Travel Planner: Santa Maria, CA

This outdoorsy, golf-oriented resort and spa is set on beautifully landscaped grounds, with hillside views in nearly all directions. Though many of the rooms were remodeled in the 21st century, they still reflect the Spanish colonial architecture of the original 1923 resort. If you're a history buff, ask for a room in the original 80-year-old adobe building. The four restaurants tout "Ojai regional cuisine," which incorporates locally grown produce and fresh seasonal meats and seafood. Pros:

gorgeous grounds; exceptional outdoor activities; romantic yet kid-friendly.

expensive; staff isn't always attentive. www.ojairesort.com. 231 rooms, 77 suites. In-room: a/c, safe, Internet (some), Wi-Fi. In-hotel: 4 restaurants, bar, golf course, pools, tennis courts, spa, children's programs, some pets allowed. Credit cards accepted.

Since 1946 this 10,000-acre ranch has been popular with celebrities and plain folk alike. There are lots of activities to choose from here: horseback riding, golf, fishing, sailing in the 100-acre spring-fed lake—although you can also just lounge by the pool or book a treatment at the day spa. The ranch-style rooms and suites come with garden views, covered porches, high-beam ceilings, and wood-burning fireplaces, with touches of Spanish tile and fine Western art. A jacket is required at the nightly dinners (which are included in your room rate). Pros:

Old West atmosphere; tons of activities; ultraprivate.

isolated; cut off from the high-tech world; some units are aging. www.alisal.com. 36 rooms, 37 suites. In-room: no a/c, no TV, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, bar, golf courses, pool, tennis courts, gym, spa, children's programs, business center. Credit cards accepted. Rate includes: Some meals.

Surrounded by eucalyptus trees on the edge of Morro Bay, the inn abuts a heron rookery and Morro Bay State Park. It's a beautiful setting, even though the birds can cause a din (and make a mess of parked cars). Many of the contemporary French Country-style rooms have fireplaces, private decks with spa tubs, and bay views. The most affordable rooms (petite queens) can seem small and dark, but you'll probably be spending much of your time elsewhere: getting a massage at the on-site wellness center, playing a round (fee) at the golf course across the road, or peddling through the state park on a complimentary bicycle. Pros:

great for wildlife enthusiasts; stellar bay views from restaurant and some rooms.

some rooms are cramped and dark; some sections need updating; birds can wake you early. www.innatmorrobay.com. 97 rooms, 1 cottage. In-room: no a/c, Internet. In-hotel: 2 restaurants, bar, spa. Credit cards accepted.