Perched up on a cliff overlooking North San Diego's Ponto Beach and Carlsbad, the luxury Alila Marea Beach Resort in Encinitas is an adult-centered wellness resort. Immersive experiences are designed to reset, rejuvenate and improve guests physical, mental and emotional well being.
Practicing the Alila philosophy of sustainability, respect for the local culture and providing guests with a sense of wonder, there are 130 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and two large suites.
Most of the guest rooms are designed for two people and offer a patio or balcony to sit outside at the sun-warmed outdoor space and breathe in fresh ocean breezes.
Unobstructed coastline and oceanview rooms have wall-to-wall glass doors to slide open to hear the rhythmic surf below. Thoughtful touches included eucalyptus leaves above the large shower head for an aromatherapy experience.
Soft pillow top king or two queen mattresses ensure a good night's sleep. Each room has a minibar filled with snacks and a small refrigerator stocked with sodas, local craft beer and wine.
There are so many reasons to reserve the Ponto or Grandview Suite. First is its coastal living design with floor to ceiling picture windows providing stunning lagoon, coastal and sunset views. Next is the double-sided fireplace in the spacious living area that also provides flickering flames on the outdoor patio or balcony.
There is a separate bedroom and large bathroom with a large shower and deep soaking bath tub to provide a private soothing sanctuary. Soft cotton robes and slippers await in the closet.
Lagoon view rooms overlook the serene Batiquitos Lagoon and sweeping panoramas extending from the lush nature preserve to Ponto State Beach and historic Highway 101.
Don your bathing suit for a day at the picturesque infinity-edge swimming pool and large hot whirlpool. Lounge chairs are set up to maximize the Pacific Ocean views.
The attentive pool staff will visit you throughout the day offering complimentary samples of refreshing treats and drinks. They will also take your order for lunch or a snack to enjoy with a cocktail, champagne and mocktail. At the edge of the pool deck is The Pocket, a surf-inspired poolside bar and eatery.
Elevate your wellness by participating in the daily morning guided yoga session. Discover improved flexibility, deeper breathing, and enhanced focus as you practice each pose. Afterwards relax in the hot whirlpool or heated swimming pool. An oceanview sauna and cold plunge are just steps away.
Ease into a coastal rhythm taking the resort stairs down to South Ponto Beach for a morning or sunset walk or run on the sand. A beach butler awaits with chairs, towels and an umbrella for a relaxing day at the beach. The resort also offers guests complimentary surfboards and surf lessons with a surf expert.
Spa Alila offers deeply restorative treatments inspired from the region’s natural and locally sourced minerals and botanicals. There are five treatment rooms, including a couples suite. Before or after a treatment, spend some time in the large indoor sauna. Spa guests can also rest in the relaxation lounge featuring four heated crystal healing chairs.
Designed by Mark Zeff, the spa's overall aesthetic promotes a sense of calmness to help guests 'forget about the outside world,'
One of the signature spa treatments is the Talisman. This 50 minute or 80 minute combines the curative power of local herbs and warm massage oil in a massage poultice. The therapist applies pressure to drain the lymphatics before performing a Swedish-style massage to invigorate, strengthen and release tension. This creates a balance between the muscles. Natural herbs relax the nervous system, while helping to tone, tighten and detoxify skin.
Later in the day or early in the morning, take one of the resort's complimentary e-bikes out for a spin into the heart of Encinitas, Carlsbad and beyond.
The resort's coastal-chic restaurant VAGA, provides an elevated dining experience inside and out on the view terrace. Looking out to the Pacific Ocean offers a calming effect on the brain. The color blue is scientifically known to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate and evoke feelings of peace.
Open every day for breakfast with a full brunch menu in the mornings, and at sunset for a full dinner menu nightly. During mid-day, the restaurant's bar and lounge are open for food and beverages. At sunset this area becomes lively with music and sunset views.
The farm-to-table California menu focuses on healthy grilled proteins, fresh local vegetables and produce presented with a creative flair. Favorites include fresh fruit with yogurt, a savory quiche, grilled ocean trout, beet and avocado salad, short ribs, scallops, and hangar steak.
Since the sea soothes one's soul, the elegant surf theme hotel is filled with coastal art and fun beach experiences. Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas is an ideal summer wellness getaway. Book one of their Alila Morning Bed and Breakfast packages to receive a breakfast for two overlooking the ocean before or after a complimentary Spa Alila wellness class.
