Sitting right up there with sprawling mountain ranges and cascading waterfalls, cliffs rank rather high in the dramatic natural landscapes category. These steep facades are innately precarious, lending a sense of adventure to whomever dares to stand atop one. Or, in the case of the roundup ahead, who dares to build a hotel on one. The best cliffside properties around the world can be found perched in picturesque regions and with outstanding views, some situated along rocky coastlines and others within mountain ranges or escarpments. The unifying trait? A front-row seat to unparalleled beauty.

With 2023 around the corner, planning a memorable getaway in a scenic destination feels all but necessary. And regardless of where you’re looking to travel to — the Caribbean, Mexico, South Africa, or beyond — just about every pocket of the globe boasts a jaw-dropping cliffside hotel to enjoy it from. Below, take in TZR’s favorite properties perched atop a cliff in breathtaking locales around the world and explore the different activities that enhance the drama (think: mountain-top picnics, desert wall climbing, and more). And even if an international trip isn’t in the cards for the new year, there are plenty of equally magnificent cliffside resorts to book a stay at right here in the states. All of that, and more, ahead.

Amalfi Coast

You need little introduction to the natural splendor of Italy’s famed Amalfi coast, a UNESCO-listed region defined by its steep cliffs and dazzling blue Tyrrhenian sea. Along the coastline lie 13 picturesque towns and miles of hiking trails offering panoramic views, like the legendary Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods). In short — it’s the perfect destination to build a cliffside hotel. Perhaps the most iconic is Le Sirenuse Positano, which opened in 1951 and is on every aesthete’s travel bucket list. A few miles away, Borgo Santandrea recently made a splash with its debut (it’s the first Amalfi hotel to open in 15 years). The cliffside property perches 90 meters above sea level and features 29 rooms and 16 suites, all with sea views (two suites even have private infinity pools). Also worthy of a cliffside callout: Monastero Santa Rosa. The property was originally a Dominican monastery built in the 17th century and is perched atop a cliffside at the edge of the fishing village of Conca dei Marini.

California Coastline

California’s vast coastline stretches nearly 900 miles, giving way for countless cliffside hotels to crop up. One such property that tends to top the lists of dramatic view seekers is Post Ranch Inn along the breathtaking Big Sur coastline on Highway 1. The property has been open since the early ‘90s and sits atop cliffs soaring 1200 feet above the Pacific Ocean. A few hours north near San Francisco, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is nestled on a cliff beside the rocky coastline. The resort was designed by HKS Architects and taps into the nostalgia of 19th-century seaside lodges with its vignette of dormers, gables, and chimneys creating a unique silhouette against the vast blue sky.

Bali

The dazzling Indonesian province of Bali is replete with mind-bogglingly beautiful landscapes well-suited for adventurous travelers. Taking it up a notch, Six Senses Uluwatu is located on a dramatic cliffside at Bali’s southern tip, giving visitors front-row seats to the Indian Ocean. The property is also the location of Pura Uluwatu, which is one of this Hindu island’s most sacred temples, all adding to the spiritual quality of this scenic setting. Also in the region, Bulgari Resort Bali is another traveler favorite thanks to its position 150 meters above the sea and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views each day. If you’re ready for a dip, the resort has a private funicular that travels directly to a pristine stretch of beach.

Turkey

Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel

Surrounded on three sides by the Black, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas, Turkey is a large, beautiful peninsula that bridges Europe and Asia and is home to some of the oldest settlements in the world. Mountains and cliffs are abundant in the country, and at Yunak Evleri guests can stay in this unique hotel that was carved into a mountain cliff. The property is a collection of cave houses dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries beside a 19th-century Greek mansion. There are two swimming pools and and outdoor fireplace to relax and watch the sunset at. If you’re looking for a stepping-back-in-time kind of travel experience, this is it.

Jamaica

The Caves Hotel

One comes to Jamaica for many things — the culture, the history, the food, the scenery, and more. This Caribbean island nation is lush and awe-inducing, and a property that exemplifies all of its best traits lies on the north coast of Jamaica in Negril. The Caves offers 12 cottages perched along limestone cliffs plus unique amenities like private cave dining, a seaview spa, and The Blackwell Rum Bar that’s accessed by taking a coral staircase down to the water’s edge, crossing a wooden footbridge, and arriving at the secret cave. The walls of the bar are the volcanic cliffs, making for a thoroughly immersive cocktail experience.

Mallorca

For a travel locale that delivers on scenery, history, cuisine, and accommodations — Mallorca isn’t a bad place to start. The Mediterranean island has long been a destination for those transfixed by its turquoise waters and limestone mountains, perhaps best experienced at a cliffside hotel. Cap Rocat is located within a fortress and the building is a Heritage Asset and listed as a National Monument. It’s located in the secluded area of the Bay of Palma and the Sentinels room, specifically, offers magnificent views. Jumeirah Port Soller is another cliffside retreat on Mallorca and sits high above the port on the edge of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.

