By Nancy and Charles Nevil
As dawn broke on our first morning at Terranea, we felt the magic. This spectacular new resort is located on The Palos Verdes Peninsula, a midway point between Los Angeles and Orange County at the intersection of total beauty and serenity.
Out in the distance across the red tinged Pacific Ocean, we could see the outline of Catalina Island. Below, swirling waters broke against boulders and made delicious clicking sounds. This land once was home to Marineland and was the place where Lloyd Bridges and the Sea Hunt crew filmed their legendary TV series. Marineland is gone and in its place, the Terranea resort, situated on over 100 acres of rolling land gives us a wonderful new location where we can rest and play and savor one of the most beautiful scenic delights along the Southern California coast.
On our arrival, the Hotel and surrounding Villas seemed very welcoming and once inside, our eyes were treated to a grand and handsome lobby, furnished with soft and comfortable chairs and couches, anchored by a huge fireplace. Everywhere we looked vistas of blue sky and rolling seas filled our vision. Our room was outstanding and tastefully appointed. Immediately we felt "at home".
The pools are appealing to the eye, fitness equipment top notch, and the Spa is outstandingly beautiful. Plenty of bars and restaurants abound. Mar'sel, their signature fine dining restaurant is so popular with locals that a three week waiting period is normal. However, the hotel, does do its best to keep some reservations available for guests. Then there is Nelson's, about which we will have more later.
There are walking paths that surround the property, paths that take you along cliffs overlooking the ocean, along water level and then, down to the beach where water roils as it races through the rocks below.
Just listening to the sounds will make you fill with delight. Walking these paths is when the magic really takes over. As you wander, letting your mind go where it wishes, as you watch ships meandering to and from the nearby Harbor, as the cares of the world disappear, you feel a sense of relaxation. It is almost as if you have gone back to another place where pressure and care have disappeared. We found the experience was not ours alone. Early in the morning, before the sun had fully risen, we saw many guests walking, enjoying the sight and sense of serenity here at Terranea. The magic is simply spellbinding.
On a bluff overlooking the water, facing west so that sunsets can fill your view, is a little casual bar and restaurant called Nelson’s. What a treat. Remember we told you about Sea Hunt, well the character Lloyd Bridges played was named Mike Nelson. This keepsake gathering place is a tribute to Bridges and the show from yesteryear. Wonderful pictures line the walls along with posters. The Bridges family has supported this immensely popular venue and when you are at Terranea, it is a must see and experience. By the way, food at Nelson’s is delicious.
The hotel has only recently opened and of course, there are a few problems, service being the most obvious. This is completely normal in most start up operations; it usually takes up to six months for all things to fall into place.
However, the grand opening rates are SO attractive for what you are getting, you can live with and forgive a few glitches and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. And staff is very friendly and cordial, wanting to make your stay memorable.
This is a true destination resort. Once on property, you will probably not want to leave. Peace and serenity embrace you and beg you to relax, enjoy, and soak in the beauty and magic that is Terranea.