There are many choices for luxe hotels in Los Angeles, but for people who want a hip sanctuary to restore, explore and experience more, Calamigos Ranch & Beach Club in Malibu, is the place to be.
With today's traveler focusing on quality downtime for mental health and well-being, this smoke-free, dog-friendly property appeals to families, couples and singles alike.
Set on 200-acres of land and private beach club for guests, Calamigos is the epitome of the good life in Southern California. This elegant property is perfect for unwinding. Peaceful and upscale, it's a world away from the frenetic congestion of L.A. It's easy to see why staycationers, vacationers, corporate retreaters, wedding parties and Hollywood producers favor Calamigos Ranch.
A History of Wellness
The ranch has a long history as a wellness destination.
Eighty years ago, Grant and Helen Gerson had a vision to share the healthy lifestyle they lived and loved by creating a premier location for healing called Calamigos Star C. Their son Glen and his wife Mon-Li have built upon the family vision by restoring the property. This has been home to former fitness carve-outs such as the Sylvester Stallone's reality show, Strong, The Biggest Loser and the WellFit Malibu.
Now the third generation is focusing on upgrades, expansion and innovative partnerships, though the emphasis on healthy living is still a cornerstone.
There are two massive and well-appointed gyms-one for weightlifting and cardio as well as a large studio space for yoga, dance, boxing and Pilates. (Both are open to guests 24/7.) There are two pools: One is perfect for laps while the other is designed for socializing.
For any nature and curio lover, this is a magical place with plenty to explore. Where else would you find mountains, waterfalls, lakes, bridges, vineyards and fields complemented by an old-fashioned merry-go-round and antique Ferris wheel? It took me a full day accompanied by my dog to discover all these treasures, while still having the free time to meander, explore and let the day unfold.
Guest services can create perfect curated experiences such as local wine tasting, organic pizza-making, hiking, horseback riding and helicopter tours along the scenic coastline. Calamigos just opened a brand new spa and also has a spiritual counselor in residence.
The Exclusive Beach Club
Being a guest here has its privileges, with exclusive access to the Calamigos Beach Club-a 5.5-acre Spanish-style estate minutes away by complimentary shuttle. Shuffleboard, ping-pong and paddleboard are complementary activities. Take a stroll down the beach and, when you return, there's a full bar and snacks to enjoy.
What You Can Expect
The owners have smartly created a luxurious destination that's hard to leave, offering solitude, free time, exploration, good food and pampering at your fingertips.
Arriving at the circular driveway, statues of rearing horses offer an element of surprise and spark interest. The sleek, contemporary floor-to-ceiling glass lobby walls give an open and welcoming vibe. The lounge's wrap-around patio offers comfy gathering places and fire pits that come alive in the evening.
Inside, thick wooden beams, leather and suede couches, a double-sided wood burning fireplace, grand piano and bar give rustic charm to the registration and gathering area.
Greeted with a glass of champagne for me and a biscuit for my dog, I was escorted to my private bungalow located closest to the Pool Studio and Lobby Lounge.
Calamigos Ranch offers swanky bungalows, private cottages and exclusive estate rooms. Depending on your room type, special touches include indoor and outdoor showers, Carrera marble bathrooms, private gardens and terraces with a view. All have air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and a large flat-screen TV. Guests booked in estate rooms enjoy their own private pool while 2-room bungalows offer soaking tubs and a living room.
My bungalow was designed for privacy and hidden by a tall white, fence. A blue door opened to a garden, with steps leading down to a sitting area, an outdoor rain shower and French doors. The bedroom featured a king bed and desk where there was a personalized note, a complimentary bottle of Calamigos wine and all the amenities one would expect from a high-end hotel.
The landscaping throughout the property is both upscale and whimsical: Outdoor couches covered in faux grass along a walkway, glass chandeliers hanging from trees, umbrellas hanging from the sky and red cabins used for location shoots make for interesting discoveries as well as a great backdrop for photos.
Local, Fresh Food with Flair
There are several dining options but don't miss the complimentary breakfast from 7-11 a.m. daily. I can attest to a sumptuous breakfast spread with made-to-order eggs, pancakes and waffles, a selection of avocado and corn, fig and goat cheese and salmon and arugula toasts, platters of perfectly ripe fruit, a variety of breads and muffins and chafing dishes of the best bacon and sausage I've had in a while.
The outdoor Malibu Café is great for family lunches, parties and events, and there are paddleboats guests can use for free on the private lake. Leo's Lobby Bar serves drinks and food to guests in the afternoon and evening, and there's also in-room service as another dining option.
Calamigos is located 26 miles from Los Angeles International Airport and 19 miles from Santa Monica.
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