You’ve probably seen the photos of that massive, circular pool with the yellow umbrellas. It’s basically the "Main Character" of Southern California luxury. But honestly, if you’re looking for a "Pelican Resort Newport Beach CA," you're likely looking for The Resort at Pelican Hill. It’s a mouthful, I know. Most locals just call it Pelican Hill. People flock here because it feels less like Orange County and more like a private estate in Tuscany that somehow got teleported to a cliffside overlooking the Pacific.
It’s expensive. Let's just get that out of the way. You aren't staying here on a budget, and you aren't staying here if you want a trendy, minimalist "lifestyle" hotel with neon lights and loud lobby DJs. This place is about old-world scale. We’re talking 504 acres. That’s massive. Most hotels in Newport Beach are squeezed into tight beachfront lots, but this place has enough breathing room to make you forget that the 405 freeway even exists.
What People Get Wrong About the Location
A common mistake travelers make is thinking they can just "walk to the beach" from their room. Technically, you can, but you probably won't. Pelican Hill sits on the ridges above Crystal Cove State Park. It's a bit of a trek. Most guests take the resort’s complimentary shuttle down to the sand. If you try to hoof it, bring water and decent shoes because those coastal hills are no joke.
The resort is tucked between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. It’s an interesting spot. You’ve got the high-end shopping of Fashion Island ten minutes north and the artsy, cramped galleries of Laguna ten minutes south. It occupies this weird, beautiful middle ground where it feels isolated but is actually right in the thick of it.
That Coliseum Pool is a Feat of Engineering
Let's talk about the pool. It’s one of the largest circular pools in the world. 136 feet in diameter. What’s wild isn't just the size; it’s the floor. It’s made of over a million hand-cut glass mosaic tiles. Each one was laid by hand. When the sun hits it, the water looks deeper and bluer than it actually is.
It’s not just a place to swim. It’s a scene. But a quiet one. You won't find spring breakers here. You'll find people who own three houses and a boat, sipping $25 cocktails while staring at the ocean. The service is heavy-handed in a good way. They bring you chilled towels and fruit skewers before you even realize you’re hot.
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The Architecture is a Love Letter to the 16th Century
The architect, Andreas Deicas, modeled the entire property after the work of Andrea Palladio. If you aren't an architecture nerd, just know that Palladio was a 16th-century Italian legend. That’s why you see all those soaring arches, limestone fireplaces, and barrel-vaulted ceilings. It’s designed to look like it’s been there for centuries, even though it opened in 2008.
- The resort doesn't have standard "hotel rooms."
- You stay in "Bungalows" or "Villas."
- Even the entry-level Bungalows are nearly 850 square feet.
- Most apartments in LA aren't that big.
The Villas are a whole different beast. They range from two to four bedrooms and come with their own private clubhouse and pool. If you’re traveling with a family or a group of friends who don't want to see "regular" guests, that’s where you end up. They even have "Butlers," though they call them Villa Assistants to make it sound slightly less like a Batman movie.
Golf, Pelicans, and Tom Fazio
If you aren't here for the spa or the pool, you’re here for the golf. There are two courses: Ocean North and Ocean South. Both were designed by Tom Fazio. These are world-class tracks. Every single hole on both courses has a view of the ocean. That is incredibly rare.
The Ocean North course is a bit more rugged. It plays along the edge of the canyons and feels more expansive. The Ocean South course is closer to the water and can be a bit more "scenic" if you only have time for 18 holes. Be prepared for the wind. The "Newport breeze" is great for cooling down, but it’ll ruin your scorecard if you don't know how to play a low stinger.
One thing to keep in mind: the greens are fast. Like, terrifyingly fast. If you’re a casual golfer, don't be surprised if you three-putt half the day. But the views of the "Birdies"—literal pelicans flying over the Pacific—usually make up for the frustration.
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Dining Without Leaving the "Bubble"
You’ve got a few options here, but Andrea is the heavy hitter. It’s their flagship Italian restaurant. They have a room specifically for making pasta. Not a kitchen—a room. It’s temperature-controlled to ensure the dough is perfect. If you go, get the barrel-aged Parmesan risotto. They stir it inside a giant wheel of cheese right at your table. It’s a bit theatrical, sure, but it tastes incredible.
For something more casual, there’s the Pelican Grill over by the golf clubhouse. It’s got a massive sports bar vibe but with a Newport Beach budget. Great place for a burger and a beer after a round. Then there’s the Caffe & Market. It’s basically a high-end Italian deli where you can grab gelato or a quick sandwich before heading down to Crystal Cove.
The Reality of the Price Tag
I won’t lie to you. It’s one of the most expensive places to stay in California. You can easily spend $1,000 a night just for a base bungalow during peak season. Add in parking, resort fees, and meals, and you’re looking at a serious investment.
Is it worth it?
If you value privacy and silence, yes. Unlike the big resorts in Huntington Beach or even some of the hotels in Laguna, Pelican Hill feels incredibly private. The way the bungalows are tiered on the hillside means you rarely see your neighbors. It’s designed for people who want to disappear for a few days. If you’re looking for a party, go elsewhere. If you’re looking for a place where someone knows your name and your coffee order by day two, this is it.
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The Spa at Pelican Hill
The spa is a 23,000-square-foot monster. It has 22 treatment rooms. They use a lot of local ingredients, like coastal sage and sea salt. But the real draw is the "Acqua Colonnades." It’s a series of herbal steam rooms, saunas, and salt-water soaking pools. Even if you don't book a massage, you can get a day pass to use the facilities.
It’s often cited as one of the best spas in the country by Forbes Travel Guide. They don't just do facials; they do "wellness journeys." It can get a bit "woo-woo" for some people, but the relaxation factor is undeniable.
Actionable Advice for Your Visit:
- Book the South Course for Golf: If you only have one round in you, the South Course offers the more iconic Newport Beach views and plays a bit shorter, which is usually more fun for vacation golf.
- Go to Crystal Cove at Sunset: Use the resort shuttle. There’s a specific spot called the Beachcomber Cafe right on the sand. It’s iconic. Try to time your visit so you're there when they blow the bugle at sunset to mark the "end of the day."
- Skip the Weekend Crowds: If you can swing a Tuesday or Wednesday, the resort feels like your own private estate. The pool is quieter, and you can actually get a prime table at Andrea without booking three weeks in advance.
- Check the Seasonal Offers: Pelican Hill rarely does "sales," but they often have "stay more, play more" packages that include golf credits or spa credits. If you’re going to spend the money anyway, you might as well get the $200 credit for lunch.
- Explore the Hiking Trails: Most people stay by the pool, but the trails leading from the resort down into the Moro Canyon area of Crystal Cove are spectacular. It’s some of the best coastal hiking in Southern California.
The Resort at Pelican Hill isn't a "typical" hotel. It’s a massive, sprawling tribute to Italian aesthetics and California’s coastline. It’s formal without being stuffy, and it’s expensive because, frankly, there isn't anything else quite like it in the zip code. If you’re looking for the pinnacle of Newport Beach luxury, you’ve found the right spot.