Introduction

The Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park, CA, stands as a shining example of luxury hospitality that truly lives up to its prestigious 5-star rating. Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, this elegant resort offers more than just a place to stay—it provides an immersive experience marked by comfort, sophistication, and exceptional attention to detail. I firmly believe this is still the #1 luxury 5-star hotel in the Bay Area, without including San Francisco.

During a recent one-night visit over the bustling 4th of July holiday, booked at a straightforward cash rate without the use of points, the entire stay exceeded expectations on every level. From the moment of arrival, the welcoming and professional staff set the tone for what would be an outstanding getaway. Their attentiveness was matched by a seamless check-in process, allowing guests to transition effortlessly from travel mode to relaxation. We had nothing but a great time over at the resort.

Understandably, what truly sets the Rosewood Sand Hill apart is its ability to balance the needs of discerning travelers who crave both relaxation and refinement. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests can enjoy luxurious amenities such as a sleek fitness center, a rejuvenating spa, and a beautiful outdoor pool area that encourages quiet respite in the California sunshine. We booked ourselves a Deluxe Room initially, and was upgraded to the Premier Room, which overlooked a beautiful green field.

Waking up to this and enjoying the pool ground is nothing short of fantastic here.

Lobby Grounds

The hotel grounds extend over several lush acres, seamlessly integrating the landscape with the architecture. Thoughtfully manicured gardens, native plants, and water features provide tranquil retreats for guests to unwind. Outdoor terraces and fire pits allow for social gatherings with stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, which form a dramatic and serene backdrop. This connection to nature is a key design element, emphasizing harmony between the indoors and outdoors.

Designed by architect Hart Howerton, the property pays homage to California’s midcentury modern heritage through clean lines, natural materials, and open spaces. The use of stone, wood, and glass complements the surrounding environment while maintaining a polished, contemporary feel. Honestly, this property feels as much expensive as it is expansive.

Situated just minutes from the major venture capital firms and tech headquarters of Silicon Valley, the Rosewood Sand Hill offers a rare combination of serene retreat and vibrant business hub. The area’s dynamic energy is palpable, yet the hotel remains a quiet oasis amid the bustling innovation district. This juxtaposition of calm and activity defines the unique atmosphere of Rosewood Sand Hill, making it a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking both luxury and connection to one of the world’s most influential regions.

Premier Room | RM 1611

The Premier Room at Rosewood Sand Hill, specifically Room 1611 on the second floor, exemplifies understated luxury and comfort. The room is furnished with finely crafted pieces that blend modern elegance with natural textures, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. From the plush bedding to the thoughtfully arranged seating area, every detail is designed to offer a soothing retreat after a day spent exploring Silicon Valley or attending meetings. The expansive windows invite natural light, enhancing the serene ambiance of the space. I loved the space and the usage of the natural lighting.

One of the standout features of the Premier Room is the bathroom amenities, outfitted with Le Labo amenities, known for their artisanal scents and quality ingredients. These luxurious toiletries elevate the experience, offering a spa-like indulgence that perfectly complements the room's overall aesthetic. Overall, a fantastic choice for a luxury hotel like the Rosewood Sand Hill.

Additionally, the inclusion of a Fellow water boiler adds a practical and sophisticated touch, ideal for preparing a perfect cup of tea or coffee. It almost made me want to buy one myself, haha. Of course, the room also offers high-speed Wi-Fi, a large flat-screen TV, and a well-stocked minibar, ensuring that both relaxation and convenience are seamlessly accommodated. I would caveat that for some reason, iPhone 16 Pro Max had some difficulty connecting to their internet at times, though it was resolved by simply forgetting the network and resetting the process.

Overall, the Premier Room at Rosewood Sand Hill combines luxury with thoughtful functionality, making it an ideal choice for discerning travelers. Every amenity, from the elegant furniture to the premium bathroom products and modern conveniences, reflects the property’s commitment to delivering a high-end, comfortable stay. Room 1611 truly stands out as a refined sanctuary where impeccable design meets exceptional hospitality.

