Two California hotels, Appellation Healdsburg and Rosewood Miramar Beach, have been awarded the top two spots in Travel + Leisure's 2026 World's Best Awards for resorts in the continental United States. Appellation Healdsburg, which opened less than a year ago, secured the No. 1 ranking, while the oceanfront Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito was named No. 2.
Appellation Healdsburg, located in Sonoma County, is situated on 8.5 acres bordering vineyards. The resort features 108 guest rooms and suites, a spa, two swimming pools, and an onsite citrus orchard. Its culinary offerings are anchored by the restaurant Folia Bar & Kitchen and include hands-on culinary workshops. Rooms at Appellation Healdsburg can be found for under $500 per night. The hotel's co-founders include Chef Charlie Palmer and hospitality veteran Christopher Hunsberger.
Rosewood Miramar Beach, founded by Rick Caruso, offers 153 luxury guest rooms, suites, and beachfront bungalows. The resort provides direct beach access and features the Michelin-starred oceanfront restaurant Caruso's. Caruso credited his management team for the resort's recognition.
The annual Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards are determined by reader votes, recognizing top hotels, resorts, airlines, cruise lines, spas, and destinations globally. Appellation Healdsburg also achieved the No. 1 ranking for resorts in California.