The ubiquitous Southern California sun—340 days average-- and the perpetual warmth of the Tuscan countryside make justifiable comparisons. It also becomes an apt parallel for one of the most inspiring new resorts to be introduced into the Newport Coast, there was a preview opening in October 2008. The Resort at Pelican Hill is accepting group reservations as of now.

The Resort at Pelican Hill™ has sweeping hillside drives through 504 acres that are dotted with 100 year old olive and lemon tress, leading past the orange-tiled roofs of the 204 bungalows and the 128 hilltop villas. It is not really a hotel at all; it is more an authentic Tuscan village experience. Presiding over all this is the Palladian-styled design of the public areas that oversee the incomparable Pacific Ocean vistas. The carefully designed flow of arcs, columns and porticos are reminiscent of the Renaissance, which also used the pursuit of perfection as its ideal.

Striving for excellence has become a tangible reality in the design of the rooms. The oversized Tuscan-styled accommodations have limestone fireplaces in all the rooms, huge marble baths, balconies or terraces from which to see the changing light on the Pacific, the fairways bordering the ocean, or to view Catalina Island. The16’ hand-hewn wood beamed ceilings that contribute to the expansiveness of the accommodations. Authentic in every detail, and lacking in none, these rooms surpass most of what one expects in a luxury resort.

The Tom Fazio redesigned Ocean North and Ocean South form the 36 hole golf course that is in perfect harmony with the beauty of the resort. The play is always in view of the Pacific, or contrasting landscapes that isolate the beholder from the rest of civilization. It is truly a pre-eminent golf destination.

The Pelican Hill Spa was inspired by the Baths of Carcalla, which draws on the refinements of ancient Rome, and at The Resort at Pelican Hill™ will have its unique signature Palladian rotunda at the entryway as a gracious welcome and promise of salubrious treatments to come.

Five restaurants, three pools, nearby luxury shopping, and the beauty of the coast between Newport and Laguna are enticements to visit as well. Easy access from Los Angeles Airport is only 45 minutes from the resort and 20 minutes from John Wayne International Airport.

Used with permission of The Irvine Company. ©2007 The Irvine Company LLC