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The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Category: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels
1 Ritz Carlton DrDana Point, CA 92629
(949) 240-2000
Announcement
Official Site: Special Offers
Click here for Special Offers at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel. Your Vacation begins here.
bit.ly/mu35mO
- Price Range:
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$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Paid
- Dogs Allowed:
- Yes
166 reviews for The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Review Highlights
"The ocean view lined with the beautiful houses is inspiring."
(in 23 reviews)
"To say the least the wedding went off without a hitch."
(in 32 reviews)
"Welcome to my favorite hotel in Orange County."
(in 11 reviews)
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166 reviews in English
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Review from Tami D.
1/4/2012 5 photos
This is one of my favorite resorts. This property is stunning, and the customer service is beyond amazing. Spending the day here was a wonderful way to start the New Year!
I hadn't been to this resort in many years, and what a great weekend we picked to go! The weather was perfect, and the customer service was as good as I remembered. Jess checked us in and was extremely helpful. It was nice to remember why this Ritz Carlton location has by far the best service of any hotel in this area.
The property is still as beautiful as ever. The Christmas trees, gingerbread boat and lighthouse displays, and the lights were still up from the holidays. It was so nice to see these pretty displays before they were taken down the following day. I love the holiday season and was glad to hold on to this feeling for as long as possible.
The magic doesn't end here. The spa, restaurants, pools, and coastal views are breathtaking. It was so nice to walk to the beach in the morning, enjoying the wonderful ocean views.
As with many older resorts, the only thing that could probably be improved upon is the updating of the rooms. Since the last time we were here (which has been a really long time), there have been little changes to the rooms themselves. But this really wasn't that big of a deal.
The most remarkable thing about this resort (besides the ocean views) is the customer service. Everyone that works here, including valets, room service, and front staff, are really focused on each visitor having an amazing stay.
With extraordinary customer service and awe-inspiring views, the Ritz Carlton will remain one of the best resorts in Orange Country. -
Review from Laura P.
Seattle, WA
2/8/2012
Not so quiet luxury, unless you stay on a week night. We enjoyed relative silence until the weekend rolled around. You are paying primarily for location, location, location since they skimped on sound insulation. Expect to be able to hear your neighbors' music and conversation, even if they are down the hall. Ask for a room near the Monarch wing's quiet pool if your room overlooks the pool, as the Dana pool can get spirited on the weekend evenings due to wedding parties, etc.
Service was ok- not exceeding or over the top. Unless you count the lollipop bouquets that they offer kiddos, it was industry standard service.
The food from Raya was fine but pricey. An app of shrimp & mushroom quesadillas ($14) consisted of 10 bites. They were two potsticker sized "quesadillas"- really two small dough circles closed in a half-moon. Did I mention the 10 bites? Tasty but not exceptional. Breakfast is a better bet- got the American that came with coffee, fresh squeezed oj, eggs, ham, potatoes, grilled veg & toast. Given that oj and tea was $5- $7 the previous evening, the American was the way to go. Plus at breakfast you get more of a chance of a window seat. The view alone is 5 stars, as several have mentioned.
If you go in the low season, the pool and beach service is sporadic. Better to call ahead for amenities like chairs or umbrellas. You'll get a complimentary lift to the beach, necessary if you are toting a toddler. They'll tack on a 21% tip if you do poolside dining. A burger and iced tea came up to $31. It was a great burger, but at the Marketplace the same burger was $12 the next day. Ouch.
Come for the sheer proximity to the beach but eat off site as often as possible. -
Review from Key B.
Sacramento, CA
1/3/2012 5 photos
If you haven't been to a Ritz Carlton Resort, this is a great one to start with. I discovered this place after having an amazing experience at the Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay. RC in Laguna Niguel is absolutely gorgeous and the ocean view is spectacular. I brought my fiancee (now wife) here for our 2nd year anniversary of being together. Our room was amazing. The bathroom was huge with marble everything and the room was very elegant with all the modern technology fixings. Every staff member was very friendly, down to earth, and their service was impeccable.
Here is a GOTTA-DO: Take a walk at night around the resort and down to the beach. The sound of the ocean is magical and on a clear sky night the stars and moon illuminates the ocean. I promise you it will be a very romantic walk with your significant other or a very relaxing and tranquil experience with friends or by your lonesome.
