March’s US Spa of the Month is the stunning The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. The resort is located halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, and sits on a 150-foot cliff with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, and sandy beach as far as the eye can see. Opened in August 1984, this reimagined surfside retreat redefines guests standards by creating unforgettable moments that embrace the oceanfront location.
From sea-inspired spa treatments and locally sourced restaurant menus to ocean view accommodations, family-friendly eco-adventure excursions, and unique surfboard displays. The iconic resort emphasizes unparalleled Ritz-Carlton service that they are so famous for, whilst also delivering guests a genuinely heartfelt experience with a playful approach to luxury.
Accommodation:
Inspired by the property’s beachfront location, the 396 guestrooms including 29 suites feature ocean-inspired décor, airy layouts, and private balconies overlooking the Pacific Ocean or the resort garden and pool. Marble adorns every bathroom, including exclusive Asprey Bath essentials for a truly luxurious experience. For a warm yet relaxed ambiance, a selection of guestrooms includes personal outdoor fireplaces, providing a great ending to a Southern California stay.
Restaurants and Bars:
RAYA, by acclaimed Chef Richard Sandoval, is a tantalizing restaurant with a view and Restaurant Chef Jaclyn Corrales at helm. While enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean, RAYA showcases Pan-Latin coastal cuisine prepared with sustainable seafood, local produce, natural and organic meats and Chef Richard Sandoval’s signature Latin flavors. Offering a healthy take on fast casual dining, The Market Place makes for the perfect destination for guests and locals seeking a quick bite. Utilizing fresh, organic ingredients, the menu features espresso, coffee, smoothies, and housemade pastries, along with sandwiches, salads, and a handful of grab-and-go options. Bar RAYA is a gathering place in the casual confines of the bar’s sophisticated, yet friendly atmosphere. Guests and locals alike can enjoy craft cocktails, wines by the glass, and appetizers, while taking in stunning ocean views at the stylized bar. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Open from 1 p.m. to 12 a.m., Monday through Thursday; and 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m., Friday through Sunday.
Spa:
Using elements of the ocean to restore balance, The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a comprehensive wellness journey and 12 treatment rooms. All of the rooms are bathed in soft hues of aqua and beige, while tranquil water features add to the overall sensory experience. High-style locker rooms, public spaces, and saunas ensure a soothing aura throughout. Spa treatments, from massages to skin therapies, embrace the resort’s natural surroundings by incorporating sea salt, minerals, and water to leave guests feeling refreshed and renewed. For an added wellness experience, the resort features a fully-equipped fitness center with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offers daily morning yoga and pilates classes. Classes are complimentary and only available for in-house guests.
Eco-Adventure Center:
The Eco-Adventure Center truly inspires guests with unique ecosystems, providing a variety of excursions dedicated to showcasing the area’s natural wonders. Families, kids, and adults learn through experience as each excursion is led by an expert naturalist or marine biologist, while the local surroundings become a natural classroom and living laboratory. Signature program options include whale watching, on-site garden tours followed by a cooking class, local tide pool exploration, seaside hikes, surfing lessons, and more.
Awards:
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel has been the recipient of many awards over the years, such as:
- AAA Five Diamond since 1984
- Forbes Travel Guide Four Stars
- U.S. News & World Report’s Best California Hotels 2018
- Condé Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Coice Awards List, 2015-2019; Gold List, 2014; Best Spas in the World, 2014
- Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Hotels 2015
- Orange County Register’s 75 Best Restaurants List, 2017-2019
Thank you for reading.