Leah S.
Yelp
If you have ever been on a cruise, to an island paradise like Tahiti, or even to an exotic ocean-view restaurant, you will know what I'm talking about when I say that there's something magical about listening to the waves softly lap the shore that adds an ambiance few can rival to any hotel, spa, or restaurant. Bodega Bay Lodge, however, has this ambiance in all three, which builds upon itself for a vacation or destination escape to sentimentally remember forever.
The hotel sits prominently at the pinnacle entrance to Bodega Bay, with a majestic grandeur, evocative of the perfect melding of rustic, luxurious, and desirable. Entry way to the hotel's lobby is flanked by tall trees, wood paneling, and tall exposed crossbeams, set off by rich detailing in the drapery, seating areas, and coastal Wine Country decor. Front desk staff were easy to work with on our confirmation of our stay, making our reservations for dinner and the spa at the times that worked best for our schedule, as well as upon check-in, with informative notes on the wine hour, accessing the pool, and allowing us early arrival to our suite.
Our room was in the 600s building, with front row, unobstructed panoramic views of the bird sanctuary, and the picturesque winding coastline to Doran beach. Entry way opened to elegantly tall ceilings, a king size, plushtop bed, cozy fireplace, and large private deck with lounge chairs. Bathroom was my favorite feature of the room, with timed heat fans, oversized tub with lavender bath salts, local EO brand bath products locally sourced from Marin, and a beautifully custom tiled shower with rainfall shower head.
Our in-room couples massage was flawless, Hot Shell by two wonderful and seasoned massage therapists, who encouraged us to leave the slider open for an ocean breeze accompaniment and sunshine on our backs while we relaxed in the therapist's capable hands. This was followed by complimentary chocolates and room service of a beautifully arranged cheese platter, and bottle of local Pinot Noir. We savored our after massage glow with our delicious cheese and wine pairing in our matching custom robes on the deck in the sun, and at that moment, the worries and stresses of the world seemed to fall away.
Dinner and breakfast at the Duck Club restaurant was simply delightful with obvious attention to detail in every plate. Tours of the grounds, pool, and strikingly beautiful infinity edge Jacuzzi echoed the serene luxury of the entire estate. I can not think of another hotel experience that I've had that can top this one, in sumptuous splendor, relaxation, and complete delight. If you are coming to the Wine Country and want to experience it in the most decadent style possible, Bodega Bay Lodge is the only place you will want to look. Wine Country leisure, ocean view richness, and relaxing in an oasis away from it all; find your bliss here.