Cambria Beach Lodge

If Cambria, California, doesn’t sound quite as familiar as Monterey or Santa Barbara, well, you’re certainly not alone. The proprietors here argue that their hotel occupies part of the last piece of unspoiled, undiscovered beach town along the central California coast — and they’re trying to keep it that way. But this is a part of the country that deserves to be explored, enjoyed, and protected. And the Cambria Beach Lodge, a Highway 1 roadside hotel in that stunning stretch of country between San Francisco and Los Angeles, allows a traveler to do just that.

Upon your arrival, you’ll be equipped with an adventure kit, complete with a Boy Scouts handbook and a pair of binoculars, that helps you pursue whatever outdoor activity you’d like during your stay, from hiking the local pine forests to horseback riding. If your interest lies in cycling, grab one of the house Linus bikes and head into town or hit the nearby trail. Low-key sunset watching? There’s a private sky deck with unobstructed views of the coast for that. And if you fancy a swim or a surf, Moonstone Beach is mere steps away.

But if you just wanted to hang out at the hotel, we certainly wouldn’t judge. The Cambria Beach Lodge takes a retro spin on coastal California beach house decor, with turquoise accents against white walls and clean, natural wood. The rooms are recently redesigned and range from your standard deluxe king to a freestanding beach house with a full kitchen. And although we wouldn’t normally make a big deal about the minibar, the ones you’ll find at Cambria are stocked with local wine — Paso Robles wine country is just half an hour’s drive away.