As a seasoned traveler who’s spent countless nights in various accommodations around the globe, I must say that these Orange County gems truly stand out! The Scandinavian-styled rooms with ocean views at Formash hotel are an absolute delight, and the Dawn Patrol surf experience at Laguna Surf Lodge sounds like an unforgettable adventure.
Although you might not be sunbathing on the French Riviera or enjoying dinner at Lo Scoglio this late summer, there’s no reason to worry. Instead, California is calling with its array of brand-new hotels and unique experiences that evoke a European flair.
South of France in Montecito
Known as “The American Riviera” due to its sunny beaches and landscape similar to the French Riviera, Santa Barbara houses the affluent neighborhood of Montecito, where Rick Caruso’s luxurious Rosewood Miramar Beach hotel stands. The property boasts a lush green lawn, ocean-view rooms, and cobblestone pathways lined with jacaranda trees, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Camelot.
The star attraction is Caruso’s, our beachfront restaurant run by chef and partner Massimo Falsini, which boasts both Michelin star and green star. Besides the new three-course petite dining experience ($145, available from Monday to Thursday), Falsini has recently launched Fronte Mare – a unique and luxurious culinary adventure inspired by Caruso’s, but offering a distinct seafood-centric menu.
Falsini shares with THR that he’s reimagined a corner of the restaurant as a unique social space where diners can gather around tables by the sea, enjoying the soothing sound of waves while he prepares meals live. This innovative setup, ideal for groups of six to 20 people with a minimum $5,000 food and beverage bill, offers customized menus filled with treats like crudo, homemade pasta, and other creative dishes inspired by local providers such as Sea Stephanie Fish and Roots Organic Farm in Santa Ynez. Falsini explains that this concept merges the essence of a traditional trattoria dining experience with engaging conversations about his live-cooking process in a welcoming atmosphere.
On August 18th, it’s the turn of our canine friends to shine as Jane Lynch joins Rick Fidel for the third annual Miramar Best in Show event. This year, the event is supported by fashion brand Staud, with a portion of the earnings going towards Love Leo Rescue and Santa Barbara Humane.
rosewoodhotels.com from $1,699; rooms also available through expedia.com and hotels.com.
Tuscany in the Santa Ynez Valley
As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve been captivated by the fame of Santa Ynez Valley – renowned for its exquisite wines, chef-led restaurants reminiscent of Tuscany, and endless rolling hills. The latest jewel to grace this cherished wine country is none other than the revitalized and rebranded gem, The Genevieve, nestled in the heart of Santa Ynez town. Once known as Santa Ynez Inn, this Victorian manor now stands amidst its very own Victor restaurant, lush gardens, fire pits, and winding pathways, all adorned with subtle enhancements across the estate.
Enjoy additional perks such as daily happy hour and dessert hour, plus the prime location of the hotel, just a stone’s throw away from luxury boutiques, eateries, and even a home goods store like Santa Ynez General, Baker’s Table, and the lively Maverick Saloon – a hub for live music and cowboy boots enthusiasts.
thegenevieve.com, from $399; rooms also available through expedia.com, hotels.com and booking.com.
New Around Santa Barbara County
Belmond El Encanto offers unique, engaging activities such as exploring the historic site on an architectural tour and spending a starry night gazing at the sky. Don’t forget to try the anti-aging facial by Linda Ross from Beverly Hills at the spa and take a tranquil walk through the expanded garden filled with pebble paths and lemon orchards. Belmond.com, starting from $1,010; rooms can also be booked through Expedia.com, Hotels.com, and Booking.com.
The Steward Hotel is a fresh, 87-suite accommodation that resembles a farmhouse and is nestled in rich botanical gardens with historical roots. This property was initially bought by the pioneering horticulturist Joseph Sexton in the 1860s. You can book a stay at thestewardsb.com, or alternatively through expedia.com, hotels.com, and booking.com, starting from $452 per room.
