The California Collection: Alila's Luxe Retreats in Big Sur, Napa, and Encinitas

 

When we think of California, we think of the boundless possibilities the state represents. It's a place of stunning natural beauty, hosting a cultural vibrancy that has long attracted adventurers, dreamers, and visionaries. With its captivating landscapes and profound cultural influence, it's no surprise that Alila Hotels & Resorts chose The Golden State for all three of their U.S. locations. Whether perched on the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, nestled amidst the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley, or immersed in the laid-back charm of Encinitas, each destination perfectly marries luxury with breathtaking surroundings.

Each Alila property embodies the philosophy of "less is more," where thoughtful design accentuates the beauty of the natural landscape rather than overshadowing it. Authenticity shines through every detail, from carefully crafted spaces to meaningful moments that truly engage your senses. These unique experiences create a genuine connection to your surroundings, offering a renewed perspective on the world and your place in it.

ALILA VENTANA BIG SUR

Where Forest Meets Sea

Ideal for: Nature lovers seeking an adult-only, all-inclusive, and tranquil retreat.

Experience We Love: The Coldstream Bliss experience. This exhilarating ritual begins with a coastal drive and a hike through ancient redwood forests. Finish it off with an invigorating cold plunge that will leave you feeling totally refreshed, grounded, and alive. 

Perched on 160 breathtaking acres along one of California's most iconic coastlines, Alila Ventana Big Sur is ideal for nature lovers. Towering sequoias stand gracefully against rugged cliffs, while the Pacific waves crash powerfully below. This extraordinary property has earned a prestigious Two Michelin Key rating, been named the #1 Resort and Hotel in Big Sur, and recognized as one of the top 24 All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S., all for good reason.  

where you’ll rest

Stepping into one of 54 rooms and suites, Big Sur's natural beauty surrounds you. Feel the warmth of a crackling wood-burning fireplace, soak in a private hot tub while listening to the gentle rustle of the forest, or step onto your deck to take in breathtaking views of the ocean or towering Sequoias. For those seeking extra space, the two-story Big Sur Villa offers 1,000 square feet of panoramic views, complete with a private deck and a cozy living area with a fireplace. For the ultimate immersive experience, luxury glamping sites offer the opportunity to drift off to sleep under a canopy of lush trees, serenaded by the soothing sounds of nature.  

Wellness in the wild

Reconnect with nature and find your calm in the serene beauty of Big Sur. Surrounded by the soothing sounds of the forest, every moment feels grounding and peaceful. For the ultimate reset, indulge in the spa's signature Big Sur Release treatment. This full-body massage combines calming herbal aromas, gentle Thai stretches, vibrational sound healing, and restorative techniques to release tension and restore balance.  

dining among the giants

Enjoy a truly immersive getaway where every meal is thoughtfully included, allowing you to unwind and savor every moment to the fullest. At The Sur House, perched high above the Pacific, you'll indulge in locally inspired dishes crafted with fresh ingredients sourced directly from the resort's organic garden. For a more intimate experience, The Glass House offers an unforgettable prix fixe menu, showcasing the finest coastal flavors in an exclusive setting. And during the summer months, make your way to SurStream in Redwood Canyon, a charming, custom-designed Airstream dishing out hand-crafted pizzas, small bites, ice cream, and refreshing cocktails to fuel your weekend adventure.

ALILA NAPA VALLEY

Wine Country Sophistication

Ideal for: Food and wine enthusiasts, as well as those interested in an epicurean journey in a renowned wine region. 

Experience We Love: The Scent Making Workshop. Scents trigger the brain's memory center, and this hands-on experience will help create a lasting connection. Explore nine regional fragrances, then craft your own using local botanicals.  

Set at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains in the heart of Northern California's Napa Valley wine country, Alila Napa Valley offers epicurial discovery against a backdrop of scenic vineyards and golden sunsets. Just steps from Beringer Vineyards and minutes from charming downtown St. Helena, it's the perfect pairing of relaxation, refinement, and world-class wine. Consistently ranked among Napa's top 10 hotels by U.S. News & World Report, this Forbes Four-Star property will steal your heart from the moment you arrive. 

your home in napa

Welcome to wine country. All 64 rooms and suites are designed to immerse you in Napa's serene charm. Start your morning with sunlight pouring through floor-to-ceiling windows, then sip your coffee on the balcony as you take in stunning vineyard and mountain views. Every detail, from earthy tones to natural textures, creates a space that feels effortlessly grounding. As the day winds down, retreat to a vineyard-facing room to savor a glass of wine by your private fire pit or soak in an outdoor tub under a sky glittering with stars.  

