Does the promise of falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves and the saline dew of saltwater air have you California dreaming? What about out-of-this-world dining, shopping and pampering? Read on for 14 of our most inviting neighbors to the west.
THE BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL
The mecca for Hollywood’s elite (and aspiring elite, too), The Beverly Hills Hotel has been an icon in sunny Los Angeles for more than 100 years. Nicknamed the “Pink Palace,” this hotel is one of the most Instagrammed spots in the city, as its contrasting tropical gardens make it picture perfection. With 208 guest rooms and suites (some featuring fireplaces and killer views of star-studded Beverly Hills), the hotel also offers up 23 fabulous garden bungalows that are currently getting an oh-so L.A. facelift. Say “hello” to the new and improved bungalows’ SoCal coloring that—of course—includes the hotel’s signature pink as well as rust, green and gold. And you can expect to see a classic take on 1940’s French and Hollywood styles with state-of-the-art technology that pays homage to some of the bungalows’ big-name guests. Bungalow 7 was Marilyn Monroe’s favorite, and Elizabeth Taylor spent six of her eight honeymoons at the hotel’s gardenside rooms. dorchestercollection.com/en/los-angeles/the-beverly-hills-hotel.
Wear the Wallpaper!
Named one of the world’s most recognizable wallpapers, the banana leaf walls at The Beverly Hills Hotel have been transformed into wearables. Pick yourself up a pair of luxury sneaker brand Koio Collective’s banana leaf kicks, a Beverly Hills hotel Apolis bag, the silkiest banana leaf pajama set you’ll ever find and more.
HOTEL BEL-AIR
Nestled into the perfectly posh hills of Bel-Air, luxury is the name of the game at Hotel Bel-Air. What was once a private estate has been transformed into one of L.A.’s hottest spots, though you don’t feel like you’re in the middle of the City of Angels while staying here. Rather, the hotel is a sanctuary that spans 12 acres and boasts incredibly stunning Spanish Mission-style architecture and bougainvillea that will make your heart stop. From complimentary tea service in the stunning lobby that will leave you feeling hyper-sophisticated, to lunch on the Bel-Air terrace where you’ll be playing it cool while dining next to Hollywood’s stars, Hotel Bel-Air is class and beauty all rolled into one. Speaking of luxury, don’t miss the hotel’s Spa Indulgence package that shows firsthand why this spa is a Forbes Five-Star Award-winning one. By booking two nights at the hotel, you receive a $110 daily breakfast credit and a $200 spa credit. Add a third night, and up your spa credit to $300. Make it four nights, and enjoy a $400 spa credit. dorchestercollection.com/en/los-angeles/hotel-bel-air.
Wind Down With Wine
What better way to brush off that mid-week slump than with Hotel Bel-Air Spa’s Wine Down Wednesdays? On the first hump day of every month from 5 to 9 p.m., book a nail service to get a complimentary wine pairing.
MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH
With the sound of the surf right out your window, a stay at Montage Laguna Beach is everything your California dreaming imagined. This 250-room resort exudes Amalfi Coast vibes with its architecture and its verandas. You’ll find romance at every turn here, especially when you’re watching the sunset over the Pacific with a glass of fine California wine in hand. Though the Craftsman-style coziness of the resort is something to love, it doesn’t feel cozy at the expense of luxury—you’ll enjoy all the amenities of a super-deluxe beachfront stay here. And 2018 marks the 15-year anniversary of this property. In celebration, a new lobby lounge has been unveiled where floor-to-ceiling windows and a mixture of indoor/outdoor seating provide the idyllic place to begin your Montage experience. montagehotels.com/lagunabeach.
Can’t Beet It
The resort’s signature restaurant, Studio, is offering an elevated, creative Vegetarian Tasting Menu that includes items like Crimson beet tartare—the veggie version of classic beef tartare where a beet yolk serves as the centerpiece.
