An easy 1-min jaunt to the sand, and less than a mile from downtown. Also: a 5-min drive to the Laguna Beach Art Museum.

Revamped property transformed from motel to Cali-casual digs.

The vibe is sleek and chic yet warm and welcoming.

Breakfast is comped. Good morning!

Sophisticated modern hotel in the heart of O.C., the garden setting on a man-made lake adds to the peaceful vibe.

Hotel pool hits the spot when you need to cool off or swim it out.

Starbucks aficionados will be relieved to know they can get their fix right onsite at The Bistro.

A 10-ish-min drive to the Irvine Spectrum Center, home to a dizzying number of dining options, shops, and even a Ferris wheel.

Playful design mixes casual surfing-themed art with upscale touches.

An easy stroll to the ocean. Park the car for free and flip-flop on over.

On the house loaner beach amenities, from towels to toys.

Located within walking distance of Doheny State Beach and Dana Point Harbor.

Perfectly situated within walking distance of shops, eats and the sands.

Hotel pool for when you feel like getting splashy.

Free WiFi keeps us from getting the tech withdrawal shakes.

Dreamy location, perched right on a bluff overlooking sand and surf.

Low-key home base, perfect for a road trip stopover or beach town getaway. (San Onofre = one of the world’s most epic surf spots.)

Cliffside locale means stunning scenery, and the beach & harbor are walkable (free cardio on the way back!).

Perfect beach-goer practicality right on the PCH. Capitalize on a Cappy's breakfast with a TidePoole's sandwich for lunch, both are flip-flop distance.

Those cookies though.

O.C. superfans rejoice — this spot is a quick drive from *that* Newport Beach. California, here we come.

Palm trees and pool: that’s all we need. Got ’em.

Pop into the Panini Lounge for Happy Hour (5pm-7pm) or to catch the game on 55" HDTVs.

Unbeatable location just steps from Treasure Island Beach and Goff Cove makes it easy to unwind.

24/7 BridgeMart has your back when you forget supplies and want to enjoy the full kitchen.

History buffs will heart the proximity to the Mission San Juan Capistrano ruins (walking distance!).

Relax, early riser. Breakfast’s included.

Directly across the street from the sun and surf of Doheny State Beach.

You know what’s nice to wake up to? Free breakfast, that’s what.