California hotels grab the most Michelin keys of any US state in new awards

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The Michelin Guide has unveiled their 2026 list of “key” hotels — the hotel equivalent of a Michelin star, and California has the most three-key properties of any state in the country.

In order to receive three keys, hotels must be the “ultimate in comfort and service, style and elegance,” according to Michelin. Just 155 hotels in the world are lucky enough to receive a three-key distinction — 657 hotels have two keys, and 2,020 have one key.

Two Los Angeles-area hotels made the list — both steeped in Hollywood history.

First opened in 1912, the Beverly Hills Hotel is known for its classic old-Hollywood architecture and famous guests, including Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack and Marilyn Monroe. The famed hotel received an extensive modernizing renovation in recent years, but maintains its throwback charm.

The hotel received a 19.2 out 20 score with guests on the Michelin Guide — and prices start at an eye-watering $2,040 a night, according to the guide.

Down Sunset Boulevard and hidden behind lush vegetation, the other Los Angeles three-key winner, the Hotel Bel-Air, remains a celebrity favorite today.

Besides secluded bungalow-style accommodations, the hotel is also known for its delicious food — including lemon pancakes and tortilla soup. Prices start at $1,785 a night.

Outside of Los Angeles, three wine country hotels also received three keys in this year’s guide.

There’s Meadowood in the Napa Valley, where amenities include a newly renovated fitness center, three pools, and a hiking trail. It’s also a haven for wine lovers, with a wine center offering classes and tastings. A room at Meadowood will set you back at least $1,750 a night.

The SingleThread Inn also snagged three keys. Michelin calls the  downtown Healdsburg hotel “one of the most luxurious experiences in California.”

And it’s certainly exclusive. The SingleThread only has 5 rooms in total, and a night at the trendy property, attached to what’s been called one of the country’s finest restaurants, costs at least $3,000 a night.

At the heart of the Napa Valley, Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford transports guests to the Mediterranean.

The stunning hotel boasts endless views of vineyards and olive trees, and its restaurant has a wine list of 15,000 bottles. Rooms at the Auberge go for at least $1,300 a night.

Finally on the three-key winner list is Big Sur’s Post Ranch Inn, where there are no TV’s — but you won’t need one with those views.

The cliffside hotel features rooms with stunning views of the Pacific, and a collection of “tree house” suites built atop nine-foot stilts and surrounded by redwood trees.

A room at the picturesque hotel goes for a minimum of $1,800 per night, according to the guide.

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