Washington

Salish Lodge & Spa

For those who have explored its many national parks and breathtaking Pacific Northwest beauty, Washington is a slice of heaven right here in the states. One unique way to experience nature here is at Salish, Lodge & Spa — a property that is perched atop both a cliff and 268-foot waterfall (Snoqualmie Falls, to be exact). It’s located 30 minutes east of Seattle for easy accessibility and the dining room is situated right next to the falls for picturesque meals.

Australia

For adventurous types, the El Questro Homestead in Western Australia is a dramatic property perched at the very tip of a clifftop in the East Kimberley region. It’s surrounded by avenues of frangipani trees and the nine suites overlook the Chamberlain River. The most luxurious suite has floor-to-ceiling windows, a wraparound veranda, outdoor dining area, plus an indoor-outdoor double bath for two. Take in the rugged ranges and sparkling waters in this magnificent pocket of scenic beauty.

Baja Peninsula

Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

The Baja California peninsula is located in northwestern Mexico and has nearly 2,000 miles of coastline. Whale watching, desert landscapes, and secluded beaches are among the many reasons tourists flock to this unique part of the country. Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection is at the southern tip in Baja California Sur and situated between two scenic bluffs. The property’s natural-toned design motifs blend in and complement the surrounding beaches and rocky cliffs overlooking the Sea of Cortez. At the same time, Made in Mexico decor accents such as textiles and millwork bring the property to life.

Ireland

Cliff House Hotel

A country already famous for its steep sea cliffs, Ireland is a natural fit for those seeking a dramatic hotel. Cliff House Hotel is near Cork and Waterford and is a privately owned luxury hotel that’s been around since 1932, with a complete rebuild in 2008. The property is rooted on a cliff on the south side of Ardmore Bay and offers 39 rooms plus an Irish destination spa and one Michelin-star restaurant. The design is timeless and atmospheric — white walls, cups stone columns, and sedum moss-covered roofs with limestone terracing.

Greek Islands

A visit to the Greek islands proves this magical destination is, indeed, vertically oriented. It’s only natural then that cliffside properties abound in this part of the Aegean Sea, beginning with Mystique Hotel Santorini. It was carved into the Caldera cliffs that overlook the water, and is a collection of 41 stone-crafted, cave-style suites and villas located across from an active volcano. Also a staple in Santorini, Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection sits atop a cliff and boasts one of the best infinity pools in the region. The cuisine here is also a major draw, with Michelin-awarded chef Lefteris Lazarou at the helm of the Greek and Mediterranean flavors.

Pacific Coast of Mexico

Referred to by some as the Mexican Riviera, the country’s Pacific coast is an enclave of beach resorts that highlight the region’s arresting beauty. In Acapulco, Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués is an eco resort with 45 private pool villas and residences that cling to the dramatic hillside of Punta Diamante. Here, guests soak in sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean while enjoying amenities like al fresco dining. Just a few minutes from Zihuatanejo, Cala de Mar is a resort and spa perched atop the cliffside of Ixtapa. The property has 59 suites, each with a private heated plunge pool and views of the ocean and the design follows the Zihua style philosophy with minimal straight lines or right angles, just as it is in nature.

British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands are situated in the Caribbean to the east of Puerto Rico and are composed of the main islands of Tortola, Virgin Gordo, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke (plus many other smaller islands and cays). One of these smaller escapes is Moskito Island — an all-inclusive resort with four grand estates offering striking views and unparalleled beach access. While here, guests can enjoy customized vacations with experiences like picnics on Manchioneel beach to themed dinners with live jazz bands. In 2023, the main house will debut a cantilevered glass-bottom hot tub that extends over the cliff’s edge. Over in Virgin Gorda, Oil Nut Bay is a beloved 400-acre resort with cliffside suites, some as high as 700 feet above sea level. Witness views of the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, plus a picturesque overwater restaurant and bar.

South Africa

With 21 national parks, 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and remarkable biodiversity, it’s no wonder that South Africa is such an appealing destination for travelers. Here, on the cliffs of the Cape Winelands region, guests at Birkenhead House can overlook the whale watching enclave of Walker Bay from the cliffside pool or from one of the 11 individually designed rooms located in three separate houses that make up the property. At The Twelve Apostles in Cape Town, visitors get the unique vantage point of being positioned above the Atlantic Ocean and between the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and Table Mountain National Park. This luxury boutique hotel has two restaurants, both excellent for watching the evening sunset from.

Kenya

Angama Mara

There’s nowhere on earth quite like Kenya — this east African country has coastlines along the Indian Ocean, mountain highlands, dramatic savanna grasslands, and much, much more. For those traveling here for a safari, Angama Mara is a luxury lodge in the Maasai Mara. It’s placed on the edge of the Oloololo Escarpment and the property’s name is a nod to the Swahili word for ‘suspended in midair.’ While here, guests will stay in 30-foot-wide tens with floor-to-ceiling glass fronts that look out over the Great Rift Valley.