The gym is wonderful as well. Nothing like getting your fitness-on while looking over the infinite horizon of the ocean waters.
You GOTTA-CHILL at the 180BLU. It's an outside lounge with fire pits that overlook the ocean. Purchase some cocktails, toast to your free ambitions, and let your worries drift away in the ocean.
During the day you can either head down to the beach or to the pool where you can order great tasting food and drinks, take a dip, and kick back on the lawn chairs. The Fish Tacos and Sweet Potato fries are a great choice at the pool. The Carlton Colada and Mojito were our choices for drinks.
You GOTTA-HAVE their Sunday brunch in the Raya. The French Toast, Smoke Salmon Crepe, Lobster-Crab Benedict, and omelette's are all great. As a matter of fact, whatever you get you'll love. Just make sure to get reservations, especially during the Spring and Summer seasons.
Yes, this place is expensive but worth every penny of it, especially for a loved one or a well deserved "pat yourself on the back." -
Review from Andrew S.
La Jolla, CA
12/29/2011
We have had a great time. Our dinner was late the first night so we miss our movie but the s
staff made up for it. It was handled very well. the beach is perfect. all ther staff
have been exceptiioonal. A wonderful place to stay. I would definitelyn like to bring the kids when weatern is warm. -
Review from Pui S.
1/21/2012 10 photos
I ordered room service (wish I could do it more often but once in a while you gotta give yourself a little treat). :) Everything was amazing but they didn't put ketchup on the server cart. The room service guy literary RAN to get me a small bottle of ketchup!!! We were super impressed with everything even before the room service! :)
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Review from Jenn D.
12/28/2011 3 photos
Beautiful, beautiful hotel!
The Ritz-Carlton legendary service commitment is obvious in all areas of this exquisite property.
Our room was beautiful, complete with marble appointed bathroom and extremely comfortable beds. Cannot wait for an opportunity to go back! -
Review from Lisa E.
11/1/2011
I don't think you would expect anything less than 5 stars from the Ritz Carlton, but they met and exceeded my expectations. This hotel is absolutely lovely with amazing picturesque views. The room had a VERY comfortable bed, an inviting balcony, and the bathroom was luxurious with marble floors and counters. I, as always, managed to forget a toiletry and they had everything I needed in the room without even having to make a phone call! The place is pet friendlier than most, and they even had a pet room service menu!
All of the staff were very accommodating. The valets were extraordinarily helpful with directions and getting me my glasses that I left in my vehicle. The bartenders made fabulous drinks and were ready to serve the next one as the last one dwindled down. I was kind of a pain in the a$$ at the pool with my trifecta of beverages, but the servers handled it very well with smiles on their faces.
I would not say the restaurant, Raya, had anything excitingly avant-garde, but what they served was presented very well, tasted delicious, and was of reasonable portion. I highly recommend the steamed mussels and clams! At the Dana Pool Cafe, I enjoyed their freshly made chips and salsa. 180Blu overlooks the ocean from a gorgeous balcony...to be honest, I barely remember the food because I was so preoccupied with the sunset view, the sounds of the crashing waves and general ambiance (cozy couches with a fire pit and great guitar player that evening). This is also the perfect place for breakfast and watching the surfers.
If you are in the mood for a relaxing, luxurious weekend, beautiful scenery and pampering, you cannot go wrong with this Ritz Carlton. -
Review from Michelle S.
Orange, CA
1/11/2012
Timeless, classic.... elegant. The property is breathtaking and the service here sets the bar! I have been coming to this resort since I was a child and through the years my appreciation for this resort continues to grow.
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Review from Donna l.
Inland Empire
1/1/2012
Consistently, one of the best places to stay in South Orange County. The friendliness of the staff is unparalleled. The location is breath-taking, and the brunch is divine. I highly recommend this place. The one thing it really has over the Montage is absolute consistency, regardless of the time of year. On a slow weekend, or during a busy holiday, the Ritz Carlton delivers. Try the burger for lunch, it is SOOOOO good!
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Review from sasha h.
