Rentals Down Under: Top 6 Treehouses in Australia

Who doesn’t love a treehouse?

Whether or not you spent your childhood imagining the perfect treehouse escape, modern rentals are something special.

Treehouses have become a popular choice for travelers around the world. Thanks to private rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, it’s easier than ever for treehouse-keepers to host their stays online.

And, trust me, they’re worth booking.

In 2023, I stayed in the Gluba treehouse outside of Kristiansand, Norway. The stay was rustic, with limited water supplies, no electricity, and a compost toilet. (And a gas-powered stovetop.)

Despite the camping-style amenities, the treehouse was very well-made. The woodworking was impeccable, while the three bedrooms could have slept six comfortably. One even had a skylight so that those laying in bed could watch the stars.

Best of all, we were surrounded by sprawling forests and had access to a lake. Staying in the canopy made us feel even more immersed in Mother Nature.

My point is—though you might face a few tradeoffs for a true treehouse experience, they’re worth it. That’s doubly true when you’re in a magical place like Australia. After all, the Land Down Under is the perfect place for rugged, semi-mythical travel dreams.

Two bedroom Treehouse in 100 Acres of Private Land

Tarzali, Queensland

This stilted construction closely resembles a treehouse, located high in the canopy of the Cairns Highland rainforest. (Yes, Australia has rainforests.)

Thanks to its location on over 100 private acres, guests are treated to plenty of wildlife sightings, from cassowaries to platypuses. Though I’d avoid the cassowaries at all costs, the platypus is apparently a common sighting in the creek out back.

Though this treehouse isn’t actually a treehouse, the interior includes plenty of dark wood features. These accents go a long way in making the stay feel more rustic and integrated into the jungle surroundings—all without compromising on features like a romantic jacuzzi.

Book here

The Hepburn Treehouse

Hepburn Springs, Victoria

This unique stay combines the worlds of modern design and natural wonders. Like the last rental, this location isn’t technically a treehouse. The house is slightly stilted and surrounded by green-leafed trees, which gives it a feeling of being suspended in the canopy.

I think that factor makes the Hepburn Treehouse worth exploring. It has plenty of outdoor space to enjoy, too. There’s a canopy-covered porch, along with a forested view from the windows in the lounge. The potted plants throughout also feel like extensions of the surrounding forest, which I love.

Book here

River Room, Bellingen Treehouse

Gleniffer, New South Wales

I haven’t seen many rentals like the River Room. The building is situated on an incline, meaning half of it ‘hangs’ amongst the tall trees.

From the overhanging patio, guests can walk the plank (it’s appropriately sized, don’t worry) onto a wooden platform that’s suspended in the canopy amid the bright trees.

The uniqueness doesn’t stop there. The building has a slightly industrial design thanks to its corrugated metal exterior—which fits beautifully with the surrounding greenery along Never Never Creek.

It’s no surprise that the three-part house comes from a renowned Australian architect, Richard LePlastrier.

Book here

Secluded Magical Rainforest Retreat

Main Arm, New South Wales

This stay isn’t a traditional treehouse by any stretch of the imagination. Still, the rental has been integrated so seamlessly into the surrounding tropical jungle that it hits a similarly immersive note.

The sprawling outdoor patio offers great views of a large creek. In summer, fireflies light up the banks—and even glowworms if the conditions are right.

I’m also a big fan of the bathroom, which includes enough windows to make you feel like you’re scrubbing yourself clean directly in the jungle. It’s giving Tarzan vibes.

Book here

Treehouse in Koolewong

Koolewong, New South Wales

This might be the first (and only) pure treehouse on this list. From high in the sky, guests have unspoiled views over the Brisbane waters—no houses or signs of civilization in sight.

Best of all, the treehouse was designed with those views in mind, which are showcased through large windows.

But the treehouse also maximizes its outdoor space, too. Along with a large deck overlooking the magical view, guests also have a sitting area that’s located down in the grass. Though not as jungly as others on this list, visits from tropical birds aren’t uncommon.

Book here

Currumbin Rainforest Treehouse

Currumbin Valley, Queensland

If you’re looking for rustic and natural treehouses, look no further. This entire rental feels like a Hollywood take on romantic jungle adventures—and I mean that in the best way possible.