Culinary Excellence at Violetto 

Housed in a beautifully restored 1907 Georgian farmhouse, Violetto offers a dining experience that effortlessly blends French culinary artistry with the inviting warmth of Italian tradition. Surrounded by old vines and fertile land, the restaurant is a heartfelt tribute to Napa Valley's rich history, showcasing world-class, locally sourced ingredients in every dish. Indulge in your choice of à la carte offerings, a thoughtfully curated four-course prix fixe menu, or the show-stopping seven-course tasting menu. 

wine country wellness

Spa Alila harnesses Napa's temperate climate and nutrient-rich soil, which is home to some of nature's most powerful healing botanicals. With an atmosphere of indulgence and romance, it perfectly captures the essence of vineyard luxury. Their signature treatment, the Passage to Peace ritual, blends a soothing herb-infused oil massage with a personalized facial. This hallmark experience offers a deeply restorative journey, capturing the true spirit of wine country relaxation. 

California Retreats at 15% Off

Get 15% off stays at all three Alila California hotels. Book Alila Ventana Big Sur or Alila Marea Beach Resort by September 29, 2025, for stays through September 30, 2025. At Alila Napa Valley, enjoy 15% off or 30% off stays of 3+ nights from October 5, 2025, to March 31, 2026, when booked by March 30, 2026.

Connect with our team of travel advisors to begin planning your stay.

ALILA MAREA BEACH RESORT ENCINITAS

Surf Culture Soul 

Ideal for: Those who love beach culture, surfing, and the laid-back Southern California lifestyle. 

Experience We Love: The Endless Wave is the ultimate surf culture experience. You'll be guided to the best local breaks and spots only known by locals, all while supporting initiatives for cleaner oceans. 

The newest Alila property in the Americas, Alila Marea Beach Resort, is perched on breathtaking seaside bluffs, perfectly capturing the essence of Southern California beach culture. Located just steps from the golden sands of South Ponto Beach and the lively, laid-back town of Encinitas, this eco-designed resort blends modern luxury with sustainability. Enjoy sublime relaxation in beautifully designed rooms with stunning ocean views, indulge in farm-to-table dining, or embark on endless coastal adventures, including surfing, hiking, and biking along scenic trails.  

COASTAL COMFORT

All 130 luxurious accommodations boast breathtaking coastal views, seamlessly blending elegance with sustainable design. Thoughtfully crafted for modern comfort, each space features natural stone, sleek wood accents, and vibrant pops of color that energize the ambiance. Many rooms offer panoramic ocean views, while the premier suites provide the ultimate romantic retreat. Complete with the soothing scent of the sea and the gentle sound of waves outside your window, you're in for the perfect So-Cal getaway. 

OCEAN-INSPIRED HEALING

The spa draws inspiration from the coast, using coastal botanicals and ocean-inspired healing to create a soothing, natural experience. From the moment you step in, the calming scent of sea air and fresh herbs welcomes you into a tranquil escape. Treatments like marine mineral scrubs and seaweed-infused therapies, combined with avocado and chaparral, are designed to leave you feeling refreshed and connected to the sea. Every detail, from the products used to the serene ambiance, is carefully crafted to evoke the rejuvenating powers of the ocean.  

DINING BY THE SEA

Savor the vibrant confluence of cultures and flavors with four distinct dining experiences. At VAGA Restaurant & Bar, embark on a flavor journey inspired by San Diego's dynamic mix of cultures. This oceanfront dining experience features modern creations crafted with sustainably sourced ingredients from nearby farms and waters. Unwind with a bit of "Après Sea" at The Pocket Pool & Bar. This laid-back, surf-inspired retreat serves up mouthwatering food and drink specials, perfect for enjoying after a day on the beach. For a quick and energizing option, stop by The Coffee Box, just steps from the sand—your go-to grab-and-go spot to fuel up for whatever the day holds. 

Three Properties, One Extraordinary Philosophy 

What makes these three properties truly special isn't just their gorgeous locations or top-notch amenities. It's the way each one feels like a natural extension of its surroundings. Whether you're drawn to the Big Sur's enchanting redwoods, the charm of Napa Valley's wine country, or the laid-back spirit of Southern California's surf culture, each property invites you to connect with the destination in a significant way.  

Connect with us or fill up the form below to start planning your next getaway.

Alila Napa Valley