29 Best Hotels in Orange County and Catalina Island, California

This sprawling replica of an English Tudor estate is a little prince or princess's dream hotel. This is the home of Princess Corinne and her white dragon friend named Shadow. She is friends with all of the nearby Disney Princesses, and her story is featured in the lobby and on each floor. Outside there is a pretty rose garden, white gazebo garden, and movie night on the lawn during the summer. Fountains and a pond with koi fish and ducks are serene water features. Princess Corinne invites guests to join her for fireside story time at the grand fireplace lounge on certain evenings, and visits guests on the weekend during Garden Court Bistro's breakfast buffet. She also will come tuck little ones in and read them a bedtime story in the evening. Rooms are sizable; some first-floor rooms open onto interior gardens and a pool area. Some premium rooms have royal headboards and others have castle bunk beds among misty forest walls. A complimentary Dream Machine shuttle takes guests to the entrance of Disney theme parks. Pets are welcome for an additional fee. The on-site Hanagi Japanese Restaurant is open at 5 pm, offering fresh sushi and an interactive hot pot and shabu-shabu Wednesdays through Sunday.

Once a private club that was a luxury hangout for Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, and Ronald Reagan, this esteemed waterfront resort now offers contemporary coastal elegance and one of the best harbor bay views, especially from the spacious bay-view guest rooms. Locals and guests gather at the lively A + O restaurant and bar to take in the pleasing sea breezes while overlooking million-dollar yachts. The resort offers a variety of land and sea wellness and enrichment activities. There is a sparkling swimming pool in the center of the hotel with poolside cabanas and daybeds. Rent a Duffy electric boat or stand-up paddleboard from the resort's private marina. The lawn area next to the marina is a popular spot for weddings, and a spa exclusive to hotel guests. Take one of the hotel bicycles for a spin to explore Newport Beach. Dogs are welcome with a non-refundable $150 one-time fee.

Near the entrance to both Disney parks, and featuring a Surfside Waterpark with a fun splash zone, waterslides, and a heated swimming pool, this is not your typical Courtyard by Marriott. Rooms cater to groups and families with microwaves, mini-refrigerators, coffee makers, and sturdy bunk beds. Options include ADA suites, king suites with two sets of bunk beds, and double queen suites with bunks that accommodate six people. The waterpark and some guest rooms overlook Disneyland's Matterhorn; other rooms have views of the firework shows. The fitness center is open all day, and the Bistro serves a quick breakfast, lunch, and dinner before you head across the street to the Disney parks. A souvenir and mini-mart on the lobby level offers snacks, drinks, and Disney-themed apparel and accessories.

The most opulent of Disneyland's three hotels, the Craftsman-style Grand Californian offers views of Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney. The orange-blossom tree theme guest rooms have wood floors, plenty of outlets for charging devices, and sleeping chairs and bench beds for families. Some guest rooms look out onto Downtown Disney, while others have views of the pools and woods. There are also club-level rooms and one to three bedroom suites with access to the hotel's concierge club. This elegant 6th floor concierge room offers helpful service, plus complimentary food, treats, drinks, and afternoon tea. Wine, desserts, and firework viewing is offered in the evening. Restaurants include the Napa Rose and Storytellers Cafe, where Disney characters entertain children at breakfast. The Hearthstone Lounge located in the soaring lobby offers drinks and small bites. Overlooking the multiple swimming pools is Craftsman Grill for all-day dining and Craftsman Lounge offering a lunch and dinner menu. Guests can enter both parks 30 minutes earlier than everyone else not staying at one of the Disneyland Hotels. Tanya Stone Spa is inspired by the spirits of nature. When the spa was built, the designers repurposed the wood from this site to create the beautiful flooring. Fun Fact: There are hidden Mickeys and the faces of Chip and Dale in the pretty poppy theme carpeting throughout the hotel, and on a clockface of a grandfather clock near the Arts-and-Crafts-style wood-panel lobby.

