A Day In Newport Coast
As pleasing to the palate as the eye…
Blending preserved natural beauty with contemporary architecture, the community of Newport Coast is on the eastern edge of Newport Beach and is defined by lush open spaces, abundant trails and world-class views. Here, you’ll also find one of the newest urban developments in Newport Coast—Fashion Island—a high-end shopping plaza with ocean views plus an array of excellent restaurants. And finally, the highlight of my Newport Coast visit: The Resort at Pelican Hill and Pelican Hill Golf Club, which was rated World’s Top Golf Resort in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’Choice Survey—boasting views of the Pacific from nearly every one of the 36 holes.
In addition to your day of dining, shopping and golf, you must also visit The Crystal Cove State Park, which is comprised of 3.5 miles of pristine uninterrupted coastline, favored by hikers, campers and trailblazers. Within the Park is The Crystal Cove Historic District, an enclave of 46 vintage rustic coastal cottages originally built in the 1920s and 1930s nestled around the mouth of Los Trancos Creek. It is one of the last remaining examples of early 20th century Southern California coastal development.
*BH Insider Tip: you can stay overnight in the cottages! More info here.
Okay, now we’ll get to the tasty bits! Whether you’re just finishing up a round of golf or looking for a scenic spot to lunch, Pelican Grill at The Resort at Pelican Hill is the perfect place to pause. Grab a cocktail and a bite while taking in the views and lounging in their comfy chairs. The lunch menu offers familiar favorites like a hearty chicken club sandwich, wood-fired pizzas, and fish and chips. The restaurant also serves brunch and dinner.
After lunch, take a 15-minute stroll through The Resort at Pelican Hill–set on 504 pristine acres perched above unrivaled coastal beauty. This Mediterranean-style resort is ultra lux with rose gardens, sandstone Romanesque pillars and inviting ambiance. From the terraces, capture the most magnificent views of the ocean and golf course. Pelican Hill has a decidedly luxurious Tuscan vibe—think hillside Italian villa meets Mediterranean Inn—and like the Mediterranean, the sun-drenched climate of Southern California allows indoor and outdoor spaces to seamlessly co-exist.
We know it’s not food. But it’s golf, and that’s almost as good. Pelican Hill Golf Course. Yep, she certainly is a beauty. The golf resort is divided into two 18-hole courses: Ocean South and Ocean North. Though the South Course may seem like the most scenic of the two, it’s more than just eye candy. The pristine greens look harmless at first glance, but most are surrounded by bunkers and deep chasms, momentarily diverting your attention from the 270-degree views of the Pacific. Concentration here is a must, lest you end up taking more shots with your wedge than you do with your camera. The Ocean North course features panoramic views from every hole, but the Ocean South course takes you closest—with three holes directly on the coastline. As if you need more destination ideas for your next golf trip, but just in case, let me recommend Pelican’s Buddies Trip Redefined, the ultimate in luxury golf vacations.
We purposely saved the best for last. And it involves Tequila. After a long day spent in one of the most gorgeous destinations on the southern West Coast, you deserve it. We recommend Javier’s Cantina for post-hike or post-golf refreshment. Theirs was arguably one of the best margaritas I’ve ever had, or perhaps I was just extra thirsty after my 2.5 hour hike. Décor is sexy, mosaic windows dance with incoming light, warm breezes fill the restaurant, and the food is excellent to boot. The menu features center-cut prime steaks, tree-to-restaurant produce and sustainable seafood delivered fresh daily. What more could you ask for?