10/9/2011
If you are staying in Laguna Beach and want a luxurious experience, you either need to be staying here, the montage or the St. Regis
Spa
I get massages like once a year because i work in finance and the only thing getting rid of my stress is a new job but infrequently i attempt to get massages in the hopes that one day it will work. The spa is not that big, they only have like 12 treatment rooms, they don't have a jacuzzi or anything and the changing room isn't that big. The waiting room however is nice and they offer great service. My hour stone massage was really good though, i actually think i de-stressed for the first time in 2011 so overall win. They let you use the fitness center and pool area when you book a spa treatment so that was fun. Pricing is hefty as expected but in line with the other nice hotels in the area
Parking
it's expensive but unfortunately this place is a little isolated so you don't have many other places to go
View
sit outside during sunset, it is an amazing view and on a clear day you can see for miles into the distance
Dining
We only went to 180bl which is their oceanfront lounge but it offers great views and is a nice spot to just grab a drink and snack and hang out. They have some interesting fruity cocktails like a hibiscus margarita and passion fruit mojito. Raya is their main restaurant and is supposed to be good but it looked a little stuffy and the bar looked like a library in someone's home but with seashells instead of books everywhere
I haven't stayed here so can't comment on that but everything else was fabulous. Only reason this isn't a five star is because while service was good it isn't the same as other ritz carlton's i've been to. I'm speaking to service by the pool and out at the ocean -
Review from Lisa G.
Chesterfield, NJ
9/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
Does any Ritz Carelton really need a review?? The location of this Ritz is amazing in the OC. The scenic cliff top spot overlooking the Pacific is breathtaking. The hotel offers everything you could possibly need and want. The beach service is complete with royal blue boogie boards and towels for the family. The hotel grounds are amazing and perfectly situatied in Laguna very close to other retraunts and shopping.
The hotel itself offers fantastic bars and restraunts that are warm and inviting to guests. -
Review from Kristin Leigh M.
Los Angeles, CA
9/27/2011
So if you have a bit of extra cash and are looking for a lovely afternoon drink, The Ritz is where you should head! Some friends and I popped in here during the peak of summer to enjoy a lovely afternoon drink by the ocean on the back patio.
The views are FABULOUS. Honestly - you feel like you are right in the midst of the ocean; truly breathtaking!
Cocktails aren't bad, either ;-) I'm not usually a cocktail girl - more of a beer drinker - but they have some great concoctions. I had something that was vodka-based and very lemony. I can't remember the name of it for the life of me, but boy - was it good!
Valet parking only, unless you happen to park across the street in what I think might be pay-for lot (I didn't drive, so I didn't pay much attention.) But if you drive a bit of a clunker of a car like my mate, that might be your best option ;-) -
Review from James D.
Jamul, CA
11/27/2011
Stayed on the "Club Level" I believe it was called and food and service and view were excellent. Pricy but excellent.
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Review from Namella K.
Los Angeles, CA
Heaven on earth.
I can't even begin to tell you how much I love this seaside luxury resort. It is de riguer if you find yourself in the OC.
If you wanna impress me on a date, bring me here. -
Review from paul h.
Dallas, TX
7/21/2011
An excellent place to stay!
I was there recently, and I have to say it was one of the top 2 or 3 hotels I've ever visited, and I've been in some pretty nice hotels.
My room was spotless and well appointed (although no mini bar). It wasn't quite as large as I'd like for the price, but I figured I was paying for the ocean view, which was amazing.
I ate at Raya, and the meal was wonderful. I had a seafood risotto that was out of this world.
The property as a whole is very nice. It has a beautiful lobby, a good bar, and the grounds were immaculate.
The thing to me, however, that set this hotel apart from most others was the staff. To a person, they were cheerful and super accommodating. It wasn't the typical "Hey aren't I helpful so I can get a tip?" treatment. These folks were truly cordial.
I highly recommend this place. -
Review from Leslie Y.
Los Angeles, CA
12/7/2011 6 photos
Raya at The Ritz Carlton is one of my favorite restaurants. Food is great, service is so professional yet friendly and view is absolutely breathtaking!!!
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Review from James M.
Phoenix, AZ
8/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
Well, I drove 375 miles to get there (1st road trip from PHX to Cali via car), but I have to say it is worth the drive to stay at the Ritz.
The service is impeccable, as you might expect from this class of hotel. The views are the finest I have ever seen, having stayed around the world and U.S.