Staying at one of the happiest places on Earth is almost as fun as visiting Disney's two parks. The lobby has teacup seating and a memorabilia wall of historical photos featuring Walt and Roy Disney breaking ground to build this imaginative land. The hotel has three different towers: Fantasy Tower, Adventure Tower, and the new Disneyland Villas. In the Fantasy and Adventure Towers, guest rooms have blue and gold star and firework carpeting, plus wood wall reliefs above the bed of Sleeping Beauty's castle; push a button and a firework display of white lights appear above the castle, while soft Disney theme music plays. The Adventure Tower offers Signature Suites that include a Mickey Mouse Suite, an Adventure Suite with clawfoot bathtub, and a Pirates of the Caribbean suite. The Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer a variety of themed guest rooms with magical touches, available to the public until the units sell out with Vacation Club owners. Dining options include the Polynesian Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar and Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar and Grill. Goofy's Kitchen offers all-you-can-eat buffets. After exploring the Disney parks, come back to the tropical oasis pool area offering two towering monorail theme waterslides, a fun water play area, two different pools, and Mickey and Minnie hot whirlpools. Disney characters join in the fun, greeting guests throughout the day during the summer.

Attached to the Anaheim Convention Center, this busy Hilton is the largest hotel in Orange County. Despite its proximity to Disneyland, the decor lacks Disney excitement, except for the Disney theme gift shop, and some of the guest rooms have views of the Disney Parks and fireworks on certain nights. Guests can enjoy the heated outdoor swimming pool and kid's splash zone. There is a spacious Mix Lounge with a bar, and sit-down Mix restaurant. Those on the go can order from Fresh Connection via a QR code and pick it up after a day at the parks or sporting event. Off the lobby is the biggest Starbucks in Orange County and a food court for grab-and-go options. Rooms have flat-screen TVs and desks with ergonomic office chairs. The entrance to Disneyland, Downtown Disney, and Disney California Adventure is about a 15-minute walk. 

Located one block from the beach in the heart of Avalon, Hotel Atwater originally opened in 1920 and was recently redesigned in 2019, to honor Helen Atwater Wrigley (daugher-in-law of famed local William Wrigley). Splits of champagne await in each guest room mini refrigerator, as a nod to her favorite before-bedtime beverage. This hotel offers an impeccable sense of style and Catalina Island memorabilia. The soaring lobby is a mini museum featuring two of Helen's prized instruments: a Dellape Stradella and a golden harp. There are curio cabinets filled with photos of the Wrigley family and an old bank safe filled with books and board games for guests to borrow during their stay. The exceptional attention to detail includes a color palate of cream, blues, greens, and a pop of Garibaldi orange. Views from the rooms include Avalon Bay, Catalina Canyon, and businesses below. There is a $40 destination fee per room per night, however guests do receive sparkling wine on arrival day; a $20 credit per day for Catalina Island Company restaurants; 15% off Catalina Island Company activities and tours; Wi-Fi; the use of beach towels; and luggage service to and from the ferry terminal in Avalon.

The Bistro at the Atwater offers coffee and pastries in the morning and grab-and-go items for a picnic on the beach.

A great value for Long Beach, the family-owned, European-style Hotel Royal makes up for in kindness what it lacks in fancy extras. Think free breakfast, a lively wine happy hour, and free bike rentals. The hotel was built in 1923 in the art deco style and is in the center of Long Beach's au courant arts district. In keeping with the building's age, the small lobby and some of the rooms have exposed brick walls. If you really want to live the 1920s dream, you can even reserve a room with a built-in Murphy bed, which folds out of sight when you're not using it. The decor is somewhat uninspired, but for the price, the Royal has all you need. The studios, lofts, and suites are individually decorated. Some rooms have en suite private baths, while less-expensive options share a bathroom with other rooms on the floor. Some rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, but there's a fully stocked community kitchen, making this a perfect stop for families, larger groups who want to spend time together, or those who prefer to cook. While not oceanfront, the hotel is a 15-minute walk from the beach.

On the bay-facing Crescent Avenue, this third-floor property is steps from the beach, so complimentary towels, chairs, and umbrellas await guests as do rooms with balconies, views, and fireplaces. Rooms are aligned along a lovely glass-covered promenade; the two suites face the waterfront. A generous continental breakfast, nightly milk and cookies, and in-room fireplaces and whirlpool tubs make the hotel a popular spot for honeymooners and couples seeking a quiet getaway. Furnishings are traditional, including the popular wicker rocking chairs on the balcony.

