Coast with the Most – Cruising Highway 1 and Beyond

When I attended the Pebble Beach Food and Wine in April, I decided to continue my journey of exploration down the coast along the picturesque Highway 1 en route to Big Sur. From there, I ventured to LA, and then back north stopping in Santa Barbara before returning to San Francisco. Herewith, I bring you my favorites along the way topped with insider tips.

Sur Thing

If a resort were an exclamation point, it would be Post Ranch Inn, which perfectly punctuates all that I love about California. With sweeping views of the Pacific, this destination gem is as breathtaking as you’ve heard. Insider notes: They saved the real estate with the views for the infinity hot tub while the swimming pool is situated next to the gym so you ideally want to stay when it’s chilly so you can take a heated plunge on the edge of the cliff. The restaurant is beautifully appointed with floor to ceiling glass walls allowing for ocean views and a telescope on the deck for your nocturnal viewing pleasure (Saturn was visible during my stay). They serve a lovely breakfast buffet and dinner is prix fixe (which I think is important to share given that is the only option on the property). The property is essentially divided into two parts: the older, funkier bungalows, and the new, sleek duplexes. I stayed in a suite in one of the new two-story duplexes which had a fireplace, a terrace overlooking the ocean, and a complimentary mini bar (quite impressive, I might add). If you want to feel like you’re in a tree house, book one of the older bungalows. If you want contemporary luxury, then opt for a duplex. (Note: no TVs in any rooms so bring reading!). Don’t miss the gorgeous hiking trails, spa, and morning yoga.

I then spent my second day and evening across the highway at Ventana Inn and Spa, which does not share the same views but is still a gorgeous resort, nonetheless. We spent the day at the ‘clothing optional’ pool which has a shared hot tub adjoining the men’s and women’s locker rooms which is cleverly designed. I highly recommend a massage after submerging yourself in it as I can honestly say theirs was one of the best I have ever experienced. The restaurant is currently undergoing a renovation so we dined in a temporary facility but it’s my understanding the new eatery will be quite extraordinary. It was a pleasant surprise to learn that this property has recently fallen under the supervision of Joie de Vivre, who is noticeably taking great strides to make this a first-class destination. No complimentary mini bars but you can happily watch movies on your flat screen above the fireplace.

City of Angles & Demons

After hearing all of the buzz about the new Philippe Starck hotel in LA, it was certainly entertaining to absorb what one could easily describe as a feast for the senses at the recently opened SLS at Beverly Hills. In true Starck fashion, there’s no shortage of eye candy from the tricked out lobby to the mirrored bathrooms and state-of-the-art gym. While dinner at Jose Andres’ Bazaar is not to be missed, you’ll want to make your first reservation at Cecconi’s just near Robertson in West Hollywood. Arguably LA’s hottest of-the-moment eatery, the Italian concept is the latest from the group behind the Soho House properties which will soon open a new club on Sunset Boulevard. I also had the pleasure of attending a Supper Club dinner on the back terrace of Michael Mina’s XIV which overlooks Sunset. For a private cocktail party or otherwise, this is a fabulous locale.

SLS Pool

Cecconi’s

XIV

Beachy Keen

Dubbed the American Riviera, I can now see why anyone would dream of likening the Santa Barbara coast to a French or Italian equivalent. Upon arriving at the Four Seasons Biltmore, I could not help but fall in love with the exquisite Mediterranean architecture and scenic waterfront placement of the property. Ty Warner, the resort’s owner, recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation on the hotel as well as the legendary Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club across the street. With its majestic palm trees, lush courtyards, and tastefully designed guest rooms, I can emphatically say this is my new favorite hotel in California. But if you go for no reason other than to be granted access to the newly re-opened Coral Casino (Santa Barbara’s ultra-exclusive members only club), I can’t say I’d blame you. Warner spent another gazillion restoring the club while maintaining the integrity of its original DNA. It oozes glamour in an impossibly subtle way and once you’re lounging poolside while overlooking the ocean, you may never want to leave.

Four Seasons Biltmore

Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club

Just remember to pack the one accessory you can’t afford to leave without: a convertible.