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Waterfront romance at Terranea Resort
This Palos Verdes paradise will make you feel swathed in Mediterranean luxury.
By Kimberly A. Porrazzo
Published: February 01, 2012
If you’re older than age 25, a visit to Terranea Resort on the Palos Verdes Peninsula may be a blast from the past. The expansive property lies on the site of the former Marineland of the Pacific, a once-popular weekend destination of Orange County families from the mid-’50s through the mid-’80s. Today, Terranea (pronounced “ter-a-NAY-a”) remains a perfect weekend getaway with something for everyone, especially the busy executive seeking a true escape from the demands of work, but without the hassle of traveling a long distance to enjoy it. Just drive 45 minutes from central O.C., and you’ll feel as if you’re vacationing in the Mediterranean.
While many beachfront resorts line the California coastline, Terranea’s unique location on the tip of the peninsula provides a one-of-a-kind 270-degree view of the Pacific. It is one of the rare places where your can enjoy both the sunrise and the sunset from a single vantage point. This phenomenon occurs during the months of December and January. The Spanish-style architecture, lush gardens and luxury amenities have earned the 102-acre resort rave reviews from critics as well as from this writer, who now ranks Terranea among my favorite local travel experiences.
Designers of the resort were true to their mission to merge the ocean with the resort property, and almost every venue invites guests to reflect on the view. The spa, the restaurants and the gardens all serve as settings for the sapphire Pacific and nearby Catalina Island, and the property is lined with walking trails and resting spots that allow guests the opportunity to spot whales and dolphins migrating up and down the coast. Most rooms enjoy an ocean view, and the wide-open doorways in the common areas invite the outdoors inside.
The resort’s main pool area overlooks the coastline, and there are plenty of spots to settle in for an afternoon poolside. Cabanas, a waterslide and nearby fire pits beckon guests to stay all day. The adult pool, with a couples’ cabanas and a Jacuzzi, provides a more private poolside experience, also with an ocean view.
Dining options are many, and one never has to leave the property for a change of pace. From casual to elegant, there is something for everyone. In addition to sweeping vistas, Mar’sel – the property’s fine dining restaurant – offers a sumptuous selection in a warm and casually elegant setting. Many items on the menu include ingredients grown in the restaurant’s herb garden, located right outside its entrance.
In a nod to the history of the property, Nelson’s restaurant was named to remember Captain Mike Nelson of the TV show “Seahunt.” The series starred Lloyd Bridges and was filmed in the waters just below Nelson’s. The lively atmosphere is the place to go for a bowl of hot chili and a cold beer. Outdoor seating and a fire pit make this a great place to watch the sun set.
No getaway is complete without a visit to the spa. My experience was pure bliss. Prior to my personalized facial, in which my esthetician matched my skin’s needs with an exclusive assortment of products, I basked for more than two hours on a cushioned chaise lounge positioned perfectly so as to allow spa patrons to truly appreciate the relaxing and rhythmic motion of the ocean.
Terranea Resort
100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes
310.265.2857
Fact: Chef Michael Fiorelli’s resumé includes working as a chef at one of the country’s finest restaurants, The Inn at Little Washington in Washington, D.C.
Romantic escapes
If you’re planning a Valentine’s Day getaway, consider The KISS package, which includes accommodations for two in a plush room, daily breakfast in bed for two, and dinner for two at Mar’sel or the more casual Catalina Kitchen – all for $470 per night. Use the promo code KISSPKG when booking. There are numerous add-ons that range from tee-times and spa indulgences, complete with champagne, chocolates and rose petals.
The Spa at Terranea
The 50,000-square-foot spa has separate men’s and women’s facilities, including outdoor relaxation areas and a couple’s retreat, complete with a fireplace.
Adjacent to the spa, guests can also take advantage of the fitness center and large lap pool. Here, you’ll find more cabanas and fire pits, as well as poolside service from the Spa Café.
For a spa menu, visit terranea.com.
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While many beachfront resorts line the California coastline, Terranea’s unique location on the tip of the peninsula provides a one-of-a-kind 270-degree view of the Pacific. It is one of the rare places where your can enjoy both the sunrise and the sunset from a single vantage point. This phenomenon occurs during the months of December and January. The Spanish-style architecture, lush gardens and luxury amenities have earned the 102-acre resort rave reviews from critics as well as from this writer, who now ranks Terranea among my favorite local travel experiences. Designers of the resort were true to their mission to merge the ocean with the resort property, and almost every venue invites guests to reflect on the view. The spa, the restaurants and the gardens all serve as settings for the sapphire Pacific and nearby Catalina Island, and the property is lined with walking trails and resting spots that allow guests the opportunity to spot whales and dolphins migrating up and down the coast. Most rooms enjoy an ocean view, and the wide-open doorways in the common areas invite the outdoors inside. The resort’s main pool area overlooks the coastline, and there are plenty of spots to settle in for an afternoon poolside. Cabanas, a waterslide and nearby fire pits beckon guests to stay all day. The adult pool, with a couples’ cabanas and a Jacuzzi, provides a more private poolside experience, also with an ocean view. Dining options are many, and one never has to leave the property for a change of pace. From casual to elegant, there is something for everyone. In addition to sweeping vistas, Mar’sel – the property’s fine dining restaurant – offers a sumptuous selection in a warm and casually elegant setting. Many items on the menu include ingredients grown in the restaurant’s herb garden, located right outside its entrance. In a nod to the history of the property, Nelson’s restaurant was named to remember Captain Mike Nelson of the TV show “Seahunt.” The series starred Lloyd Bridges and was filmed in the waters just below Nelson’s. The lively atmosphere is the place to go for a bowl of hot chili and a cold beer. Outdoor seating and a fire pit make this a great place to watch the sun set. No getaway is complete without a visit to the spa. My experience was pure bliss. Prior to my personalized facial, in which my esthetician matched my skin’s needs with an exclusive assortment of products, I basked for more than two hours on a cushioned chaise lounge positioned perfectly so as to allow spa patrons to truly appreciate the relaxing and rhythmic motion of the ocean. Terranea Resort 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes 310.265.2857 Fact: Chef Michael Fiorelli’s resumé includes working as a chef at one of the country’s finest restaurants, The Inn at Little Washington in Washington, D.C. Romantic escapes If you’re planning a Valentine’s Day getaway, consider The KISS package, which includes accommodations for two in a plush room, daily breakfast in bed for two, and dinner for two at Mar’sel or the more casual Catalina Kitchen – all for $470 per night. Use the promo code KISSPKG when booking. There are numerous add-ons that range from tee-times and spa indulgences, complete with champagne, chocolates and rose petals. The Spa at Terranea The 50,000-square-foot spa has separate men’s and women’s facilities, including outdoor relaxation areas and a couple’s retreat, complete with a fireplace. Adjacent to the spa, guests can also take advantage of the fitness center and large lap pool. Here, you’ll find more cabanas and fire pits, as well as poolside service from the Spa Café. For a spa menu, visit terranea.com. |
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