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This review is based solely on the Surf and Sand Spa and Splashes restaurant. I can't believe I forgot to review this place last year when we went here for a spa day; I blame it on being soooo relaxed and maybe a little tipsy from the champagne.
I digress, The Surf and Sand is the ultimate in luxury, without being stuck up or snotty. One of my favorite things about the Surf and Sand was being treated like a Queen, but they also make you feel comfortable; unlike some spas I've been to where I feel like I'm not allowed to speak or touch anything. The facialist, massage therapist and the manicurist were all so friendly and sociable, but when I wanted to just be quite and daze off, they were very accommodating to that as well.
After our amazing treatments, we headed down to Splashes for some dinner and drinks. Oh me, oh my, I could not IMAGINE a better view! Overlooking the crashing waves on a beautiful September evening...I'm pretty sure that's my definition of "heaven" :) They had a great selection of champagne, the tapenade was to die for and the most memorable thing about the dinner, you ask? The french fries! Yes, we're ladies, but we're also connoisseurs of all thing "french" and "fried". We ordered a side of fries to share...then another...and another. To be honest, my salad was really, really, great...but there was really nothing else in the world at that moment that mattered to me as much as those delicious french fries!
If I could come to the Surf and Sand everyday and be pampered, I would do so in stride. But until that day comes, I'll be happy enjoying it as a special little treat :)
People thought this was:
Went here for a friend's wedding.
While the building itself looks like an old apartment building converted into a hotel, once you get into the room you realize what an amazing location this is. Every single room faces the water, and it is literally right beneath you. Quite stunning.
On the other hand, the sound of the waves is pretty loud. I am totally fine with this, and even enjoy it, but for some people who have to sleep in an absolutely silent environment, it might be a bit painful.
Our friend's wedding was held on one of the verandas, facing the ocean of course. It was the most beautiful setting.
Perfect for a weekend getaway if you live anywhere in California - so worth it. The area is walkable too, and there are cute restaurants around so you don't have to drive. Reminds me a bit of Malibu.
OMG...when can I move in? Seriously, I want to live here! Seriously!!!
I was fortunate to stay here several days for a recent business meeting, and I can't wait to go back to enjoy the experience again on my own personal time.
My room was lush and fantastic, and if I jumped off my balcony I would have landed in the crashing waves that lulled me to sleep at night. Having said that, the views were amazing! Coastline, crashing waves, and beach frontage. What's not to enjoy?
Speaking of views, the on-site restaurant Splashes is steps from the sand. With a wonderful menu and small inviting bar, it will be a place I take out-of-town visitors for sunset dinners and Sunday brunches for years to come.
While I didn't have time to enjoy a day at the pool, I did sit and stick my feet in for a few minutes...and wished I could have laid poolside with a margarita like one of TV's "Real Housewives of Orange County" was doing while I was there. The spa seemed pricey, but if the quality was as good as the rest of my experiences at Surf and Sand, I have no doubt it would be worth every penny.
The only consideration I would keep in mind is that it is a little on the expensive side. Room rates were well over $400 per night. But for an occasional indulgence...perfect!!!
People thought this was:
This hotel is gorgeous! We went here for a business meeting and didn't want to leave! When we walked into our room, we noticed the design - first class. However, the best part was when we walked onto our balcony... We opened the door (it was in the evening so it was dark out). To our pleasant surprise, we saw the beautiful ocean and the crashing waves - it was RIGHT outside our window! They hotel lit the beach up so you could see it at any time of the day.
It's a pricey hotel... but if you have the money - you MUST go! If you don't.. save up for at least one night :-)
Five stars because the view is fabulous and the food fits the wonderful atmosphere. What an amazing location. In fact, it's a little at odds with the appearance, the architecture. Takes on a kind of old-fashioned, yesteryear-modern feel. Hey, its part of it's charm. Love the restaurant and I love the visit but most of all I love the view ! And doesn't this hotel have a quaint title? Surf & Sand. Waikiki, here I come!
People thought this was:
This is my all time favorite hotel in laguna beach. All the rooms have views of the ocean, and it's the only resort that sits right on the sand! The rooms are nicely decorated, and the tub has jacuzzi jets. It's definitely great for a romantic evening. My boyfriend took me here for valentine's day, and my oh my - it took my breath away.
It's not a huge resort, but it's got a personal cozy feel to it. They charge for parking, and the restaurant is expensive, but the bar is nice with views of the ocean!