Everyone that works there, and I mean everyone, is friendly. You are bound to see lows and highs during your stay, like the wedding party happening outside my balcony past midnight. But, I am willing to sacrifice some rest for newlyweds, right?
I was fortunate enough to be able to use mostly Marriott points for my stay, so I might not have paid the going rate for the hotel. You check in at 4 and leave at noon, so you pretty much need to stay at the hotel to take in the whole experience. Glad I did. -
Review from Cheryl M.
This place is absolutely beautiful!!! I grew up in OC and always wanted to go to the Ritz but it was out of my league. All grown up now, my husband had a conference there for the weekend so we tagged along and got a free vacation out of it. What a blessing!!!
The most impressive thing about this particular hotel is the customer service. There is someone wherever you go to help you out for whatever reason; and I mean everywhere. My favorite was the beach staff. What a treat getting shuttled down to the beach and having the staff set up chairs, umbrellas, towels, boogie boards, etc. They'll also bring you food and drinks if requested. All complimentary with tip of course!
On a few occasions we ate and drank within the hotel and for a hotel, the food is absolutely spectacular!! Quite impressive to be honest.
The hotel service, location and views are magnificent and are a 5 with no doubt! The only reason that I gave the hotel a 4 is noise factor. Since the hotel is older, the walls are thinner and you can hear absolutely everything going on out in the halls. I had a very difficult time sleeping which was a big let down. Also the prices. Obviously I know I'm paying for the name, but $4 for a small box of cereal? Really? The prices for the small, more insignificant things are even pricey.
BUT...I will be back!! =) -
Review from Dani S.
Rowland Heights, CA
5/12/2011
Discrimination at it's worst!
Came here for dinner, roll up in my little Toyota! I'm Asian, which means I could have millions in the bank but still drive a modest car and live in a modest house, clip coupons, and buy loads of toilet paper on sale to store in my garage just to save 20cents.
The head valet put on his puppy smile and was bending over backwards for the people rolling up in their beemers and benz's. He took one look at my car and gave me the biggest attitude and made me wait for a very long time to take my car. When I handed him my keys, he made a face like my keys had cooties: bums who drive Toyota's have cooties, didn't you know? Trust-fund brats in beemers and benz's are waaaay cleaner!
Terrible! Next time, I'm gonna not shower for 10 days, borrow a beat up Ford with dents all over, roll up while picking my nose and see what he says! -
Review from Wendy R.
Los Angeles, CA
11/11/2011
I attended a Saturday evening wedding in October at this venue and it was so lovely. The wedding ceremony was held in the grassy area overlooking the ocean. There was a beautiful cabana type area where the drinks and hors d'oeuvres were being served. The servers were very attentive although one of the female servers insulted a friend of mine who asked what foie gras was and the server said "it's expensive". Whatever. I didn't let that spoil my experience.
The reception was held in an area with fabric sort of hung in the center of the room and it was beautiful! The servers were taking drink orders at the tables (which I've never seen at any open wedding bar before).
The four course meal was delightful. We started with a Five Spice Seared Scallop on a bed of Gingered Kabocha Squash teased with a Miso Broth. The scallop was delicate and the squash was sweet. This was just a slight hint of what was to follow. Next, they served a Petite Pan Seared Blue Crab Cake bathed in a Fingerling Potato and Wild Mushroom Soup drizzled with Truffle Oil. I don't know about you, but I find anything with truffle oil to be amazing. I could have just eaten the soup and nothing else, it was that good. I would go back just for that soup which was so rich and creamy. What followed was a Baby Arugula tossed with Carmelized Pear, Candied Walnuts, Maytag Blue Cheese Crumbs dusted in an Aged Balsamic Vinaigrette. I've had salads identical to this in other places and it was nothing spectacular. The main course was a Seared USDA Prime Filet Mignon topped with a Truffle Merlot Sauce paired with Buttered Poached Maine Lobster with Mushroom Risotto and Fresh Season Vegetables. To be honest, the filet was a bit too well done and I would have preferred medium. I ate a few bites of it and focused my attention on the big, buttery lobster tail. YUM!! It too was delicate and pleasing to my palate. I had zero room for the wedding cake but that was okay because the meal was very wonderful.
I think this place is a wonderful venue to celebrate a special occasion. I didn't stay the night since I don't live too far from the venue and I had a designated driver with me. I heard the rooms were nice, but I didn't actually see them. -
Review from judy v.
