White Water

California’s Central Coast is less famous than the big cities that lie at either end, and that suits it just fine — Cambria is a place where you go to get away, not to see and be seen. And the brand-new White Water is a beautifully stylish place to do it, especially in this moment’s road-tripping, self-secluding mood. Creative director Nina Freudenberger took inspiration from Danish modernism as well as classic Californian design to create a seaside escape that’s both invigoratingly stylish and soothingly sedate.

Many of the furnishings are custom-made, some from repurposed vintage sources, resulting in a living space that’s pleasingly unique and thoroughly intentional — and what’s off-the-rack is carefully selected as well, from bath products by Aesop to minibar items by Hollywood’s Erewhon Market. The lobby lounge serves local wines, craft beers, and cocktails, along with a light menu by chef Jason Niederkorn.

Cambria’s beaches are beautiful, but rough, better suited to strolling in contemplation than L.A.-style hedonism. That said, there’s a fantastic surf break on the rocky Moonstone Beach, right in front of the hotel. And while the town is small, there’s plenty to do, from a host of fine little restaurants and bars to a generous handful of local wineries.