We came to Alila for our anniversary weekend. Overall, we enjoyed our time at the Alila hotel, but there were a few aspects that kept the hotel from being a true 5-star experience, especially in comparison to other upscale resorts that we have stayed at (including other Hyatt category 8 hotels).

To start with the positives – we appreciated the shuttle service and the partnership wineries. We appreciated the complimentary tastings at these wineries, and we also were able to get a splash when we arrived from the complimentary tasting on site at the hotel, as it had run a little long. The location was also stellar and we were just a short walk/drive from everything for the weekend.

Where we felt Alila fell a bit short was the lack of “special” experiences, especially for the price point and category of the hotel. Apart from the check-in rep verbally wishing us happy anniversary, there was nothing that really showed it was taken into account. It would’ve been nice to have received something small for celebration, like a card or small bottle/glass of wine or something, as we have at other upscale resorts and have also read from other’s previous experiences about Alila. Perhaps it was because we booked on points, but it was difficult not to compare our differences in experience. We were also told from one of the wineries that our concierge had booked the incorrect date. Thankfully, the winery was gracious and fixed it since we were already there, but again, something that fell a little short of expectations of Alila.

We still enjoyed our overall stay and had a great anniversary weekend. We’d love to come back to Napa again soon. At the price point for Alila though, I’d recommend some special touches to be on par for a true 5 star experience.

Chose the location due to Central Valley, free shuttle into St Helena, upscale setting. We really enjoyed our engagement week here. Staff were so nice, attentive. Made us feel special. We had a creek view outdoor tub room which was spacious. Too hot to use the tub the week we were there! Convenient location to explore up and down the valley. The valet staff which also drove the shuttle were great. It is just SUCH a pain to have to deal with mandatory valet every time you want to hop in and out of the car. They try to make it easy with texting at least. We had breakfast most days but did not try any other food choices or the onsite spa which looked great.

1. Location is super close to restaurants in St Helena if you want to venture out. Hotel itself is quiet, peaceful, and very condusive to a little rnr

2. Rooms – I’ve stayed here twice, opted for vineyard views both times and the view + firepit on balcony is a gret plus.

However – during my most recent stay the soaking tub drain cover did not work properly and I had to sadly forego the nice bath I was looking forward to.

Upon arrival we noticed the outside of our toilet bowl had some…questionable residue that was not cleaned. I’ll spare you the gross photo we took of it but thought this was a huge miss. Housekeeping took care of cleaning it later on upon request … but this left a terrible first impression upon our arrival. And tbh very gross.

3. Service – bellman/valet services were great. Did not get to experience too much onsite dining or poolside service so no comment there.

Overall – might be worth it for booking with points during low season but definitely can be improved compared to other hyatts cat 8 properties.

Given the price point I’m reluctant to recommend this property.