Canada

Fogo Island Inn

It is said that Fogo Island Inn is located at one of the four corners of the world. This 43,000 square-foot Newfoundland luxury hotel overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and was designed by architect Todd Saunders. The property is perched on stilts and its 29 one-of-a-kind rooms hug the North Atlantic coastline with floor-to-ceiling views. The island has seven singular seasons and offers activities ranging from stargazing and bird watching to hiking and snowmobiling.

Dominica

To know the Caribbean Island of Dominica is to know unspoiled natural splendor. This lush escape is abundant with rainforests, rivers, and mountains and a visit is nothing short of spectacular. At Secret Bay (a property renowned for its cliffside location), guests can book one of 12 residential style villas. The Zabuco Villa was built on a clifftop promontory and is on the furthest point, lending 180-degree vistas over the mountain peaks. And even if you don’t book it, there are other special spots around the property with cliffside facets like the new Gwiyavye’ Lap Pool & Bar and the resort’s Gommier Spa. Coulibri Ridge is a newly-opened property also on Dominica and is a 14-suite, 285-acre resort perched atop a mountain ridge near the village of Soufrière. The resort is off-grid and uses solar energy as its main power source; also, rainwater is collected through their unique roof design and funneled to guest suites and two chlorine-free pools.

Hawaii

Hawaii and its network of breathtaking islands is one of those places with indisputable beauty. It’s an otherworldly destination that celebrates nature in all of its facets, from volcanos and rainforests to coastlines and coral reefs. Not at all shocking: there are many striking hotels here. At Timbers Kauai at Hokuala, the oceanside cliffs of Kauai cradle this luxury resort and private residences. It sits on the oceanside edge of 450 acres and is surrounded by 13 miles of nature trails. On the island of Maui, Montage Kapalua Bay hugs a coastal cliff on the west coast, giving prime views for whale watching and turtle spotting. The resort is set on 24 acres and this past spring it welcomed back Champagne Hale at Cliff House — an intimate cliffside venue that was originally built in 1940 as a facility for the managers of the historic Honolua Plantation.

Oman

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar

A regal resort that once hosted Princess Diana, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar in Oman is located a two hours’ drive inland from Muscat and up in the mountains. In fact, it is one of the world’s highest luxury resorts and each of its rooms look out onto the dramatic canyon. Here, you’ll be surrounded by cliffs and can enjoy activities like a climb wall, hiking, cinema under the stars, and yoga atop the scenic lookout of Diana’s Point.

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Sitting right up there with sprawling mountain ranges and cascading waterfalls, cliffs rank rather high in the dramatic natural landscapes category. These steep facades are innately precarious, lending a sense of adventure to whomever dares to stand atop one. Or, in the case of the roundup ahead, who dares to build a hotel on one. The best cliffside properties around the world can be found perched in picturesque regions and with outstanding views, some situated along rocky coastlines and others within mountain ranges or escarpments. The unifying trait? A front-row seat to unparalleled beauty.

With 2023 around the corner, planning a memorable getaway in a scenic destination feels all but necessary. And regardless of where you’re looking to travel to — the Caribbean, Mexico, South Africa, or beyond — just about every pocket of the globe boasts a jaw-dropping cliffside hotel to enjoy it from. Below, take in TZR’s favorite properties perched atop a cliff in breathtaking locales around the world and explore the different activities that enhance the drama (think: mountain-top picnics, desert wall climbing, and more). And even if an international trip isn’t in the cards for the new year, there are plenty of equally magnificent cliffside resorts to book a stay at right here in the states. All of that, and more, ahead.

Amalfi Coast

You need little introduction to the natural splendor of Italy’s famed Amalfi coast, a UNESCO-listed region defined by its steep cliffs and dazzling blue Tyrrhenian sea. Along the coastline lie 13 picturesque towns and miles of hiking trails offering panoramic views, like the legendary Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods). In short — it’s the perfect destination to build a cliffside hotel. Perhaps the most iconic is Le Sirenuse Positano, which opened in 1951 and is on every aesthete’s travel bucket list. A few miles away, Borgo Santandrea recently made a splash with its debut (it’s the first Amalfi hotel to open in 15 years). The cliffside property perches 90 meters above sea level and features 29 rooms and 16 suites, all with sea views (two suites even have private infinity pools). Also worthy of a cliffside callout: Monastero Santa Rosa. The property was originally a Dominican monastery built in the 17th century and is perched atop a cliffside at the edge of the fishing village of Conca dei Marini.

California Coastline

California’s vast coastline stretches nearly 900 miles, giving way for countless cliffside hotels to crop up. One such property that tends to top the lists of dramatic view seekers is Post Ranch Inn along the breathtaking Big Sur coastline on Highway 1. The property has been open since the early ‘90s and sits atop cliffs soaring 1200 feet above the Pacific Ocean. A few hours north near San Francisco, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is nestled on a cliff beside the rocky coastline. The resort was designed by HKS Architects and taps into the nostalgia of 19th-century seaside lodges with its vignette of dormers, gables, and chimneys creating a unique silhouette against the vast blue sky.

