So, you’re looking at The Pelican Resort California—or, as most people actually call it, The Resort at Pelican Hill. Honestly, it’s one of those places that feels a bit like a movie set when you first drive up those winding Newport Coast roads. You’ve probably seen the photos of that massive circular pool with the yellow umbrellas, right? It looks like something straight out of a slim Aarons photography book. But here’s the thing about high-end California real estate: sometimes the reality is just a very expensive version of what you have at home, and other times, it actually delivers on that "Italian Renaissance" promise they splash all over their brochures.
Let’s get one thing straight immediately. This isn’t a standard hotel.
If you show up expecting a lobby with a crowded bar and a concierge desk squeezed between elevators, you’re going to be confused. It’s huge. We are talking 504 acres of prime coastal land. Most people who visit for the first time don't realize that they aren't staying in a "room." You’re staying in a bungalow or a villa. It basically feels like you’ve temporarily inherited a very wealthy aunt’s Mediterranean estate, complete with limestone fireplaces and hand-hewn wood beams.
The Coliseum Pool and the "Italian" Illusion
If there is one thing that defines The Pelican Resort California, it’s the Coliseum Pool. It is arguably the most famous swimming pool in the United States, and for good reason. It’s a perfect circle. 136 feet in diameter. Over a million hand-cut glass mosaic tiles are on the bottom. It’s absurdly beautiful.
But here is the catch that most travel bloggers won't tell you: it’s a scene. If you want a quiet, contemplative swim, this might not be your vibe during peak season. Families love it because of the tiered decks, but it can get loud.
Why does it work?
The architecture is loosely based on the work of Andrea Palladio. You’ve got these massive columns and a sense of symmetry that feels very "Old World." It’s an interesting choice for Orange County. Usually, California luxury is all about "boho-chic" or "mid-century modern" these days. Pelican Hill doubles down on the classics. It wants you to feel like you’re in Tuscany, even though the Pacific Ocean is clearly visible just past the golf course.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Location
People search for The Pelican Resort California and assume it’s right on the sand. It isn't. This is a common point of frustration for guests who didn't do their homework. The resort sits on a ridge.
You have incredible views. You have the ocean breeze. But if you want to put your toes in the water, you have to take the resort shuttle down to Crystal Cove State Beach.
Now, Crystal Cove is stunning. It’s one of the few places in Southern California that still feels "wild" and undeveloped. You’ve got the historic district with the little cottages and the Beachcomber Cafe (get the beignets, seriously). But you are reliant on that shuttle or your own car. If your dream vacation involves walking out of your bedroom and onto the sand, this might be a dealbreaker.
The Bungalows vs. The Villas
Let’s talk about where you actually sleep. Most people book the bungalows. These are clustered together in little "neighborhoods." They are big—about 850 square feet for a standard one. They have these great vaulted ceilings and private terraces.
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But the Villas? That’s a whole different level of lifestyle.
The Villas are basically private homes. We are talking two, three, or four bedrooms. They have their own clubhouse, their own pool (which is much quieter than the Coliseum Pool), and their own staff. It’s the "resort within a resort" model. If you’re traveling with a group or a large family, the math actually starts to make sense compared to booking three or four separate hotel rooms elsewhere. Plus, you get a gourmet kitchen. Even if you don't cook, it’s nice for the snacks.
Eating at Pelican Hill (Beyond the Room Service)
The food situation at The Pelican Resort California is surprisingly varied.
- Andrea: This is the flagship. It’s high-end Italian. They have a room dedicated to making pasta by hand. It’s the kind of place where you dress up. It’s expensive, but the tableside risotto in a parmesan wheel is one of those "only in Newport" experiences that you kind of have to do once.
- Pelican Grill: Located over at the golf clubhouse. It’s more "California casual." Think steaks, wood-fired pizzas, and a massive terrace. It’s actually a great spot for lunch even if you aren't staying at the resort.
- The Coliseum Grill: More relaxed, poolside dining. Good for a burger or a salad while you watch the people-watching.
One thing to note: because the resort is so spread out, you’re going to be doing a lot of walking or calling for a golf cart to get to dinner. It’s not a "zip down to the lobby" kind of place.
The Golf Factor
You can't talk about this place without mentioning the golf. Tom Fazio designed the two courses—Ocean North and Ocean South. They are legendary. And expensive.
Even if you aren't a pro, the South Course is the one people talk about because it has several holes that run right along the coastline. It’s distracting. You’re trying to line up a putt and there’s a whale breaching in the distance. It happens.
Is it worth the green fees? For a golf enthusiast, probably. The turf is kept in immaculate condition, and the service is top-tier. But if you just want to "try" golf, maybe hit the driving range instead. It's a challenging set of courses.
The Reality of the "Five Star" Experience
Look, no place is perfect. The Pelican Resort California is massive, and sometimes that scale works against it. During high-occupancy weekends—think Fourth of July or Labor Day—the service can feel a little stretched. You might wait longer for a cart. The pool might feel crowded.
Also, it’s expensive. Beyond the room rate, you’ve got valet fees, resort fees, and the cost of food. It adds up fast.
However, the "service culture" here is real. They call it the "Pelican Hill way." The staff generally seems to know who you are and what you need before you ask. It’s that invisible hand of luxury that makes you feel like the world is actually functioning correctly for a few days.
Navigating Your Stay: Expert Tips
If you’ve decided to pull the trigger and book a stay, there are a few ways to make it better.
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First, check the event calendar. This resort is a massive wedding destination. If you want a quiet weekend and there are three 300-person weddings happening, the vibe will be different. Ask the reservations team if there are any "large buyouts" during your stay.
Second, use the "Beach Butler" service. Since you have to go down to Crystal Cove anyway, let them do the heavy lifting. They’ll set up chairs, umbrellas, and towels for you. It takes the "chore" out of going to a public beach.
Third, don't sleep on the Spa. It’s huge. 23,000 square feet. Even if you don't get a treatment, the facilities are top-notch. The "Acqua Colonnades" are basically a ritual of steam, sauna, and cold plunges that will make you feel like a new human being.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
- Book the Bungalow with a View: If you’re going to spend this much money, don't get a "garden view" bungalow. The whole point of Pelican Hill is the Pacific. Pay the extra for the ocean view; it changes the entire experience of waking up in the morning.
- Make Dining Reservations Early: Especially for Andrea or the Pelican Grill on weekends. They get a lot of locals coming in from Newport Beach and Laguna, so the tables fill up fast even if the hotel isn't full.
- Explore the Tide Pools: Take the shuttle to Crystal Cove at low tide. The tide pools there are some of the best in California. You'll see anemones, sea stars, and crabs. It's a great break from the manicured luxury of the resort.
- Download the App: They have a resort app that lets you request your car from valet or order room service. In a place this big, it’s a lifesaver.
- Sunset at the Great Room: Even if you aren't staying there, go to the Great Room (the main lobby lounge) for a drink at sunset. They usually have a live pianist or a small ensemble, and the way the light hits the terrace is incredible.
Ultimately, The Pelican Resort California represents a specific kind of California dream. It’s grand, it’s meticulously groomed, and it’s unapologetically luxury. It isn't the place for a "rugged" coastal experience, but if you want to disappear into a world of limestone and lavender-scented air for a few days, it’s hard to beat. Just make sure you know that you’re buying into a lifestyle for the weekend, not just a room with a bed.