A boutique hotel with a playful modern nautical theme throughout, the highlight here is the rooftop pool and bar that offers panoramic views of the harbor complemented with craft cocktails. The Watercraft Market + Lounge offers breakfast, all-day dining, and snacks.

The Mediterranean design of this sprawling resort incorporates arched courtyards, beautiful tiled fountains, and firepits, all a nod to California's Mission period. Nearly all the spacious rooms offer ocean views and balconies or terraces. Some of the deluxe rooms near the main pool offer furnished patios with private firepits. This Hyatt Regency offers two- and three-bedroom suites ideal for multigenerational families. Beach-theme artwork by local artists enhance the public spaces. Exclusive beach access is via a bridge over the Pacific Coast Highway. There are multiple pool areas including a swimming lagoon, bubbling whirlpools, three waterslides, a kiddie wading pool, and a seasonal snack bar. Watermark offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy a day at the 20,000-square-foot Pacific Waters Spa for a special body treatment, facial, or massage. There are 17 treatment rooms, a dry sauna, steam rooms, hot whirlpools, and waterfall showers. Other resort activities include swimming like a mermaid. Rent a mermaid magic tail and a mermaid will meet and greet guests, plus offer swim instruction and photo opportunities. Over at Slyders Pool there are three exciting waterslides, a children's wading pool, cabanas, two firepits and a hot tub. Daily at noon there is a colorful koi fish feeding experience near the entrance of the Pacific Waters Spa. Reserve a Pacific Views firepit at the heated lagoon-design Mankota's Pool during sunset. Order a mai tai or favorite beverage to sip while watching the sun dip into the sea. In the evening guests reserve these flickering firepits to roast s'mores. A local favorite, the on-site signature Watertable Restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner offering a sophisticated coastal-theme menu. In the evening guests have a variety of share plates, fresh grilled seafood, and steak options. Afterwards, the Hyatt Regency has bonfires in the sand across the exclusive bridge for hot chocolate and s'mores. 

The best aspect of this beloved resort-style Newport hotel is its lushly landscaped acres: 26 of them, all overlooking the Back Bay. The casually elegant architecture, spread over the generous grounds, will appeal to travelers weary of high-rise hotels. Most rooms have patios or balconies with bay, golf course, garden, or pool views. There's a 9-hole golf course (greens fees are included in your resort fees), access to 16 lighted tennis courts, and three swimming pools. The family pool offers waterslides and a water play area for little ones. Take one of the complimentary cruiser-style bicycles and ride along the back bay on a paved bike nature trail. The 6-mile round-trip ride offers wildlife viewing and water views. The signature SHOR restaurant off the lobby is open all day offering Southern California coastal-inspired menu items. In June the resort is home to the Newport Beach Jazz Festival where 3,000 music fans gather for three days. This Hyatt is dog-friendly and each week a guest's dog is featured on the resort's social media.

This golden local landmark is stacked neatly on the hillside at the north end of Laguna’s Main Beach and it’s one of the few hotels in the area set almost on the sand. At night, the sounds of waves rolling in fills the recently refreshed oceanfront rooms and suites. The hotel's daily $30 amenity fee includes daily morning coffee service in the lobby and a hosted wine hour nightly from 5 to 6 pm on the Pacific Terrace rooftop overlooking the scenic beach town. Later in the evening there are fresh baked cookies and milk in the lobby. Rooms have a beachy feel with ceiling fans, and most have full or partial ocean views and balconies; they also come with pillow-top mattresses and luxurious European linens. Don't forget to take a dip in the heated pool and soak in the bubbling hot tub, and in summer, there's a beach valet to set out chairs and umbrellas. Pets 40 pounds or less are welcome with a non-refundable $100 deposit.