Stonework, ceramic baths on unfenced porches, and plenty of woodwork throughout create an effortlessly opulent and natural atmosphere. In lieu of traditional treehouse features, the home has been integrated with the plot’s boulders and stones.

Even the stained glass features are perfectly accented to fit the ripe green jungle outside. It’s also worth mentioning that the Currumbin Valley is a growing hotspot for travelers – don’t miss out on this one if you’re heading to Australia anytime soon.

Book here

Van Life: Which Features Should You Prioritize in a Starter Van?

Van life is a budding alternative to RVing.

Compared to living in an RV (part-time or full-time), converted camper vans are more affordable. They’re also more customizable for those with a bit of know-how (or savings) and are easier to maneuver in remote areas.

In other words, they might be smaller, but they can also be mightier—especially when it comes to rugged travel.

That being said, there are plenty of trade-offs for those who opt for a van over an RV. The greatest is space.

Compared to the average van, RVs come with more ready-to-rumble features and amenities. These translate to a much more comfortable experience—while still being customizable for those who want to tinker around.

For those weighing the merits of van life, one question that comes up first is—what sorts of features are most important for first-timers? If you’re exploring the idea of a ‘starter van’, as they’re called, then there are a few core features you need to get right straight from the get-go.

But what are they? Let’s explore.

If you want to dig deeper into my sources for this article, you can explore them here:

Finding the right starter van

Let’s start off with the most important factor at play: the van itself.

Usually, the decision to start with a certain model is based on whether you’ll be living full-time in the van or part-time.

If you’re going full-time, you should look for a slightly larger van. That added space makes it possible to convert your water and electrical systems into even more elaborate setups. I’m talking about amenities like showers and even bathrooms. (Yes—you can have a full shower and functional toilet in a van!)

If you’re planning on staying in your van part-time, then size and scope might not be part of your main focus. Instead, you only need to focus on the basics like finding a great 4×4 and preparing for the weather. (More on temperature below.)

Here are a few solid options for starter vans:

Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van—includes four-wheel drive
Ford Transit
Doge Promaster
Chevy G Series or Chevy Express—a great budget option

Electricity

Vans usually run on shore power, solar power, alternator charging, and/or battery banks.

It doesn’t matter which system(s) you prefer to use with your starter van—you’ll probably end up switching to another electrical system later on as you gain experience.

Just be aware of which you’re opting for when you purchase your starter van. Every conversion you do will be reliant on the existing electrical system in place.

If you want to be intentional about your electrical system from the start, find a top-tier battery (AGM and lithium are leading the industry today) and nail down your charging source (solar is the most robust option today).

Remember—if you have a bit of know-how, you can start exploring guides from experienced van-lifers immediately. (Or you can hire them to sup up your van.)

Water

Van water systems can be incredibly basic or highly advanced—the choice is yours.

When it comes to functional water storage, most starter vans include wheel well tanks. Tanks are connected to faucets using basic water pumps—no grandiose technology is necessary for a solid starter van.

Once again, it makes more sense to start with a basic setup and then refine it over time. Nailing that sink pump should pave the way for larger projects, like showers and even toilets.

Just keep in mind that you also need to store your grey water. Grey water is the runoff from the sink. Some areas require visitors to dump their grey water at designated stations. Only vans that use organic and eco-friendly products should dump their grey water directly onto public lands.

Storage

Water and electrical systems are the more important features you need to focus on when it comes to starter vans.

That being said, I’d probably spend most of my time crafting a modular and functional storage system. (Or finding the right professional to do the job for me.) Remember—you’re going to be using up critical space for things like water storage and emergency gear like spare tires.

Great storage is all about functional design. As in, are cabinets and shelves placed thoughtfully around the camper? Do they stay shut when you’re driving?

Storage is your first line of defense in crafting an intuitive space that will make your van livable. Don’t underestimate its importance.

Ventilation

Almost all campers come with ceiling vents that are designed to keep the air flowing even when the doors are closed.

But will it be enough? Some blogs recommend looking for models that include windows that slide open or can be propped open at night. That offers a bit more ventilation in areas prone to heat.

However, the easiest way to keep air moving is to put a vent fan in the ceiling. Not only can the fan prevent stuffy and sleepless nights, but it’s also nice to have when cooking (or burning) a meal.

Insulation

Ventilation goes a long way in keeping a van cool and fresh.

But insulation is the true hero when it comes to temperature control—and moisture control, too. Insulation regulates the van’s warm or cool air, while also absorbing condensation to minimize moisture.