We stayed in room 410. It was right on the sand and at night the water came right up to our room! For dinner we ordered room service and it was absolutely delicious! We ate on our balcony as the sun was setting... we had the best view for dinner and it only cost $75!!!
Pros: dolphins, beautiful ocean view, comfy pool loungers, nice hot tub, ipod dock in the room, friendly staff, GREAT MOJITOS, mirrors everywhere in the room, very comfortable bed, amazing room service
Cons: shower splashes on the floor (poor design), wi-fi didn't seem to work, lots of kids at the pool (could be a pro for families)
People thought this was:
Love the interior...beautifull meditteranean feel!!! The oceanfront bar is the best place around to watch the sunset and have a drink!!!!
overated! hotel not nice at all, its average so is restaurants Splashes. I do like the ocean view bar at bottom level, view is spectacular!
I was lucky enough to stay at Surf & Sand this weekend with a small group (28) crazy people, What a great time was had by our group of alcoholic degenerates, First the rooms have a perfect ocean view, I suggest you leave the sliding door open the sound of the waves at night are loud but very calming unless you drink to much at the bar( as I raise my hand shyly), the service staff here are very nice and attentive. I didn't use the spa but the people err degenerates in our group said it was fantastic!
Splashes restaurant has a really good breakfast and dinner , This place is a must stay casual clean relaxing ,I will visit again soon
People thought this was:
Only been here for drinks and appetizers, but it's a nice place right on the water. Come during high-tide and the waves will smack right into the restaurant windows. The scene is definitely older here.
Awesome location! Great Rooms, fun pool. The hotel almost has it all except for multiple restaurants. I highly recommend this place.
Surf & Sand just OOZES new money. Christian Audigier tees, True Religion denim, Betsey Johnson luggage, Sevens, Juicy Couture weekend bags left and right! Everywhere I turn!
Also, they have extremely attractive concierge and valet boys. I have come to the realization that Southern California hotels hire part-time models as their valet boys. Seriously.
Hi, I'm shallow! :)
People thought this was:
OK fellow Yelper"s...if you are going to spend the night in Laguna Beach this is the ONLY hotel to consider! I have spent many a weekend staying here and have never, ever been disappointed in anything. The rooms are all ocean view, nicely furnished, very clean, great service, friendly front desk, and they will do everything within their power to make your stay as comfortable and care free as they can.
Their restaurant is really good as well...no reservations? Well, if you are staying there you go to the top of the list when you call...food is excellently prepared...view is stunning!!!
They have a great website that I go on to see what is going on and they email me with great (!!!) offers and specials. I can't think of the site address at this time...get back to you on this.
Anyway, expensive...YES...soooooooooo worth it, aren't we?
OK-got website: http://www.surfnsand-r.../
People thought this was:
This is THE best resort I have stayed at in my life. Ever. For serial.
Shared a room with my brother for my cousin's wedding for a weekend, and it was heaven on earth. White Egyptian Cotton bajillion thread count sheets and cozy goose down comforters and pillows on the queen size beds. Our balcony was hanging right above perfect blue Laguna Beach waves. Room service was killer. There was even a Boise iPod dock (and this was about two years ago). The pool and jacuzzi are lovely, there is an on site spa, and really it was the best sleep I have ever had in a hotel. The place is literally heaven on earth in Laguna, and you feel seriously pampered. Sadly I will not be returning until I have disposable income. Who knows when that will be.
People thought this was:
the view was to kill for and it was very nice surrouding but the food is ok
it is more for look then taste
but if u have a date, yeah take her here but if u r a foodie
then u might have to look somewhere else
People thought this was:
I truly enjoyed my stay and found the staff to be very helpful and professional. My room was FANTABULOUS and I fell asleep to the sound of the waves all night long. If you need a getaway, this is it.
One of the best experiences of my life was had at Surf & Sand. This is where my fiancee proposed to me and it certainly couldn't have gotten any better. From the moment we arrived at the resort the service was impeccable, from the valet parking to the room service, the staff was friendly and helpful. We were given free drink tickets when we arrived because we had to wait for our room, and I highly recommend the raspberry mojito in the bar.
