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7 Most Vegan-Friendly California Hotels to Book For Your Next Trip

Updated March 14, 2024

There was a time when finding a vegan or even a very vegan-friendly hotel was laughable — thankfully those days have changed! Traveling as a vegan keeps getting better and better and if you’re heading to California, you’re not only going to get to visit some amazing vegan-friendly cities but there are also plenty of cruelty-free accommodations!

Before you plan your trip, check out these vegan and vegan-friendly hotels in California!

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Fully Vegan Hotels & Resorts in California

The Golden State is home to a growing number of hotels and resorts that fully embrace the principles of compassion, sustainability, and wellness. From gourmet dining options to eco-friendly practices, these establishments are redefining hospitality!

#1 Stanford Inn & Resort on the Mendocino Coast

As a plant-based foodie, this should be at the top of your list! The Stanford Inn and Resort on the Mendocino Coast is a unique destination known for its commitment to sustainable practices, making it one of the best vegan hotels in California. It’s a tranquil retreat for guests seeking a compassionate experience right by the Pacific Ocean.

The resort is recognized as America’s first vegan resort, making it a haven for those who follow a plant-based lifestyle or simply wish to explore a more eco-conscious way of living.

vegan resort Stanford Inn by the sea on the medocino coast in California
Credit: Stanford Inn & Resort

Vegan Dining at The Stanford Inn

In the Stanford Inn’s Ravens Restaurant, guests are treated to a gourmet vegan dining experience showcasing plant-based cuisine’s creativity and flavors. The Ravens is an award-winning restaurant that uses organic, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious dishes that reflect its commitment to sustainability. Everything on the extensive menu is from local gardens and vineyards, from seaweed and chanterelles to wine.

Sustainability at The Stanford Inn

The commitment even extends beyond the plate to include various aspects of the guest experience. This resort has designed its rooms with eco-conscious principles in mind, featuring environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies. The Stanford Inn’s lush gardens and surroundings contribute to a peaceful atmosphere that complements its overall dedication to mindfulness and wellness. The resort also practices sustainability through composting, recycling, and water conservation.

Activities at The Stanford Inn

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including yoga classes, nature walks, Qigong, and spa treatments, all aligning with the resort’s holistic approach to health and well-being. Other activities include kayaking, cooking classes, hiking, and meditation.

#2 Heart Core Hotels The Yucca in Joshua Tree

Located near the iconic Coachella Valley in Joshua Tree, The Yucca is a captivating retreat embodying mid-century modern charm infused with bohemian aesthetics. This adults-only resort is the perfect sanctuary if you want a break from the kids. Plus, they’re committed to sustainability and mindful living.

Sustainability at The Yucca

As one of the original mid-century modern hotels, The Yucca pays homage to its heritage while embracing a modern ethos. The hotel has seamlessly integrated sustainable practices into its design and daily operations. Rooftop solar panels harness the power of the desert sun, contributing to its eco-friendly initiatives. With a no-single-use-plastic policy, The Yucca strives to minimize its environmental impact, promoting responsible and conscious hospitality.

Vegan Dining at The Yucca

This hotel’s breakfast is nothing short of a masterpiece for plant-based foodies. Pulling from travels across six continents, the recipes feature locally sourced ingredients for a fusion of flavors. The plant-based offerings are made to order, accompanied by fresh coffee from the surrounding Coachella Valley.

For a truly unique experience inspired by island retreats, The Yucca offers floating pool breakfasts. Why not capture the perfect Insta-worthy shot while savoring your delicious veggie meal and relaxing in the tranquility of the saltwater mineral pool? You can also unwind with massages in the outdoor spa, take a dip in the mineral pool, or rest in the hammocks scattered throughout the property, finding a serene atmosphere for contemplation or simply basking in the beauty of the desert landscape.

outdoor pool surrounded by umbrella chairs at the yucca hotel in california
Credit: Heart Core Hotels The Yucca in Joshua Tree

Activities at or Near The Yucca

The resort is just a stone’s throw from Joshua Tree National Park, offering ample exploration and adventure opportunities. You can partake in meditation and yoga sessions to embrace the holistic connection between mind and nature.

#3 The Ranch Wellness Retreat, Malibu

One note, this isn’t a technical hotel. It is a vegan retreat experience. 
The Ranch Wellness Retreat on the coast of Malibu offers a holistic experience inspired by nature and dedicated to your health. At the heart of its philosophy is a commitment to organic, plant-based cuisine that’s kind to the Earth.