Costa Mesa, CA
5/30/2011
WOW, WOW, and WOW!!!! My friend took me here for breakfast...
My friend doesn't like the whole valet parking and the attendant let us self park in the valet section, without giving us a problem.
We only waited for a couple of minutes to get a table of the most spectacular ocean view. I ordered the poached eggs- chilaquiles. Soooo good, but a bit spicy, and the portion base was just right; our waiter was so friendly, attentive, and professional. The only draw back is that it was getting a bit loud, and it's just a tad pricey, but you can only expect that if you're at The Ritz.
After breakfast we walked to a small shop, however, I personally didn't see anything that was amazing, but it's definitely worth a look. We also took time to see some of the art work on display, and there was some very beautiful pieces.
If you are looking to enjoy a good meal, and a magnificent view, I recommend this place. -
Review from andy w.
Mountain View, CA
Updated - 8/8/2011
So here's my update: after using social media to reach someone, I got a call and email back from the food and bev folks. The luncheon was planned over email and they were very responsive this time around. So here are the pluses:
- I had to make changes to the number of folks (including adding 3 extra folks when i got there), they quickly accommodated each request.
- Food was great. Service wasn't bad at all.
Minus:
- There was a long, long wait between the appetizer and the main dish. I did let their staff know (and I believe they were fully aware of it), and they made up for it.
Overall, they did try to make it up, so I have to give them that. It's just that we got off to a bad start.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/14/2011
mission: trying to plan a simple luncheon.
so i called the hotel the first time in the evening,… Read more »
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Review from Laura S.
this was a beautiful hotel!!! i really wanted to stay here bc the rooms look comfy and the view is amazing. i came here for a wedding and my friend got married with the view of the ocean! so pretty.
i got to see the sunset too!
View
beautiful! the only problem was there was a plane with a sign that kept going around and around during the wedding. that was annoying as heck.
food
we had the food from the wedding from the ritz and it was really good! just had a lot of sodium- left me thirsty!!!
the appetizers were really good! coconut shrimp (omg), guoda sandwiches, sausage snackers, etc. it was all soooo good.
scallop in butternut squash sauce- sooooo good i ate it up
salad- good
halibut and potatoes- really good... i got so full i couldnt finish it but it left me feeling thirsty! but really good!
ritz ballroom:
i went to my friend's wedding and crashed another wedding and the ballrooms were gorgeous! the ritz goes all out in decorating the rooms!!! i was so in love with the design...
bathrooms
that was a problem... one bathroom for women on that floor (it had about five or six stalls in that bathroom) but for TWO wedding parties and several meetings... there was a long line for the women... so that was kinda annoying... the bathroom was nice
so i had to go to the bathroom and the bartender told me 3rd floor so i went to the elevator and went on the 3rd floor... i was trying to go back to 1 but the elevator wouldnt let me go back to one. i had to go into the other elevator to go back down! wtf!?!
valet
bc there were so many weddings and parties... it was a nightmare going into the ritz... there was a long line waiting to get valet... omg.
overall, it was a beautiful organized wedding... but ritz should had thought abt the valet and bathroom ordeal...Listed in: Tempted to Elope
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Review from Caroline L.
Sunnyvale, CA
9/4/2011
This review is for Raya Restaurant. Delicious food and great service paired with amazing sprawling ocean views = a relaxing lunch with mom. Decided to go for a little drive to check out the Ritz at Dana Point. Much better Ritz than the one in Marina Del Rey. Gorgeous fresh orchids and roses all over. Ask for a window seat at Raya. What makes the view so amazing is that you are high up so the view is more expansive. You can watch the beach-goers and also the surfers which is quite relaxing. We had the Wagyu beef sliders which were very tender, Lobster Tacos and the Heirloom Tomato Salad. The salad was mediocre, but the rest were quite tasty! Wonderful lunch spot which a good view and the prices are reasonable too.
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Review from Yvonne D.