Ryan had told the hotel in advance about the special occasion, and they definitely went to great lengths to ensure that the time was memorable, When we arrived we were given a bottle of champagne which we toasted while looking at the gorgeous views of the ocean. Our room was on the top floor so we didn't have a balcony - but the huge jacuzzi bathtub was almost in the middle of the room and was open to the outside views. The rooms itself was gorgeously furnished with the most comfortable bed, etc. We walked along the beach, then at sunset Ryan proposed - it was truly amazing.
We went to an fantastic dinner at the hotel's restaurant, where the server provided us with a complimentary chocolate dessert with the words "Congratulations" written on it. When we went back to our room -lo and behold - another bottle of champagne, romantic music playing, chocolate covered strawberries and candles covering the room - it was like a dream! The next morning we awoke to the sounds of the ocean and ordered room service -- included with the price of the room. If you want to be treated like royalty -- go to the surf and sand -- it is pricey but you won't regret it!
People thought this was:
Check out MY PHOTOS to see why I think the Surf & Sand Resort is awesome. While sitting in my bedroom overlooking the ocean, I remember thinking, "I could be happy just watching the waves and listening to the surf forever." The view is so gorgeous, and the ocean sounds are so relaxing. It's really an incredible experience!
So incredible in fact, that I can't believe they didn't name it something better than "Surf & Sand." It's a 5 Star resort whose name makes you think it would be a cheap motel rather than a luxury resort. Kinda sounds like "Surf & Turf!" Come on marketing folks, get more creative!
Okay, I'm done analyzing their marketing - I always do that, wherever I go, I can't stop.
Surf & Sand Resort is the PERFECT place to go for a romantic getaway or a business trip... I prefer the latter, because staying at this hotel is pricy (but worth it), but even better when your company or a client picks up the bill for the expensive hotel stay! =)
Not too many guests bring children... the guests I saw were mostly business professionals and couples looking for a romantic getaway. I saw 2 or 3 couples with small infants, but that's it.
EXCELLENT SERVICE AND ATTITUDE
Every staff member I came in contact with were super courteous and polite, and super willing to help. Awesome customer service that went beyond my expectations.
GREAT ROOMS with an OCEAN VIEW!
Not only are the common areas of the resort gorgeous, the rooms are great as well. Nicely furnished and comfortable, I loved every minute of my stay. The rooms ALL have an awesome OCEAN VIEW... you can relax in your room and listen to the sounds of the waves crashing on the beach... ahh, I love it.
CHECK OUT MY PICS OF THE RESORT for more reasons to stay here.
People thought this was:
One of the hands down faves in my book in terms of checking out an awesome SoCal sunset.
If you aren't lucky enough to be staying at the hotel or aren't dining at the roof top restaurant...stroll on into the bar area after valet parking your car. Grab a mojito, sit at a table...or better yet, get into the pool area and plot your ass on a cushy lounge chair. You can stare out over the Pacific Ocean and watch the sun disappear on the horizon. SO fantastic, relaxing, awe-inspiring and stunning.
One of the nicest hotels in the Laguna Beach/DP area...
People thought this was:
I have been to Surf and Sand resort serveral times. I have to say it is one of the best ocean front hotel you can find on the west coast. I and my friends enjoy going there for the bar in afternoon. Its dinner is really good, but their breakfast is not as great. It is a pricy place, but it worth every peny.
There's nothing more amazing than opening your balcony door and being 20 feet from the surf. I mean, I don't really even like the beach but it was just spectacular. Be sure to request an oceanfront room and not a room overlooking the pool.
Staff was polite...when I called to remind them that they hadn't cleaned our room, someone was at the door in less than five minutes. The food at the restaurant was excellent although typically hotel-overpriced.
I was there for a wedding and got the wedding rate. But this place loses a star because the normal rate is $550/night for an oceanfront room and while it's nice, it's not THAT nice. But it was a great weekend away.
People thought this was:
Stayed Thursday nite for a business conference.
The Setting:
Classic OC Beachfront resort. Right on PCH. Valet parking only.
The Crowd:
Birthday party celebration, Southern Cal tourists, few kids. Overall not crowded at all.
Something Unique:
Every unit has an ocean view! It is the ultimate soothing experience to listen to the rhythmic ocean waves to put you to sleep. And when you wake up in the morning you see the bright and clean beach awaits right in front of the balcony. Great walk on the sand especially if you can catch the sunset.
The Food:
It was conference food. The flour-less chocolate cake was quite good. The spinach-stuffed chicken was slightly dry but given it's a mass catering, acceptable. (See pics) Paired with 2002 Rosenblum Zinfandel Annette's Reserve: Nose was full of blackberries, leather, and smoke. Taste was medium bodied and finish was moderately long 30 seconds, low tannin.