Nestled on the Gaviota Coast’s shoreline, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers a gastronomic haven with six dining spots, including the recently updated Angel Oak steakhouse featuring a new tasting menu. Their top-notch Santa Barbara spa now provides the indulgent Golden Hour Collagen Massage (starting at $481), enriched with gold and peptides for firmer, lifted skin. Check out their rooms on ritzcarlton.com or through booking.com.
Enjoy a California Ranch Cookout at Alisal Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley, available until August 24. These events showcase renowned guest chefs, local wines, abundant buffet selections, and live music and dancing. Upcoming culinary stars include Marcel Vigneron from Lemon Grove at The Aster and Brian Redzikowski of Kettner Exchange. For more information and reservations, visit alisalranch.com and plan for a cost starting at $1,044.
New Haven Inn is one of the most charming stays in the quaint village of Solvang in Santa Ynez Valley thanks to a modern remodel, spacious rooms with patios and just a five-minute stroll from the enticing aromas of those famous Danish bakeries. newhavensolvang.com, from $193; rooms also available through booking.com.
The Dalmatian Coast in Laguna Beach
Approximately an hour south of Los Angeles lies the art-focused coastal community of Laguna Beach, reminiscent of the Dalmatian Coast but without the long flight. The latest intimate retreat in the region, the 41-room Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels, is nestled on Thalia Street’s surf break, right in the lively village’s core. The calming ambiance is harmonious — natural woods blend with earthy fabrics and a soft white color scheme. Furnished with Scandinavian-style elements, certain guest rooms boast private decks offering ocean views.
If you’re craving excitement, SCP has “Epic Experiences” ready for you at all their properties! At Laguna Surf Lodge, you can join the “Dawn Patrol” for a half- or full-day surfing adventure with guides, games, and delicious gourmet treats.
scphotel.com, from $250; rooms also available through booking.com.
Italian Estate in Newport Coast
Greet “La Dolce Vita” with a warm “hello.” The Resort at Pelican Hill, boasting one of the largest accommodations in Southern California and luxurious private villas, whisks you away to a chic Italian hillside estate. Following a relaxing afternoon by the majestic circular pool adorned with over a million hand-crafted mosaic tiles, take a leisurely walk to The Spa at Pelican Hill, home to Barcelona’s beloved Natura Bissé skincare line. A fresh addition to their offerings is the Citrus Drench Scrub, which gently exfoliates your entire body with generous amounts of Vitamin C, leaving you feeling as smooth as a baby’s bottom.
As you bask in the enchanting atmosphere, this resort attracts both couples seeking romance and families who enjoy its home-like lodging and novel experiences such as the Under the Sea Royal Tea and the entertaining Bubblemania show. Don’t forget to dine at Pelican Grill, the vibrant on-site restaurant offering a mouthwatering Za’atar summer squash salad and Snake River Farms Wagyu filet that will surely impress.
pelicanhill.com, from $1,200; rooms also available at booking.com.
New Around Orange County
Located in the heart of Newport Beach, the recently introduced Pendry Hotel is conveniently situated next to the bustling Fashion Island shopping district. This season, they’ve added exciting events such as the Pendry + The Picnic Collective Summer Movie Series, an outdoor event, and wine tastings with Vinopop. Check out pendry.com for reservations, starting at $425; alternatively, you can book rooms via booking.com.
The Lido House serves as the hub for summer excitement, thanks to Topside – the lone rooftop bar in Newport Beach, featuring a vibrant atmosphere and stunning city vistas. Their latest offering, the Endless Summer Experience, is a temporary setup that combines vintage champagnes with caviar and culinary creations by chef partner Riley Huddleston. Check it out at marriot.com, from $594; alternatively, book rooms via booking.com.
Montage Laguna Beach is unveiling an extravagant experience with their 36′ Luxury Aviara Yacht and Cruise. Setting sail from Balboa Bay Club, you can look forward to a captain-led voyage lasting four hours across the Newport Beach Harbor. This exclusive cruise comfortably accommodates up to six guests. Check out the details at montage.com, starting at $1,250; alternatively, book a room through booking.com.
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2024-08-13 23:26