That’s particularly important if your camper includes wood features, as these can be negatively harmed by that moisture. But beyond the scope of moisture control, it’s also a critical feature for ensuring warmth in colder climates.

Mystery Picnic: A New Foodie Favorite

Traveler is getting more novel by the year.

One of the more interesting trends that I’ve noticed is the rise of scavenger hunts, escape rooms, and similar DIY-style adventures.

Atlanta, for example, has one of the US’s most active and highly rated escape room scenes in the country. Scavenger hunts, on the other hand, have been around for a bit longer. From neighborhood explorations to zany cruises, you can find one in most major cities and in just about every theme.

These types of experiences highlight interest in alternative experiences.

Tourists are on the hunt for self-guided adventures that include a bit of logical reasoning and possibly even analytical deductions.

But if you’re like me and don’t feel particularly interested in scavenger hunts (too much hustle and bustle) or escape rooms (too much high-stakes thinking), I’d like to propose another experience—

One that includes all the intrigue and team-building as a scavenger hunt or escape room—plus a great meal. (Foodies rejoice!)

It’s known as a Mystery Picnic and, like the name suggests, it combines the worlds of food travel, city exploration, and relaxed scavenger hunts.

Here’s why you need to keep this brand on your radar when city-slicking across the US.

Mystery picnics in the United States

After becoming a staple in Australia, Mystery Picnics is now expanding across the US.

I’m going to focus on their San Diego offerings because they’ve piqued my interest—but know that the brand offers unique picnic-based experiences throughout the US.

Here’s how it works. The company creates bespoke adventures with the goal of introducing travelers to a city’s coolest hidden gems, which culminates in a delectable picnic experience.

While it’s great for foodies who like to sample unique dishes, participants can notify organizers of any dietary restrictions or preclusions they have.

Mystery Picnics are also curated based on the number of participants, along with the type of group. The company creates specialized programs for groups of friends or colleagues, couples on dates, and family excursions.

I’m particularly interested in Mystery Picnic dates—they sound like an ideal way to get to know a romantic partner on a first date.

Mystery Picnic experiences in San Diego

As you might have guessed, all Mystery Picnic experiences are carefully curated and organized. No two picnics are the same, as the programs are designed to highlight, explore, and celebrate specific neighborhoods and parks.

In San Diego, couples, groups, and families can book Mystery Picnics that explore La Jolla, Julian, and Coronado.

The company is also working on rolling out new adventures in San Diego, including San Clemente, the San Pasqual Valley, Liberty Station, the OC, Normal Heights, Hillcrest, and—my favorite—historic old town San Diego.

I’m pretty zeroed in on Mystery Picnic’s presence in San Diego because I’ve had the southern Californian city on my radar for a long time.

If you’re a little burnt out on SoCal, here are a few other cities with highly rated Mystery Picnic experiences that all feature upcoming new experiences:

Dallas Texas

Explore: Downtown Grapevine, Fort Worth, and Uptown Dallas
Coming soon: Waco, Longview, Downtown Dallas, and Greenville Ave

Tampa, Florida

Explore: St. Petersburg & Downtown Tampa
Coming soon: Sarasota, Fort Myers, Weeki Wachee, Tarpon Springs, and Ybor City

Charlotte, North Carolina

Explore: South End & Plaza Midwood
Coming soon: NoDa, Elizabeth, Greenville & Surrounds, and Columbia

GuardaVal: The Swiss Escape Where No Room is the Same

Surprises tend to wait in small towns.

That’s certainly the case with GuardaVal, a four-star boutique hotel located in the Alpine outpost of Scuol. The town is known for its mineral water springs, which visitors can sample in its many public fountains. And the hotel is known for its unique, bespoke design.

More specifically, no two rooms of the GuardaVal are the same. That’s a pretty unique twist in the world of boutique hotels – one that’s made cooler by the fact that it’s set in a farmhouse that dates back to the 17th century.

As someone who loves a good boutique hotel and writes about them from a variety of angles, I’m parting the veil to break down what exactly goes into a great boutique experience. And I’m using the GuardaVal as a case study.

What makes a hotel ’boutique’?

Boutique gets thrown around a lot when it comes to describing hotels.

According to my metrics, a boutique hotel usually has a limited number of rooms and a painstaking attention to detail when it comes to design, style, and extracurriculars.