The Service:
The front desk, concierge, valet, and catering staff are all attentive as well as courteous. Originially assigned to single King-sized bed by mistake next to a very loud party. Staff was able to change to 3rd floor two-queen bed room in the same building as the lobby (5th floor).
Overall Experience:
Great view of the ocean in case you get bored with the 42" LCD TV in the room with CD/DVD player. Has iHome clock radio with iPod dock (forgot to bring mine) Basic news/weather internet is free but to access email it would cost $14.99 for 24-hour access. Checked the rate for the nite it ranged from $385 to $1,150. For that price at least include free unlimited email access!
People thought this was:
I was recently afforded the great opportunity to enjoy a much needed weekend getaway at Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach. The first thing I noticed as the valet opened my car door was the sound of crashing waves from the beach just steps away. From this moment, it seemed as if all the worries and stress resulting from a very long week at work had just been washed away by the waves below me.
Upon check in, I was greeted with a warm welcome from the front desk agent who was kind enough to offer me an upgraded corner unit room in the Towers building. As I entered my room, I was immediately impressed by the attractive furnishings providing an ambiance of comfortable simplicity paired with elegant luxury. The room included an oversized bathroom equipped with a double vanity in addition to a separate shower and Jacuzzi tub providing extra convenience for guests. A seemingly oversized king bed was positioned in such a way that I was actually able to take pleasure in the incredible ocean views while relaxing in bed. The large sofa sleeper couch was positioned similarly and offered an excellent spot to lay back and read a book while listening to the calming waves. The room also provided a large flat screen plasma television with a DVD player as well as an iPod home docking station which I immediately made use of.
I was lucky enough to have arrived at the resort before sunset, so the first item on my agenda was to plant myself on my private furnished balcony directly above the sand and take in the breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Words cannot explain the feeling of euphoria that was bestowed upon me as I sat silently and watched the sun drop behind Catalina Island illuminating the sky in a collage of brilliant colors. The greatest benefit of having a room on the North corner of this building was that it provided an unobstructed panoramic view of the coastline from the balcony as well as the room awarding me a first class seat for this incredible experience. I would certainly say this is what sets these Executive Towers rooms apart from the Premium Towers rooms and it is absolutely worth the minimal upgrade fee.
The remainder of my evening consisted of a visit to the Aquaterra Spa where I enjoyed an excellent Swedish massage from a therapist who seemed to be very experienced. The amenities for spa guests included a steam room, hydro spa, and peaceful lounge area assisting in the relaxation process. After my treatment, I had dinner in the ocean front restaurant called Splashes. The restaurant was small in size but very large in all that it had to offer. The views were spectacular and the personalized service was superior. The wine list was extensive and the chef had prepared an impeccable menu featuring steak, chicken, and plenty of seafood dishes.
I woke up the next morning to the calming sound of the waves and observed the astonishing coastal views from the comfort of my bed. Once my breakfast arrived, I had the pleasure of dining on my balcony and soaking up the warm sun. It wasn't too long before I looked out to the ocean and witnessed a school of dolphins swimming playfully right off the shore. It was a sight that some people don't get a chance to admire even once in a lifetime. Needless to say, it was the perfect ending to a perfect visit to this unparalleled resort and it left me thinking, "I wish I could stay just one more night."
I love it here. An ocean front room is simply like heaven.
It is a private boutique type hotel-peaceful and relaxing.
Call room service and order coffee when you wake up in the morning(it is delicious) and take in the ocean smell and the sound of the waves crashing before you.
I recommend this hotel over any in Laguna.
Let me preface this review with a few things.
(1) I am not cheap. I have no problem paying for premium goods and services.
(2) I am not unfamiliar with what a $500+ a night hotel is.
The Surf & Sand is not a $500+ a night experience. I have stayed here before in the tower, top floor, and had a good experience. That was 6 years ago. I don't know what happened, but since then there have been some "modifications" - and not for the better.
What you get (and don't get) for $500:
- You get a nice friendly staff
- You get an okay sized 1-bedroom suite (this was an upgrade)
- You get a nice big LCD television that you can only view from sitting at from the desk
- You get no wireless, so you'll be sitting at the desk anyway, where you can connect your laptop to the network via Ethernet ($13)
- You get no screens in the windows
- You do get some wooden doors, but to keep the room cool you have to keep them open.