Vegan Dining at The Ranch

The culinary team has over two decades of experience in plant protein-based cooking and is passionate about creating artfully prepared, nutrient-dense meals that are as surprising as they are nourishing. They source ingredients from their onsite certified organic garden and nearby local farms, ensuring every bite is a product of strategic research and care.

vegan veggie dish in a white bowl on a wood table served during a retreat at the wellness resort the ranch in malibu

This menu reflects the changing seasons and offers innovative, plant-based twists on classic comfort foods. Their famous lasagna is a must-try and has guests from all corners of the world longing for more.

Some other delicious dishes they serve up include: 

  • Spinach and zucchini lasagne with marinara sauce and the finest nut-based ricotta cheese
  • Signature burrito bowls
  • Portobello mushroom steak
  • Blueberry buckwheat crepes
  • Taco salad in a jar
  • Gluten-free pizzas with a variety of toppings and sauces
  • Black bean and kale enchiladas
  • Acai bowls

The daily menu focuses on excellent quality grains, fruits, pulses, vegetables, legumes, and seeds, removing dairy, soy, diet sweeteners, processed sugars, alcohol, and gluten to cleanse and revitalize.

The Ranch Retreat has an organic garden, cooking classes, and an unwavering dedication to preserving the planet. It seizes every opportunity to incorporate sustainable practices to ensure their contribution to the planet’s well-being.

While it does have a detox, weight-loss-focused program, it also caters to those not trying to lose weight. However, if you are on a weight-loss journey, The Ranch is the perfect destination without compromising on tasty treats.

Vegan-Friendly Hotels in California 

While there may not be a ton of fully vegan hotels in California, there are a few more that are vegan-friendly to check out!

#4 SCP Seven4One Hotels, Laguna Beach

Soul Community Planet (SCP) Hotels in Laguna Beach are living, breathing sanctuaries for those who embrace wellness, kindness, and sustainability. With its core values, SCP creates handcrafted venues — including hotels, coworking spaces, restaurants, and fitness centers — all reflecting a commitment to making the world a kinder, better place.

SCP welcomes everyone and provides lovely accommodations at a fair price. The experience encompasses healthy, fresh, plant-centric food and drink, top-notch wellness and fitness opportunities, and green spaces for working, socializing, and relaxing.

One note, the Laguna Beach property doesn’t currently offer onsite dining but is near many fabulous vegan restaurants! There are also SCP locations in Mendocino, but they aren’t as vegan-friendly.

the inside of the courtyard at SCP hotels that has rustic wood panels on the wall, greenery, and neutral ton seating area
Credit: SCP Hotels

Sustainability at SCP

The hotels acknowledge imperfections but are dedicated to continuous efforts to make a difference in the world. It’s a community for those who value experiences over things, recognizing the importance of self-care and the present moment. SCP appreciates the ripple effect of putting good back into the universe and aims to create a positive impact through its mindset.

Some notable features of SCP Hotels include:

  • ESOS Earth-friendly cleaning products
  • SCP FIT workout facilities
  • Ergonomically designed rooms using environmentally friendly materials
  • Collaborative workspaces
  • Mindful moments and cultural workshops
  • Recycling policies and minimal single-use plastic
  • Solar panels and low-energy fixtures
  • Low-flow fixtures and water-efficient landscaping
  • Partnerships supporting families in need, including Miracles for Kids

SCP believes in taking care of the planet. Every stay results in tangible positive impacts, from planting trees worldwide to restoring beaches in Hawaii and supporting families caring for critically ill children. The ethos around SCP is a conscious choice to create a better world, one mindful moment, one tree, and one act of kindness at a time.

#5 Four Seasons Beverly Hills

The Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills is a luxurious oasis in the heart of Los Angeles’ most exclusive neighborhoods. Known for its opulent accommodations, exceptional service, and prime location, this is the ideal location for vegan travelers seeking an unforgettable stay.

The hotel boasts spacious and elegant rooms and suites, each designed sophisticatedly. You can expect plush furnishings, state-of-the-art amenities, and stunning city views.

Vegan Dining at The Four Seasons

Four Seasons Beverly Hills is home to iconic restaurant Plant Food and Wine, making it the first Four Seasons in the Americas to have a fully plant-based eatery. The restaurant even received a mention in the Michelin Guide as one of the best veggie spots in California. 

