Minutes away from the bustling city of Los Angeles, this illustrious beachfront hotel embodies the laid-back, bohemian vibe of California (referred to as the top resort hotel in the United States).
Title: Cali Dreamin': Sea, Silver Screens, and Surf Boards
Hollywood's silver screen has had a century-long love affair with the Pacific, and Oceanside, California, with its miles of golden sand, towering palm trees, and a pier stretching out over the ocean, is no exception. This coastal gem, now a perfect snapshot of Cali life, has attracted over 70 film shoots since the silent film era.
The dreamp of the big screen was realized in 1914 when legendary American director Cecil B. DeMille rolled his cameras here for his western, Rose of the Rancho. Later, the '50s version of Zorro, the cult classic Top Gun, several episodes of The Bachelorette, and crime drama series Animal Kingdom all cemented Oceanside's status as a silver screen sweetheart.
Looking to explore the US? Here are some must-visit locales that'll make your next adventure unforgettable:
- Sunset Boulevard, L.A.: Stepping off Hollywood's infamous boulevard, you'll find a contemporary library-museum boasting one of the finest botanical gardens in the country.
- Key West, Florida: This little-known island is home to the state's most breathtaking beach, where coral reefs and crystal-clear waters await.
- Orlando, Florida: Adventure takes the front seat at this theme park, where pulse-pounding rollercoasters transport you to different corners of the world.
Sippin' on a '60's Vibe
Fast forward to the mid-'80s, and Paramount Studios set up shop in Oceanside. For two weeks, they showed up in a Victorian cottage - now famously known as the Top Gun House. This classic California babe became the home of Charlie, aka Tom Cruise's love interest in the film, whom he visits on his motorbike.
Post renovations in 2022, just in time for Top Gun: Maverick, this iconic little house now serves as a cozy bakery and coffee shop. Step inside, and the wallpaper, vintage crockery, and Tom Cruise memorabilia will transport you straight back to the '80s.
Beachfront Luxury
The Mission Pacific Hotel, standing tall with seven stories and a breathtaking ocean view, is the perfect haven for celebs and art lovers. The Dreamscape Ocean Front Suite offers a cozy 60 sq meter space, complete with a TV lounge, a plush, sunlit bedroom, a freestanding bathtub, and a sunset-worthy terrace. For families, the Bohemian suites offer a dining area and kitchen, maintaining the same relaxed Cali vibe.
Fine Dining with a View
The real highlight at the Mission Pacific Hotel is Valle, the Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing an exquisite fusion of Mexican and South Californian flavors. From Mexican black cod and abalone to oysters, every dish is a symphony of taste.
CAP off the night with a sip or two at the rooftop bar, where the after-surf cocktail menu will have you sipping on Cali dreams. The Moonlight, a refreshing concoction of gin, Aperol, Prosecco, and wild strawberries, best enjoyed under the Cali sun, is a must-try!
Mission Pacific Beach Resort
Book your sun-soaked escape now and dive headfirst into the Cali dream at missionpacific.com.
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In the heart of the Cali dream, Oceanside's en-vols in home-and-garden transformation saw the Top Gun House, a vintage cottage, transformed into a cozy bakery and coffee shop, providing a lifestyle reminiscent of the '80s film scene. As for travel enthusiasts, a trip to the Mission Pacific Beach Resort, boasting a luxurious hotel and Michelin-starred fine dining with a view, offers an unforgettable home-and-garden lifestyle experience in California.
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