This family-friendly hacienda-style boutique hotel is located across the street from the famed San Juan Capistrano Mission. This property incorporates this history of the area by featuring glass mission bell lighting fixtures and equestrian decor and art. There are Adobe, Monterey, and Spanish Revival--theme guest rooms and suites with luxurious linens, high ceilings, walk-in showers, and separate bathtubs. In some of the rooms, patios and balconies overlook the ruins of the Great Stone Church and Mission. The on-site restaurant Ysidora presents a Spanish-themed menu, with options like hot and cold tapas, wood-fired seafood, local meats, and seasonal produce. After a day exploring the charming town, take a dip in the heated swimming pool or visit the on-site spa offering four treatment rooms. There is a daily $35 destination amenity fee added to the room rate that includes a $35 food and beverage credit, olive oil tasting at the restaurant in the evening, plus two tickets to enter the San Juan Capistrano Mission, and you can also borrow beach cruisers to explore the town by bicycle. 

This luxury four-diamond hotel is just blocks from Disneyland and the Anaheim Convention Center. It's the first and only JW Marriott in Orange County. Off the elegant lobby bar is a swimming pool terrace with cabanas to relax in after a day in the parks. The on-site dining includes Tocca Ferro Italian Chophouse, where the chefs grill proteins and make their own pasta and sauces. The best sunset view spot at the resort is at Parkestry Rooftop Bar. Enjoy a cocktail and light bites to take in the panoramic views of Anaheim and Disney's firework show. Splurge to stay on the 10th floor for access to the Executive Lounge for a full breakfast in the morning and snacks and beverages throughout the day. A $25 daily destination fee is added to the room rate. It does include $25 daily hotel food and beverage credit, enhanced high-speed Internet, daily morning yoga class in the wellness center, a daily wine tasting for two, and a $15 credit at next door Roy's Anaheim.

This surfer-style Kimpton hotel is not only across the street from the beach, but it's the closest hotel to the Huntington Beach Pier and Main Street. The boutique hotel attracts a mix of couples, families, and the hipster-surfer crowd. The lobby is the heart of the hotel, offering a Ping-Pong table, the Pacific Hideway restaurant, and lounge areas. Enjoy complimentary coffee and tea in the morning, and wine at sunset. Rooms are bright and stylish with surfer-themed art, flat-screen TVs, and a yoga mat and print robes in the closet. There is a vinyl record player and plenty of records to check out at the front desk. Some rooms have ocean views, and all guests have access to a 24-hour fitness center, Wi-Fi, and a cozy courtyard with firepits where guests can roast s'mores. Take one of the complimentary Kimpton custom-designed beach cruiser bikes for a spin. There is a surf locker for guests who bring their own boards. Off-season rates are considerably lower than in summer.

This newly renovated hotel next to Knott's Berry Farm offers farm-theme-designed guest rooms with mini-refrigerators, two tennis courts, a basketball court, and swimming pool. The breakfast buffet is popular in the morning for guests to fortify themselves before exploring the theme park. There is a new Starbucks in the lobby. 

This Marriott Autograph Collection resort is located at the gateway of the exclusive Lido Island and three blocks from the beach. Modeled after a New England--style beach house, the Cape Cod decor is cheerful with hints of nautical from the high-gloss hardwood floors in the lobby to the blown-glass chandeliers in the restaurant. Miniature yacht models are found throughout (including actor John Wayne’s Wild Goose, now a yacht rental nearby). There are playful touches, too: a partying mermaid and octopus mural is found in a light well between floors near the elevator. The lively rooftop named Topside is the only rooftop lounge in the area where locals and guests gather for sunset cocktails. There is a full service bar, and a vibrant sound system for live music. Beds are plush and rooms come with flip-flops to complete the beach house vibe. There is a heated swimming pool and hot whirlpool to unwind and relax after a day at the beach or boating in nearby Newport Harbor. Five on-site cottages cater to families or longer stays with two bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and rooftop views. The onsite Boost Spa is near the fitness center. The Mayor's Table Pacific Pub + Kitchen is a local favorite open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is live music on Friday evenings and a beautiful 12-seat private dining room.   Champagne lovers may care that the restaurant partners with Champagne brand, Piper-Heidsieck, to make their own Champagne blend.

