More than just a quintessential California resort, Terranea is an experience—one that captures the essence of Southern California and more than satisfies a desire for dreamy sunsets and Beach Boy vibes. Perched atop the cliffs of Palos Verdes with stunning Pacific Ocean views, Mediterranean-inspired Terranea is within proximity to nearly everything for which the region is so well known: Disneyland, Hollywood Bowl, Universal Studios, Griffith Park, Staples Center, and the Getty. Yet, with its four swimming pools, world-class spa, multiple dining venues, boutique shopping, and stellar service, Terranea provides little reason for visitors to leave the 102 acre property during their stay.
Terranea is its own little world—one in which life is good. Really good. The resort is a nostalgic “California Dream” realized, where romanticized Golden State notions become reality. Kayaking in the Pacific with frolicking dolphins leading the way? Check. A glass of champagne enjoyed while witnessing the most glorious of sunsets? Check. Roasting marshmallows by a glowing fire as the soothing marine layer mist rolls in? Check.
At 15, the resort is more vibrant than ever. A recent refresh shines a sun-kissed, golden spotlight on its impeccable service, luxurious accommodations, and fabulous dining options. Here’s how I enjoyed my Terranea getaway:
After perusing the stately central lobby lounge and outdoor balcony that overlooks the property (which appeared prime for cocktails at dusk), I stashed my bags in my spacious one bedroom casita with full kitchen and furnished outdoor terrace with ocean view. (Terranea features 582 guest rooms of varying sizes. Choose from lobby building rooms and suites, or multi room casitas and villas.) Lunch was enjoyed al fresco at catalina kitchen, where I begged my waiter for the house made hummus recipe. I then took a self-guided trail hike along the property’s scenic coastal path, acquainting myself with the magnitude of the resort, ending up at Terranea’s charming Beach Cove—site of ocean adjacent Adirondack chairs and home base for the resort’s water sports activities. A meandering, investigative walk through the property back to my casita revealed four heated swimming pools, including the Resort Pool with a 140-foot waterslide and splash pad, the adults-only Cielo pool, the Vista Pool for guests ages 13 and older, and the Spa Pool which commands perhaps the greatest property orientation, with cushy chaises lounge poised towards the sea. A lobster roll dinner at seaside-casual Nelson’s, a glass of Flowers Chardonnay, and a S’more—for which I roasted my own marshmallow at an adjacent fire pit—proved my reward for meeting my step count for the day.
After a peaceful night’s sleep, aided by my pillow-topped bed and the cool of coastal fog, I made a pot of coffee, and enjoyed a cup on my terrace while donning my cozy Terranea robe and slippers, and perusing the headlines via PressReader. I ventured to pointe discovery, the gift shop located along the resort’s front drive, for the complimentary falconer meet and greet, at which guests are introduced to the resort’s resident falcon, who by his sheer, magnificent presence, naturally wards off pesky seagulls and other pests. When not on stage, he can be spotted flying freely about the grounds, keeping watch.
My afternoon was a California coastal fantasy realized. Kayaking along the coastline towards the historic Point Vicente lighthouse, my Terranea guide and I were surrounded by dolphin pairs who leapt playfully behind, beside, and in front of us. Pelicans swooped nearby on the return, nearly within arm’s reach, as the gentle tide provided a push back to shore. My guide kindly provided an aqua scope for my use, allowing me a closer look at the large Catalina goldfish that lurked beneath.
Walking back to my casita for a well-earned afternoon respite, I stopped at the golf course for a peek. I’m not a golfer, but I find that golf courses nearly always command the best views, and the nine-hole, par 3, Links at Terranea proved no exception. The award-winning course features lush, natural terrain and dramatic ocean vistas within its sustainable design that serves as a habitat for native plant species. Here, on-site PGA professionals offer personalized instruction through Terranea’s Golf Academy, helping golfers evaluate every aspect of the game, including proper practice techniques and short game mechanics. (Next time, perhaps.)
