Spend Summer on California’s Newport Coast

The state of California has proven to be the cultural epicenter for world-famous artists, athletes, and celebrities for decades. It’s long been a source of inspiration for musicians, too—“California Dreamin’” by The Mamas & The Papas reminds us of Californa’s consistent siren song when the rest of the country is feeling dull and gray. Teeming with sunny skies, beautiful beaches, and always sporting a laidback personality, the Golden State is ideal to visit any time of year—but the California dream is particularly alive in the summertime.

The friendly Newport Coast, often referred to as the “Pacific Riviera,” fringes the shimmering Pacific Ocean. Located between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach, this warm community is home to a plethora of activities including surfing, golfing, sailing, biking, and so much more. The Newport Coast is the perfect place to enjoy an extended summer stay with Inspirato’s JauntLiving.

Where to stay


Make yourself at home this summer in a suite or private residence at The Resort at Pelican Hill. Inspired by the Italian Renaissance and overflowing with luxurious amenities, this five-star resort is nestled atop 500 acres of unrivaled coastline. Self-proclaimed as a “sanctuary of seclusion,” Pelican Hill invites you in with entrancing aromas from their calming olive groves and rows of fresh lavender to their matured fig, cypress, and pine trees.

Depending on your party size, Inspirato offers you a range of luxury accommodations, ranging from private two-bedroom to four-bedroom suites and villas. The lavish living quarters alone make it hard to leave your residence—with outdoor terraces accompanied by sweeping ocean or garden views, cozy fireplaces, and extravagant bedding. During an extended summer stay,  the resort’s three pools—including an adults-only pool—with poolside cabanas, a world-renowned golf course, and an elegant spa can be your part of your daily routine.


With stunning views overlooking endless sea and coastal backdrops, their signature Coliseum Pool is one of a kind. Have your Destination Concierge reserve a private poolside cabana for the perfect summer day activity. Equipped with everything you need for indoor-outdoor enjoyment, you can expect personalized food and beverage service, a music system, small flat-screen TV, and dining area all enclosed by elegant drapes for privacy. Or perhaps you prefer a chaise lounge with easy access to the pool for a quick mid-tan dip, the choice of luxury is yours.

What’s more is that Pelican Hill provides guests with complimentary shuttle transportation within a 3-mile radius of the resort grounds—including dropping you off at nearby Crystal Cove Beach. (See more below.) This makes your extended summer vacation easier than ever if you’re looking to stay close to the resort during your visit. If you do prefer to rent a car, each of our accommodations have a private one- or two-car garage for stress-free parking. Contact your Care team for more information before you arrive.

What to do


Between the lavish amenities within Pelican Hill and the mass of on- and off-land activities around Newport Coast, you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained. Here are just some options for you and yours to enjoy. (Quick tip: Contact your Destination Concierge about private surf or paddleboard lessons, sea lion kayak tours, and more, offered directly through the resort.)

Hop on the Catalina Flyer for a scenic, 26-mile boat ride to Catalina Island, a picturesque oasis packed with exciting land and sea adventures. Find yourself among herds of burly buffalo on a bison expedition, go ziplining with expansive ocean views, or visit the old, charming Catalina Casino—a historic icon since 1929—where folks used to make the trip across the sea for an evening of theatre, dinner, and dancing. With all the excitement on Catalina Island, it is surely not a one-day trip. We recommend exploring new sides of the island throughout your stay.


Contact your Concierge to coordinate day trips to one of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast—Crystal Cove Beach—on the resort’s complimentary beach trolley. Distinguished as a National Natural Landmark, its 3 miles of soft sand are excellent for strolling and perfecting your summer tan. (Make sure to venture here during low tide to explore beach’s tide pools.) You’ll receive a complimentary beach bag equipped with towels and water from Pelican Hill to make for a seamless beach day. The resort will also arrange for chairs, umbrellas, and other amenities to be waiting for you upon your arrival.

