Discover The Ultimate Luxury Escape As Pelican Hill Becomes Part Of St. Regis Estates

Published on December 4, 2025

The Resort at Pelican Hill, set in the beautiful coastal area of Newport Beach, California, is debuting as the first property in the exclusive St. Regis Estates collection. This new brand from St. Regis Hotels & Resorts aims to take luxury travelers on a journey through some of the world’s most historic estates. Known for its grandeur, history, and outstanding amenities, the collection blends the charm of the past with a modern sense of relaxation. Pelican Hill, a five-star resort with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, will join this prestigious group of exclusive resorts and set a new standard for luxury vacations.

The Vision Behind St. Regis Estates

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts introduced St. Regis Estates as a collection focused on luxury retreats that boast rich histories, vast landscapes, and remarkable experiences. The idea pays tribute to the tradition of grand estate living, historically linked to the Astor family, founders of the St. Regis brand. The Astors created impressive homes in both cities and the countryside, offering spaces for sanctuary and a connection to nature. For today’s luxury travelers, St. Regis Estates provides more than just a place to stay; it offers a deeper experience in locations influenced by cultural history.

These estates prioritize timeless retreats over flashy trends. They aim to connect travelers more closely with nature, culture, and themselves. Each estate is carefully chosen for its historical importance and relationship with its surroundings. Through this initiative, St. Regis reinterprets these spaces with a modern touch while preserving their essence.

Pelican Hill: The First St. Regis Estate

The Resort at Pelican Hill will become the first St. Regis Estate in 2027, marking a significant moment in the resort’s history. Spanning over 500 acres along Southern California’s striking coastline, Pelican Hill is celebrated for its stunning ocean views and architecture inspired by 16th-century Italian Renaissance design. Its peaceful setting features beautiful olive trees and rolling coastal hills, creating a perfect backdrop for this shift.

As Pelican Hill transitions to a St. Regis Estate, it will undergo a thoughtful redesign that combines its superb amenities with the signature elegance of St. Regis. The resort will enhance its acclaimed Tom Fazio-designed 36-hole golf courses, refresh all its Bungalows and Villas with sophisticated new interiors, and introduce a unique culinary experience led by world-class chefs. A new bar and lobby will provide guests with a stylish space to enjoy local flavors while taking in the estate’s breathtaking views.

The resort’s architectural splendor will be complemented by new features such as a refurbished Coliseum Pool and the addition of the Bella Vista Pool Caffè and Social Club. The Villa Clubhouse will be designed for longer, more relaxing stays, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty and history. These improvements promise a more intimate experience for all guests who seek privacy, connection, and luxury in an exclusive atmosphere.

Curated Luxury Experiences for Modern Travelers

Staying true to the St. Regis legacy, Pelican Hill will offer guests more than just a room; it will provide a rich experience crafted for those wanting a genuine connection to the location. The redesigned Pelican Hill will feature signature rituals, including Afternoon Tea, Sabrage, and St. Regis Butler Service, which have been integral to the brand for generations. Each experience is crafted to reflect the unique spirit of the California coast while maintaining the warmth and heritage for which the St. Regis name is known.

The culinary options will highlight local flavors, using fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms and coastal waters to create a dining experience rooted in the region’s natural beauty. The resort’s cozy atmosphere will appeal to those who appreciate life’s finer aspects and want to escape daily pressures.

A Sanctuary for Every Guest

The shift of Pelican Hill into a St. Regis Estate signifies more than just an upgrade in luxury; it marks a return to the fundamental values of hospitality, where every moment feels special and thoughtfully crafted. The resort will not only provide high-end amenities and personalized services but also a deep sense of belonging—an inviting, peaceful retreat where history and luxury beautifully coexist.

Kevin Kelly, the General Manager of Pelican Hill, expressed his enthusiasm for this new phase for the resort. He noted that Pelican Hill’s identity as a sanctuary for guests aligns perfectly with the St. Regis Estates collection. The resort’s commitment to delivering an elevated yet genuine experience through art, nature, and cuisine sets the stage for the St. Regis Estate collection, which will feature properties distinguished by their individual histories while sharing a common spirit of elegance and care.

Conclusion: A Future of Refined Retreats

As St. Regis Hotels & Resorts embarks on this exciting journey with St. Regis Estates, the transformation of Pelican Hill will exemplify what the brand represents: luxury that goes beyond trends and offers a deeper connection to place, history, and culture. The estate’s stunning setting and thoughtful redesign promise a unique experience for guests seeking a true sanctuary away from the everyday. Pelican Hill will be the first of many heritage-rich estates to be reimagined under the St. Regis name, redefining the future of luxury travel with a more personal and timeless approach to hospitality.