Nature Is Waiting for You at Costanoa Lodge

By Kerri Stenson

In this fast-paced life, there is something transformative about stepping into nature for an adventure in slowing down to savor the world. This experience is exactly what you get when you visit Costanoa Lodge in Pescadero, with all the modern amenities, ocean air and freshest foods.

Surrounded by 30,000 acres of state parks from Big Basin to Año Nuevo and Butano State Park, Costanoa is an outdoor wonderland. Formerly part of a 6,000-acre cattle ranch, in the late 1980s 400 acres were offered up to develop for recreational purposes, which is when the idea emerged for a resort and spa for guests to retreat to nature.

And respect for nature is a high priority for Costanoa. “From recycling and all-natural chemical-free soaps, detergents and cleaning products to our 6-million-gallon retention pond used for irrigation, recycled waste water and drought tolerant plants, Costanoa is committed to sustainability,” says General Manager Trevor Bridge. The resort was certified green by the Bay Area Green Business Program in 2009.

When it comes to dining, the outdoors has never tasted so good. New head chef Herb Kettleson has brought his handcrafted methods and seasonal expertise to Cascade Restaurant. Having worked in restaurants from San Francisco to Santa Cruz, Kettleson is no stranger to working with fresh local ingredients. And one of his favorite ingredients to work with—aside from the bounty of Costanoa’s private organic farm—is sustainable seafood.

Wondering whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family destination? It’s both.

According to longtime Costanoa visitor Staci Cole of Woodside, “Costanoa brings pure joy to our family—it nourishes friendships and our love for the outdoors and it satisfies our desire to expose our children to camping with modern luxuries. From the sweeping views to the fabulous cocktails and gourmet food, we always leave feeling rejuvenated and fulfilled.”