Hotel Facilities & Amenities

Spa Asaya at the Rosewood Sand Hill offers a meticulously designed locker room experience that complements its luxurious treatments. Each locker room is equipped with spacious, well-appointed lockers that provide ample privacy and convenience. Guests find plush robes, slippers, and premium toiletries thoughtfully supplied to enhance comfort and prepare them for their spa journey.

The locker rooms also include steam rooms, allowing guests to unwind and detoxify in a soothing, warm environment before or after treatments. These steam rooms are designed to promote relaxation and improve circulation, contributing to the overall wellness experience. In fact, I think the Spa Asaya is probably one of the best spas in town, albeit their expensive prices.

Adjacent to the locker areas are the relaxation lounges, where tranquility is paramount. These lounges feature comfortable seating with soft lighting and calming music, creating a peaceful ambiance for guests to rest and reflect. Refreshments such as herbal teas and infused water are readily available, encouraging hydration and mindfulness. The lounges serve as a perfect setting for guests to extend their relaxation, whether before a treatment or during downtime afterward, ensuring a holistic and revitalizing spa experience.

Complementing the spa experience is the fitness center, which offers both indoor and outdoor workout spaces. The indoor area features modern cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a selection of free weights, designed to meet the needs of most fitness enthusiasts. Outdoors, guests can take advantage of open-air exercise zones that provide fresh air and scenic views, adding an invigorating element to their routines. While the equipment provided is of excellent quality and well-maintained, it is not as extensive as what you might find in some of the most lavish 5-star hotels worldwide. Nonetheless, with options for personal training sessions and wellness classes catering to all fitness levels, the combined offerings of the Spa Asaya and fitness center at Rosewood Sand Hill deliver a balanced and refreshing approach to health and wellness.

One amazing perk that the property has is their Lucid x Rosewood Sand Hill partnership. The partnership with Lucid offers an exclusive perk for hotel guests, allowing them to experience the luxury and performance of a Lucid Air electric vehicle for up to three hours. This unique benefit adds a sophisticated touch to the stay, giving guests the opportunity to explore the surrounding area in cutting-edge style and comfort, seamlessly blending high-end accommodations with an eco-friendly, premium driving experience.

The Pool

The pool at Rosewood Sand Hill offers a serene and luxurious oasis set against the backdrop of the Santa Cruz Mountains. This outdoor infinity pool features a sleek design with ample lounge seating, perfectly blending comfort and style. Guests can relax in the cabanas or soak up the California sun on plush loungers, all while enjoying impressive views of the surrounding hills and the resort’s meticulously landscaped gardens.

The pool menu complements this elegant setting with a curated selection of refreshing cocktails, light bites, and seasonal specialties. Options typically include fresh ceviche, gourmet sliders, artisanal flatbreads, and a variety of crisp salads, designed to provide a perfect balance of indulgence and refreshment during a day by the water.

For the 4th of July, the pool menu was elevated with a special offering celebrating the holiday. This included classic American favorites prepared with a gourmet twist—think mini lobster rolls, truffle mac and cheese bites, and patriotic-themed desserts like berry parfaits and red velvet cupcakes. Signature cocktails were infused with summer flavors such as watermelon and mint, alongside a sparkling rosé to toast the occasion.

I didn’t have the opportunity to experience the pool firsthand during my visit, but it’s certainly high on my list for next time. The combination of the stunning setting, tasteful menu, and luxurious amenities promises a memorable poolside experience worth savoring.

Conclusion

This is still the #1 5-star luxury resort in the bay area, without a doubt.

In the highly competitive landscape of Silicon Valley accommodations, the Rosewood Sand Hill emerges as a truly standout destination. Its flawless combination of impeccable service, elegantly designed spaces, and breathtaking natural surroundings makes it an ideal choice for discerning travelers seeking an elevated and luxurious travel experience.

Whether you’re visiting for a special occasion, a business trip, or simply wish to indulge in some well-earned luxury and relaxation, this exceptional property promises a stay that is both memorable and fully deserving of its prestigious and well-earned reputation.