I set out for a weekend retreat, craving the perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and indulgence that only a premier resort could offer. Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes, CA, delivered this and so much more. From the moment I arrived, I felt transported and no longer in Los Angeles, but to an exclusive island oasis where every moment held the promise of something extraordinary. Whether you seek the serene embrace of a world-class spa or the vibrant energy of live music under the stars, Terranea offers a haven where endless activities cater to every desire. The resort buzzed with life—weddings, baby showers, birthdays, reunions, and corporate events at every turn, each unfolding its own gathering against the backdrop of stunning coastal views.
My focus for the weekend was an adults-only escape into the tranquil world of the spa and pool, complemented by the culinary artistry at three of their exceptional restaurants. Yet, it was the resort’s unique offerings that truly set it apart—experiencing the ancient art of falconry and savoring a sunset wine and cheese event by the ocean, creating memories that linger long after the last rays of sun disappears below the horizon.
Luxe Oceanfront Bedroom
The theme of the room perfectly encompassed the serene elegance of an oceanfront resort. Located on the 5th floor, my room immediately impressed with its sophisticated and calming decor. The sliding glass door led to a private balcony that overlooked the resort’s largest pool, with the vast ocean serving as a stunning backdrop. As I stepped back inside, the plush white pillows, high-quality sheets, and luxurious comforter looked like a night of restful sleep and tempting to sleep in.
The entertainment center featured a large flat-screen TV, offering a wide array of movie selections, local TV channels, and ambient music to suit any mood. The bar area was thoughtfully equipped with wine glasses, an enclosed refrigerator and Keurig machine complete with coffee pods, and a cozy two-seater table positioned perfectly for enjoying the ocean view. The balcony itself provided a picturesque vantage point, overlooking the lively pool area, the nearby restaurant, and the magnificent ocean. It was the ideal spot to unwind with a drink or meal, soaking in the vibrant resort atmosphere.
The room’s closet was stocked with two sets of plush spa robes and slippers, adding an extra layer of comfort to the experience. The serene decor, featuring seashell accents and a soothing palette of whites and soft blues, made it easy to find tranquility simply by spending time in the room.
The bathroom was a space of pure indulgence, the kind I’d dream of having in my home. It featured a sunken tub for deep relaxation, a separate shower with a massage showerhead, and an enclosed toilet area for added privacy. The lighting was perfectly designed to illuminate each area as needed. High-end amenities, including luxurious shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, and soap, were provided, along with a lighted, magnifying mirror for added convenience. The soft blue hues and ocean-themed art throughout the bathroom served as a constant reminder of the sea’s proximity.
Housekeeping was exceptional, checking in during the evening to see if anything was required and promptly responding to a water request later that night. While the room did not include snacks, the resort’s coffee shop was conveniently nearby to satisfy any cravings. The bar area also featured generous bottles of Evian water.
Private Falconry Experience
The first activity I selected was meeting Joe Roy, the falconer, who shared his birds and knowledge in an outdoor intimate group setting. This activity is unique to this hotel as I have never heard of this experience. I was able to get some information from Joe on the history of resort and birds on site.
“This is where Marineland used to be. And during Marineland era, seagulls were eating fish being fed to marine mammals. Seagulls also began eating the food off the human table. So when Marineland packed up that lab, Terranea ultimately opened at the same location, we seemingly inherited these goals. I’ve been doing the work in here for about 11 years.” Joe continued with the reason of falcon onsite.
“Seagulls are protected by mentoring species here in the US, you can’t do very many things to them or about them, but with the right kind of permits and expertise, we can harass them with falcons.” “I’m here at Terranea, mostly we’re non lethally harassing things like seagulls, ravens, crows, pigeons, grackles, these so called nuisance birds.”
“Apex is my second favorite Falcon, because he’s my second best hunter. He’s a four year old hybrid, meaning he’s a mixed genetics the mother to this bird is a parent. The father is an Arctic jerk Falcon.”
“I fly my birds with benefit of GPS technology tracking aids, so I know where they are in real time since I switched over to GPS, as opposed to the handheld radio telemetry, you see biologists using to track animals. I haven’t lost any birds in the last two or three years since I switched to the GPS, aside from being more efficient and losing tracking birds, GPS gives me benefit of data. How long, how high, how far, how fast, I had a falcon up yesterday at 1700 plus feet. The current speed record is 175 miles an hour.”
“At 19 years of age. Albert is the oldest bird of Cray in my current collection. Albert was passed in an aviary in Las Vegas, Nevada that a friend of mine operates at 18 days old, he was flown to California, where I picked him up at the airport. I hand raised Albert in my home with my kids, so he would imprint on me as the mother figure. Albert grew up with dogs.” Joe explains the owl’s hunting techniques, including their large eyes, asymmetrical ear placement, and silent flight. The physical adaptations of owls, such as their soft feathers and powerful talons.
Oceanside Lunch at Nelson’s
Dining at Nelson’s was an experience to savor, especially with the stunning ocean views just beyond our table. We chose to sit outdoors, where the sound of the waves provided a soothing backdrop to our meal. I indulged in a mouthwatering Connecticut lobster on a brioche roll, paired with a savory appetizer of mussels in garlic and white wine and toasted sourdough bread. My guest opted for the Ahi tuna steak sandwich and a side order of green salad, a flavorful dish that didn’t disappoint. Each bite was delicious, making it impossible not to relish every moment of this lunch. The sweet potato fries, a favorite side dish, were the perfect complement to my meal. To quench our thirst on this warm summer day, we enjoyed sparkling Evian water and refreshing iced strawberry lemonade.