Back on my casita terrace, I popped a bottle of sparkling in order to toast the setting sun, the remnants of which continued to glisten upon the water. Clear skies allowed me a view of Catalina Island in the distance. Dinner at bashi followed. This Pan Asian restaurant is a revelation, and most surely is as beloved by local residents as it is resort guests. I savored the freshest sushi and family-style Asian dishes at my patio table overlooking the main resort pool and stunning coastline. The menu features nigiri, sashimi, rolls, Hamachi and scallop carpaccio, Bang Bang shrimp, spicy chicken and pork dumplings, shaking beef, and wok tossed noodles among so many other yummy dishes. If I’d been staying longer, and dinner options required a repeat, bashi would have been my go-to. After dinner, I enjoyed live music in the lobby lounge while a roaring fire provided just the right amount of mellow mood-inducing illumination.
The next day was about rest and rejuvenation. After a latte and cinnamon roll breakfast at the resort’s awesome sea beans take-out café (which stocks all kinds of yummy goods like holiday-themed cookies, gelato, ice cream sandwiches, etc.), I headed to my reserved spa pool cabana where attentive staff plied me with hibiscus iced tea. Other than a beach in Nantucket, no more perfect spot could be found at which to listen to my Elin Hilderbrand audio book. I enjoyed a healthy lunch from solviva spa café followed by a warm, salt water swim prior to my Natura Bisse Diamond Luminous Facial. The Spa at Terranea is a 50,000-sq.-ft., state-of-the-art oasis with separate men’s and women’s indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, 25 treatment rooms, and a menu of indulgent treatments. I also found much to love within the stocked Spa Boutique—workout and leisure wear, candles, bath and body products, and delicate jewelry.
Dinner that night was enjoyed at Terranea’s signature restaurant, the exceedingly elegant mar’sel (Spanish for “sea” and French for “salt”). Set atop the cliffs and overlooking the Palos Verdes peninsula, mar’sel is a regional gem, well-illustrated by its Michelin Guide recommendation and its Forbes Travel Guide four star designation. Superb service, crafted cocktails (don’t miss the Basil Hayden espresso martini), an interesting wine list, and perfectly executed, seasonal dishes made for a stunningly memorable meal. Upon arrival, I loved seeing one of the chefs picking fresh herbs and other ingredients from the colorful and bountiful garden at the restaurant entrance.
Before departing the next morning, I required one last peek at onsite boutiques pointe discovery (where I loaded up on Terranea logoed items—the better to transport me mentally to the resort in times of stress) and marea, which carries the most beautiful clothing, and is surely a shopping destination for those who live in the region. New Veronica Beard dress in hand, I departed with determination to return again soon to this singular SoCal paradise.
Photos courtesy of Terranea
Terranea transforms into a holiday wonderland during festive season. Its famed Gingerbread Lounge (featuring a 7’ x 7’ gingerbread house masterpiece) debuts November 30, followed by a Tree Lighting Ceremony which includes caroling and dance performances by local arts groups, sleigh rides alongside Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and hot chocolate and apple cider stations. During the holidays, the resort also offers Silent Night meditation sessions at the spa, Winter Solstice Hikes along the resort’s oceanfront trail, succulent wreath crafting, and a cozy Beach Cove movie night, plus additional festive activities at the Kids Club.
My SoCal Terranea visit was enhanced by my use of Volvo’s new C40 Recharge, an all-electric compact that combines modern design, sustainability, and advanced technology. I was charmed by its quiet operation and smooth acceleration, both of which made driving feel effortless. The spacious interior and state-of-the-art features provided comfort and security as I navigated the sun-soaked landscape. Not only was I impressed by the car’s performance, I also felt profound peace-of mind-knowing that I was driving an environmentally friendly vehicle. With fast-charging capabilities, I was able to recharge the battery to about 80% in about 35 minutes at a DC fast charger. While the range varies, it’s sufficient for many long-distance trips, and the network of fast chargers is continually expanding, easing range anxiety. The overall design and layout contributed to a serene driving experience. I loved it, and I may well become the owner of this beautiful automobile.