Built on a picturesque coastal bluff above the Pacific Ocean and Treasure Island Beach, this elegant Craftsmen-style resort features 30 acres of grassy lawns, soft sand beaches, and a stunning mosaic tile swimming pool. Decorated in sophisticated soft coastal colors, guest rooms, suites, and large cottages balance ease and refinement. Every room has an ocean view from its patio or balcony, and an extra-deep bathtub. Of the restaurants, The Loft offers sweeping panoramic ocean views and a refined California-inspired contemporary menu. Another ideal lunch and sunset viewing spot is the Mosaic Bar and Grille. The lobby lounge is open for pre-dinner and after-dinner drinks. There's a 20,000-square-foot oceanfront spa and a second ocean-facing lap pool with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas. This pet-friendly resort charges a hefty non-refundable $220 fee for well-mannered dogs and cats weighing under 45 pounds. The resort fee includes a complimentary Cadillac car rental program and a departure gift.

This charming historic home turned into a boutique hotel offers direct views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island and is the closest lodging to the beach and Newport Beach pier. There are 15 coastal-themed guest rooms, some have ocean views and most have spa whirlpool bathtubs and showers. One- or two-bedroom suites are popular for families due to their king size bed and a trundle bed, plus sitting area and kitchenette. Guests receive a complimentary breakfast served each morning in the lobby bar area. This common area also serves complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, and tea. Beer, wine, and water is available to purchase during the day and evening. Grab a beach towel and chair before heading out to the sand. They also have a few complimentary bikes to take out for a spin for up to two hours.

Watch the frequent fireworks from the rooftop sundeck at this bougainvillea-covered Spanish-style inn, one of the closest lodgings to the Disneyland Resort main gate. Family-friendly rooms feature two queen beds, microwaves, refrigerators, and HD TVs. Some have bunk beds. While you cannot dine onsite, there is a convenience store and the property is convenient to restaurants.

Painted in shades of coastal blue, the contemporary-style Pasea is eight stories offering ocean views from almost every guest room, with balconies to take in the fresh breezes. The dramatic two-story lobby has doors that open to the expansive swimming pool and ocean beyond. Directly across the street is the beach and an 8-mile bike trail. Guests can escape to Bali at the luxury Aarna Spa—with sauna and steam rooms, an atmospheric couples suite and eight serene treatment rooms. There is a private outdoor spa garden with cabanas and firepits. Rooms have super comfy platform beds and cozy robes that are essentially long hooded sweatshirts. There are four culinary options from floor-to-ceiling Pacific Ocean views at Tanner's Restaurant, rooftop panoramic views at the rooftop Treehouse Lounge, and grab-and-go coffee, pastries, smoothies, and sandwiches at Blend Cafe. The Ninth Hour Pool Bar is open for lunch through sunset. The hotel also provides complimentary beach bikes, electric cruisers, and scooters. This property is very dog-friendly offering a designated dog park, gourmet welcome treats, and dog-sitters.

Experience the golden age of transatlantic travel without the seasickness: 1936 art deco style reigns on the Queen Mary, from the ship's mahogany paneling to its nickel-plated doors to the majestic Grand Salon. Docked for more than 50 years, the on-ship hotel attracts a mix of tourists and those attending events in the floating hotel's many party spaces. There are plenty of nighttime diversions, from a range of restaurants and the heavenly silver Observation Bar to paranormal tours, a live theatrical séance, and jazz shows (call ahead to confirm what's open during your stay). Holidays are big on the Queen Mary; New Year's Eve and July 4 are famously spectacular. Sunday brunch in the Grand Salon is a step back in time.

One mile south of downtown, on an exquisite stretch of beach with sometimes thundering waves, this is a getaway for those who want a boutique hotel experience with surf and sand. Expect tranquil coastal colors, private balconies, plush beds within earshot of the ocean, and a small full-service spa with eight treatment rooms. Be surprised by the cruise-ship feels when you walk outside your room, as the water is directly below. The on-site restaurant and bar offers endless ocean views and top-notch seasonal California fresh cuisine; start with a beverage at sunset on the outdoor deck before enjoying grilled seafood and petite fillets. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable about local events. 

