The quiet county south of Los Angeles (and its own entity for those wondering) was thrust into the spotlight in the early 2000’s thanks to a little show called TheO.C. Fast forward almost two decades and several TV shows later, and you’d be hard pressed to find someone who hasn’t heard of Orange County, and specifically Newport Beach. The notoriously high-end beach town is known for everything from the sprawling mansions tucked away in the hills to the world-famous oceanfront restaurants to the pristine coastline perfect for long walks on the beach, dramatic reality show style.
Another beloved jewel of Newport Beach is the Resort at Pelican Hill, situated overlooking Crystal Cove, a protected stretch of beach and marine habitat. The luxurious getaway – complete with bungalows, villas, several restaurants, and that oh-so-famous pool – is a trip to the Italian coast without leaving California. Today, we’re jumping into all the reasons your next group getaway or event deserves to be at Pelican Hill. And trust us, you deserve it.
Newport Beach is Laguna Beach’s northern sister, claiming truly stunning ocean views, famed restaurants like Nobu and Mastro’s, shopping ranging from the boutiques along PCH to the glam experience of Fashion Island, and, of course, the world class getaway and event possibilities at the Resort at Pelican Hill.
Get ready to move in because the accommodations at Pelican Hill are nothing short of Italian magic for groups. The bungalows, able to sleep two, overlook the garden or ocean and feel like a Tuscan retreat the moment you walk in the door. For a palatial group experience, opt for a multi-bedroom villa, outfitted with a private garage, two to four bedrooms, a fully stocked kitchen, ocean views (duh), and access to the private clubhouse and restaurant, Piccolo, for villa guests.
Aptly named the “Coliseum” for the semi-circular, column-clad cabana and restaurant area, the massive pool will take your group from day to night: lounge in a cabana with food and drink service by day, and dine al fresco on a warm California evening by night.
Continuing the Italian getaway, head to Andrea with your crew for a homemade pasta and pizza night that everyone is sure to remember. Head in for happy hour for $7 cocktails, wine and pizza until 7pm, order the tableside-prepared risotto, or sign up for a pasta making class with your group. Inside tip: the highly anticipated white truffle menu – sourced from Alba, Italy – is here through the end of the year.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer passing your knowledge to the kids or trying a round for fun with your friends, Pelican Hill’s Golf Club rises to the occasion. The two courses, Ocean North and Ocean South, are perched at the water’s edge offering truly awe-inspiring sights, smells, and sounds while you practice your swing. Want a little golf guidance? Sign up for Golf School, with classes covering all aspects of the game.
After a day lounging in the sun or hitting the links, treat yourself (ok fine, and your besties) to a day at the spa or to a day of guided wellness and fitness experiences. Recharge, relax, or refuel with Pelican Hill’s completely customizable menu of spa and wellness services. Paddle boarding yoga? You got it. Body gelato wrap? Why not Manicures for the whole squad? Consider it polished.
Meetings, corporate events, and retreats get a new lease on life at Pelican Hill: think private terraces, sprawling lawns, ocean vistas, olive trees, basically Italy in Southern California. Create a bespoke itinerary that takes your company from indoors to outdoors, maximizing all of the unique and beautifully crafted venues onsite accented by Pelican Hill’s experienced and thoughtful team.
So, you want a coastal wedding that isn’t on the beach, a casually elegant affair that doesn’t involve a barn, and top notch food and beverage that doesn’t have to be driven in. You know where we’re going with this, Pelican Hill is truly the answer to your wedding wishes. From the ocean-backed Rotunda perfect for ceremonies to the winding paths waiting for newlywed photos to the ballrooms ready for late night dancing, consider your special day sorted.
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