Bay Area Hotel Voted World's Best In New Survey

BODEGA BAY, CA — The Lodge at Bodega Bay is the best hotel in the world, according to a survey of more than half a million people around the globe by Condé Nast Traveler.

The travel magazine tallied 575,048 votes for its 37th annual Readers' Choice Awards to chart the 50 best places to stay in 2024, from a Ritz-Carlton in Doha to a 10-person bed and breakfast in Telluride, Colorado.

Sitting on a bluff overlooking the Sonoma County coast, Traveler praised The Lodge at Bodega Bay for its idyllic location, secluded beaches and top-tier amenities.

"As the sun begins to set, there's no better way to wrap the day than retiring in the fireside lounge surrounded by views of the Pacific Ocean," Traveler said. "Guest rooms and suites themed with creams and nautical blues punctuated with dark wood accents feel as though they really are a home away from home, from Ocean Shell Massages at the spa to the in-room jacuzzi accommodations to the small details snuck into every corner of the lodge like the binoculars placed on every room's windowsill that bring the breathtaking balcony views into high-definition."

Celebrating its fifth appearance on the list, and claiming the crown this year, the family-owned hotel celebrated its win with a group photo, posting a thank you message to guests on social media.

Elsewhere in the Bay Area, Berkeley's castle-like Claremont Club & Spa placed 23rd in this year's awards, with Traveler calling the resort "a breath of respite from the land of tech giants." In Southern California, two luxury destinations in Palm Springs made the top 10: Hermann Bungalows (#3) and the Colony Palms Hotel (#7).

>> Check out the full list of 2024 Readers' Choice Awards via Condé Nast Traveler.