They should also be unique (even weird, so long as it’s in a cool way) and offer personalized service. Most importantly, they should be located in an enviable spot.

That’s a pretty broad brush to paint with, though.

Most boutique hotels are in the four and five-star space thanks to added amenities like spacious rooms, elevated design and products, on-site activities, and on-site restaurants. These amenities further showcase the boutique hotel’s overall focus.

Most boutique hotels that I cover are about style, flash, and experience. (No need for an extravagant price tag.) My two favorites are located in New Orleans: Hotel Saint Vincent and Maison de la Luz.

But let’s not lose focus of my boutique case study here, the GuardaVal.

It’s part of the Hotel Belvedere Familie, making it one of three hotels located in Scuol, Switzerland. I had a fantastic stay in the Hotel Belvedere, which I highly recommend—but I really need to gush about GuardaVal for two reasons.

First, its bespoke and culturally faithful design. Second, the tunnel that leads to Scuol’s mineral water spa.

No two rooms are the same

GuardaVal is located inside a renovated home that dates back to the 1600s. Scuol is located in the Lower Engadine Valley, which is home to dozens of old villages and their traditional homes.

Those traditional homes aren’t quite like what you’re imagining, as they once functioned as hybrid farmhouses. The first floors were split between the family’s living room and kitchen, along with a smaller barn-like area for their livestock. The second floor consisted of bedrooms.

Most homes are now painted white and detailed with drawings of animals and short phrases. They’re hard to miss thanks to their exterior. The doorways are also broad and arched, designed to fit animals like sheep and cows.

(Most homes also face water fountains, which served as important social and hydration hubs. In Scuol, where the GuardaVal is located, you can still drink from these mineral water fountains throughout the town.)

While locals haven’t shared quarters with their livestock in centuries, many of these traditional homes were renovated over the last century.

GuardaVal is a love letter to these traditional homes.

Every room is located in a distinct part of the home, which is celebrated with design elements. I toured rooms that are located in the former sheep room, kitchen, bedroom, and living room in GuardaVal’s main structure.

Each has been carefully restored to keep the original woodwork and showcase what life in Scuol would have been like in the not-so-distant past. Plus, a bevy of luxury features, including top-tier bedding and linens, along with locally sourced haircare and skincare products.

But keep in mind that if you want to book a specific room, you’re better off calling before booking. Staff are available to help you find the right room that’s available during your stay.

Underground tunnels that lead to spas

You might think that GuardaVal’s main selling point is the fact that it’s converted from a centuries-old home. In reality, I think it’s the underground tunnel that leads from the hotel to Scuol’s main attraction: the public spa, which is fed by local mineral springs.

The spa (Bad Scuol) is open to the public—but all three hotels in the Hotel Belvedere Familie have direct access thanks to a private underground tunnel. (The tunnel was built in 2004 a few years after the Belvedere Familie changed ownership.)

I’m not usually a huge fan of soaking for hours, but that wasn’t the case in Scuol.

Imagine this: you spend hours floating in mineral water pools, drifting from the salt bath to the sauna to the cold plunge. You’re a little hungry and ready for a nap, having relaxed back into a state of toddlerhood.

You slip on a plush robe and shoes, stop by the mineral fountains to sample their waters, and then head for the tunnel.

But it’s not just any tunnel.

Windows line the passageway, providing a perfect view of the towering Alps outside. You feel like James Bond, except cleaner. On the way back, you have the option of drifting into a state of zen-like enlightenment at one of the private Belvedere lounges that overlook the mountains.

High-Tech Hotels: Coolest Examples of Technology in Hospitality

Technology regularly revolutionizes travel.

While the travel bug predates electricity, the modern industry relies on budding forms of automation. From AI programs that can help tourists plan their next trip to fully-fledged robot concierges, the horizons of techy travel are constantly expanding.

In fact, hotels, airlines, and other hospitality-centric industries are looking closely at how technology can improve the customer experience, streamline operations, and give them an edge over competitors.

The number of initiatives is dizzying—but which forms of technology are actually making an impact?

When it comes to travel and tech, I’m mostly focused on eco-initiatives. Sustainable tech is at the forefront for many luxury hotels and travel brands around the world—and rightfully so, as many tourists are zeroing in on what sustainability looks like in practice.