San Diego, CA
9/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Love this hotel! Just stayed here for two nights in an executive suite overlooking the pool which was amazing. The suite had a bathroom to the right when you walked in and a large living room with a plasma, a desk and a balcony overlooking the pool. The bedroom had a beautiful bathroom that was oversized, ample closet space, giant tub and an additional balcony. The Bvlgari toiletries, the robes, slippers, dark and milk chocolates with turndown service, florals throughout the hotel, attentive staff, the views, I tell you I will never get sick of people kissing my ass and waiting on me hand and foot. Room service 100$ for breakfast worth every cent! The gym has state of the art work out equipment and panoramic ocean views, water bottles around every corner. In fact I am going back tomorrow with a girlfriend for another mini vacay! Winning.
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Review from Muhammad Miguel Ali H.
Huntington Beach, CA
6/1/2011
Great hotel!
The service is top-notch, the rooms are clean, and the room service is delicious (and 24 hours!)
The on-property restaurants and bars are 'so-so' - their new restaurant, Raya, is not very good - however, the bar scene is great and the other amenities at the hotel are solid
Of course, the views of the ocean are breathtaking and make for an extremely romantic getaway
Normally, I would give this place 4-stars, due to the fact that I think the rooms and service at the neighboring St Regis are better --- HOWEVER, the Ritz Carlton is right on the beach, meaning you can walk right out of your room and onto the sand - that's a priceless experience
Overall, drop by and stay here - you'll be pleased you did (and enjoy California! We love visitors!) -
Review from Tom F.
San Diego, CA
11/21/2011
Service was terrible! The Ritz Carlton should take some tips from the St. Regis on how to treat customers. Came here for a company event. I called the valet to have my car pulled up. Waited 10 minutes before I left my room to give them a little time to have my car pulled up. Got outside and still no car. I waited another 10 minutes and still nothing. I asked if my car was getting pulled up and they said it's on it's way. Waited another 10 minutes and asked again, they told my they can't find my car or keys. Waited another 10 minutes and I'm starting to get upset. I asked again and I described my car and key's. They found my key's which had another tag number on it and the valet acted like it was my fault. I forgot to mention I had my toddler daughter with me and she was hungry and sleepy. If they told me from the very beginning, I would have stayed in my room untill they figured out what happened. Later that day I called the front desk to have something sent to my room from my car. They told me we'll bring it right away. An hour goes by and nothing! I called the front desk again and told me, we'll get it to you right away. Another hour goes by and guess what? Nothing! I called a third time and the front desk transfered me to the valet. Valet say's we have it right here and we'll bring it up right away. Valet brings it to my room and he could not look me in my eye' s and did'nt even say sorry. Spend the extra money and stay at the St. Regis down the street, you will not be disappointed and lied to!
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Review from Eva Y.
Oakland, CA
5/2/2011
Hmm,,, where should I start. I stayed here for free because of a sales conference. Hands down, the best service ever. The view was so amazing if you have a room with the beach view. If not, go the the restaurant where it overlooks the beach too. Enjoy a cocktail while you are at it. The food at the restaurant was awesome too. The prawn cocktail is to die for.
The room is uber nice. The bed and bedding.... hands down, comfy and fluffy! The bathroom? Tub and shower stall... separate. Modern decor, so luxurious. The invisible housekeeping team.... speechless.
I would come here anytime! -
Review from Desiree L.
San Clemente, CA
12/15/2011
My husband and I had our wedding here on December 31, 2010 and we could not have been more pleased and impressed with what the Ritz Carlton had to offer - the staff, views, service and coordination, and food! The coordination via the wedding specialist provided by the Ritz and our own personal coordinator made our wedding day and planning effortless and carefree. Our guests raved about the hors d'oeuvres, meal, dessert station, and the wedding cake. The ocean views during sunset in addition to the interior of the establishment offered simply the prettiest and most elegant wedding photos. Naturally, the fees are on the pricey side, however, we believe it was money well spent, and the Ritz did not disappoint.
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Review from t c.
Fountain Valley, CA
9/1/2011
Breakfast here is pretty good. I've tried the steak and eggs (yum!), brulee oatmeal (TO DIE FOR), continental pastries (meh), american breakfast (a-ok, it's traditional eggs/bacon/sausage fare), and the french toast (a-ok). Other important info: OJ is fresh, view is out-of-this-world, dining area is a little awkard because it's part of a walkway/hallway, this place is definitely fancy schmancy.
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Review from Rav L.
