Perched on grass-covered bluffs overlooking Shell Beach, this luxury resort looks and feels like an exclusive condominium community. Choose among sprawling one- or two-bedroom residences, each with a gourmet kitchen, laundry room with washer and dryer, and contemporary Mission-style furniture. Many have ocean views. Two-bedroom units include either a spa tub or fireplace; penthouse units have both. Rejuvenate at La Bonne Vie day spa, lounge by the infinity pool, or stroll down a short path to the beach to gaze at the sea—this place was made for upscale escape and relaxation. At Lido ($$$-$$$$), the fancy yet casual restaurant (no flip-flops), Chef Evan Treadwell presents an impressive menu of California wine country cuisine with an international flair; favorites include wild salmon medallions with curry sauce, and pulled pork empanadas. Pros: Lavish apartment units, as upscale as you can get, killer views, walking distance from the beach. Cons: Hefty price tag, upper-crust vibe.
Reviewed by mollymartin from Durango, Colorado on 11/1/08
My husband and I wanted to escape the fall doldrums of our Colorado home. We wanted a 2 bedroom place with a kitchen right on the ocean. Dolphin Bay fit the bill perfectly. We were treated like royalty by the staff, and the setting was beautiful. I would highly recommend this resort. The rooms are well-appointed and have lots of room.
Reviewed by frankie from orange county, ca. on 10/5/08
The rooms at this hotel are the nicest I've ever stayed in; they're faultless, but you pay a lot extra for an ocean view room and partial ocean view rooms often have a better parking lot view than the ocean. Still, if I could afford it, I'd stay here often -- all rooms are nice and the rooms with good views are just fantastic.
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