Rustic Luxury on the California Coast

A wonderful gem on the northern California coast is Costanoa Resort. It’s the perfect combination of full service resort (including spa and meeting rooms) and nature retreat. And it’s perfect for families who like to be close to nature, but still want their creature comforts.

Lodging is quiet varied, guests can choose from campsites (bring your own gear) to luxury cabins to traditional hotel rooms. My favorite are the Douglas Fir Cabins, which have a down comforters, fireplaces, and a deck overlooking the coastal hills. Only hotel rooms have private baths, the others share “comfort stations” located throughout the property. And these comfort stations are quite comfortable, with upscale décor and an outdoor fireplace. In addition to the spa, onsite amenities include a hot tub & swimming pool, firepits, picnic grounds, BBQ facilties, horseback riding, grocery store, and plenty of lawn area for energetic kids to run around and burn off steam. A short walk across the road and down a sandy path leads to a beautiful, quiet beach with great tidepooling. And a Kids Camp is offered on summer weekends for ages 5-12.


The Cascade Bar & Grille serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and I can attest that the food is very good, and made with fresh, organic ingredients. While there isn’t a lot offered in the way of nightlife, there is occasionally live music, Winemaker’s Dinners, and seasonal events.

A large menu of outdoor activities are available, including guided hikes, surfing lessons, cycling, wine tasting, and sea kayaking. Or families can head off on their own to local attractions such as Ano Nuevo State Park, Half Moon Bay, or Santa Cruz, or one of the many public beaches within a 10-20 minute drive. Hiking trails lead from the resort directly into a neighboring state park, or a short drive takes visitors into a redwood forest.

This is an ideal resort for a short family getaway, small group retreat (I stayed there for a Girl Scout mother/daughter weekend) , or as a stopping point on a trip down the California coast. The location is convenient, about 2 hrs from San Jose or San Francisco, and the setting could not be more beautiful.

For more information about planning your next family vacation, contact Suzette Mack at suzette@family-treks.com.