Spend time in the summer sun golfing at the world-class Pelican Hill Golf Club—encompassing two manicured courses: Ocean North Course and Ocean South Course. Each course was designed by the award-winning architect, Tom Fazio, and boasts unrivaled ocean views at nearly every hole. Enjoy perpetually sunny days playing golf and experience the unmatched amenities of the club with luxurious locker rooms and private lounges.


Located within Newport Harbor, the charming Balboa Island community is a favorite locale to bike, walk, and shop. Just a short drive from Pelican Hill, visitors may access Balboa Island from its bridge or a ferry ride. Take a bike ride with a guided bike tour and pedal to famous local spots such as the Wedge, Newport Pier, and Balboa Peninsula. Dine at one of their charming cafés and restaurants or visit the quaint shops on the island. Before you go, don’t miss the island’s two legendary desserts, the Balboa Bar and Frozen Banana.

Along with the year-round excitement in Newport Coast, there are also seasonal activities and attractions for you to take advantage of during an extended vacation. When visiting during the summer months, you can puruse the nation’s oldest and most highly acclaimed juried fine art shows of more than 80 years—the Festival of Arts—from July-August, which offers exhibits for award-winning works of art. Featuring art workshops, daily art tours, live music, and special events, this summer festival is the perfect way to experience the local artist community, as well as the international artists being showcased.

The charming Sawdust Art & Craft Festival is another summertime favorite in Laguna Beach that invites you to shop handcrafted art through the unique, saw-dusted artist village. Enjoy complimentary workshops, live glassblowing, outdoor cafés, live music, and more.

Where to eat


Though in-room dining is our go-to for simple and easy meals, you’ll want to explore other on- and off-site eateries like the ones below.

Steps from your private residence, there are a plethora of dining options—from artisanal cafés to gourmet restaurants. Located poolside, the Coliseum Pool & Grill serves fresh, seasonal food from breakfast to dinner. The Caffè & Market offers a curated collection of on-the-go sandwiches, coffee, alcohol, and more. The real on-site showstopper is the laidback restaurant, Pelican Grill, serving wood-fired pizzas, craft cocktails, and so much more.


Off-site, enjoy oceanfront dining in the Historic District of Crystal Cove State Park at The Beachcomber Cafe. Situated just steps from the sand, snag a spot on their outdoor patio for the perfect brunch, lunch, or al fresco dinner with a summer breeze. Envelop your tastebuds with a plate of blue crab stuffed salmon or gorgonzola crusted filet mignon while you enjoy the gentle saltwater breeze from the sparkling ocean right in front of you. Grab a drink at the on-site bar, the Bootlegger, for some small bites and satiating cocktails.

You can find more casual dining just eight minutes down the road in Corona del Mar at SideDoor, a gastropub serving British-inspired dishes and world-class spirits wrapped in charming ambiance of cozy fireplaces and friendly staff. Feast on artisanal cheese plates, classic British fish ’n’ chips, and prime rib. Don’t forget to save room for dessert—we recommend the dark chocolate soufflé.


Along the Crystal Cove promenade, you’ll find Bear Flag Fish Co. Sourcing only the highest quality fish, this local favorite is a great place to snag a plate of deliciously fresh ingredients. Serving up dishes from New England-style clam chowder to freshly rolled sushi, dine-in or bring your food out on the sand for a beach picnic.

And if you’re craving something sweet, Cookie Lab OC is just the right place. This delightful cookie shop has something for everyone—whether you want full-flavored indulgence or something modest and allergen-friendly. Boasting enormous soft-baked cookies with flavors such as the Newport Special—a strawberry white chocolate cookie topped with champagne buttercream and 24k edible gold—your sweet tooth is sure to be satisfied.


Make yourself at home with an extended summer visit to Newport Coast, California. Whether you’re looking to vacation for a few months, or a full year, find comfort in a luxury stay at The Resort at Pelican Hill with Inspirato’s JauntLiving.