The forested complex of lodging and meeting spaces predates World War I, when it served as a YWCA Leadership Camp. It became a state park in 1956 and enjoys 107 acres of state beach, restored dunes and buildings. Those buildings earn architectural renown thanks to the legend of architect Julia Morgan, who designed 13 structures like soaring Merrill Hall that remain today, and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (Celebrated in his own right, John Carl Warnecke created seven more structures three decades later.) Between its diverse types of rooms and suites, winding paths, deeply natural setting and expansive halls, it’s a village-like destination on its own.

Photo: Courtesy of Asilomar Conference Grounds