Bali

The dazzling Indonesian province of Bali is replete with mind-bogglingly beautiful landscapes well-suited for adventurous travelers. Taking it up a notch, Six Senses Uluwatu is located on a dramatic cliffside at Bali’s southern tip, giving visitors front-row seats to the Indian Ocean. The property is also the location of Pura Uluwatu, which is one of this Hindu island’s most sacred temples, all adding to the spiritual quality of this scenic setting. Also in the region, Bulgari Resort Bali is another traveler favorite thanks to its position 150 meters above the sea and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views each day. If you’re ready for a dip, the resort has a private funicular that travels directly to a pristine stretch of beach.

Turkey

Yunak Evleri Cave Hotel

Surrounded on three sides by the Black, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas, Turkey is a large, beautiful peninsula that bridges Europe and Asia and is home to some of the oldest settlements in the world. Mountains and cliffs are abundant in the country, and at Yunak Evleri guests can stay in this unique hotel that was carved into a mountain cliff. The property is a collection of cave houses dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries beside a 19th-century Greek mansion. There are two swimming pools and and outdoor fireplace to relax and watch the sunset at. If you’re looking for a stepping-back-in-time kind of travel experience, this is it.

Jamaica

The Caves Hotel

One comes to Jamaica for many things — the culture, the history, the food, the scenery, and more. This Caribbean island nation is lush and awe-inducing, and a property that exemplifies all of its best traits lies on the north coast of Jamaica in Negril. The Caves offers 12 cottages perched along limestone cliffs plus unique amenities like private cave dining, a seaview spa, and The Blackwell Rum Bar that’s accessed by taking a coral staircase down to the water’s edge, crossing a wooden footbridge, and arriving at the secret cave. The walls of the bar are the volcanic cliffs, making for a thoroughly immersive cocktail experience.

Mallorca

For a travel locale that delivers on scenery, history, cuisine, and accommodations — Mallorca isn’t a bad place to start. The Mediterranean island has long been a destination for those transfixed by its turquoise waters and limestone mountains, perhaps best experienced at a cliffside hotel. Cap Rocat is located within a fortress and the building is a Heritage Asset and listed as a National Monument. It’s located in the secluded area of the Bay of Palma and the Sentinels room, specifically, offers magnificent views. Jumeirah Port Soller is another cliffside retreat on Mallorca and sits high above the port on the edge of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.

Washington

Salish Lodge & Spa

For those who have explored its many national parks and breathtaking Pacific Northwest beauty, Washington is a slice of heaven right here in the states. One unique way to experience nature here is at Salish, Lodge & Spa — a property that is perched atop both a cliff and 268-foot waterfall (Snoqualmie Falls, to be exact). It’s located 30 minutes east of Seattle for easy accessibility and the dining room is situated right next to the falls for picturesque meals.

Australia

For adventurous types, the El Questro Homestead in Western Australia is a dramatic property perched at the very tip of a clifftop in the East Kimberley region. It’s surrounded by avenues of frangipani trees and the nine suites overlook the Chamberlain River. The most luxurious suite has floor-to-ceiling windows, a wraparound veranda, outdoor dining area, plus an indoor-outdoor double bath for two. Take in the rugged ranges and sparkling waters in this magnificent pocket of scenic beauty.

Baja Peninsula

Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection

The Baja California peninsula is located in northwestern Mexico and has nearly 2,000 miles of coastline. Whale watching, desert landscapes, and secluded beaches are among the many reasons tourists flock to this unique part of the country. Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection is at the southern tip in Baja California Sur and situated between two scenic bluffs. The property’s natural-toned design motifs blend in and complement the surrounding beaches and rocky cliffs overlooking the Sea of Cortez. At the same time, Made in Mexico decor accents such as textiles and millwork bring the property to life.

Ireland

Cliff House Hotel

A country already famous for its steep sea cliffs, Ireland is a natural fit for those seeking a dramatic hotel. Cliff House Hotel is near Cork and Waterford and is a privately owned luxury hotel that’s been around since 1932, with a complete rebuild in 2008. The property is rooted on a cliff on the south side of Ardmore Bay and offers 39 rooms plus an Irish destination spa and one Michelin-star restaurant. The design is timeless and atmospheric — white walls, cups stone columns, and sedum moss-covered roofs with limestone terracing.

Greek Islands

A visit to the Greek islands proves this magical destination is, indeed, vertically oriented. It’s only natural then that cliffside properties abound in this part of the Aegean Sea, beginning with Mystique Hotel Santorini. It was carved into the Caldera cliffs that overlook the water, and is a collection of 41 stone-crafted, cave-style suites and villas located across from an active volcano. Also a staple in Santorini, Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection sits atop a cliff and boasts one of the best infinity pools in the region. The cuisine here is also a major draw, with Michelin-awarded chef Lefteris Lazarou at the helm of the Greek and Mediterranean flavors.

