The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

Atop Nob Hill, Ritz-Carlton’s Neoclassical 1909 building is as luxe as they come inside, too.

“Laid-Back California Cool.” Think Berkin Bags, not Berkeley Birkenstocks.

If eye-popping opulence is your vacation weakness, consider Ritz-Carlton San Francisco the ultimate destination. Guests are pampered in the Club Level lounge with tastings from California wineries; they’re pampered in their rooms (where amenities include rainforest showers and marble baths); and they’re pampered at the purple velvet and gold-swathed JCB by Jean-Charles Boisset Tasting Lounge, where rare wine tastings await. Perk of all perks in this town: the cable car stops just beyond the lobby doors.

As much as you love San Francisco, you adore returning to a hideaway where the spa is pure France (therapies and ingredients come from the South of France—merci, L’OCCITANE).

The locavore in you feels an inner jaw drop looking at the Parallel 37 menu: Local black cod with wild rice, artisanal cheese board, smoked salmon beignets….you’re so enamored with your West Coast oysters on the half shell, you order them again for dessert.

Parallel 37 - The signature restaurant, serves globally inspired and seasonal California cuisine

The Lounge - Offers guests a casual menu with classic cocktails made with local spirits and a selection of local beers

The Lounge