The Best Boutique Hotels for Surfers in California

California isn't just where surfing started in the mainland U.S.—it's the capital of the surf industry. With hundreds of miles of coastline, iconic point breaks, and coastal towns packed with character, the Golden State offers more than just good waves. For surfers who appreciate design, local charm, and lodging that feels like part of the trip—not just a place to sleep—these boutique hotels deliver. Whether you're road-tripping north to south or just getting away for a long weekend, we've compiled a list of California's best boutique hotels for surfers to take your California adventures to the next level.

The Green Room Hotel – Oceanside

Located blocks from the beach in the heart of South Oceanside, The Green Room Hotel is an iconic Oceanside hotel built for surfers who appreciate stylish design and easy access to waves. Housed in a lovingly restored 1940s motel, it blends vintage surf aesthetics with modern comfort—think record players, curated art, and board storage in every room.

Oceanside's breaks are all nearby: the Pier, Harbor, and the various sandbars we love offer everything from playful longboard days to punchy rights. When you're out of the water, the walkable neighborhood delivers on good coffee, tacos, and local beer. It's a mellow, design-forward basecamp that never tries too hard—just how a surf hotel should be.

Surfrider Malibu – Malibu

Malibu needs no introduction, and The Surfrider is hands-down the best place to stay if you're looking to surf First Point and live well while doing it. Across the street from the break, this reimagined 1950s motel channels classic California charm with 20 crisp, modern rooms and a rooftop that might have the best ocean view in LA County. Guests have access to custom surfboards, wetsuit rinses, and beach gear, plus concierge-level service that still feels relaxed. Whether you're logging early or sipping a cocktail at golden hour, the Surfrider hits the sweet spot between style and surf.

Dream Inn – Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a must-visit for any surfer, and Dream Inn is as close to Steamer Lane as you can sleep without pitching a tent. Perched directly above Cowell Beach, this retro-modern beachfront hotel offers unobstructed views of the Pacific and easy access to one of NorCal's most iconic rights. Surfboard rentals, outdoor showers, and ocean-view balconies make it a functional base for a multi-day trip. When you're done riding waves, Santa Cruz's mellow blend of college and surf town gives you plenty of ways to unwind—on foot, by bike, or in the lineup.

White Water – Cambria

While not your typical surf destination, White Water in Cambria offers a boutique experience that pairs perfectly with the quiet, rugged coastline between Big Sur and Morro Bay. Just a short drive from breaks like Pico Creek in Cayucos and Moonstone Beach, this 1960s Scandinavian-meets-California-modern lodge sits right on Moonstone Drive with quick access to uncrowded Central Coast waves. The vibe is warm, textured, and highly curated, with fireplaces, local ceramics, and vintage touches throughout. It's a slower pace—best for longboarders, road-trippers, and surfers chasing a different kind of California surf experience.

Smiley's Saloon & Hotel – Bolinas

For those chasing solitude, fog, and some of Northern California's most low-key waves, Smiley's in Bolinas is a one-of-a-kind destination. Just north of San Francisco and tucked away in Marin County, Bolinas is perfect for those looking to take on the surf near San Francisco without paddling out at Ocean Beach. Smiley's is California's oldest saloon and a rare blend of history and surf town funk. The attached boutique rooms are modest but full of character. After your session at Bolinas or nearby Stinson Beach, grab a beer, listen to live music, and soak in the slower rhythm of Northern California surf life.

Whether you're heading north for cold-water solitude or south for long, peeling point breaks, California has a boutique surf hotel for every kind of traveler. From Oceanside's laid-back retro revival to Malibu's polished elegance, these stays do more than offer a place to rest your head—they help define the trip. So grab your board, load the car, and chase the coast. The waves will be waiting—and so will the perfect place to stay. Book your stay at the Green Room Hotel today.