Pacific Coast of Mexico

Referred to by some as the Mexican Riviera, the country’s Pacific coast is an enclave of beach resorts that highlight the region’s arresting beauty. In Acapulco, Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués is an eco resort with 45 private pool villas and residences that cling to the dramatic hillside of Punta Diamante. Here, guests soak in sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean while enjoying amenities like al fresco dining. Just a few minutes from Zihuatanejo, Cala de Mar is a resort and spa perched atop the cliffside of Ixtapa. The property has 59 suites, each with a private heated plunge pool and views of the ocean and the design follows the Zihua style philosophy with minimal straight lines or right angles, just as it is in nature.

British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands are situated in the Caribbean to the east of Puerto Rico and are composed of the main islands of Tortola, Virgin Gordo, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke (plus many other smaller islands and cays). One of these smaller escapes is Moskito Island — an all-inclusive resort with four grand estates offering striking views and unparalleled beach access. While here, guests can enjoy customized vacations with experiences like picnics on Manchioneel beach to themed dinners with live jazz bands. In 2023, the main house will debut a cantilevered glass-bottom hot tub that extends over the cliff’s edge. Over in Virgin Gorda, Oil Nut Bay is a beloved 400-acre resort with cliffside suites, some as high as 700 feet above sea level. Witness views of the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, plus a picturesque overwater restaurant and bar.

South Africa

With 21 national parks, 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and remarkable biodiversity, it’s no wonder that South Africa is such an appealing destination for travelers. Here, on the cliffs of the Cape Winelands region, guests at Birkenhead House can overlook the whale watching enclave of Walker Bay from the cliffside pool or from one of the 11 individually designed rooms located in three separate houses that make up the property. At The Twelve Apostles in Cape Town, visitors get the unique vantage point of being positioned above the Atlantic Ocean and between the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and Table Mountain National Park. This luxury boutique hotel has two restaurants, both excellent for watching the evening sunset from.

Kenya

Angama Mara

There’s nowhere on earth quite like Kenya — this east African country has coastlines along the Indian Ocean, mountain highlands, dramatic savanna grasslands, and much, much more. For those traveling here for a safari, Angama Mara is a luxury lodge in the Maasai Mara. It’s placed on the edge of the Oloololo Escarpment and the property’s name is a nod to the Swahili word for ‘suspended in midair.’ While here, guests will stay in 30-foot-wide tens with floor-to-ceiling glass fronts that look out over the Great Rift Valley.

Canada

Fogo Island Inn

It is said that Fogo Island Inn is located at one of the four corners of the world. This 43,000 square-foot Newfoundland luxury hotel overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and was designed by architect Todd Saunders. The property is perched on stilts and its 29 one-of-a-kind rooms hug the North Atlantic coastline with floor-to-ceiling views. The island has seven singular seasons and offers activities ranging from stargazing and bird watching to hiking and snowmobiling.

Dominica

To know the Caribbean Island of Dominica is to know unspoiled natural splendor. This lush escape is abundant with rainforests, rivers, and mountains and a visit is nothing short of spectacular. At Secret Bay (a property renowned for its cliffside location), guests can book one of 12 residential style villas. The Zabuco Villa was built on a clifftop promontory and is on the furthest point, lending 180-degree vistas over the mountain peaks. And even if you don’t book it, there are other special spots around the property with cliffside facets like the new Gwiyavye’ Lap Pool & Bar and the resort’s Gommier Spa. Coulibri Ridge is a newly-opened property also on Dominica and is a 14-suite, 285-acre resort perched atop a mountain ridge near the village of Soufrière. The resort is off-grid and uses solar energy as its main power source; also, rainwater is collected through their unique roof design and funneled to guest suites and two chlorine-free pools.

Hawaii

Hawaii and its network of breathtaking islands is one of those places with indisputable beauty. It’s an otherworldly destination that celebrates nature in all of its facets, from volcanos and rainforests to coastlines and coral reefs. Not at all shocking: there are many striking hotels here. At Timbers Kauai at Hokuala, the oceanside cliffs of Kauai cradle this luxury resort and private residences. It sits on the oceanside edge of 450 acres and is surrounded by 13 miles of nature trails. On the island of Maui, Montage Kapalua Bay hugs a coastal cliff on the west coast, giving prime views for whale watching and turtle spotting. The resort is set on 24 acres and this past spring it welcomed back Champagne Hale at Cliff House — an intimate cliffside venue that was originally built in 1940 as a facility for the managers of the historic Honolua Plantation.

Oman

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar

A regal resort that once hosted Princess Diana, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar in Oman is located a two hours’ drive inland from Muscat and up in the mountains. In fact, it is one of the world’s highest luxury resorts and each of its rooms look out onto the dramatic canyon. Here, you’ll be surrounded by cliffs and can enjoy activities like a climb wall, hiking, cinema under the stars, and yoga atop the scenic lookout of Diana’s Point.

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Pixar’s newest feature, “Turning Red,” which debuts Friday on Disney+ and in local theaters, is a groundbreaker in more ways that one.

