Bright and white, with an iconic tower and elegant roofline, the sprawling Claremont, in Oakland’s posh Claremont district, stands out against the forested East Bay hills like a wedding cake. This 1915 landmark feels removed from the urban bustle, even though it’s only a few minutes from Oakland’s mega-hot dining and arts scene and the urban cool of Berkeley.
The Claremont has some lovely perks, including flawless panoramas of San Francisco and the bay. You can bat a ball around the tennis courts, or do some laps in the pool. Limewood Bar & Restaurant, the resort’s signature restaurant, offers casual California cuisine in a vibrant setting. The Lobby Lounge & Bar serves craft cocktails and Afternoon Tea amid stunning Bay views. And The Fairmont Spa at the Claremont is the ultimate oasis with 32-treatment rooms, luxurious relaxation areas for men and women, and a full spa treatment menu.