For now, I’m taking a step back from eco-centric tech in hospitality to focus on the more imaginative and groundbreaking forms of tech.

Think you know about the cutting-edge world of AI and tech-forward hotel stays? Here are a few of the coolest projects I’ve uncovered recently.

Robot Massages at Lotte New York Palace

I’ve seen robots deliver drinks and meals at restaurants. I’ve even seen robots store and manage hefty luggage.

But I was pretty mindblown to learn that robots are also administering massages at Lotte New York Palace. The hotel partnered with Aescape to offer a fully automated massage at its ila Only Spa on-site location.

I’m going to be blunt—the setup looks a little intimidating. The robotic arms look more geared toward a medical procedure. That being said, reviews on the Aescape robot massage are universally positive. Aescape spent around seven years prototyping its robot masseuse with around $80 million in funding to nail the experience.

In fact, Aescape’s early success at Lotte New York Palace is expected to generate interest around the country. Already, Aescape will be selling its massage-bots to select Equinox locations.

Infrared Sensors at Hotel 1000

Not all tech-centric projects in hospitality are focused on robots. Already, robots have proven helpful as concierge support, snack delivery, suitcase storage, and more. But many tech projects are focused on simplifying operations.

Infrared thermal technology is changing how hotels set room temperatures and even how they structure cleaning programs.

For example, Hotel 1000 in downtown Seattle uses this type of technology to alert cleaning staff to whether or not guests are in their rooms, generating fewer interruptions for visitors. Infrared technology also automatically changes the room’s temperature based on the number of occupants.

What I like best about this type of technology is that it’s invisible. Guests aren’t aware that their stay is being improved using something as basic as infrared.

Proto M hologram concierge at the Beverly Wilshire

The future of hospitality tech isn’t only based on robots. Some brands are jumping ahead to bring holograms to their staff.

At the Beverly Wilshire, the goal is to offer guests in-room holograms that act as personal concierges. But what does this actually look like?

At their most basic, a hologram might only put out pre-recorded messages. But the Proto M hologram is designed to do way more. The hologram isn’t a generated image—it’s a live video feed to the actual concierge downstairs. No weird automated messages or unhelpful advice.

Think of it like a next-gen version of a telephone.

Jet-Lag Support from InterContinental Hotels & Resorts

Jet lag is one of the most enduring problems in the travel world—one that isn’t easily fixed by technology or even sage advice. We all tend to struggle with jet lag for specific reasons.

That might be based on falling or staying asleep, along with other health-related issues like appetite, drowsiness, and even gut-related topics like constipation.

The great minds at InterContinental Hotels & Resorts are looking to revolutionize their approach to guest wellness by offering tailored jet lag services. The company partnered with Timeshifter, a science-based app that offers travelers sleep advice based on a number of factors.

The goal is to align guests with their internal cycles, which might require less artificial light exposure at certain times of day.

Bed Bug Fighting Technology from MachineQ

Bed bugs are a huge problem in hospitality—one that many hotels are helpless to fight. For example, bed bugs swept across Paris prior to the Olympic travel season.

The origin isn’t unclean guests or rooms—it’s the simple fact that bed bugs can hide in guests’ luggage and belongings for long periods of time only to emerge, multiply, and lay siege to cities.

So it’s a serious problem, even for five-star brands. The UK’s Spotta technology is designed to identify and fight the spread of bed bugs. This ace project recently announced a partnership with MachineQ, a Philly-based connectivity provider.

Thanks to the partnership, it looks like dozens of major hotel brands across the US will soon adopt Spotta tech.

Smart Showerheads from Oasense

Oopsies, looks like I snuck in an eco-friendly form of tech. Smart showerheads are an emerging form of technology that’s designed to minimize water waste—especially for hotels that shell out millions to heat gallons for every room.

And just like with infrared sensors, this type of tech from Oasense and other brands is invisible.

Smart showerheads automatically reduce and boost the water flow to a room based on live usage. For example, the showerhead will automatically minimize the flow when a guest is waiting for the water to heat up.

These small changes can yield mighty results for hotels, saving them big money and giving guests a more eco-friendly experience.

PCH 101: Best Hotels on the Pacific Coast Highway (Cali Only)

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the US’s most iconic road trip routes.

