a stroll along the beach.
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  Private Hot Tub
  Spa
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Intimate Laguna Beach hotel is the perfect quiet, relaxing spot for a romantic weekend break by the coast. Rooms are comfortable, with garden or sea views and private balconies. There is an outdoor pool and spa treatments for all. Great spot for seeing Los Angeles. See More
  
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- Vintage House Yountville (CA) 80 rooms from £283
  
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  Foodies  -  The hotel's excellent farm to fork restaurant is not to be missed (try the breakfast risotto) and the area is filled with gems
  Honeymoons  -  Book the generously proportioned Yountville Suite with a romantic fireplace, two-person hot tub and teak furnishings
  Great walks  -  Wander around Yountville and explore this charming area on foot
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A contemporary boutique in the foodie haven of Yountville, Napa Valley. Elegant suites offer oak floors, large fireplaces, outdoor seating and some have two person tubs. The farm to fork restaurant is wonderful and as you would expect the wine list is well researched and extensive. See More
  
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- Chateau du Sureau Oakhurst, California 9 rooms from £408
  
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  Fishing  -  Bring your own rod and reel and enjoy Bass Lake in all its mountain glory.
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Outstanding location
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Relais & Chateaux
  
  European chateau set in manicured gardens with an outdoor pool and Yosemite views. 19th century windows flood light into the classically decorated rooms with hard wood floors and fireplaces. Fine dining complemented by a good wine selection. Relax at the spa, in the library or great outdoors. See More
  
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- Applewood Inn Guerneville (California) 19 rooms from £201
  
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  Wine tasting  -  75+ wineries are located along the area's Russian River Wine Road. Get your wine-tasting passport to make the most of your stay
  Active Holiday  -  The region offers masses of outdoor activities such as riding, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, riding and golf
  Back to Nature  -  The property is surrounded by a thicket of towering Redwood trees and has an orchard and organic gardens
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  Recommended by  -  Fodors
  
  Ideal getaway in the Russian River Valley. 19 traditional and cosy rooms and suites look out over Redwood forest and are spread between 3 buildings, one of which is 1922 Mission-revival Historic Landmark. Relax at the Mediterranean-style pool, solarium or spa and dine in the Italian restaurant. See More
  
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- Del Marcos Palm Springs 17 rooms from £210
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Order food to your door (or a massage) and hunker down for some time with your significant other in this adult only hotel
  Architectural  -  Awarded a prize by the AIA as an example of cutting-edge resort hotel architecture
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  Adult Only
  
  A chic adult-only hotel in the city's historic Tennis Club neighbourhood. Designed around a large pool, rooms are bright and modern with floor-to-ceiling windows (the best have private terrace areas). Healthy breakfasts are served and while there's no restaurant, food can be delivered to the room. See More
  
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- Cottage Grove Inn Calistoga (California) 16 rooms from £340
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Charming cottages complete with spa baths, private terraces, and fireplaces are ideal for a romantic break
  Local exploring  -  Spend days exploring the Napa Valley Wine Country
  Great walks  -  Find numerous walking trails running through Napa Valley
  Whirlpool Bathtub  -  Spa baths made for two in every cottage
  
  A charming collection of cottages situated in a scenic and secluded spot in Calistoga. The design is traditional but the feel is fresh and contemporary and each room includes an enormous spa bath, a terrace, and a fireplace. A luxurious base to explore Napa Valley's wineries from. See More
  
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- Harbor House Inn, California California 6 rooms from £351
  
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  Foodies  -  The beautiful coastal restaurant serves dishes made with produce found within a 30-mile radius - a standout dining experience
  Beach Life  -  Located on the beautiful and rugged Northern Californian coast with a winding path down to a secluded beach
  Restaurant  -  The fabulous restaurant boasts 2 Michelin Stars
  Good wine list  -  Serving Mendocino wines
  
  A charming lodge packing a real punch with a standout restaurant and elegant traditional design. Choose from a cottage or a room in the main house - all filled with antiques, brimming with character, and offering sea views. The seafood restaurant is worth the journey alone. Boutique luxury defined. See More
  
