Referred to as the Pink Lady of La Jolla because of its brightly painted exterior, La Valencia Hotel is a gorgeous historic establishment along the Pacific coastline. Opened in 1926, this beautiful romantic getaway has 114 guest rooms, two on-site restaurants, an outdoor pool, and a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean.
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1. Hotel History & Art
The hotel was built in accordance with the Spanish school of architecture and designed by Reginald Johnson in the middle of Hollywood's Golden era. Co-Owner MacArthur Gorton allowed the use of the hotel and surrounding area for on-location filming because of the stunning beaches and cliffs in the area. In addition, Hollywood's stars and upper crust visited La Valencia as a means of escape and refreshment. It was a place where they could also enjoy the art of murals commissioned in the 1930's by Wing Howard, famed local artist.
As time progressed, the Apartment rooms of the hotel became home to housing officers on leave in WWII. Perfectly positioned at the edge of the sea, the main tower was used to watch the skies for enemy planes and the seas for enemy ships. Even hotel guests took turns doing this. The locale even offered affordable housing for the wives of soldiers during their tours.
In 1946, La Valencia expanded by adding extra floors, putting greens, and the outdoor pool. The hotel also purchased the Hotel Carillo, now called the West Wing. The addition expanded the room count to 100.
As the hotel grew so did the Hollywood era influence. The La Jolla Playhouse, founded by Gregory Peck, hosted performances from many elite names, including Charlton Heston, Ginger Rogers, Lorne Green, and many more.
In the 1960's the Sky Room was transformed from a viewing platform into a restaurant. What was once a sunning spot on the tenth floor for guests now offers a comfortable group of tables with a surrounding panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.
The hotel displays the permanent fixtures of commissioned art pieces by famed local artist, Wing Howard. There is also a rotating art exhibit featuring world-renowned and up-and-coming artists, photographers, and painters.
2. Rooms, Suites and Villas
There are four different types of accommodations available at La Valencia, and they cater to the different needs of guests. The Villas range from 400 to 1200 square feet and feature a homey atmosphere with wrap-around patios, indoor/ outdoor fireplaces, pre-arrival services and spectacular ocean views. The Villa rooms also include a full sized refrigerator.
The Classic rooms range from 400 - 850 square feet, and they are the perfect choice for the traveling professional. These are famous for their oversized luxurious bathtubs and large vanities. Bedding options include King, Queen, Suite or Junior Suite. Amenities include a work desk, Wi-Fi, single serve coffee maker, an iron and board, honor bar, toiletries, ample closets, and dressers.
The Vintage rooms ranges between 250 - 350 square feet. They contain king beds, a work desk and chair, intimate standing showers, and Euro-style room layout. The rooms can overlook the garden or the nearby La Jolla cove. Amenities include 300 count linens, down comforters, in-room safes, a DSL data port and complimentary Wi-Fi, single serve coffee maker, honor bar, and complimentary toiletries. Select rooms contain a whirlpool or small balcony.
All rooms have excellent hotel amenities including in-room dining, imported linens, HD televisions with premium cable, concierge services, laundry services, and use of the business center, fitness center, pool, and spa. Valet parking is $30 overnight and $8 a day, with a 50% discount for hybrid vehicles. The hotel is pet-friendly with a fee.
3. Room Service
La Valencia features 24-hour room service from the premiere in-house restaurants. The Great Room restaurant The MED features Spanish architecture and offers al fresco dining overlooking the ocean as if guests were dining on the Mediterranean. It contains three separate dining areas, the patio, the main dining room, and the terrace, and serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a weekend brunch. The food is European-fusion and the restaurant has several options for vegans.
La Sala, the hotel's classic lounge, features nightly live music and is adjoined to the MED. Cafe La Rue has more of a bar atmosphere, featuring house specialty cocktails and a select menu. With terrazzo floors and Venetian plaster ceilings, the restaurants create a charming European atmosphere.
The restaurants are not the only place where guests can savor a beverage or appetizer. Poolside service allows guests to enjoy snacks and beverages. In addition, Cafe La Rue features "Yappy Hour," a pet-friendly dining experience every second Wednesday of every month between 5:30 and 7 pm.
4. La Valencia Hotel Spa
Guests can enjoy spa treatments scheduled on site surrounded by the dulcet sounds of the ocean lulling them into a state of calm. With a choice of bodywork, deep tissue therapy, acupressure/ shiatsu, and Swedish treatments available, there is something for everyone.
Special needs, pregnancies, allergies, and medical conditions are taken into account with proper notice. Each experience is specific to guest need, and appointments can be arranged with the concierge between 9 am to 7 pm Tuesday through Sunday. Massage recipients must be 18 years or older or attended by an adult.
In addition, the hotel also contains a fitness center that is open 24 hours a day. There is an on-site whirlpool and heated outdoor pool.
5. Plan your trip
La Valencia is a pet-friendly destination with multiple opportunities for guests to pamper the furry members of their family.
The hotel's sister property Rancho Valencia, offers tennis packages and lessons to hotel guests.
1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037, Phone: 858-454-0771
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