You might know this classic highway as the 101, which stretches across the West Coast. From Washington State down to San Diego, the two-lane road winds through mountains, forests, and more—usually while offering a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean

In total, the Pacific Coast Highway stretches for 1,675 miles and takes around one week to explore comfortably. That allotment of time for exploring attractions, getting plenty of rest, and taking a few detours along the way.

But most adventurers stick to one segment of the journey—and the most popular is the route that leads from Orange County to Mendocino County in Northern California.

My favorite part of the Pacific Coast Highway is the views and sense of adventure.

Aside from vistas and freedom, something that I love about road trips is the number of boutique inns, hotels, and motels that pop up around the way. With hardly any hotel chains in small towns, routes like the Pacific Coast Highway offer a spotlight on unique mom-and-pop stays.

Though some boutique hotels are more high-production than others, they all deliver (in spades) my favorite feature: a kitschy atmosphere. (I’m talking about the good, charming type of kitsch.)

Looking for a memorable stay along California’s stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway? Start with one of these boutique options. My suggestions are listed starting from the northern stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway down to Santa Barbara.

Lodge at Marconi

West Marin

The Lodge at Marconi is a brand-new project that specializes in retreats, weddings, and similar events. But I think it’s a good fit for just about anyone—so long as you enjoy a remote and rejuvenating stay.

Aside from its focus on gatherings, the Marconi offers a fantastic escape and experience at Tomales Bay. The grounds are immersed in the NorCal forest.

As someone who has spent a good amount of time near Marin County (I worked in Humboldt County for a while), I haven’t forgotten the feel and tranquility of the area’s large-growth forests. At the Marconi, you also get rugged coastal views—and a curated list of on-site activities designed for immersion and recreation.

Book here

Seven Gables Inn

Pacific Grove

A world-class location meets hyper-local charm at the Seven Gables Inn. The grounds remind me of East Coast destinations like Martha’s Vineyard, offering sweeping views of the coast outside through formal sitting rooms.

Like many East Coast spots, Seven Gables Inn also offers a historical angle. The inn was constructed in the 1800s in a Victorian style that’s been carefully maintained and renovated.

Aside from the lovely and coastal-themed design, I like the Seven Gables’ bed-and-breakfast approach, which focuses on slowing down and soaking up the ambiance.

Book here

Post Ranch Inn

Big Sur

We’re heading back into nature at the Post Ranch Inn.

This Big Sur getaway distinguishes itself thanks to its cliff-top location. (It’s a whole 1,200 feet above sea level.) From this perch, you’ll feel like you’re sitting on top of the world. And with luxury features galore, there’s plenty of reason to rejoice and relax.

At the moment, Post Ranch Inn has one of only eleven Michelin Guide Three-Key distinctions, which celebrate excellent hotel stays. That designation is thanks to next-level features like yoga and meditation courses, along with unexpected (and outright awesome) experiences like falconry.

Book here

Cambria Shores Inn

Cambria

The Cambria Shores Inn offers a deeply charming and homegrown stay on the 101.

Its three-star offerings cover all the basics, including a great view of Moonstone Beach, amenities geared toward families and pets, and lovely grounds. The rooms are designed with organic coastal features, making them quaint, functional, and comfortable.

I love the family-centric vibe, which is palpable thanks to the fact that the Cambria Shores Inn has been family-run for a few decades. The family’s goal isn’t to scale up—it’s to keep doing what they do well, which is offering a home away from home.

Book here

The Pacific Motel

Cayucos

It’s bohemian, it’s beachy, and it’s got all the subtle features you’d expect from a California coastal dream like The Pacific Motel.

I’m a huge fan of the motel’s design and layout, which is focused on individual bungalows, along with its location on the off-the-beaten-path Cayucos.

Many bungalows include gas fireplaces, along with art from local designers and products from local producers. I’m also in love with amenities like the communal fire pits (which include blankets), which make it easy to schmooze with other guests.

Book here

Hotel Californian

Santa Barbara

I covered this hotel during a piece on the best hotels in Santa Barbara—and Hotel Californian hasn’t drifted far from my mind since. It’s luxury, it’s stylish, and it puts a lot of emphasis on its community events. Think: rooftop shows from local DJs that overlook the Pacific Ocean.

The boutique and lux hotel also offers all the basics of a high-end stay. Its on-site spa is highly rated by locals, while its winemaker dinners bring together the area’s top wine producers, sommeliers, and winos. Should I keep going?

Book here