“Turning Red” director Domee Shi had been working as a storyboard artist at Pixar when she made her directing debut with the 2018 “Bao,” a strange and wonderful short film about a mother raising a steamed dumpling like a son.

When it came to working on her first feature, Shi discovered that there were major differences between shorts and features. Shi and her producer, Lindsey Collins, both Bay Area residents, recently spoke with The Examiner during a screening of the film at the Castro Theater.

“At first, I thought it’ll be like ‘Bao,’ but just a little longer,” Shi says. “Wrong! Yes, longer, but the stakes are higher, the crew is bigger, the story is more complicated. It’s more unpredictable. Things are happening on top of each other.”

Not only did “Bao” win an Academy Award for Shi, but it was also the first short Pixar film directed by a woman. Now “Turning Red” becomes the first Pixar feature to be directed solely by a woman; 2012’s “Brave” was co-directed by Brenda Chapman.

It’s also the second Pixar feature with an Asian character in a major role. (The first was “Up” in 2009.)

The movie depicts the Chinese-Canadian culture in which Shi grew up. Shi explains that, before moving to the Bay Area, she was born in China, and lived briefly in Newfoundland (“it was so cold!”) before moving to Toronto, where her mother attended college.

“It was so normal for me,” she says. “I always loved how multicultural it was. I never felt like a token, or an other. I felt ‘othered’ in other ways, like being nerdy and fat, but not being Chinese. I was grateful for that experience, and I wanted to share that.”

Another fresh aspect of “Turning Red” is the depiction of what Shi calls “girl puberty.” In the movie, we meet 8th grader Mei, who is great at school, has three “besties” and loves the pop group 4-Town. She also loves, but is often frustrated by, her mother, who pushes her to perfection.

Then, one day she wakes up, and she’s an eight-foot red panda!

“I don’t think I’ve seen many movies that really explore girl puberty, with all of its messiness and taboo-ness. I just remember this time of my life, being such a rollercoaster of emotion,” she says.

“I wanted to impress my mom and I wanted her love, but I was also fighting with her every single day,” she continues. “And suddenly I woke up one day, and I had completely changed overnight. There was hair everywhere, I was huge and I was hungry all the time.”

Meilin, right, in big red panda form. (Courtesy Disney/Pixar)

The casting of Mei is yet another unusual aspect of “Turning Red.” Since Pixar films are in production for many years, the studio starts with temporary actors, usually people on staff or close by, who can record at a moment’s notice. Then, when things really get moving, the professional actors with the busy schedules can be brought in.

Collins and Shi decided they needed to cast an actual kid in the role, to give it an authenticity. After listening to auditions by many local actors, they found Rosalie Chiang.

“She was so charming,” says producer Collins. “She was 12 at the time, and she had a little bit of a lisp in her voice. She was weirdly confident…she just wasn’t polished. We worked with her for a year, and she started to inform the character. She WAS this girl, growing up, right in front of us.”

When the time came to cast the role for real, Collins and Shi were already on the same page.

“We just kind of looked at each other, ‘Do we even want to look at anyone else?’ One of our best days ever, what being able to offer her the job. We captured it on camera. We did read a fake script and did it on camera. She started to cry,” says Collins.

“It was the beginning of COVID, so I couldn’t hug her,” Shi remembers sadly.

Another casting coup for the film was 93-year-old James Hong, as wise old Mr. Gao, who tries to help remove Mei’s panda curse. Hong is one of the most prolific English-speaking actors of all time, with well over 600 film and TV credits, including local productions like “Big Trouble in Little China” and episodes of “The Streets of San Francisco” and “Nash Bridges. ”

Even though they only met Hong over Zoom, Collins and Shi were “starstruck.” They speak excitedly together: “He was so cool. He’s a total pro. He had two thermoses, for tea and water. As soon as we started rolling … I don’t know where this energy came from. He’s inexhaustible. He was ad-libbing, so funny. He wanted to take a selfie. He was telling us stories about his first gigs. And he sent a thank you afterwards. He types all in caps!”

“Killing Eve” star Sandra Oh was also an essential voice, performing the character of Mei’s mother, Ming.

“Ming is a tricky character,” says Collins. “You could see her coming off more arch or stereotypical or not likable. And Sandra came in and was able to ground her in a warmth and humor. She had this ability to switch on a dime from being at ’11’ to being very loving.”

In addition to Shi, Collins, and Chiang, another Bay Area resident proved essential on “Turning Red.” Playwright Julia Cho came to Northern California to work with Collins on a Pixar project that never saw the light of day.

“Pixar is not an easy place for a writer,” says Collins. “We’re weird. It takes forever. There’s always endless notes. It’s such a collaborative environment. You have to work with the story department. A lot of writers are like, ‘who’s idea was this?’”

“But Julia’s great,” Collins continues. “She’s a playwright, so she’s used to workshopping. She’s not precious.”

Cho magically fit right in to the Pixar environment, and when Collins introduced her to Shi, they clicked.

