The Resort at Pelican Hill

This sprawling resort with its terra cotta roofed bungalows scattered amidst hundreds of ancient olive trees brings a love of all-things Tuscan to the California Coast.

• The gelateria and café off of the lobby and the 17 different kinds of fresh pasta served at Andrea
• The two Tom Fazio–designed 18-hole golf courses
• The kids’ and teens’ clubs
• The circular Coliseum pool, a huge hit with kids

Upon arrival at Pelican Hill, guests are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the terra cotta Italian architecture. Set on 504 acres along the coast of Newport Beach, The Resort at Pelican Hill provides numerous on-property activities and is perfectly situated for day trips to Disneyland and Legoland, making it an ideal destination for families.

Offering nearly every creature comfort one can find at a resort these days, Pelican Hill boasts two 18-hole golf courses, an excellent spa, both kids’ and teens’ clubs and a bevy of dining venues including excellent poolside service and gourmet picnic baskets. The beach is a few minutes by shuttle away, but it’s worth the ride—the beach club is wonderful.

The sprawling cliffside resort offers 332 accommodations in all, of which there are two categories: Bungalow Guest Rooms and Suites, and Villas. The former provide apartment-style lodgings, all of which feature terraces, fireplaces, lavish bathrooms and décor that highlights soft neutrals and natural textures; only some of the bungalows have ocean views. The 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom villas, which provide the most luxurious option. With its own dedicated staff, each villa includes the usual upscale features (fireplace, walk-in shower, 500 thread-count linens) in addition to a kitchen, private garage and high-tech audio system. Guests at the villas are also granted access to the 10,000-square-foot Villa Clubhouse, which provides a more private environment than the main pool as well as a restaurant, fitness center and cabanas for lounging.

Golfers and families looking for a taste of Southern California high living.

Those looking for an intimate boutique property or something right on the beach (it’s a shuttle ride away).