California hotels named top two in America — and one is surprisingly affordable

Two California hotels –– Appellation Healdsburg and Rosewood Miramar Beach –– have claimed the top spots as the best resorts in America.

Appellation Healdsburg, launched less than a year ago in Sonoma County, was ranked the No. 1 resort in the US in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards, followed by the 5-star oceanfront resort, Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito.

Appellation Healdsburg, launched less than a year ago and with some rooms costing less than $500 a night, is situated on 8.5 acres where the edge of town meets the rolling vineyards of Sonoma County.

Proving its elite status right out of the gate, the resort achieved an unprecedented milestone by being named both the No. 1 Resort in the Continental US and the No. 1 Resort in California.

“To win two categories and to be recognized this early in our debut year, by the travelers of Travel + Leisure whose opinions shape our industry, is a moment we’ll never forget,” the hotel wrote on Instagram.

Co-founded by legendary Michelin-starred Chef Charlie Palmer and hospitality veteran Christopher Hunsberger, the resort features 108 modern guest rooms and suites.

The property features working vineyards, an onsite citrus orchard, a relaxing spa and two swimming pools.

But its crown jewel is its epicurean focus — anchored by hands-on culinary workshops and the family-run signature restaurant, Folia Bar & Kitchen.

As one of the few properties in Southern California offering accommodations directly over the sand, Rosewood features 153 luxury guest rooms suites, and private beachfront bungalows. The resort boasts its premier oceanfront restaurant, Caruso’s, which also holds a coveted Michelin Star.

American billionaire Rick Caruso, founder of Rosewood, took to social media and praised his team at Rosewood for the accolade.

“That’s pretty darn good considering this is a young hotel, and believe me, we’ve got our sights on being ranked number one. But I’m very proud of the team. Everybody from landscapers, housekeeping, chefs, servers, senior management — it takes an enormous amount of talented people to pull that off,” he said in a video posted on X. He added in the caption that “Reaching this distinction in a short span of time doesn’t happen by accident.”

He also shared some business advice for people looking to invest in public or private companies, asking them to vet the qualifications and track record of the management team. “Because without the right management team, chances are you’re going to be pretty mediocre, and you’re not going to be able to outrun your competition,” he said.

The annual Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, based on reader votes, recognizes the world’s top hotels, resorts, airlines, cruise lines, spas and destinations.

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