The lobby is an amazing, large, sunny space with ocean views, intricate tile work, oversized floral arrangements and comfy spots where you can sit, relax and people watch. The lobby also serves as a hub for “The Californian” where you can enjoy fine dining, the “Red Chair Lounge” (martini fans, you have got to try their signature cocktail) and the check-in area.
The guestrooms are outstanding. (Warning, this is the kind of room that makes you want to rip out everything you have at home and redecorate.) There’s an entry foyer with a mirror and console table. A great little niche holds a small refrigerator and coffeemaker. Remember when I said that this resort is new? At the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach the placement of the amenities has been carefully planned. It’s all in the details, and this resort has every one covered.
The bathroom didn’t disappoint. Spacious, nicely laid out and the best part, they had a free standing shelf unit perfect for holding all of your toiletries. That left the granite vanity clutter free. The décor is upscale nautical.
Then there’s the pillow top mattress duvet comforter covered bed. Need I say more? This is a bed you sink into and never want to leave. If you can force yourself to get up, you can access the “real world” via the internet.
Almost all of the rooms have views of the ocean. I have to say, the grounds of this resort do rival it. There are fountains, grottos and pools seemingly everywhere. When I was on the balcony, I found myself focusing on the resort rather than the Pacific.
Time for some exploring, and there is a lot to see. First, there’s the lighthouse themed footbridge that crosses over the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s the only bridge over this road and provides easy access to the beach. Did you know that they allow fires on the beach? Did you know that you can get all of the supplies for this, including S’more’s kits, at your resort? Isn’t that the best?!
If you’re like me and prefer freshwater, the Lagoon pool is spectacular. This large, free formed, crystal clear spot is surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrella covered tables. The pool has an underwater sound system and in the summer, you can swim while watching a “Dive In” movie. The Mankato Grill is found here. There’s a great fire pit where you can enjoy your cocktail or snack.
Kids have a ball at Camp Hyatt. Depending on what time of year you visit, you can sign up the little ones for this great program. They’ll take part in fun activities under the watchful eyes of trained counselors. While the children are enjoying crafts and outdoor adventures, the grownups can relax knowing that they’re entertained and cared for.
There’s a retail village where you can buy or rent surfer gear at Toes on the Nose, the Surf City Trading Company where you can find the perfect souvenir, Hula Scoops featuring Lappert’s ice cream, Game Zone arcade and Surf City Grocers which is a combo deli and grocery store. You’ll also find Pete’s Sunset Grill here, named after legendary surfer Pete Mallory. (If you know who this is, dude, you are one dedicated surfer.) Great casual dining spot, very reasonably priced.
Now onto the last part of the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa’s name. The Pacific Waters Spa is spectacular. To enter, you pass over a Koi pond. The spa is 20,000 square feet of serene, upscale, tiled, paneled, spotless luxury. Waterfall showers, steam rooms, private whirlpools, full service salon, private outdoor relaxation area, fitness center, snack bar, it’s all here. The treatment choices seem endless. You owe it to yourself to experience this amazing state of the art spa.
Strolling around further, you’ll find tennis courts, and tucked away in the Palm Grotto are the outdoor hot tubs. There are many spots where you can sit, unwind and simply take in your tropical surroundings. The reflecting fountain and lighthouse fountains are gorgeous. You have to experience the sunsets where Catalina Island is silhouetted in the distance.
They Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa is a “resort” in every sense of the name. Everything that you can possibly need or want on a vacation is right here. You owe it to yourself to experience this new and exciting destination. You’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.