“Both of us are very close with our moms and we both have Asian backgrounds,” says Shi. “She’s down to work fast and make mistakes, which is my style too. We bonded over writing Mei because we both felt so close to her.”

Cho also helped Shi create Mei’s trio of “besties”… all except Abby.

“Abby is literally just inspired by my real-life friend,” says Shi. “She’s short, cute on the outside, but she’s a demon powerhouse with an incredible scream-o karaoke voice who will defend you in a bar fight.”

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Sweet summer romance turns into much more in the hands of playwright Lauren Yee as she explores the destructive power of fame in The Song of Summer. The show, which runs at the San Francisco Playhouse through August 14, also examines the choices we make that lead to unexpected consequences.

The story follows Robbie (Jeremy Kahn), an unusual singing sensation whose original melody has become the “song” of the summer. Unable to deal with his sudden fame and controversy over his song, Robbie runs to his small hometown and to the piano teacher (Anne Darragh) who encouraged his musical talent. He is surprised to find the daughter of his teacher Tina (Monica Ho) still at home. Robbie, who had a crush on Tina in high school, assumed she was pursuing the medical career she’d always wanted. Meanwhile, Robbie’s manager Joe (Reggie D. White) tracks down his AWOL star and tries to get him back to his performance and recording schedule.

Yee has given her characters a lot of interesting twists and turns and clever dialogue, but the main premise – Robbie as a rock star – just doesn’t quite fit. The key to his character and plot is his lack of confidence and awkwardness, which Kahn skillfully shows off. What doesn’t seem plausible is the opening sequence in which Robbie appears in front of an audience of mostly enthusiastic fans. His awkward movements show such a discomfort and discomfort in direct contrast to Tina’s comment on how he transforms into another person while singing – there is no transformation here.

Apart from this inconsistency, director Bill English skillfully helps his actors to discover the many nuances in their challenging characters, to move beautiful scenes and to create emotional climaxes. Ho as Tina vibrates with energy as she creates a sharp-tongued character full of barely hidden vulnerability. With white, there is also an energy and frustration just below the surface as it switches from one plan to another to get its star back on track. Meanwhile, Darragh embodies the supportive, adult, encouraging talent when she sees it, but also adds layers of deeper meaning with ease.

While English has considerable directing skills, he really outdoes himself with his scenic design. A spinning set (and a disciplined crew) move quickly from one scene to another with an extraordinary video backdrop that shifts from one image to another.

The San Francisco Playhouse is located at 450 Post St. Call 415-677-9596 or go online at sfplayhouse.org for tickets. Proof of vaccination is required and visitors are required to wear masks in the theater. For those who prefer to watch the show from home, on-demand video tickets are available.

Oakland Hills: Marriage will be the focus of August 6-22 when Woodminster Summer Musicals presents “I Do, I Do”. Harvey Schmidt and Tom Jones (the creative team responsible for “The Fantasticks”) have turned the lackluster piece “The Fourposter” into a touching story of two soul mates who have lived through 50 years of marriage. Directed by Joel Schlader with the musical direction by Mark Dietrich and the choreography by Sarah Pon and Blake Hennessy-York. Gary Stanford Jr. and Leslie Ivy play George and Agnes.

The focus of the action is the four-poster bed and according to managing director Harriet Schlader, the set had to be redesigned to accommodate the very large set piece! Performances take place in the Woodminster Amphitheater in Joaquin Miller Park. Seat assignments in the large facility are physically distant for security reasons and masks are required when moving around the facility. Tickets can be found at woodminster.com.

Oakland Plains: Unfortunately, the Oakland Theater Project had to cancel its personal performances of “The Dream Life of Malcolm X” due to COVID-19.

“We thank the patrons for their grace and understanding as we continue to try to navigate this new pandemic world by producing theater,” wrote Managing Director Colin Mandlin.

San Francisco: The Multi Ethnic Theater (MET) closed its live performance of “20th Century USA” on Sunday, but is hoping to offer the filmed version of the show in September. The production includes three one-act plays: George M. Cohan’s parody of a Broadway court drama “Common Clay”; William Inge’s story about autograph seekers and their prey “To Bobolink, For Her Spirit”; and Thornton Wilder’s road trip story, The Happy Journey to Trenton and Camden. Personal appearances will take place at the Phoenix Theater, 414 Mason St., Suite 601, San Francisco. Call 514-420-8000 for reservations.

Also in San Francisco: The Magic Theater has announced a personal gala on August 5th from 6pm to 9pm to celebrate its new Artistic Director, Sean San José.

“What we’re going to do is have a big, big old party for everyone. Join us for an outdoor affair, completely live. The night will include music, DJs, dance performances, our city’s poet laureate (San Francisco) and your host Wonway Posibul, ”said San José.

The event will take place outside the fire station at the Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture, 2 Marina Blvd., San Francisco. Tickets can be found at magictheatre.org.

Sally Hogarty can be reached at sallyhogarty@gmail.com. Read more of their reviews online at eastbaytimes.com/author/sally-hogarty.