LA QUINTA RESORT & CLUB
Originally intended to be the ultimate getaway for the glitterati of Hollywood, this resort has, since its 1926 inception, been renovated to become the ultimate getaway for guests from all over, famous or not. With an award-winning spa, five championship golf courses, a world-renowned tennis club and much more, “I’m bored” is a phrase that no one comprehends here. La Quinta’s 620 guest rooms and 98 villas are nothing short of the fanciest casitas, complete with red-tile roofs, French doors, private patios and, of course, fireplaces. The resort’s more than 40 pools are all worth checking out, especially since splashing around the temperature-controlled pools is one of the many highlights of summer at La Quinta. Have kiddos in tow? Catch a family-friendly film during Summer Chill while floating in the pool or lounging poolside (taking place Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends). laquintaresort.com.
Take The Guilt Out of Those Cocktails!
Don’t let yourself feel guilty for indulging in those poolside drinks yesterday. Instead, join one of the resort’s unlimited fitness classes that include yoga, meditation, TRX, hiking, biking, golf, tennis and more.
THE RESORT AT PELICAN HILL
This world-class destination put Newport Beach back on the map of top O.C. spots to visit when it opened its doors 10 years ago this fall. What makes The Resort at Pelican Hill an international hot spot starts with its Coliseum Pool, one of the largest circular pools in the entire world, but extends far beyond that. From there, explore the resort’s Tuscany vibes perfectly recreated in the heart of Cali, and its 36-hole Tom Fazio-designed golf courses packed with the most stunning ocean views. From the California Sugar Glow scrub at the heavenly spa, to the unreal house-made pasta at signature restaurant Andrea, there is bliss everywhere you look here. And this summer, you can try your own hand at creating melt-in-your-mouth pasta with the resort’s Art of Pasta Making class. Learn hands-on from the resort’s in-house pastaia, and then enjoy your creation as part of a two-course lunch. pelicanhill.com.
Tee it Up
Perfect your swing this summer with the help of the resort’s Ladies’ Summer Golf Academy. Led by PGA master and certified golf instructor, Tim Mitchell, you’ll learn different aspects of the game select Fridays starting July 6. Whether you’re a beginner, or just looking for a refresher course, you won’t want to miss this this opportunity.
POST RANCH INN
With the roads open to Big Sur again, now is the time to plan your escape to what may be the most serene spot on the California coast. Pulling nature’s elements into the design whenever possible, chances are you’ll find grass growing on the roof of your room and will undoubtedly love the way the resort appears to effortlessly sit atop the mountain ridge: so graceful, yet striking. The Pacific Suites allow you to see the ocean from every corner of your room, while still ensuring you experience the highest level of privacy where you remain unseen by other resort-goers. Have the hotel pack you a lunch and hop in the complimentary Lexus convertible to enjoy your prepared picnic along the PCH. You won’t want to miss the recent redesign of the resort’s famous Tree Houses—perched atop 9-ft.-tall stilts. The upgraded sound systems, wider and more spacious floor plans, and new bedding from L.A.-based atelier Matteo—that is 100-percent natural, chemical- and dye-free and 600-thread counts of sheer heaven—are just a few of the many new additions you’ll love. postranchinn.com.
Bottle Service
Post Ranch Inn’s signature restaurant, Sierra Mar, is proudly home to one of the largest wine selections in North America, and it would be a shame for you not to give one of the 14,000-plus bottles a try. Also, be sure to take a glass of wine with you up to the deck for a peak at the stars above via a Meade telescope during the resort’s nightly stargazing.
HOTEL DEL CORONADO
This Victorian-style beachfront hotel is the definition of grand. Commonly called “The Del,” Hotel del Coronado has seen classic stars like Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Cary Grant and countless others grace its guest rooms. Currently celebrating its 130th birthday, the resort has maintained its charm and elegance throughout the times. Though the hotel has seen a number of renovations in its 100-plus years, some of which were amenity updates to accommodate modern wants and needs, it has also put a great deal of effort into keeping hold of the original design and charm that has been warming the hearts of people since 1888. In fact, the lobby was restored to its original design, complete with a front desk modeled after the one that stood there 130 years ago. For its birthday, the resort has plenty of parties planned throughout the year, and summer is the peak of the celebratory season. Partake in the ultimate beach party at the resort’s Del Beach Bash on July 1, as well as the Summer Luau Beach Party (open to Club at The Del members) on July 13, and much more. hoteldel.com.
Feast Your Eyes
Enjoy a classic beachside East Coast Clambake done The Del-style set to the backdrop of a perfect summer sunset over the Pacific. Feast your eyes and stomach on shellfish from renowned guest chefs, as well as some top-notch live entertainment. And what would a clambake be without some beach games? Enjoy a variety of fun during the clambakes on June 16, July 28 and August 18.
