Five Star Hospitality on California’s Scenic Coast

BY AASHNA

Images Courtesy of Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach

Highway One along the California coast has long been touted as one of the most stunning drives in the entire world, and for great reason. For more than 650 miles, this iconic roadway delivers endless serene vistas; rugged coves juxtaposing crashing white water against multiple shades of vibrant blues, mountains plunging into the sea, as well as the magnificent coastal redwood trees.

In the heart of California’s scenic central coast, about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on Highway One, sits Pismo Beach, a classic California beach town with a “kick-back” vibe, friendly residents, and miles of uncrowded captivating beaches. To fully experience the best that Pismo Beach has to offer, a stay at the exceptional Vespera Resort Autograph Collection is just what the doctor ordered. Set on a pristine coastline with picturesque sunsets and gentle ocean breezes, this Marriott boutique brand hotel beams with direct boardwalk access on an endless white sandy beach in its impeccable setting.

It all starts with first impressions; Vespera’s professional valet staff greets you with warmth and the utmost efficiency upon arrival. Entering the hotel’s expansive lobby, you’re transported to a rejuvenating and opulent atmosphere. Attention to every detail is evident every step along the way as you pay notice to the beach-chic decor and modern design, with plenty of room to relax and socialize. The contemporary artwork, swanky fireplace, earthy elements, and considerable natural light create a casual yet polished vibe.

The five-star front desk staff at Vespera Resort, both friendly and knowledgeable, will help guide you throughout your stay; from check-in to check-out, you are in the best of hands. The resort implemented extensive covid protocols to ensure guest safety and peace of mind, including detailed cleaning practices with hospital-grade disinfectants, electrostatic sanitizing sprayers, air purifying systems, and plenty of hand sanitizing stations. If desired, contactless check-in and check-out options are available upon request.

Each of the 124 spacious and modern guestrooms gives the feeling as though you’ve stepped into your own private beach villa. Fully equipped with all the amenities that one would expect from a luxury hotel stay, each suite includes Smart HDTVs, mini-fridges, Lavazza espresso machines, recycling bins, daily newspaper, maid service, high-speed WIFI, over-sized bathrooms with floor-to-ceiling showers, and freestanding bathtubs.

Six levels of suites at Vespera give guests a multitude of options ranging from the Classic with mountain or city views, the Ocean View with a balcony, Premium with a balcony, deck, and views of Pismo Beach, the Boardwalk Junior Suite including a living room, sofa bed, dishwasher, microwave, and ocean views, and the Dunes Suite with a bedroom, living room, sofa bed, and mountain views. For the ultra-luxurious escape, Vespera offers the Pacific Presidential suite with a king bed, living room, sofa bed, and expanded balcony to take in Pismo Beach’s awe-inspiring sunsets.

Each room comes fully equipped with guests’ utmost rest and relaxation in mind. There is no need to set your alarm clock with Vespera’s cozy beds offering the highest quality linens and plush bedding. For an idyllic setting, unwind in the stylish sitting area or indulge in a refreshing bath or shower with complimentary lavish Gloss Moderne products. Elegant touches, luxe amenities, and romantic sunsets from your private balcony allow you to take in every bit of Pismo Beach’s natural beauty. For guests prioritizing their workout routines, Vespera is equipped with a state-of-the-art fitness facility offering cardiovascular and strength equipment, including treadmills, functional training modalities, and free weights.

Overlooking the brilliant ocean, Vespera’s shimmering heated saline pool, whirlpool, and deck are open year-round from 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Deluxe towels are provided, and complimentary sumptuous robes are available at the front desk.

Every morning at Vespera, resort guests can participate in complimentary daily well-being classes from morning stretches, gentle or restorative yoga classes, beach walks, and hikes. “Morning Stretch” helps strengthen mobility and flexibility and is suitable for all ages and exercise abilities. “Gentle Yoga” incorporates calming breathwork and relaxing postures to release tension, while “Restorative Yoga” boosts and refreshes the immune system. The “Beach Walk” and “Hike” encompass Pismo Beach’s rich history.