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Although drier than it should be, “The World to Come” is a moving, suspenseful drama about the plight of two rural women caught in unhappy marriages. The friendship they form, which turns into love, is a thrill to witness when the film is at its brightest.

Directed by Mona Fastvold (“The Sleepwalker”) based on a script by Ron Hansen and Jim Shepard and based on Shepard’s short story of the same name, the film (streaming on demand from Friday) is reminiscent of Celine Sciamma’s “Portrait of a Lady on” Fire “, Francis Lee’s “Ammonit” and Sebastian Lelio’s “Disobedience” with his female love story and observations on the plight of women in the presented environment. Fastvold’s film takes place in New York State.

Low-key, well-read Abigail (Katherine Waterston) lives on a farm with her decent but aloof husband Dyer (Casey Affleck). The two have not had a romantic relationship since the death of their young daughter months ago. Dyer offers her another child, but Abigail longs for an atlas in isolation. She sees self-education as essential to cope with her misfortune.

As a supplement to Dyer’s methodical farm book, which only contains facts and figures, Abigail keeps a diary in which she describes her perceptions and feelings in detail.

“The water on the potatoes froze as soon as they were washed,” is a winter entry. “We start the new year with little pride and less hope.” Such a text, read by Abigail, serves as a narrative.

Desolation turns to joy when new neighbor Tallie (Vanessa Kirby) enters Abigail’s world. Tallie, who, like Abigail, has married in a life that gives women little opportunity for joy, has red hair and an exciting abandon, and she and the intelligent, learned Abigail fascinate one another.

The two become close friends and soon find each other in love.

They are so excited about what is happening to them that they barely acknowledge the dangerousness of the situation. Interestingly, filmmakers do not express concern about homophobia in society, but about jealousy and obsession in husbands. The biggest threat in this regard is Tallie’s controlling husband, Finney (Christopher Abbott).

Finney constantly rebukes Tallie for failing to do her “wifey duties”.

The drama gets darker as it progresses.

Compared to Sciamma’s film, which oozes emotion, Fastvold’s is a dry affair hampered by romantic montages and especially Abigail’s Terrence Malick-style voiceover. The frequent narration disrupts the interactions of the able actors rather than enhancing them.

But there is a lot of vitality and a satisfying romance emerges.

Waterston is a believable 19th century woman who drives covered wagons, milks cows, and quotes Shakespeare. Abigail is a kick as she comes out of her bowl, inspired by Tallie.

Kirby’s Tallie may be too modern a creature to exist in the mid-19th century, but she is such a force of vigor that credibility issues hardly matter. She animates Abigail and the film. Together the women create some splendid sparks.

The film also features quaint exterior scenes, rustic interiors, an expressive clarinet score by Daniel Blumberg, and cartographic annotations that reflect the Atlas theme.

REVIEW

The world to come

★★★

With: Katherine Waterston, Vanessa Kirby, Casey Affleck and Christopher Abbott

Directed by: Mona Fastvold

Written by: Ron Hansen, Jim Shepard

Rated: R.

running time: 1 hour 38 minutes

Elizabeth Lo’s “Stray” follows the adventures of homeless dogs in Istanbul. (Courtesy Magnolia Pictures)

“Stray” – streaming from March 5th in Roxie’s virtual cinema and on March 10th at the Fort Mason Flix Drive-In – follows three homeless dogs roaming the Istanbul countryside, and director Elizabeth Lo also reflects on capturing their everyday lives the unwanted human inhabitants of the Turkish city. This isn’t the first film about the plight of stray dogs – last year we released Space Dogs and Marona’s Fantastic Tale to start with. But Lo’s take on the subject has produced a uniquely thoughtful documentary.

The film was shot in the streets, parks and squares of Istanbul, a city where the killing of stray dogs is illegal and a lack of narratives and “kedi” -like respondents. It shows urban life largely from the perspective of a dog. Tan mongrel Zeytin, the anchor dog, and the costars Nazar and Kartal show the way, while a ground-level camera films them looking for food, drinking from a fountain, poking over a bone, enjoying a pat on the head and being sprayed by a critic’s hose and howling in a priceless scene.

Dog-related quotes from ancient Greek philosophers comment on the dog’s inner character.

Overhead voices recorded by Lo from couples, tourists, authorities, equal protesters, and scary young homeless Syrian refugees sniffing glue – issues ranging from work permits to clean drainage – represent Istanbul’s human flow. At some point, the Syrian boys who want a dog for a companion steal Kartal from the construction site where the guards are watching over puppies.

You won’t find much action or narration here. If the film was longer than 72 minutes, we might be bored.

However, when one considers the plight of the Zeytin canines coupled with the plight of the human refugees, immigrants, and other Istanbul residents who are considered inferior beings, the film solidifies into a moving brooding of what it means to be an outcast, and about our tendency to equate value with social acceptance and validity with documentation.

REVIEW

Strays

★★★

With: Olive, Evil Eye, Eagle

Directed by: Elizabeth Lo

Not rated

running time: 1 hour, 12 minutes

Movies and television

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