Get to know the people behind the scenes at Orli. This month, we’re spotlighting Haley Heinz, our Director of Operations. From early morning guest touchpoints to behind-the-scenes coordination, Haley plays a key role in making every stay feel thoughtful, seamless, and special. Here, she shares a peek into her day-to-day, her favorite La Jolla gems, and what she’s most excited about this year at Orli.

 

Q: Can you walk us through a typical day for you at Orli?

Absolutely! Every day at Orli is a little different, but that’s part of what makes it so enjoyable. A typical day usually begins with checking in on our team and ensuring everything is running smoothly for current guests – think morning coffee setups, coordinating housekeeping, and preparing special pre-arrival touches.

Throughout the day, I frequently connect with guests, handle special requests, and ensure their experience feels thoughtful and personalized. I also work closely with our guest experience team to keep everything aligned, from room readiness to any ongoing events or partnerships we have.

It’s a wonderful balance of hospitality, creativity, and behind-the-scenes coordination, and it’s always rewarding to see guests enjoying their stay!

 

Q: What’s your favorite part about working at Orli and being part of the team?

There’s so much I love about working at Orli, but if I had to choose, it would be the sense of community and care, both within our team and with our guests. Everyone here genuinely wants to create a special experience, and that shared passion makes it such a positive and inspiring place to be.

Additionally, no two days are the same. Whether it’s curating a memorable stay, collaborating on creative ideas, or simply sharing a laugh with the team, every moment feels meaningful and rewarding. Being part of a team that truly supports one another makes all the difference.

 

Q: You’ve lived in La Jolla for a while—what are some of your favorite local spots?

La Jolla has so many gems! A few of my favorite spots include Bird Rock Coffee Roasters for an excellent cup of coffee and some great people-watching, as well as The Cottage for a cozy brunch. When I’m looking to unwind, I love taking walks along the Coast Walk Trail or catching the sunset at Windansea Beach. It truly never gets old. La Jolla really offers a little bit of everything: it’s beachy, relaxed, and full of character!

 

Q: Where do you usually go to unwind or spend your time off?

On my days off, I’m all about relaxing vibes, grabbing a coffee at a local café, exploring farmers markets, or relaxing at home, soaking up the sunshine with an audiobook playing in the background. San Diego has so many great little neighborhoods to explore, so there’s always something new to check out.

 

Q: What’s your go-to coffee order and where do you usually grab it?

I’m all about anything with espresso, but my current fixation is “The Best Drink Ever” at Better Buzz. It has just the right amount of sweetness and strength, and it totally hits the spot every time.

 

Q: Any hidden gems in La Jolla you think more people should know about?

One of my favorite hidden gems in La Jolla is the Coast Walk Trail. It’s a peaceful little path with stunning ocean views, and it feels like a secret escape even though it’s right near the village.

El Pescador Fish Market is another low-key spot I love, with super fresh seafood and a laid-back vibe. And if you’re into local shops, Warwick’s is the oldest family-owned bookstore in the country, and it’s such a charming place to wander.

 

Q: What’s one guest experience or moment that’s really stuck with you?

One moment that really stuck with me was when a couple staying with us celebrated their anniversary. They hadn’t planned anything special, but we were able to surprise them with a small setup, including champagne and a handwritten note. They were so touched, and it made me realize how small gestures can create such meaningful memories. It was an incredibly rewarding moment to know we played a part in making their celebration unforgettable.

 

Q: What are you most excited about at Orli this year?

I’m most excited about the continued growth and community engagement at Orli this year. We have some incredible events lined up, including our upcoming Pilates sessions in partnership with SaltVault, along with many other exciting initiatives. Moments like these truly highlight our commitment to crafting meaningful experiences for our guests.

Additionally, I’m incredibly proud of the personalized guest experiences we offer. From curated stays to our tech-forward Orli Portal, we are always innovating to ensure every guest has a unique and memorable experience.

It’s an exciting time to be part of the Orli team, and I’m looking forward to everything the rest of the year has in store.

 

Q: How would you describe the Orli experience to someone who’s never stayed before?

The Orli experience is all about modern luxury with a personal touch. From the moment you step onto the property, you’re welcomed into a warm, boutique atmosphere where every detail is designed for comfort and ease. We offer a combination of stylish, thoughtfully curated spaces and a team dedicated to making every stay feel unique and memorable.

Whether it’s enjoying a peaceful morning in our lush courtyard, relaxing in one of our beautifully designed rooms, or participating in one of our curated events, Orli perfectly blends laid-back elegance and sophisticated charm. It’s a place where you can feel right at home while indulging in a bit of luxury.

 

Q: If you had to design your perfect La Jolla day from morning to night, what would it look like?

If I were to design my perfect La Jolla day, it would begin with a peaceful sunrise walk along the Coast Walk Trail, taking in the stunning coastal views and the serene atmosphere of the ocean. Afterward, I’d stop by a local café for coffee, and depending on how the day’s shaping up, it might even need an extra shot of espresso to kick things off!

For breakfast, I’d head to The Cottage, then spend a couple of hours exploring La Jolla Cove and watching the sea lions. It’s always so fun to see them up close.

In the afternoon, I’d enjoy lunch at George’s at the Cove, which offers excellent food and beautiful views. Afterward, I’d take a leisurely stroll around La Jolla Village, popping into quirky boutiques and perhaps stopping by the Museum of Contemporary Art.

To wind down the day, I’d grab a spot at Windansea Beach to watch the sunset, followed by dinner at the Marine Room, you really can’t beat their views.

To end the night, I’d head back to Orli to relax, maybe unwind with a book, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance.