The Pink Lady with her rosy stucco exterior and iconic tower is almost 90 years old. Oh, if her walls could talk! Recently, we drove to La Jolla for a mini staycation at the captivating and luxurious La Valencia Hotel, La Jolla’s grand dame who strikes quite a pose in the charming seaside cliff-hugging San Diego suburb. While residing, we heard rocker band Guns and Roses was also on the premises, and with La Valencia’s rich history, influencers, notables and celebs have been enjoying this hideaway on the Pacific Ocean for quite some time. Did you know luminaries like Gregory Peck, “Dr. Seuss” Theodore Geisel, Mary Pickford, and Madonna have stayed at La V?
In honor of the iconic Mediterranean seaside villa’s 90th anniversary in December, the hotel is celebrating with a decade-a-month countdown to the final roaring 1920’s Gala which will occur on December 15. Don’t miss out on the special Hot Pink at 90 Celebration Package. This two-night package comes with a logo gift, bottle of pink sparkling wine, two craft cocktails of the month, and complimentary parking.
With a major updo in the last few years costing upwards of $10 million dollars, La Valencia has undergone new ownership and management. Recent renovations feature classically styled rooms, a grand front entry, bold and beautiful restaurants, and a stately lobby lounge. Several new specialty suites, studios, and 16 spacious villas dot the historic property. The Mediterranean style building feels relaxing, romantic, and elegant with its entryway hugged by tropical foliage and tranquil fountains, accented by exquisite Spanish mosaics, and graced with stunning panoramic pool views of the Pacific Ocean.
There really is no reason to leave, although the hotel is in the heart of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. THE MED ocean view restaurant and terrace features American cuisine, and now offers a 3-course prix fixe for two for $90. Other hotel food options include the adjoining La Sala Lounge and the street facing European bistro, Café La Rue. Each month La V’s restaurant and lounge menus will feature a“Craft Cocktail of the Decade” as well as intriguing anecdotes about the hotel during the last 90 years.
The event space above the pool was a perfect setting for cocktail hour and brunch, especially with the fireball sunsets. Just steps away is a perfect morning walk in Ellen Browning Scripps Park or kayaking adventures in La Jolla Cove, with the beauty of the landscape and abundance of wildlife. If the sea cooperates, you can even kayak into the nearby caves.
My villa on the bottom floor included a private patio and palm tree ocean views. The weekend was quite noisy with a concert outside at street level and road cleanup in the wee hours, so I would definitely recommend a top floor villa for the most tranquil experience. Decorated in warm California hues, each room features down comforters, Molton Brown bath amenities, personal safes, Keruig in-room coffee, gourmet private bars and complimentary Internet access. The bathroom with its jacuzzi style tub also included a separate standup rainfall shower with another powerful multi-spray pressure shower head. The Sky Suite boasts 8 shower head nozzles to keep you sparkly clean and relaxed. In proper California style, sheets are not changed every 3 days unless requested to help conserve water. Dogs are welcome and a spa will be opening soon.
If you have a large group, a wedding party, or want to make your escape lavish, opt for accommodations from the Icon Collection, unique spaces that are presidential suite caliber. For example, the SKY SUITE is the hotel’s newest dramatic ocean-inspired real estate with modern 1940’s sleek style. The 1,100 square foot suite dazzles with 180-degree ocean views of the Pacific and La Jolla Cove from retractable window walls that allow the Pacific breezes to envelop the senses.
The property itself feels like an oasis retreat, in the center of the Village in La Jolla. If you wish to take a break from relaxation, shop or dine in this quaint town, walk along the scenic cliffs, kayak in La Jolla Cove, or hike or golf in Torrey Pines State Park. Absorb some culture at the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art and/or Birch Aquarium, watch a movie while munching at The Lot, or take in a show at the La Jolla Playhouse or The Comedy Store.
As the “Pink Lady” gets better with each decade, she is the ideal date for a playful, romantic and adventurous seaside escape at a truly classic California luxury boutique hotel. Escape LA and head to LA Jolla! To view more photos of our time at La V, see our @LaLaScoop Instagram. #HotPinkat90
1132 Prospect Street
La Jolla, CA 92037
Reservations: 800.451.0772
All photos courtesy of Melissa Curtin
lalascoop.com 