Standout menu items include:

  • Avocado tikka
  • Raw heirloom tomato and zucchini lasagne
  • Herb and potato flatbread
  • Banana cream pie
  • Kimchi wraps
  • Chocolate cake 
  • And the famous kelp noodle cacio e pepe

Other restaurants include Culina Ristorante, which offers a modern, fine-dining twist on traditional Italian cuisine, and The Lounge — a popular spot for cocktails in the evening. While the menus aren’t entirely vegan, they do offer numerous plant-based options.

inside of a sophisticated guest room with neutral colors at the four seasons beverly hills
Credit: The Four Seasons Beverly Hills

Sustainability at The Four Seasons

Many luxurious hotels like the Four Seasons increasingly embrace sustainability practices and incorporate plant-based dining options in response to growing guest awareness and preferences. The Beverly Hills location has the following sustainability practices in place:

  • Electric vehicle charging stations
  • A WELL Health-Safety Rating award
  • Water-efficient landscaping
  • Recycling programs
  • Elimination of single-use plastics in bathroom facilities and food and drink packaging
  • Local and seasonal menu items
  • Food waste reduction program
  • Eco-certified cleaning products

#6 The Peninsula Beverly Hills 

The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a renowned luxury hotel in Los Angeles known for its sophisticated ambiance and prime location. It offers a five-star experience for discerning travelers.

The hotel boasts spacious rooms and suites, featuring upscale amenities, personalized services, and lavish decor. With numerous plant-based dining options, the Peninsula is a great accommodation for guests wanting luxury without compromising their values. 

outdoor pool area with yellow and teal umbrella chairs around the perimeter in beverly hills
Credit: The Peninsula

Vegan Dining at The Peninsula

It offers exceptional dining experiences, with four restaurants and in-room dining options. Their signature restaurant — The Belvedere — is an elegant European Brasserie serving a five-course plant-based menu. The options feature herbs, vegetables, and fruits from the onsite garden. They also serve plant-based breakfasts like avocado toast and granola.

The Peninsula provides a range of wellness facilities, including one of the top 10 spas worldwide. Additionally, they have a fitness center and a rooftop pool where you can unwind and rejuvenate.

#7 Ojai Valley Inn

The Ojai Valley Inn is a renowned luxury resort offering a tranquil escape surrounded by Southern California’s natural beauty. Known for its stunning architecture and world-class amenities, the inn is the perfect oasis of relaxation and indulgence.

There are multiple suite options to choose from, from elegant rooms to spacious private villas. You can expect tasteful decor, modern comforts, and breathtaking views.

Vegan Dining at Ojai Valley Inn

There are several dining options with a primary plant-based menu, including the Spa Cafe and Juice Bar. The cafe offers bowls, smoothies, salads, and sandwiches loaded with nutritious veggies and plant proteins. The other eateries — while not vegan — also offer some vegan options.

spanish colonial design with a white wash finish of the ojai valley hotel in california
Credit: Ojai Valley Inn

Sustainability at Ojai Valley Inn

Ojai commits to sustainability through its multiple eco-friendly principles. It prides itself as the first hotel in the world to be Responsible Hospitality VERIFIED — an industry-leading sustainability standard for luxury hospitality. Other sustainability initiatives include:

  • Recycling and repurposing of natural wine corks
  • Soap recycling
  • Watershedding
  • Single-use-plastic-free spa
  • Low-flow and drip system irrigation 
  • Stormwater capturing
  • Using sustainable, local foods
  • Onsite gardens 
  • Food waste composting
  • Removing invasive species
  • Restoring native plants 
  • Green golf facilities 
  • Practicing organic beauty and wellness

Vegan Hotel Wrap Up: More CA Travel Help

If you’re considering a trip to explore the best vegan resorts in California, take advantage of these guides and articles to help plan your vacation.

17 Mouthwatering Spots for Vegan Donuts in Los Angeles
14 Must-Try Vegan Breakfast Spots in Los Angeles
Incredible Things to Do in Big Sur + Where to Stay
15 Can’t Miss Restaurants for Vegan Food in San Francisco
12 Spots for Vegan and Gluten-Free Food in LA

The Best Hiking Trails to Explore in Big Sur
Complete Vegan Guide to Monterey, Pacific Grove, & Carmel
The Best Vegan & Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in San Francisco

About Author

Beth Rush is the travel and food editor at Body+Mind. She has 5+ years of writing about how to travel and eat well with celiac disease, nutritional deficiencies, and/or hormonal disorders. You can find Beth on Twitter @bodymindmag. Subscribe to Body+Mind for more posts by Beth Rush!