With Vespera’s prime location on Pismo Beach’s infamous boardwalk and walking distance from downtown, plenty of dining options abound. However, guests never have to leave the property as the hotel highlights tantalizing cuisine, promoting the best ingredients at the on-site restaurants and bars.

Anchored by award-winning Chef Frank Barajas (winner of the Top Chef competition at the 16th Annual Taste of Pismo Beach), Vespera’s signature restaurant Somerset Grill spotlights savory market-fresh, Coastal Heritage inspired cuisine, a wood-fired grill, along with local beers and wines and hand-crafted cocktails. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the chic indoor seaside dining room or laid-back al fresco patio with mesmerizing ocean views.

Indulge in fresh regional ingredients for breakfast with “Vespera Toast,” featuring avocado smash, pea tendril, micro herbs, and watermelon radish. Don’t miss out on Somerset Grill’s “Seaside Chowder,” a local lunch favorite. Revel in seasonal flavors, local fare, and sophisticated delicacies for dinner with the “Miso Mushroom Salmon,” “Salmon Cake,” and “Herb Roasted Chicken” with a side of fragrant “Smoked Truffle Fries.” For those who always leave room for the grand finale, dreamy treats like “Cheesecake Dome” and “Blueberry Lemon Tart” are sure to hit the spot!

Guests venturing out for the day can order from Somerset Grill’s “grab & go” menu. Mouth-watering options include warm pastries, “Baby Gem Salad,” and “Eschamocha” (fruit cocktail). The restaurant also provides “knock and drop” services for visitors who prefer to limit contact or stay indoors.

Vespera’s popular hang-out for guests and locals is their Blend Bar (opened from noon to 9:30 PM) which serves “Skillet Fondue,” “Vespera Wings,” and “Baja Seafood” as well as roasted bar nuts, chips, and salsa.

If you want to take relaxation to the next level, the mixologists at Vespera are classically trained to deliver exactly what the doctor ordered. Using elevated locally sourced ingredients to create inventive hand-crafted cocktails like “Central Coast Fusion” (Elijah Craig Bourbon, and Amaro Nonino) and “Paloma”(Mezcal or Tequila, Lime juice, Grapefruit juice, Agave, and Grapefruit sparkling water) a day at the pool will become just that much better. Sip a variety of regional wines by the glass or a draft craft beer at the bar, adjacent lobby lounge, or the outdoor bar and lawn warmed by fire pits and glorious sunsets. Local musicians entertain guests on Fridays and Saturdays (from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM) at The Starlight Lawn.

For those looking to bring their furry family members along for your much-needed getaway, Vespera has you more than covered. The creation of Pismo Pup Club greeting your canine friends with a Pismo Pub Club-branded dog tag and water bowls throughout the property is just the tip of the iceberg. From the moment your furry buddies jump out of the car, it is guaranteed that they will feel at home during their stay. Dogs have unlimited access to Pismo Pup Club toys, including balls, frisbees, and more. Somerset Grill’s outside restaurant provides treats, and the outdoor deck is the perfect place to socialize with other canine buddies and owners.

Pismo Beach has plenty of dog-friendly excursions from 26-square-miles of beach-only footsteps from the property. Hike Pismo Preserve with your four-legged friends and stop by wineries that welcome pooches, including Claiborne & Churchill, Biddle Ranch, and Baileyana Tangent.

Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach is clearly a place to go for an all-encompassing luxurious getaway. From a one-night stay to a ten-day retreat with family or friends, you have assurance for an elevated experience that will create enticing memories to last a lifetime. From noteworthy culinary escapades to world-class amenities, activities, and rejuvenating spa treatments, there truly is no better place to spend your quality time when paying a visit to one of California’s most famed beach towns.