Hotel Review – The Resort at Pelican Hill

Expansive Views, Impressive Architecture & Five Star Accommodations

Conduct a search for “hotels in Newport Beach” and the Resort at Pelican Hill doesn’t come up first, but it should. It’s the personal dedication to great service that sets this resort a part from all other California beach hotels. Located about an hour and a half (in traffic) from Los Angeles, Newport Beach is the perfect staycation for a three day weekend.

The Resort at Pelican Hill is the very definition of luxury. It’s a dream destination for a wedding, and a prime location for honeymooners. Hotel rates fluctuate depending on the season, ranging anywhere from $300 to $1,000 a night. That rate is typical for the Newport Coast, but what’s not typical is the superior level of service. Unlike the Marriott Vacation Villas located across the way, at Pelican Hill guests are treated like VIPs – regardless of room type or length of stay. Check the hotel website for current offers and special deals. The best way to save on a resort stay is to be flexible with your travel dates.

The View

Located in the hills of the Newport Coast, The Resort at Pelican Hill provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Unlike like traditional resorts, guest rooms are distributed across the expansive property, grouped together by room type. No matter where you stay, you’re sure to be impressed by the view.

Guests can choose between garden or ocean view rooms. In a garden view room guests can take in the rich Mediterranean landscaping, with views of olive treas, vibrant flowers and indigenous plant life. Book an ocean view room, and expect to be dazzled by the vibrant blue of the Pacific upon entry. A window in the bathroom opens to the bedroom, so guests can enjoy the priceless view even when soaking in the tub.

The Accommodations

A “standard” room at the resort is referred to as a bungalow guest room. These rooms provide 850 square feet of luxury. Marvel at the wood-beam ceiling, warm up by the gas-lit fireplace, or soak in the sun as you enjoy breakfast on your private patio. Everything from the bathroom tile to the linens on your bed reflect the attention to detail exclusive to Pelican Hill. The soft colors and wood furnishings provide the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Light the fireplace, draw a bubble bath and get ready for a cozy weekend.

For guests who want a little extra room, there’s the bungalow suite. Suites provide almost double the space with 1,640 square feet to relax in. The living room area is furnished with a dining table, chairs and large sectional. Bungalow suites also include two fireplaces, two plasma TVs and an additional bathroom.

The hotel also offers quite a few villas ranging in 1 to 4 bedrooms. Perfect for a celebration, guests can enjoy up to 3,580 square feet and one-of-a-kind ocean views.

The Dining Experiences

There are three restaurants located on the hotel property. Guests can rely on the hotel shuttle to get around the large property. Call ahead and enjoy a ride to your restaurant of choice. Andrea Ristorante serves Italian dishes including handmade pastas, pizzas and seasonal side dishes. View the full menu here or make a reservation now.

The Pelican Grill is the perfect spot for dinner or a light meal. Check out the bar area where you can dine inside, or outside with a view. Warning, the bread here is amazing. It’s seriously difficult to not fill up on bread when it’s this good, but don’t skip the bread here. Remember, you can always take your meal to go and store it in the hotel mini fridge. A must try at the Pelican Grill is the tagliatelle bolognese. This pasta dish is extremely fresh and flavorful. Rosemary-thyme tagliatelle is cooked with a prime beef and pancetta bolognese sauce. The dish is topped with a lemon arugula salad.

In room dining isn’t bad either. Try the pecan french toast with maple butter and syrup. It’s perfection. Enjoy your meal from the terrace or from your bubble bath.

The Pool

The pool at Pelican Hill is nothing short of impressive. Lounge in one of the guest chairs, or in the water on one of the pool mats. Above the pool area sits the Coliseum restaurant, named that for good reason. The architecture is Roman inspired, pillars and all. Guests who dine at the Coliseum can take in the amazing view of the pool, golf course and ocean.

Pool food is often bland, and wet thanks to the steam caused during transportation. Not at the Resort at Pelican Hill. This isn’t your typical pool food. Try the Caesar salad with artichokes, sun dried tomatoes and olives, or the hot dog served on a fresh French role.

Pool Tip

While the main pool is very large, there isn’t a lot of prime seating available. Many of the seats are located in shaded areas. Get to the pool early during peak season to secure a seat. Cabanas are available upon request for an additional fee. Can’t find a seat? Ask a pool attendant to help you find an open spot.

The To Do List

Besides hitting the pool, the Resort at Pelican Hill is also known for it’s famous golf course and spa. Golfing at Pelican Hill isn’t cheap, but guests who play later in the afternoon can take advantage of discounted rates. What better way to golf than with a view of the ocean, and sail boats?

The spa menu features a variety of services including facials, massages, body therapies and nail and hair services. Check out the full menu here.

Located a few minutes from the hotel is Fashion Island. This outdoor mall offers several retail and dining options. Shop at stores like Bloomingdales and Z Gallerie, then get a blow dry at Drybar. See the full directory here.

Hotel guests can take the shuttle down to the beach for a day of fun in the sun. Want to kayak or paddle board? Just let the hotel know and they’ll book your rentals.

The Arboriculture

Thousands of trees and plant life were imported to create a Mediterranean environment on the coast of Newport. Located six thousand miles away from Tuscany, guests of Pelican Hill can enjoy a taste of Italy closer to home. Hundred-year-old olive trees line the streets of the resort, providing shade and beauty.

There are many great places to stay when visiting Los Angeles, but make it a point to take a trip to the Newport Coast during your next visit. Whether you’re honeymooning or treating the family to a sunny vacation, check out the Resort at Pelican Hill.

Will you consider the Resort at Pelican Hill for your next stay in Newport? Let us know about your experiences in Newport Beach.