Travel: Southern California Escapes

Pre-wedding celebrations have certainly evolved over time, reaching a new level of sophistication and élan, where best friends gather for girlfriend getaways at lavish hotels and spas.

Shower the People You Love

Whether it’s a bachelorette party or intimate shower, a weekend of lounging by the pool, sybaritic spa treatments, fine dining and sporty adventure makes for lasting memories, outshining the traditional bridal fare of champagne punch, tea sandwiches, bridal bingo and strippers. While these two Southern California’s retreats, The Grand Del Mar and Terranea Resort, make for ideal wedding locations, check out what else they offer to celebrate your upcoming nuptials with your closest friends.

The Grand Del Mar: “Ladies-Only Golf & Wine Experience”

Pulling into the porte-cochère of this elegant sprawling resort, one gets swept up in the grandeur of it all. “Papa” Doug Manchester achieved his vision of setting a sophisticated Mediterranean-style estate in the natural beauty of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve with architectural panache, astounding attention to detail and impeccable service. In addition to hosting San Diego’s finest restaurant, Addison; deluxe well-appointed suites; over the-top opulent villas; and a dreamy spa, The Grand Del Mar boasts a compelling Tom Fazio golf course and golf academy headed by the affable blue-eyed pro, Shawn Cox, a former cornerback for University of Washington, who has a knack for perfecting swings. Get that grip down, learn how to follow through and shift those hips, and, before you know it, a new friendship may arise between you and your seven iron as you sail that little white ball out past the 125-yard flag. Whether you’ve never picked up a club or want to fine-tune your game, this ladies-only custom-designed experience delivers high-energy, engaging instruction in both golf and wine pairing.

After a riveting session of golf, advanced sommelier Jesse Rodriguez awaits with carefully selected wines from his Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning list to pair with gourmet nibbles from chef William Bradley, the talent behind Southern California’s only five-star and five-diamond restaurant. Rodriguez’s extensive knowledge of wine will have you impressing your family and friends as you expound on the smoky earthy notes of a French Syrah and unleash the secret oenophile inside. And remember this, ladies, there’s something super sexy about a woman who can play golf and knows wine. Contact the concierge at the Grand Del Mar to set up a Ladies-Only Golf & Wine Experience. 858.314.2000; thegranddelmar.com.

Terranea Resort: Spa Splendor and Ocean Adventure

Another idyllic weekend getaway can be found at Terranea, located on the cliffs of Palos Verdes, overlooking the deep-blue Pacific with Catalina Island floating regally on the horizon. Set on 102 acres, this eco-conscious property sits on the former Marineland of the Pacific site with an ocean refuge out front—home to kelp forests, sea lions, sea otters and migrating gray whales. Dramatic unobstructed views abound, especially from the gorgeous spa, one of California’s finest, set cliff-side with more dreamy panoramas, comfy lounge chairs, fire pits and a perfectly-positioned Jacuzzi for soaks while gazing at the endless blue canvas of sea and sky.

Start the day with a morning spin class on the patio while watching the frolicking dolphins below. Hike the coastal trail system or take a guided walk with the naturalist. Head down to the rocky cove for a sea kayaking adventure or stand-up paddleboard class. Then retire to The Spa at Terranea, a 50,000 square-foot oceanfront sanctuary, where masterful practitioners deliver seaweed scrubs, hot stone massages and Thai therapies in ocean breeze-filled treatment rooms.

For a fabulous gourmet feast, try mar’sel for sumptuous seasonal California cuisine or go for more casual pub fare and fun cocktails at Nelson’s, named for Lloyd Bridges’ TV character in “Sea Hunt,” which was shot right here in the late ‘50s. The ocean-view bungalows, which can sleep six, have every amenity imaginable, including a snazzy kitchen, chic sitting room, sunken tubs and sun-kissed balconies—perfect for a sleep-over party to celebrate with the bride-to-be. 310.265.2800; terranea.com.

Add to favorites