Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa Review and Photos

I pulled up to the Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa with way more baggage than I had intended. It was Jan. 8, and I was originally scheduled to stop in and review the luxury property’s new padel courts. But the wildfires raging back home in Los Angeles had other plans for me, and so instead, I arrived with my husband and our 5-year-old cat . . . and her litter box.

It wasn’t the romantic getaway I had planned, but none of that mattered anymore, really. In that moment, Rancho Valencia was an oasis. And it wasn’t lost on me that I was incredibly fortunate and privileged to have that luxury amid such hardship at home.

I would come to find that’s what the hotel typically feels like for travelers. Located in Rancho Santa Fe, CA, about a half hour outside of San Diego, Rancho Valencia is a sprawling resort with hacienda-style suites spread throughout its 45 acres. Since its opening in 1989, it’s become a classic California escape that’s hosted famous athletes, actors, and politicians alike. And hey, as much as my cat hates leaving home, even she got accustomed to life at Rancho Valencia. (Read: she hid under the bed for an hour when it was finally time to check out.)

Here’s what prospective travelers should know about what it’s like to stay at the luxury resort, including the lowdown on its dining options and spa treatments, and a few considerations.

About Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa

What I Like About Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa

Rancho Valencia was the perfect place to stay during an otherwise terrible time. Even though I was glued to the news and refreshing the Watch Duty wildfire app ad nauseam, the two-night stay helped tremendously in calming my thoughts and nerves.

I think that has a lot to do with the service, which is impeccable at Rancho Valencia. We were treated with such kindness and empathy from the moment we arrived. And even if they were surprised by all our emergency baggage (and the unexpected feline guest), they didn’t let it show.

Another major pro are the accommodations. We initially stayed in an Olive Grove Suite with an outdoor whirlpool before being transferred to an Agave Suite for our second night, which was totally unplanned but the hotel was nice enough to offer given our circumstances. Both rooms were luxurious in size, complete with sunken living rooms, walk-in closets, and a soaking tub in addition to a shower.

Though it’s easy to just want to stay in the room the entire time, there are some great amenities on the property. Rancho Valencia recently celebrated the addition of three padel courts in partnership with Wilson, and I was lucky enough to attend an intimate beginners clinic.

Padel is a variation of tennis involving smaller balls, racquet, and courts enclosed by tempered glass walls. Players are meant to use the walls as part of the game, sort of like squash. And while I’ll admit that I’m a bit of a tennis snob who was skeptical going into the clinic, I had an absolute blast. I also haven’t personally stayed anywhere else with a padel court, so it makes for a unique activity you don’t really get at many other properties.

And now, I have to talk to about the spa. Located in its own structure a short distance away from the lobby, the entire spa center is filled with thoughtful touches, like plush robes, healthy snacks in the waiting area, and Dyson hair dryers in the locker room.

I received the Natural Lift facial treatment, which — I’m not exaggerating here — was the best facial I’ve ever had. (And I’ve had a fair amount.) The treatment involves loads of facial massaging that noticeably reduced inflammation and left me glowing for days to come. During my facial, the esthetician popped my robe in a towel warmer so that it was toasty upon my exit. It’s often the little things at hotels, and that detail really stuck with me.

What to Consider Before Booking Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa

You won’t find much wrong with Rancho Valencia, but there are some cons to consider about the hotel. First off, it is in a fairly remote location. While most guests choose to stay on the property, being that there’s quite a lot to do, it might not be the best choice for travelers hoping to get in tons of sightseeing.

I could also imagine some travelers wanting more variety with the dining options. The Pony Room, which serves “coastal ranch” cuisine, has quite a lot to offer, and I have to say I enjoyed every meal I had there. (I especially recommend the signature pancakes at breakfast and miso-crusted sea bass for dinner.) That said, there is just the one restaurant, so visitors seeking different cuisines, particularly over the course of a more extended stay, may need to venture out.

And, of course, there is the high cost, which is a huge consideration. As a result, depending on your budget, Rancho Valencia may be the kind of place you celebrate special occasions and milestones, as opposed to a more casual weekend getaway. (More on that below.)

Who Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa Is Best For

Rancho Valencia is a romantic and relaxing destination best suited for couples celebrating a honeymoon, babymoon, or anniversary. That said, its sizable rooms could also make for a fun family destination, especially if you keep the kids engaged with the racquet sports or one of the off-property experiences offered.

Rancho Valencia is also a great pick for a more wellness-focused friend trip, bachelorette, or hatchelorette. And if the nightly rate is too much of a splurge, keep in mind that your group will be able to enjoy the spa for a day so long as you all book treatments.

Is Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa Worth the Trip?

I won’t lie and say that Rancho Valencia’s nightly rate won’t make most travelers gasp, but again, for a special-occasion trip (or, in my case, emergency escape), you won’t be disappointed or feel that your money wasn’t well spent.

Rating

★★★★★

Kelsey Garcia (she/her) is the associate content director of PS Balance, where she oversees lifestyle coverage, from relationships to parenting to financial wellness. Kelsey is passionate about travel, dating trends, and changes in the workplace. Before joining the PS team as an editorial assistant in 2015, she interned at Elle and Harper’s Bazaar, among other publications.