The atmosphere was casual, with a woodsy, beach-inspired vibe that made it hard to resist gazing out at the endless ocean. Just a few steps away, we could stroll up to the lookout point and take in the breathtaking views. The service was also excellent.
Heavenly Spa Experience
My visit to Terranea Spa was nothing short of transformative—a true seaside sanctuary that defines luxury. I can’t think of another oceanfront resort in Southern California that offers such an indulgent and immersive experience. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend the entire day in tranquility. My experience began with a private cabana by the pool, perfectly situated with breathtaking ocean views and adjacent to the fitness center, which offers daily fitness classes. The cabana was fully equipped with plush towels, ample shade, and exceptional service from the attentive staff. A fresh fruit platter added to the pampering, and I knew the other spa menu options would be just as healthy and delicious. An iced water dispenser was on hand, making it easy to settle in with a good book, take in the views, or simply drift off into a peaceful nap.
Next, I eagerly anticipated my 90 minute spa treatment, named the Discover Treatment. After slipping into a soft spa robe and slippers, I secured my belongings in a password-protected locker and appreciated that my area was not busy. The spa provides everything you could need: showers, an outdoor whirlpool, a serene lounge with tea and healthy snacks, a boutique, and personal amenities like brushes, hairdryers, lotion, mouthwash, shower caps, and hair ties. As I waited in the lounge, my treatment advisor arrived to escort me to what would be one of the most serene spa experiences of my life. She led me upstairs to a heavenly room where the doors opened to an ocean view—something I’ve never experienced in any other spa.
The Discover Treatment began with a 30-minute soak in a luxurious copper tub, filled with Epsom salts and my choice of lavender and arnica essential oils to soothe sore muscles and joints. Overlooking the ocean, I felt a deep sense of calm wash over me. Although the day was warm, the staff member was attentive and adjusted the water temperature from very warm to cooler, and provide iced lemon water and cooling bath towels for my face. For those who may have forgotten their swimwear, the spa even offers disposable bikinis. After the soothing soak, the indulgence continued with a head-to-toe massage, including a blissful scalp massage, all performed with luxurious oils. The combination of soft music and the gentle sound of the ocean almost made me fall asleep allowing me to release all the tension I hadn’t realized I was holding onto. By the end, I felt completely renewed, as if the weight of the outside world had melted away.
Here is the link to the spa: https://www.terranea.com/spa/spa-services
Sips and Sunsets
Imagine ending your day with a glass of fine wine, a selection of cheeses, and a beautifully arranged charcuterie board—all while overlooking the ocean as the sun sets. This was the scene at Terranea’s Solviva outdoor cafe Sips and Sunsets event, where the tranquil spa pool provided the perfect setting for a romantic evening or a relaxed night out with friends and family. The soft live music added to the ambiance, creating an atmosphere that was as serene as it was indulgent. The experience was truly peaceful, and the photos capture the vibrant colors and stunning ocean backdrop that made this event so special.
Dinner at Bashi Restaurant
My evening dinner was at Bashi Restaurant was a great experience of Asian cuisine. Bashi offers both indoor and outdoor dining options, with ocean views. It is an upscaled and relaxed atmosphere. As the evening progressed, the restaurant quickly filled with guests. I was impressed with my table overlooking the pool and the ocean creating a lively and tranquil experience. For my meal I ordered two delicious sushi rolls. The first, the Rock N’ Roll, featured a combination of shrimp tempura, avocado, and salmon, offering a perfect balance of flavors. The second, the Shrimp Tempura Crunchy Roll, was a mouthwatering blend of shrimp, avocado, and cucumber, along with other fresh ingredients. To complement the sushi, I enjoyed a refreshing cucumber salad. The meal was accompanied by sparkling Evian water. The service throughout the evening was impeccable, with attentive staff.
Mar’sel Sunday Jazz Brunch
This is a definite yes for anyone who love’s a good Sunday brunch listening to live jazz music and enjoying an ocean view. Marsel’s has indoor and outdoor upscale dining with a full tended indoor bar. The brunch is from the menu offering you three courses with options under each.
The first course option I selected was the chia bowl with coconut milk, saffron, goji berry, fresh blueberries and cocoa nibs. My guest selected the avocado toast with pickled vegetables, radish, aleppo pepper on ciabatta bread. Most of their ingredients are locally sourced.
The second course I chose the lobster benedict consisted of Chino farm poached egg, mousseline sauce, and heirloom tomato. It was delicious. My guest ordered the Sunny Side Frittata with bacon, white cheddar, mushrooms, sourdough croutons. The waiter also was able to request for her bacon not to be included in the dish.
After the two courses, I did not think there would be an appetite for dessert. I could not resist since all the menu options sounded mouth watering. I ordered the Chocolate Dulcey Pot De Creme with soft dark chocolate ganache and a sea salted chocolate cookie. My guest ordered Hazelnut Macaron Calamansi with curd filling, toasted coconut, raspberry snow, and mango gel.
My overall experience at Terranea Resort was marked by exceptional service and an impressive array of activities, making it nearly impossible to explore everything in just one weekend. From the nine-hole golf course known as The Links, to the scenic walking trails, and the lively entertainment options such as lobby bar live music, the Sound Series which is live musical bands at Nelson’s Sunset Bluff, and the enchanting cinema nights by the pool, there’s something for everyone. The resort’s seasonal approach ensures that no matter when you visit, there’s always something new and exciting to discover, making every stay at Terranea a truly unique and memorable experience.
Check out their website at: https://www.terranea.com
All photos credited to Tania Fontaine.
Splash Magazines
Be the first to comment