Laguna Niguel, CA
7-29-11 purchased the Ritz Carlton suite for thousands of dollars. RUDE check in, dirty and worn out room.
UNBELIEVEABLE -
Review from Lisa S.
Playa Del Rey, CA
10/9/2011
I read so many great reviews about this place that husband and I decided to stay here for our anniversary. We noticed compared to other 5 star hotels like the Four Seasons that this place has cut back on many things. Nobody greets you at the pool and sets up your chairs with nice towel covers, the sink in the bathroom was somewhat clogged, no weight scale or radio in the bathroom, they don't use high end soaps, low water pressure in the sinks and shower, the blow dryer plug in was upside down... you typically see this like at a Marriott or something. Also for our anniversary we received strawberries with some chocolate sauce. (No bubbly) We will never stay at a Ritz again only a Four Seaons Hotel. The only thing you are paying for is a view of the beach.
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Review from Islands L.
Brea, CA
1/26/2011
I was here 3 weeks ago...
What bad can you say about The Ritz-Carlton, it's as good as it can get. 5 stars allll the way. The price you pay goes with the best attention, customer service, quality and the view.. wow.
I had the opportunity to have their brunch. AMazing! I honestly have never had such waitress, service, maids as nice as The Ritz staff. They are always happy and attentive and just all around classy.
The decor is very contemporary. As soon as you walk in, you can smell fresh flowers thru the end. Whoever hired the florist or floral arranger, picked the right designer. They did an amazing job.
I can totally see a wedding here.. I was told the spa is a vacation in itself. I dipped my foot in their swimming pool which was soooooooo perfect. Too bad a man in mesh thong came out and ruined it for me but bless his heart... old and just living life.
After leaving there... til now I can still smell the hotel... it's just so fresh and the smell of the ocean will linger... It's definitely a 30th birthday pampering for me.
Thanks so much... -
Review from Bridget W.
Laguna Beach, CA
9/16/2010 1 Check-in Here
Regardless of your background, nationality, personal opinion or preference, the Ritz Carlton in Laguna Beach/Dana Point is absolutely, stunningly breathtaking.
After being engaged for a year and having our plans of a wedding in Ireland fall through, my fiancé and I chose this as our wedding venue. It truly has everything you can imagine for your big day .. utmost sophistication, an out of this world view, opulence in every corner and practically seeping with high class.
Each morsel of food served is savory and every smidgen of decor is perfect. The entire grounds is beyond description and I highly suggest for anyone visiting the area to at least have a cocktail in their 190 degree Pacific Ocean view bar.
At the last minute, my fiancé and I decided to go with our original instinct and be married internationally, but we were exceedingly close in booking this magnificent venue.
Calling all brides, your wedding will be one to remember if you hold your Big Day at one of the most beautiful spots in the USA. -
Review from Mookie L.
Chicago, IL
7/9/2011
Of all the hotels I've ever stayed at, this one takes the cake. Came here for a weekend wedding getaway and it was probably the best wedding I've ever been to (and the rooms were already paid for). The service is extraordinary - the entire staff calls you by Mr/Mrs last name and I'm not even sure how they know and remember when I've never met them. The hotel and lobby itself are luxurious and clean. The view from the hotel is ridiculous overlooking the ocean and the room I had overlooked the pool which was nice too. The pool staff is attentive and we had the chance to hitch a ride on the Ritz golf carts down to the beach, where the staff also carries and sets up your chairs, brings you whatever you need. Again, the service and amenities couldnt have been any better. They definitely live up to their brand and reputation.
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Review from Ryan W.
I love this property. I love everything about this property. Where to begin...
For starters, this property is perfectly located between The Strands Beach and Monarch Beach in Dana Point. The hotel sits on a cliff, so the views are amazing. You are just a short walk down the steps to the beach, and the setting is very tranquil. The nearby St. Regis is NOT on the ocean. You have to take a tram to get to the beach from that property. Here, you can walk out your hotel room door and have sand on the feet in a matter of minutes.
Ocean view rooms are nice because you can leave your door open and hear the waves while you sleep. The ocean front rooms have truly stunning views, especially those facing northwest. The garden rooms/pool view rooms are also really nice and well appointed, but you might want to avoid a poolside room if you like to sleep in late. If you have to go poolside, ask for one near the adult/quiet pool.
