Huntington Beach, an Orange County destination known for its miles of coastline and excellent surfing, is the priciest summer destination in California, according to a recent survey conducted by LosAngelesHotels.org.
The survey compared all notable destinations in The Golden State based on cost of lodging during July and August 2020. Only such hotels ranked at least 3 stars and located near a beach or city center were considered.
Huntington Beach hotels charge an average nightly rate of $261 for the most affordable double room, making it the uncontested most expensive destination in California. Pismo Beach, a four-hour drive to the north, is the second-priciest destination, with average rates at $224 for the least expensive room.
How has the Coronavirus pandemic influenced summer hotel rates in California?
While beach towns are, on average, offering hotel rates about 15% lower than last year’s rates, the impact is more significant in urban destinations. Rooms in San Jose and Los Angeles are about 35% more affordable than they were last summer, with average rates starting at $127 and $120, respectively.
Year-over-year room rate decreases are even more dramatic in San Diego, where rooms are 40% more affordable than last year, at an average starting cost of $98 per night. However, the rate drop is steepest in San Francisco, where travelers can find 3-star rooms for approximately $85, or 50% more affordable than what was available in July and August 2019.
The following table shows the 10 most expensive summer destinations in California. The prices shown reflect the average rate for each destination's cheapest available double room (at a minimum 3-star hotel) for the travel period spanning July 1 through August 31, 2020.
1. Huntington Beach $261
2. Pismo Beach $224
3. Coronado $214
4. Laguna Beach $187
5. Santa Monica $186
6. Cambria $186
7. Pacific Grove $185
8. Avalon $184
9. Redondo Beach $182
10. Carmel-by-the-Sea $178
Tags: LosAngelesHotels.org
