California is known for its sun-drenched beaches, rolling vineyards, and towering redwoods, but it’s also home to some of the most historic haunted hotels in California, where the past lingers in eerie ways. From haunted lodges perched on misty cliffs to ghostly hotels hidden in sleepy towns, California’s past comes alive with haunted history. If you’re a thrill-seeker or a history buff, California’s historic ghost hotels offer the perfect blend of spine-tingling stories and rich heritage. Pack your bags—if you dare—and explore some of the most haunted hotels in the Golden State.
1. The Queen Mary Hotel – Long Beach: A Historic Haunted hotel in Southern California
The Queen Mary, once a grand ocean liner, is now one of the most famous historic haunted
in California. Permanently docked in Long Beach, serving as both a hotel and a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts. This 1930s ship has seen it all: from luxury voyages to being used as a World War II troop ship. And with such a rich history, it’s no surprise that many guests claim to have encountered its long-lost passengers.
Reports of strange occurrences on board are frequent—disembodied voices, footsteps in empty hallways, and the ghostly appearance of a "lady in white" near the pool area. One of the ship’s most haunted areas is the engine room, where a crew member allegedly met his tragic end. Guided ghost tours take you through these haunted halls, offering an up-close look at the ship’s chilling past. Stay the night, and you might just have your own ghostly encounter.
2. The Hotel del Coronado – San Diego
Situated on the sparkling shores of San Diego, the Hotel del Coronado is not only a beautiful Victorian-style beach resort but also one of California’s most well-known historic haunted hotels. Built in 1888, this luxurious hotel is famed for its majestic architecture and breathtaking views, but it’s also known for being haunted by the ghost of Kate Morgan.
Kate, a young woman who checked into the hotel in 1892, never checked out. Her mysterious death has puzzled investigators for years, and her spirit is said to still wander the hotel’s hallways. Guests report flickering lights, sudden temperature drops, and even sightings of a woman in period clothing. Room 3327, where Kate stayed, is believed to be the epicenter of the paranormal activity, making it a favorite for ghost hunters and curious guests alike.
3. The National Exchange Hotel – Nevada City: A famous historic haunted hotel in Northern California
Nestled in California’s Gold Country, The National Exchange Hotel is among the oldest historic haunted hotels in California, drawing visitors curious about its spectral residents. Built in 1856, this hotel has housed gold miners, prospectors, and perhaps a few spirits who never left. It’s said that the ghost of a former prostitute named Elizabeth roams the halls, particularly the third floor, where guests often hear her footsteps or catch glimpses of her shadowy figure.
The hotel’s Old West charm, complete with creaky wooden floors and antique decor, adds to the eerie atmosphere. If you’re staying overnight, be sure to ask for a room on the haunted third floor—many guests report strange noises, lights turning on and off by themselves, and cold drafts. A stay at The National Hotel isn’t just about reliving California’s Gold Rush history—it’s also about coming face to face with its ghostly past.
4. The Union Hotel – Benicia
In the small town of Benicia, travelers can find one of the lesser-known historic haunted hotels in California, where sightings of a ghostly child are common. Built in 1879, this once-popular lodging for Gold Rush travelers and businessmen is said to be haunted by multiple spirits, including a former owner who, legend says, never left.
Guests report everything from the sound of heavy boots stomping down the hallway to doors opening and closing on their own. The most famous spirit, though, is that of a little girl who is said to roam the hotel’s halls. People have reported hearing the sound of a child’s laughter, and some have even seen her in fleeting glimpses.
What makes the Union Hotel particularly creepy is its timeless atmosphere. The hotel has been lovingly restored to its former glory, but much of the original charm—and the ghosts that came with it—remains intact. Whether you’re a history buff or a paranormal enthusiast, the Benicia Hotel is sure to leave you with a story you won’t soon forget.
5. The Groveland Hotel – Groveland
The Groveland Hotel, located near Yosemite National Park, offers visitors a stay at one of the region’s more rustic historic haunted hotels in California, complete with its friendly ghost, Lyle. "Lyle," a former gold miner who, according to legend, took up permanent residence in Room 15. Lyle’s presence is said to be so strong that the hotel keeps a journal in the room where guests can record their paranormal experiences.
Many who have stayed in Room 15 report hearing the sound of boots on the floor, feeling cold spots, and even seeing objects move on their own. Despite the spooky activity, Lyle is said to be a friendly ghost, making the Groveland Hotel a favorite for ghost hunters and curious tourists alike.
6. The Ahwahnee Hotel – Yosemite National Park
As one of Yosemite’s grandest lodges, the Ahwahnee Hotel stands out not only for its scenic location but also for being one of the park’s most legendary historic haunted hotels in California. Built in 1927, this grand hotel has hosted presidents, royalty, and famous actors, but some say it’s also home to a few spirits.
Guests have reported seeing ghostly apparitions, including a mysterious woman in white who wanders the halls late at night. Some claim to have heard voices in empty rooms or seen lights flicker inexplicably. Even staff members have reported strange encounters while working in the hotel’s quiet hours.
Staying at the Ahwahnee is like stepping back in time, and for those with a taste for the paranormal, it offers a rare opportunity to experience both luxury and a brush with the supernatural.
California’s historic haunted hotels are more than just places to rest your head—they are gateways to the past, where ghostly encounters and eerie occurrences bring the state's rich history to life in unexpected ways. Whether you’re looking to experience the glamor of a bygone era or hoping for a ghostly encounter, these haunted hotels provide an unforgettable experience. From the eerie Queen Mary to the mysterious Hotel del Coronado, each location offers its own blend of history, charm, and a few unexplained surprises. So, are you ready to book your stay and see who—or what—might be sharing your room?