Disclaimer: I was invited as a paid guest of The Ritz-Carlton - though all opinions, photography, and words remain my own.
When I found out I would be working with THE prestigious Ritz-Carlton on a California adventure, I knew I had to bring Nils along with me. We had just gotten engaged and suddenly, I was planning a trip of a lifetime with my new fiancé and got to call it work. A honeymoon before our wedding? What a treat! I had never traveled the West Coast beyond San Diego prior to this experience and teaming with The Ritz-Carlton was the perfect opportunity to do so.
If you have been following me for a while, you know between the two of us, Nils is the more outdoorsy one. And while I enjoy my fair share of being adventurous in the great outdoors, being pampered in luxury is always high up on my vacation to-do list. Lucky for us, neither of us had to choose and got to combine what we both love into one perfectly wrapped bow.
FIRST STOP: THE RITZ-CARLTON, hALF MOON BAY
The first stop on our adventures through California was The Ritz-Carlton, Half-Moon Bay. This property fully embodied coastal California luxury. Set on top of a secluded cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it felt like being transported into a charming storybook fairytale. There's something sobering yet gratifying about being on what feels like the edge of the earth. Sticking with the theme of combining my love for luxury and Nils’ love for the outdoors, we rented bikes through the property on our first morning and hit the surrounding scenic trails. With winding roads overlooking the ocean and shaded paths through the forest, taking in the sprawling greens, and rugged cliffs and foggy fairytale charm. We even got to enjoy a nearby beach all to ourselves on the way back.
Another highlight? The gastronomic experience. We had some truly amazing meals, paired with equally divine wines; and an indulgent breakfast we looked forward to every morning! While I spent most of my mornings here just taking in these breathtaking views, in the evenings we indulged in s'mores we made in our private terrace fire pit while sipping red wine. It almost felt like we were on a northern European holiday: getting serenaded by the sounds of a true Scottish bagpipe while quietly bonding and unwinding with the flickering flames of fire from the comfort of our room.
If you’re looking to mix in some good shopping into your holiday, you can easily include a day around San Francisco.
SECOND STOP: THE RITZ-CARLTON, RANCHO MIRAGE
The next stop on our road trip, we decided to take a break from the coast and head into the desert. Set above Coachella Valley, this property felt like an oasis. Greeted with an ice-cold hand towel and a smile upon arrival, it was refreshing to take time to enjoy a change in landscape: striking peaks and valleys sprinkled with a sea of palm trees.
The drinks we had here were beyond fantastic, and again unforgettable breakfasts in the cosy diner inspired restaurant. We noticed that while the experience was equally luxurious, the atmosphere was more laid back than the other two properties we visited. Our time here would be a restorative one, and I focused on treating myself to the most relaxing spa treatments (the crisp champagne served after was just the cherry on top I needed!), going on hikes, and enjoying the adult pool to myself at 6 am every morning to enjoy sunrise.
Lastly if you have a chance to go, definitely take the road through Mt San Jacinto state park - you’ll be rewarded with beautiful landscapes and vegetation.
LAST STOP: THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL
Closing out our California adventure, we arrived here to enjoy the full spirit of Southern California. Here, we were back to the coast…but with views that were truly breathtaking. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this property had a more playful spirit and very serious sunsets. A mecca for surfers worldwide, it was an added treat to have breakfast while watching world class surfers catch the best waves, be able to stroll along winding ocean paths that lead to Salt Creek Beach, and indulge in the best cuisine anywhere within a 5 mile radius. We arrived on a sunny day when a beautiful outdoor wedding was taking place, and I can only begin to imagine how stunning that ceremony must have been with such a fantastic oceanfront backdrop.
Upon arrival, I knew I wanted to jump straight into the ocean for a sunset dip to cool off, relax., and enjoy the cotton candy sky. Luckily for us the hotel has shuttles going between the pool and the beach every ten minutes. To truly elevate the experience The Ritz-Carlton team provides ‘Beach Butlers’ at their private beach to provide you with all your needs while you relax waterside. The next day to balance out relaxation time with adventure we participated in paddle board classes. It was awesome to be able to see the city from a different point of view in the water.
Nils especially enjoyed how the hotel incorporates surf history elements, telling the tale of legends like Hobie Alter and the history of the Killer Dana break. The asian fusion food was a delight, and we also really enjoyed the signature drinks!
FINAL THOUGHTS
Though each property has its own unique charm about them, they all have a collective magic touch. Perfect for a romantic staycation, road trip with friends, or family vacation, I highly recommend all of these for an elevated domestic travel experience that transports you to a destination of rejuvenation, relaxation, and luxury.
Photos by yours truly and Nils Kaiser
