7 Adults-Only Resorts and Hotels Across California for a Special Escape

The Post Ranch Inn has a glowing reputation as a honeymoon destination both at home and abroad. Perched on cliffs with a view that no words or photos could possibly do justice, the wonderful smell is perhaps easier to capture in writing: a sweet and salty mix of Pacific surf and pasture grass. Cleverly and sustainably designed using recycled redwood and a view of the ocean in lieu of televisions, the Inn deserves all of its bountiful accolades.

Lucky regular visitors swear by the restorative properties of the spa which uses products made on site using flora picked from the Big Sur meadows. Since the spa’s reputation is as renowned as the Inn, be sure to book treatments at least six weeks in advance.

Open to adventurous couples and confident single women, the Sea Mountain Nude Resort invites you to strip down in the sunny climate of Desert Hot Springs.

This all-inclusive resort is not one for the modest; it’s a sexy environment with pools open 24 hours a day and plenty of people trying out new things. Of course, there’s zero pressure to partake in whatever may be going on if you’re just there to get rid of tan lines. Best of all, its atmosphere gloriously free from judgment where people of all shapes, colors, and sizes come together to relax and see where spontaneity might take them.

Our only advice is to bring along a bucket of sunscreen for those regions that have never seen the light of day.

As you pull into the driveway of the Kenwood Inn and Spa, it’s hard to believe you haven’t been teleported to Italy.

You’re greeted with a welcome glass of champagne before being invited to peek around the Tuscan-inspired property. As you wander through, you’ll uncover three lush, landscaped courtyards, walkaways shaded from the sun by a tangle of leaves, and the peaceful trickle of the fountains, the only break in the monastic silence of this luxury retreat.

Back inside, the staff will point out the myriad of spots to grab complimentary drinks and treats. A midnight snack from the stash is a fine idea to cap off a romantic evening inside your guest suite as you explore the acreage of your California king-sized featherbed by the crackle of your fireplace.

While most flock to Napa for the wine, the idea of toasting marshmallows on a private terrace fire pit at Las Alcobas has us more excited than pretending to notice the difference between a 2008 and 2012 Cabernet. Also awakening our childlike wonder is the freestanding tub at the foot of the guest suite bed that’s begging to be filled to the brim with a mountain of bubbles.

The farm-to-table onsite restaurant is a showcase of locally grown vegetables and juicy meats. Or, give into what you’re really craving — two courses of dessert.

The Sparrows Lodge is a rustic delight among the classic mid-century Palm Springs abodes. Here you’ll enjoy a communal spirit which makes the property seem like a summer camp; everyone comes together twice a week for a family supper in the garden with a weekly changing menu and plenty of veggies pulled straight out of the property’s vegetable patch. Guests keen to mingle can grab a microbrew or glass of wine from the bar and pull up a seat around the fire pit.

If you’re in need of some privacy, book the secluded cabin. There’s no shortage of cool details like army blankets, steel horse trough bathtubs, stone floors along with a living area, and a kitchen for making meals.

Looking like it sprung straight off the homepage of Dezeen, the Del Marcos Hotel in Palm Springs was clearly designed by a Frank Lloyd Wright fan when it was built in 1947. It’s held on tight to many of its original mid-century details including the cool terrazzo floors while adding a splash of 21st-century comforts like free WiFi.

The adults-only hotel is nestled into the quiet mountainside of the historic Tennis Club district of Palm Springs but is still within walking distance of downtown. At the heart of the property is the heated saltwater swimming pool and cabanas. While young offspring aren’t welcomed, dogs get treats and their toys galore, compliments of the hotel.

Auberge Du Soleil sparkles with compliments paid by visitors who come in pursuit of one of the finest hotel experiences in the United States. Every aspect of the stay is sublime, but the Michelin star restaurant is particularly noteworthy. Gorgeous plates are served with an equally captivating view over the lush vineyards on the low swaying Napa hills. Relinquish all decision making to the capable hands of the Auberge staff who are skilled in recommending everything from wine pairings to sunset walks.

You’ll find the Auberge experience surpasses all of your wildest luxury desires, including sleeping in way past your regular wake up call and enjoying a lavish breakfast with a view.