Vintage and retro vibes are enjoying a resurgence in the realm of hospitality.
Videos by TravelAwaits
There are a few reasons travelers are on the hunt for these themes. First, they deliver on the nostalgia factor, transporting us back to a day and age we imagine was simpler—and full of style. Second, themes are a way for hotels to differentiate themselves from other properties, making their vintage and retro programming stand-out features.
Lastly, hotels with vintage flair also benefit from one other perk: They often feel effortlessly upscale. While retro themes deliver on excitement and color, vintage offers a demurer take on the designs and activities of yore.
While you might be aware of famous motels with retro flair, what do you know about hotels with vintage themes? Here are five examples from Casette, a boutique hotel group with properties in California and New Mexico.
Hotels in California & Mexico with vintage themes and design
Casa Cody (Palm Springs, California)
A Spanish Colonial twist from the 1920s
Casa Cody dates back to the 1920s, when it was founded by an intrepid pioneer named Harriet Cody. Its vintage themes are centered around its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and its adobe-style bungalows. While many Palm Springs properties are known for their mid-century modern style, Casa Cody takes you further back in the city’s timeline, transporting you into a world of effortlessly classy lounges, pools, and rooms.
Hotel Marina Riviera (Big Bear, California)
An alpine lake setting from the Old World
Located right on the edge of Big Bear Lake, Hotel Marina Riviera blends elements of Alpine lodges, Viking-themed mid-century design, and classic Americana design notes. You’ll notice Old World charm refitted into a minimalist package, making you feel like you’re on a classic adventure through the Swiss Alps. There’s even a cold plunge and barrel sauna to fit the Alpine vintage theme.
Hotel Willa (Taos, New Mexico)
A midcentury gem with a bohemian twist
Hotel Willa was originally opened as a motel in the 1960s, but has since been fully renovated to reflect the history and creative artistry of Taos, New Mexico. You’ll notice bohemian design elements grounded with earthy, midcentury pieces. The result is an ambiance that feels distinctly Southwestern, while also incorporating classic vintage themes like midcentury design and warm palettes.
The Pearl Hotel (San Diego, California)
A renovated hotel with a fab 50s feel
This vintage-styled beach hotel originally opened in the 50s. You’ll notice vintage themes repackaged for modern tastes, like the oyster-shaped pool and its colorful umbrellas, to the interior design at the on-site eatery, Ponyboy. My favorite vintage element is the projector that shows movies on a big screen in the pool area, which you can enjoy from the restaurant.
The Surfrider Malibu (Malibu, California)
An ode to Cali’s surfer culture
Located across the street from Malibu’s famous Surfrider Beach, The Surfrider Malibu is a motor lodge-turned dreamy surfer-themed hotel. The property showcases California’s bohemian beach vibes, from the white palettes to the organic features. Think: classic sleepy California beach days, a la the 1960s and 70s, when surf culture was just hitting the map.
[Just a heads-up: We may earn an affiliate commission when you make a purchase from a link in our articles.]
