I have to tell you, that visiting Cambria, California has become one of our favorite little weekend getaways. Not only does it have beaches, a cool downtown area with quaint shops, and great places to eat and drink, but it also has a wide variety of hotels that will help you relax and unwind from life’s stresses.
Places to Stay
We stayed at two completely unique hotels in Cambria. Only after we booked them did we find out that they are sister properties owned by the same group. They might be owned by the same group but they in no way resemble one another with the exception of warm friendly staff in both properties who are there to ensure your stay is perfect.
El Colibri Hotel and Spa
We started our stay out at the El Colibri Hotel and Spa which is located steps from the town of Cambria. The hotel looks and feels like it was transported directly from Italy with both its architecture and comfortable, minimal, yet stylish decor.
Nest Spa
We indulged ourselves at the NEST Spa that offers all kinds of different massage services including hot stone, reflexology, aromatherapy, shiatsu, and deep tissue. The spa rooms are private, relaxing, and beautifully decorated. We loved the complimentary steam room and outdoor jacuzzi. We loved soaking in the jacuzzi under the stars. It was like a little private haven.
Nectar Bar
Downstairs, you will find the Nectar Bar which is a lovely place to sit and share a glass or two of wine or a cocktail by the fireplace. They serve wines both local and from elsewhere in California. We even got into a fun conversation with fellow guests and spent the evening chatting with them like old friends.
Suite Life
Our suite was so romantic and featured a fireplace, a four-poster bed, a living room area, and a sumptuous bathroom. Which had a huge shower and bathtub to soak away the worries of the day. The comfortable inviting room made us want to just relax and unwind with a glass of quality wine. We opened a bottle of Cutrazzola Sparkling Riesling – it was romantic perfection!
Breakfast is served
Our favorite part of our stay was breakfast in bed! You write your preferences on a door hanger card the night before, along with the time you want your breakfast served and it magically appears! You can even order champagne or mimosas with your meal. We really enjoyed the selection of homemade quiche from Linn’s Bakery, the cereal, yogurt, coffee, and juice. It was the perfect way to start our busy day of shopping, eating and exploring.
Pelican Inn and Suites – Moonstone Beach
Our second stay in Cambria was completely different but just as lovely. The Pelican Inn is located right across from Moonstone Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Cambria. Just steps from the ocean, this hotel surprised us with little touches that made our stay magical.
Gorgeous grounds and landscaping
It may sound a funny thing to comment on but the Pelican Inn has gorgeous landscaping throughout their property. It is a park-like setting with interesting flowers and plants everywhere. There are pieces of art dotted around the grounds and benches where you can just sit and enjoy.
A welcome candy bar
I don’t know about you but sometimes I get a sweet tooth in the middle of the night and crave a little something. When I am traveling I don’t usually have stuff with me to satisfy the craving. The thoughtful people at the Pelican Inn offer a complimentary serve yourself “candy bar”. No more late night dashes into town for a piece of chocolate. They also sell local wines in the lobby in case your craving is for an adult beverage.
Our suite was sweet ♥
We were so lucky to have one of the suites that overlooked the ocean. We could hear the crashing waves from our room as we sat out on the private patio and enjoyed the sunset over the water. Our room came with a gorgeous fireplace that we enjoyed as we sat listening to the soothing ocean waves long after the light no longer allowed ocean viewing. The living room area had comfortable furnishings and good reading lights. The bed was so huge and comfortable that I have to admit that I hated to get up and out of it early the next morning.
Mmm breakfast!
Breakfast is served in the room just on the other side of the reception area. It is buffet style and you can help yourself to whatever you like. I loved that they had a make your own waffle station and a complimentary mimosa bar. The scrambled eggs florentine were delicious and not overcooked – hurray! We were already happy and relaxed after our beautiful stay and this just topped it off.
Two different stays – both luxurious and affordable
I was so impressed with both properties and I have to say that I found them both to be affordable for the luxury they provide. Sometimes luxury isn’t just fancy over the top amenities and services, but a comfortable, quiet, well-appointed space where you can relax and truly get away. Both the El Colibri Hotel and Spa and the Pelican Inn and Suites give you that kind of luxury in spades and I highly recommend both for your next weekend or midweek getaway.
Want to know more about Cambria, California? Check out some of our other articles Cambria – A California Coastal Retreat and Stolo Vineyards – Cambria CA.
