The Inn at Spanish Bay is an outstanding example of hospitality. Diligent staff and the surrounding natural wonders make this site a "true" departure from the norm. It is, without a doubt, the standard by which others are, or at least should, be judged.
While embarking onto 17 mile drive you just know you are in for something special. The coastline is pristine and I don't know any golfer who wouldn't consider themselves lucky to play on this amazing course with sweeping coastline views. The outdoor scenery is truly spectacular. While the golf course is perfectly maintained, mother nature takes care of the true perfection, Pebble Beach itself.
The Inn offers choosey guests an oasis. You feel compelled to step back and relax. My advice: sip a drink al fresco, close your eyes and drink it all it. All too soon it will be back to reality but for that moment...you are drawn into how the other half (actually at this place, the other 1/8) can indulge.
Self-guided diversions range from the active (shopping, tennis, hiking, horseback riding, intro to kayaking on pebble beach...truly amazing, and a host of ocean activities) to the sedate (massage, wine tasting, beach strolls, shopping in Carmel, etc). Never a dull moment, but we found time for those moments as well and savored them.
I have had two truly amazing spa experiences in my life. The number one is the Spa at Pebble Beach. It's not just a massage, facial or special treatment, it's an event. You are not rushed in/out but are encouraged to wind down before and after your treatments. I winded down so much I literally fell asleep in the atrium area. The spa is high end and the frills, from inhalation rooms, steams, baths, etc., are too. The staff is expected to perform at a high level and, so far, they do. Amazingly enough, costs are no more outrageous than typical day spas.
The Inn offers you anything your heart could desire on sprawling picturesque grounds, whether a sun & sea getaway, honeymoon or client-impressing business trip. Just be sure your wallet can take it and/or look for out of season specials (few and far between but they are there). For us, it was gift certificate city (my family knows all I want for gifts are weekends away).
Dining is excellent and caters to a true gourmet palate. To me, nothing beats an evening drink with friends on the patio, which glows after sunset with sienna-colored spotlights. The sights and sounds of the ocean draw you in further. I would say to expect the best, and savor it in one of Monterey Bay's most memorable places, Pebble Beach.
Even if you can't indulge (or you do not have family members that regularly give you gift certificates) it's worth a lunch and beach stop. It's just a quick jaunt off 17 mile drive.