Spots buzz with sweet activities

Here’s a honey of an idea: a hotel with an apiary where bees are kept. You’ll learn why bees are important, and you may get to sample their honey or help as a beekeeper. Here are five spots in the West to get acquainted. (If you are allergic to bee stings, this is probably not for you.)

Ojai Valley Inn & Spa

Ojai Valley Inn & Spa offers a new immersive experience (includes beekeeping suits) for guests at its new Discover Ojai Center. Info, cost: For those 12 and older. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily (book at least 48 hours in advance). 90 minutes; $150 per person. (800) 422-6524, lat.ms/ojaivalleybees

Carmel Valley Ranch

The property in Carmel lets Bee Experience guests do beekeeping tasks, including harvesting honey. Info, cost: The Bee Experience costs $75 for adults, $50 for children 6-12.. (831) 6262507, lat.ms/carmelvalleybees

Calistoga Ranch

Calistoga Ranch in Northern California, which escaped fire damage, offers honey-infused treatments at its Auberge Spa ($280 and up) and honey-inspired dishes at Lakehouse restaurant. Head groundskeeper Juan Luis will guide you through a secret garden to the hives. Cost, info: Reserve the free tour at least 24 hours in advance. (855) 942-4220, lat.ms/ calistogabees

Miraval Arizona

Miraval Arizona in Tucson offers “All the Buzz — The Bee Experience,” a two-hour mix of lecture, interactive beekeeping class and tasting; “Bees: What’s the Story?” a free lecture and discussion of bee-related issues; and “Honey: A Sensual Journey,” akin to a wine tasting. Cost, info: “All the Buzz” is $150; “Honey” is $100 for a 60-minute tasting. (855) 234-1672, lat.ms/miravalbees.

Fairmont Waterfront, Canada

Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver is one of more than 20 Fairmont properties with an on-site apiary. It has four beehives on the third floor and a full “bee hotel” on the roof. In summer, the bee butler offers daily tours. Cost, info: Summertime tours are free. (866) 540-4509, lat.ms/fairmontbees