- You get no air conditioning
- You get lots of bugs flying around your room - mainly moths
- You get to hear everyone walking by your room
- You get to sit on some really uncomfortable and ugly furniture, appearing to have been purchased at Target (nothing wrong with that, just not in a $500+ per night room)
- You get to feel like you just got taken advantage of
- You wish you were home
- You have no choice, you must valet
- You (might as I have) get a ceiling fan that doesn't work when you arrive
- You get a dual head shower that only pumps out pressure enough for 1 head
- You (and this one I am assuming) get woken up in the morning by screaming children and other annoying early-risers - but this is not proven yet.
- You do get to use some nice new cardio machines at the gym
- You can purchase a nice coffee at the coffeeshop
- You can get average food at Splash (that's another story)
Seriously, don't let these guys get away with this. Laguna is just not that great, and this hotel is a grand example of the over-hype the area has taken advantage of.
And again, to be clear, the staff are super nice. It's not their fault that the public doesn't demand the owners of this place don't clean up their act.
Sitting on vacation and wishing you were at home means you should have stayed someplace else.
Stay out of Laguna, Lebowski.
People thought this was:
we came here for our anniversary dinner and wanted a dinner to remember. after a few mai tais it was a little less than memorable. but still! the mai tais were very tasty.. so i seached yelp to find a highly-rated restaurant, and people were just raving about S&S.
we ordered an appetizer, and that ended up being enough for me. for my entree, i had the salmon, which was alright. it had a vanilla glaze, which was an akward mix for the palette. my handsome date had a steak entree, which was akwardly flavored, but cooked perfect.
of course, although i close to skipped the entree in itself, we had dessert. it, too, was a strange version of a traditional dessert.
BUT, the restaurant is beautiful. the staff is wonderfully nice and helpful, and the setting makes for an incredible date night. we sat outside, with only a glass wall separating us from the beach. i would come for cocktails, and probably a stay. but for dinner? stick with something simple.
my friend's wedding was held here over the weekend, and it was an excellent experience. the ceremony was held on the catalina terrace, which overlooks the water. this is as close to the beach as you can get!! the view from the terrace is amazing and makes you feel like you are on the water.
the bridal party's rooms were on the terrace as well, so you basically walk out the door and can step right into the ceremony. the rooms are stocked w/ aveda products and makes you feel like you are at a resort. the beds are cushy and comfy as well. you can also work out at the gym for free if you stay at the hotel.
the spa here is pretty nice and is well stocked w/ cookies and tea! the spa facilities are on the older side, but there is a steam room, jacuzzi (outside!) and showers, which are pretty nice.
People thought this was:
I took my parents here for their anniversary and they loved it! The hotel is on the sand! The rooms here are beautiful!! It's so spacious and each room has it's own balcony, where you can sit and watch the sunset. The king bed is nice and fluffy, with goose down comforter. The bathtub is enough for 2 people, with a separate shower. It's a great place to bring your significant other to "WOW" them. They also have a beautiful restaurant (Splash Restaurant) inside the hotel that overlooks the ocean...just beautiful!
People thought this was:
Great selection on wine and spirits. I came here for a late night drink and was pleased with the recommended selection (Conn Creek 2003). Bartender was knowledgeable and attentive. Great outdoor seating. Warm ambiance with heat lamps nearby. Great place to bring a date!
Staff is accomodating & polite. You RILLLY are on the surf and sand. I've always stayed in an oceanfront balcony room, so I don't know how the other rooms are. Love it.
This is one of my favorite places to stay with my husband for a romantic get-a-way. It's extremely expensive but you get pampered extremely well. They even have in-room massages for couples! Their restaurant, Splashes is lovely! Once we stayed there and it was kind of cool outside. When we went to Splashes the only table they had available was on the patio. They set up a heater next to us. And as we were enjoying our lunch it started to rain. The waiter came over and offered to put up the umbrella, but we declined because it was just so romantic. The rooms are wonderful with views of the ocean that are beautiful. You can even view the dolfins as they swim on by. The staff is wonderful. The food is great. If you're looking to really relax you must visit the Surf and Sand.
Laguna Beach, CA
Category: Hotels
Laguna Beach, CA
Category: French
Laguna Beach, CA
Category: American (New)
Laguna Beach, CA
Category: Hotels
Laguna Beach, CA
Category: Hotels
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