I’m about to introduce you to one of my favorite hidden gems of a staycation oasis called Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club located in the Santa Monica Mountains of Malibu. This peaceful spot won my heart because it’s the perfect mixture of being immersed in nature while also getting that 5 star hotel service and amenities. I absolutely love a hotel that is a full package getaway meaning that I don’t need to leave the resort in order to accomplish that vacation feeling because everything I could possibly need is on location. It makes me feel at peace and also lets me know I’m getting my money’s worth and let me tell you Calamigos is worth every penny. The best part about this perfect oasis is that it’s extremely dog-friendly so Bailey was ready to hop in the car and get there already!
After driving through the gorgeous Santa Monica Mountains, you will arrive at the one and only Calamigos Guest Ranch. You can’t miss it as you enter you will see a giant sign book ended with two statues of horses and right next to the entrance you will see a barn where there’s a chance you’ll be greeted by the horses and cows living there! Their aim is cozy ranch chic and they have accomplished exactly that.
Entering through the lobby, you can’t help but feel already at home being greeted by the kindest, welcoming staff ready to offer you a glass of champagne as you check in. My favorite thing about the layout of Calamigos is that it’s very much catered to privacy. The rooms ranging from cottages, bungalows to estate rooms, located all over the property and each style is uniquely beautiful and sectioned off. You may have a shared wall in a cottage but that’s about it, the rooms and estates were designed that you have no upstairs or downstairs neighbors and most of the rooms are stand alone. Each room has either a private patio or terrace you enter when opening your door before getting to your actual room. Some featuring outdoor showers, tubs, seating area and water features. When I tell you the zen practically hits you in the face, I’m not lying. You have no choice but to instantly relax as you settle in.
Following the wooden pathways through forrest trees, Calamigos has every amenity you could ask for as well as great wifi throughout the property. Featuring two giant pools, one for the families and those who prefer entertaining music and poolside dining and a very large spa pool for those who are looking for a little more R&R. The Spa Calamigos is great spot if you’re in need of a massage, facial and little self care me time. If self care me time looks a little more like exercise, have no fear, there’s a full gym with bluetooth capable machines so you can watch your favorite shows while you run or row, lift weights, jump rope you name it, it can be done. Multiple spots to stop for a casual drink and they have their own personal coffee shop on property which made the mornings so enjoyable to go take a stroll and grab a vanilla oat milk latte to start the day. The in-room dining is also phenomenal as it comes from the main restaurant which has all your breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch needs.
My favorite thing about Calamigos is how dog-friendly the whole place is. Upon checking in, I paid a pet deposit for Bailey and in return he was treated like the little king he is all weekend. When entering the room, I found a personal dog bed, bowls and treats ready for him. As we walked around the property he was catered to every step of the way. At one point, we sat in the grass by the restaurant and out of nowhere an employee walks up with a bowl of water and extra treats. I mean what impeccable customer service! Without asking, just took note of the temperature and wanted to make sure Bailey was cared for. They even go as far as to have a selection of meals you can order for your pup on the menu that comes warm and made with all the healthy ingredients for your fur baby.
This is a place you come to turn off from the outside world and just fully unwind and relax. Your walks will be surrounded in greenery, listening to the birds sing and watching the butterflies fly by. The trees are adorned with chandeliers and there are waterfalls at every turn. At night time this place becomes so special as the twinkle lights come on and the chandeliers in the trees guide your path. During the summer, take full advantage of their private beach club where they’ll organize a car ride from the hotel to the beach club where you can enjoy some cocktails and sushi for a change of scenery. They’ll have little beach chairs set out for you and if you prefer you can eat down on the beach. If you’re here during the chillier season, they will come and light a fire in the fireplace for you truly giving the coziest of nighttime vibes. I truly can’t describe in words how much I genuinely love spending time here and I couldn’t recommend it enough.
My adoration for this place grows with every visit and I hope that you will go and experience the serenity that is Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club.
xx,
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