Why You Should Hightail It to This Newport Beach Resort
To some, Newport Beach is synonymous with summer. And you can see why, given the balmy-day bustle of the West Coast's largest recreational harbor, the seasonal south swells that lure body surfers to the fabled Wedge—or simply the surplus of amazing spots to unfurl a beach towel and bliss out.
But winter is actually an ideal time to visit because of these exclusive deals we’ve negotiated for you at one of the area’s most beloved resorts: the Five-Star, Five-Diamond and 504-acre Pelican Hill, which commands a prime position above the famed Crystal Cove State Park.
Whether you’re day-tripping from LA or San Diego or flying in for a quick getaway, here’s the deal (five of them, actually).
No matter what kind of accommodations you book—from a Garden Bungalow to an Ocean Villa—you'll get stellar service and amenities that range from feather-top beds to limestone fireplaces and marble soaking tubs.
Dine at the Coliseum Pool and Grill, and you’ll have views of both the namesake pool (one of the largest circular pools on earth) and the Pacific. The terrace is heated, so alfresco’s the way to go. As for the menu, it’s fresh and seasonal, with such standouts as the fried chicken sandwich with applewood bacon, Swiss cheese and Sriracha aioli—and grilled sea bass with quinoa tabbouleh and smoked Tomato vinaigrette.
The treatment menu at the Forbes Five-Star Spa at Pelican Hill is stacked with standouts, but you can't go wrong with the Amber Gold Signature Massage (especially if you like a good dry-brushing to start). No matter what treatment you book, you'll have access to herbal steam rooms, saunas, saltwater soaking tubs, the fitness center—and wellness classes that range from yoga to a Crystal Cove fitness walk.
To give Southern California a taste of Northern Italy, Andrea spares no effort, starting with the temperature-controlled Cucina della Pasta (pasta kitchen) where the house ravioli, tagliatelle, gnocchi and other carbacious favoriti are hand-crafted daily. Be sure to order salad, too, if for no other reason than the century-old Balsamic vinegar you'll taste in the process. Whatever you choose, its perfect pairing is no doubt somewhere in the entryway collection of 1,200 Italian wines.