AUBERGE DU SOLEIL
A whopping 33 acres of Napa Valley wine and olive grove paradise, Auberge du Soleil was one of the first boutique resorts in this famed wine region. The exclusive feel of the resort with its just 50 rooms makes your stay here feel even more fabulous. Each room (which really feels more like a cottage) comes with a fireplace, a fridge stocked with local wine and cheese, and French doors that take you out to a breathtaking private veranda. Because the resort knows its guests came to Napa Valley for a reason, it has worked to incorporate the wine and olive country vibe into all areas of the resort. From the local wine in your room, to the Meyer lemon and olive oil massage at The Auberge du Soleil Spa’s 7,000-sq.-ft. facility, you will quickly come to appreciate the local goods of this region. Taking inspiration from the South of France with a twist of California soul, the resort also offers guests walking trails and garden spaces to soak up every moment. aubergedusoleil.aubergeresorts.com.
The Date to Outshine All Other Dates
For some serious romance, be sure to book the resort’s Tres Romantique package. Your romantic night will include an outdoor candlelit bath for two, a sensuous couples massage, dessert paired with wine and a private soak in the resort’s three temperate pools, along with a Hamman steam. Wake up the next morning feeling blissful and ready to indulge in breakfast for two either in-room or on the Michelin-starred restaurant’s terrace.
THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL
A seaside bluff that sits right between San Diego and L.A. serves as the stunning home to this hotel that whisks guests away on a Mediterranean-inspired journey. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel radiates relaxing beach vibes from its guest room colors of cream and soft blue, to its French doors that open out onto private terraces that make for the best spot to watch the sunset. The meticulously maintained grounds of the resort are just as noticeable as its unparalleled service that includes beach butlers who will even build sandcastles with your kids. The floor-to-ceiling windows of the resort’s gym will have you feeling much more motivated about your early morning workout, or head out to the beach for surf lessons and clinics where the only equipment you need to bring is yourself. Post-surf, you’ll want to refuel at either Raya for some pan-Latin dining with ocean views, or enoSTEAK for some primo steak in a cozy spot. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/laguna-niguel.
Yappy Hour with Your Furry Friend
Dogs love a good happy hour just as much as their humans. And at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, you are in good company when you bring your dog to Yappy Hour. Let the pups play and dine on house-made dog biscuits paired with bacon-, chicken- or beef-flavored water (vegan is available too) while you sip on a glass of appropriately-named Mutt Lynch Unleashed Chardonnay, Merlot Over and Play Dead or Chateau d’Og Cabernet Sauvignon.
BEVERLY WILSHIRE, A FOUR SEASONS HOTEL
Since 1928, this L.A. icon has been welcoming the world’s elite. And this year marks 90 years of the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel as a stunning staple in Beverly Hills. It’s hard to truly appreciate this hotel without noting its role in everyone’s favorite Cinderella story, “Pretty Woman.” Character Vivian Ward walked right out of the doors of this hotel onto the streets of Rodeo Drive for world-class shopping, and she certainly isn’t the only one. Though guests of this hotel come to appreciate its prime location, the hotel itself offers enough that you don’t really ever need to leave the premises. One such offering is the resort’s Urban Glamping Experience, the only one available in Los Angeles. A “tent” out on the Veranda Suite is decked out with a crystal chandelier, marble lamps, fur rugs, antique nightstands and a plush queen-size bed. You’ll also enjoy the oversized lounge furniture that surrounds a fireplace, as well as outdoor dining for eight where you can indulge in an exclusive glamping tasting menu prepared on the veranda by the executive chef. fourseasons.com/beverlywilshire.
Try-o the Cryo
Cryotherapy is the new craze, and The Spa at Beverly Wilshire has all you need to get the entire freezing cold, yet benefit-packed experience. The resort has partnered with 111 Skin to feature new spa experiences including cryotherapy and black diamond treatments.