Built on a protected coastal enclave across the PCH from Crystal Cove State Park, this upscale Italian Renaissance–style resort is one of the most spectacular resorts in Orange County and features a dramatic domed rotunda and Tuscan columns and pilasters in the lobby. Spacious bungalow suites, each with Italian limestone fireplaces and marble baths, are built into the terraced hillside overlooking Pelican Hill golf course and the Pacific Ocean. With its wraparound terraces, the circular Coliseum Pool is the world's largest pool of this shape, and a spectacular focal point. Enjoy lunch or dinner sitting outside at the Coliseum Grill or up at Pelican Grill & Bar next to the Tom Fazio–designed Pelican Hill golf courses. Off the lobby, the Great Room is a spacious lounge area with a grand fireplace and carved limestone from Italy. The resort features a collection of more than 120 contemporary California plein air paintings commissioned specifically for Pelican Hill. Soothe sore muscles with a therapeutic massage or relaxing botanical facial at the 23,000-square-foot spa. There is a paved walking path down to PCH and Crystal Cove State Park for miles of beach walking and swimming.

Located on an oceanfront bluff with an unparalleled view of the Pacific Ocean, and offering the Ritz's signature top-tier service, you are in the lap of luxury at this resort. On-site dining options offer oceanfront or poolside views and include renowned chef Richard Sandoval's Pan-Latin Raya restaurant with its coastal cuisine and elegant ambiance; Enosteak, a popular steak house; and 180Blu, an outdoor lounge perched 150 feet above the beach and ocean, serving small plates, decadent desserts, and handcrafted cocktails and wines. 

Book a massage or facial at the tranquil spa near the ocean-view fitness center. Stroll down perfectly manicured trails to the popular public white-sand beach or take one of the beach shuttles to Salt Creek Beach and walk along the picturesque coastline. There is an on-site EcoAdventure Center to reserve a whale-watching trip, surfing lesson, or round of golf.

Resort fees include daily yoga classes on the expansive lawn; beach butler service with use of umbrellas, towels and beach chairs; unlimited use of tennis courts and tennis rackets; discount-golf tee times at Monarch Beach Golf Links; and a 45-minute complimentary on-site photography session with one print to take home as a souvenir. Guests can have a resort driver transport them within a three-mile range of the resort. Pets are welcome for a $150 pet fee, per room for up to two pets.

This family-friendly hotel offers spacious guest rooms and Disney magic throughout, from the blue fiberglass-and-resin life-size Star Wars Stormtroopers who greet guests arriving from the parking garage to the Fantasia-style hallway carpet and the views of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park from some rooms. It's less than a 2-mile walk or drive to Disneyland and the Convention Center. There are two heated swimming pools and three food and beverage venues, including the tallest rooftop pool, lounge, and fine dining restaurant offering magnificent views of both Disney Parks and Anaheim and those Disneyland fireworks. 

This two-tower resort offers a variety of amenities for families, couples, and business travelers alike. Across the street is 10 miles of beach, the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, surf shops, and paved bike paths. All guest rooms have private balconies, many with views of Catalina Island. The Dolphin Tower offers bright yellow doors leading into spacious two-room suites. Soothing cream and coastal blue colors blend with the elegantly tropical ambience. There is a spectacular Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge for sunset cocktails, appetizers, and panoramic views. There are two heated free-form pools, including one with a sand area and 13 semi-private cabanas. In the evening guests can reserve one of the blazing bonfire pits and roast s'mores. Driftwood Beach Club has water features, waterslides, and a concession stand. On-site dining includes Henry's Coastal Cuisine, all-day The Boardwalk Restaurant, and the new Sammy Hagar's Cabo Wabo Beach Club offering a taste of Cabo San Lucas flavors. The hotel's large spa adds to the resort vibe. Across the street is Waterfront Adventures on the Beach offering beach bikes, surf and sand toys, beach chairs, umbrellas, and beach bonfires in the evenings. Next door is Pacific City, a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment complex.

This centrally located, newly renovated property is across the street from the popular Fashion Island shopping-and-dining complex. Request a guest room with a balcony or patio facing the ocean. Not only will you appreciate the golf course views of the Newport Beach Country Club, but the rooms higher up also have spectacular Newport Harbor and Catalina Island vistas. There are plenty of ways to pamper yourself here: indulge in a massage at the full-service spa, drink cocktails at a poolside cabana, or enjoy the sustainably caught fish of the day at the hotel's VIEW Restaurant and Lounge.