All of the rooms are luxurious, but the suites are really perfect for couples or even a family with children. The separate bedroom is really nice, there are balconies in both rooms, and the bathrooms (white marble) have his and hers vanities, as well as a shower over tub. The powder bath adds convenience.
Room service is off the hook. Everything is fresh, the food is delivered quickly, and the telephone staff is especially friendly and helpful when you are feeling indecisive. When I think about it, the entire staff is great at this property. Everybody is happy and smiling, including the housekeeping staff, who do an excellent job twice a day at keeping everything fresh (including the ice).
The gym has a fantastic view of the beach. The spa is small, but very well appointed. The pool is great during the day, and the food served poolside is absolutely worth ordering. The only thing that I feel is better at the St. Regis is the boutique shopping that they offer on-property. The Ritz has a small gift store, but the Regis has a bit more than that. Truth is, that matters not to me.
The service across the board is above and beyond, especially if you stay on the concierge floor. Normally, I do not recommend the concierge floor because you don't get enough to make it worth what you pay, but that is not the case here. From breakfast until dinner, the food and drinks are rotated in the lobby, and a variety of desserts and hot drinks are offered late at night. There is a premium open bar during certain hours, and they have huge jars of candy along the walls that you can access 24-hours a day if you are watching a movie or whatever.
When you go to the beach, you can walk or they have a tram to take you up and down the hill. They have beach gear you can use at the bottom of the hill, including chairs, umbrellas, and towels. They will carry everything and get you setup, if you choose.
What else can I say, this is definitely the best place to stay in the area for the price point. The only other place worth trying, in my opinion, is the Montage, but prepare to pay substantially more for less. -
Review from pauline c.
Los Angeles, CA
7/21/2010 2 Check-ins Here
The most beautiful ritzy location ever. Rooms are not humongous but lavish and wonderful indeed.
Million dollar view, glamorous weddings, and the service is excellent. Everything from the valet service to the bell boys to the reception. You feel like you've arrived, and indeed you have. This location is amazing and it overlooks the ocean. The halls smell deliciously fragrant and you'll realize that the rich really do breathe better air. -
Review from Jana S.
7/19/2010 1 photo
Never in a million years...
Never did I think that I would be staying for a week at the hotel just above my very favorite beach in California: Dana Point's.
I lost some brain cells that week of blissful relaxation, of being spoiled with classy turn-down service and artisan little chocolates on my pillow....of lush robes and towels and a full bathroom with tub...of a gym and spa that had bowls of fresh fruit and bottled water waiting to re-hydrate you after the expenditure....of my first patronage of a hotel with a large suspended flat screen TV that was well-suited for an equally large hotel room....of food that just melted in one's mouth...a pool that seemed like tropical paradise..of a room that had a balcony whereby we could be lulled and mesmerized with the sounds of the ocean waves....awash with nostalgia am I.
Since a little girl, my family brought us here to wade and play in the waves... running around with my siblings and eating family-packed picnic lunches...those were my memories. I always knew a 'nice, fancy, castle-like hotel' was "up there" above on the bluffs.
Wow factors popping up every nanosecond....brilliant week of reading, exercising, walking, sunning, and romancing. The lobby was magical, the staff and service impeccable, the fine dining restaurant on the main floor that overlooked the ocean was decent and above average. A little golf cart comes to pick you and your beach paraphernalia up and takes you down to the beach!!
It will stand out in my mind as *the* very* best* luxury hotel stay ever. So glad that he was chosen to attend a conference here in the summer months, and was sponsored by an advocacy institute. I called in sick, bought a ticket, and definitely came back a noodle of pure joy.
PS Enterprise delivered to us a new Ford Fusion in front of the lobby , and from there, we just got in and drove down to San Diego to enjoy more sun and friends. -
Review from Siobhan K.
San Antonio, TX
10/17/2011
My husband and I spent a week here last September. It was perfection. The location is perfect, the staff is very accommodating and attentive, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. The food at Raya is fine but i would suggest going to restaurants in Laguna Beach to have dinner. The only compliant would be you can not bring alcohol on the beach itself.
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Review from Robert C.
Irvine, CA
10/24/2011
Go there on a Friday afternoon to their bar balcony with spectacular views of the Pacific and live Spanish guitarist and sushi! You won't be disappointed.