PENDRY SAN DIEGO
A fresh face on the Cali luxury resort scene, Pendry San Diego has had quite the impressive start. Celebrating its first birthday this year, this resort has wowed guests from all over and will undoubtedly continue to do so. The perfect mix of modern and traditional, Pendry San Diego makes you feel at home—but a super-luxurious home. You’ll find plenty of action this summer at The Pool House, the resort’s premier rooftop lounge. Head there for some of the best views of the Gaslamp Quarter and a pitcher of the Fresca Fizz. Then, sleep off that hangover in style with the exclusively-designed Lunya for Pendry Sleep Dress via the resort’s Celebration package. With this offer, in addition to the sleep dress, you’ll enjoy a one-night stay complete with a birthday cupcake welcome amenity, $100 spa credit at Spa Pendry and two tokens for everyone’s favorite vending machine: the Moet & Chandon Champagne Vending Machine. pendryhotels.com/san-diego.
Macaron Dreams
Just in case you didn’t love nightly turndown service enough, Pendry San Diego has made it even more magical by leaving you the tastiest macarons. They’re sure to give you the sweetest of dreams.
THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES
Though it is known as the home of the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, La Jolla’s The Lodge at Torrey Pines offers plenty to see and do off the green. Guests are invited to practice a swing of a different sort with a game of bocce ball or take a dunk in the gorgeous pool, overlooking the golf course. To kick off the day, the resort staff offers guided nature walks through the nearby Torrey Pines State Reserve, one of the area’s most beloved attractions of both locals and visitors. The easy, breezy walk to Broken Hill offers plenty of photo ops for guests of all fitness levels, with jaw-dropping views of the water, the golf green and vibrant fauna. In addition to the fun it offers, the warmth and coziness of The Lodge at Torrey Pines allows the appreciated opportunity to unwind and unplug. The resort features a handsome Craftsman-style design with plenty of dark woods and leather furnishings. Though there is a feeling of history and regality at The Lodge, the amenities are all quite modern and the atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable. Take time to savor some quiet time by the lobby fireplace in a rocking chair or find a spot to sit outside and enjoy the fog as it lifts from the golf course. lodgetorreypines.com.
Swim with the Fishes
Through Sept. 3, guests are invited to kayak to La Jolla’s seven caves and kelp beds, and snorkel with leopard sharks, garibaldi and other local fish with The Lodge at Torrey Pines’ totally unique Leopard Shark Encounter for Two. –Melissa Larsen
LIDO HOUSE
Lido House is a brand-new four-story boutique hotel housed at the former site of Newport Beach’s City Hall. With a chic coastal vibe similar to Cape Cod, fun features include custom-designed three-story cottage accommodations, a saltwater pool and private cabanas. Located just steps from the pedestrian-friendly Lido Marina Village, guests can find upscale boutiques, shops and restaurants within walking distance. For a one-of-a-kind Newport experience, spend summer nights at Topside, the hotel’s rooftop bar and the first and only rooftop bar in Newport Beach. Enjoy fire pits, communal seating and a wide array of libations with views of the marina and beach, all amid a stylish beach house atmosphere. During the sunny hours, spend the day on the water after consulting the hotel’s coastal curators who can share their favorite routes and hidden gems for a smooth cruise around the harbor. lidohousehotel.com.
Fancy Flavors
For a delightfully delicious experience, indulge in the Caviar Service, a twist on the classic that pairs with different Champagnes. –Suzanne Koch
TOWER23
Named after Lifeguard Tower 23 that was once positioned on the beach in front of the hotel, San Diego’s TOWER23 is widely known as one of SoCal’s most stylish and contemporary stays. Fresh design schemes with a peaceful blue and white palette and high-end amenities fill the 44 spacious guest rooms, many of which offer ocean panoramas. The lifestyle hotel is mere steps from the beach (and near La Jolla, Downtown San Diego, the airport and popular area attractions, like Belmont Park and San Diego Zoo), so sand-seekers don’t have far to wander. Plus, foodies flock to JRDN Restaurant for fresh, contemporary steak and seafood dishes alongside a 1,000-bottle wine wall and incredible outdoor seating which proffers Pacific views and great people-watching. t23hotel.com.
Toast at the Tower Deck
Join in every Wednesday on the Tower Deck for the Sip Into Summer Wine Series. A wine pro will be on hand to share their craft and toast the San Diego sunset for $20 to $25 per ticket. (Grab a trio of friends or more to enjoy the night with and save $5 per ticket.) –M.L.