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- La Serena Villas Palm Springs (Historic Tennis Club) 18 rooms from £507
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Private villas, couples massage, and lots of privacy mark this property as an ideal romantic destination
  City Style  -  A stylish and bright collection of villas in one of Palm Springs' most trendy areas
  Restaurant  -  Dining at on-site Azúcar Restaurant is a fresh, elegant experience in Mediterranean cuisine and cocktails
  Local markets  -  Palm Springs Village Fest is a short drive away, offering fresh local produce
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Stylish and attractive villas make up this charming and elegant resort in one of Palm Springs' most trendy neighbourhoods. Boasting a cool and cultured Mediterranean restaurant, a serene massage and skin treatment spa, and a year-round outdoor pool; the resort is ideal for a sunny couples retreat. See More
  
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- The Francis House Calistoga 5 rooms from £548
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Set in pretty gardens, boasting a lovely pool and the opportunity for massages, plus there's local wines to sample
  Historic  -  Napa Valley's only authentic building of French Second Empire architecture
  Local markets  -  Sample local produce at the Calistoga Farmers Market
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  A unique historic building - the region's only stone built French Second Empire house. The exterior's grand feel continues inside with spacious rooms packed with antiques. Added luxuries include an elegant pool, salt room, sauna, and billiards table. An idyllic spot to simply unwind. See More
  
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- Auberge du Soleil St Helena (California) 50 rooms from £605
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Napa Museum is small but worth a visit - exhibits local artists.
  Local markets  -  V Market has it all - food, wine, shops & entertainment.
  Tennis  -  Tennis court in the grounds.
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  The breathtaking views, olive groves and outstanding restaurant are reason enough to stay but add a pool, spa and prime location and you have the perfect A luxury boutique hotel. Rooms are luxurious from the linens to the bath soaps. 15,000 strong wine cellar, a renowned restaurant across the valley See More
  
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- Montage Healdsburg Healdsburg 130 rooms from £663
  
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  Country Escape  -  A luxury escape set in 258 acres of rolling vineyards and oak tree groves
  Spa breaks  -  The state-of-the-art spa serves up an array of nature-inspired treatments
  Families  -  Well crafted immersive children's activites
  Foodies  -  Fine dining paired with wines of the region
  
  A luxury rural escape set in 258-acres of vineyards in Sonoma Wine Country. State-of-the-art architecture is sleek and minimalist with clean lines and plenty of glass. A spoiling spa and French-inspired fine dining restaurant complete the picture at this indulgent stay. See More
  
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- Hideaway Santa Barbara Santa Barbara (West Beach) 9 rooms from £308
  
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  Local exploring  -  Despite feeling wonderful secluded, the excellent location means that all to see and do in Santa Barbara is on your doorstep
  City Style  -  The extensive renovation in 2019 means that suites and public areas feel fresh and chic, with the latest technology
  Sights nearby  -  Santa Barbara's Funk Zone is known for its vibrant art scene, galleries and cafes; walk just 6 blocks from the property
  Great walks  -  Stroll to the harbour to catch a scenic sunset
  
  Stylish B&B located walking distance from Santa Barbara's West Beach. 9 elegant rooms have been designed with impeccable taste; nautical hues, working fireplaces, spacious marble bathrooms and plenty of light. Home-made cookies are served daily, as well as breakfast in this home-away-from-home. See More
  
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- Sacred Sands California 2 rooms from £285
  
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  Back to Nature  -  Soak in the views around you by day and the milky way above by night. Hike to you heart's content from the property
  Hideaway  -  Only 2 suites surrounded by desert landscapes give this a true James Bond villain style hideaway feel
  Weddings  -  For an intimate wedding like no other this is a unique venue. They also offer elopment packages
  Romantic Break  -  From the outdoor bathtub look out over the Mojave Desert into Joshua Tree National Park
  
  One-of-a-kind property located close to the West entrance of California's Joshua Tree National Park. Just 2 suites - Onyx & Jade - make up this desert get-away, each with outdoor bath, shower and day bed to maximise jaw-dropping views at every turn. Check-in with someone special to escape it all. See More
  
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