As a family travel contributor, I’m often asked about what I look for in a perfect family vacation. For the most part, my formula for making memories is pretty straightforward: take one part luxury travel, one part kid-friendly activities and add a stunning locale as the backdrop. The recipe is steadfast and undeniable; you’ll have created holiday magic.
Hence, it’s no surprise that The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Southern California is just my ticket.
A celebrated icon along the California coast, today The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel boasts a newly re-imagined and modern vibe. Perched timelessly atop a 150 foot bluff, against cascading views of the Pacific Ocean, the hotel is tailor-made for travellers who desire a playful approach to luxury.
I snapped the above photo during a tour of the hotel, one of the highlights of our recent #DisneyVacayCA adventure. Standing on a balcony, perilously hanging over the edge, I gasped in awe at the view from this celebrated Dana Point landmark. Squinting against the glare of the sun, I tried to decipher the figures below, wondering where my husband and boys could be. Were they squatting on the beach, building castles in the sand? Or dipping their feet in the cool Pacific Ocean? Our tour moved on, and I reluctantly tore my eyes away from the breathtaking scenery.
Back inside the hotel, we were introduced to one of Southern California’s most enchanting retreats.
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offers a serene, sophisticated presence among Laguna hotels and resorts. Savor the extraordinary selection of fine oceanfront restaurants; indulge at The Ritz-Carlton Spa or simply delight in a true Southern California surf experience – the entire resort offers unmatched opulence for the discerning family travellers.
The magnificent ocean view rooms feature direct vistas overlooking the Pacific Ocean and coastline, a personal ocean view balcony or patio and comfortable outdoor seating for two. The stylish, recessed lighting and thoughtfully efficient furniture arrangement enhance both the room’s functionality and appeal. Keep entertained with an iPod docking station, 42-inch LED flat-screen HDTV and DVD player for your personal use. Finally, unwind with exclusive Asprey Bath essentials, plush terry cloth bathrobes and a large, luxurious marble bathroom.
The stunning pool area, with its colouful lounge chairs and gorgeous palm trees, is perfect for the laid back vacationer. Stretch out and worship the sun while sipping a fruit cocktail from the delightfully breezy poolside café. Signature drinks include Laguna Lemonade, Monarch Mist and Dana Punch – and don’t forget to order The Dana Burger: a scrumptious grilled sirloin burger topped with cheddar cheese, applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle.
And when booking a vacation at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, you can be assured the entire family will enjoy a variety of fun and recreations, all located within a short distance from the resort:
– The resort is minutes from Laguna Canyon and set amidst bluff tops overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Remember to bring your shoes for hiking!
– There are a variety of cultural attractions nearby, and guests enjoy complimentary admission to Mission San Juan Capistrano
– Located minutes from the Laguna Beach artist colony where the juried art show Festival of Arts and stage production Pageant of the Masters run throughout July and August
– Guests can enjoy two outdoor swimming pools, one perfect for family fun and one quiet pool
– Two tennis courts provide a day of play
– Dana Point Harbor is minutes away and offers sport fishing, sailing and whale watching
– Water Sports include extensive California surfing experiences including Billabong Surf Experience, beginner lessons or stand up paddle boarding
And of course, the hotel is very conveniently located to Disneyland Resort – about 30-minute drive!
I recommend taking a leisurely stroll down to the beach (don’t worry, the resort shuttles will offer a return ride up the hill). Pitch an umbrella and absorb the melodious sounds of the ocean, lapping against the shore. Feel the warm California sun on your skin, and wait for a cooling gust of air, peppered with saltwater and surf.
Take your bucket and shovel to the perfect spot – just where the sand meets the shoreline – and begin to build your empire.
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel caters to the luxury traveller. As the only oceanfront resort in Orange County, it is the crown jewel of the California Riviera. Click here to experience the resort.
Have never been but it’s on our bucket list
I think it’s a wonderful addition to any bucket list!
I havent been but it looks fantastic!
You simply must add it to your travel bucket list! You would love it!
I have never been… I would LOVE to go. Looks gorgeous
It’s stunning! Can’t wait to return :)
Wow, it looks amazing! Would love to visit that area one day!
You would adore it, Judy, I promise!!
I sit here freezing on Canada’s west coast and almost cry looking at your gorgeous pictures. Would love to be sunning on that beach right now!
Oh I know!! I can’t even imagine what it would be to live in a state or province with ONE season all year round :)
Omgosh, that’s a stunning view and a great looking hotel! Just gorgeous, now excuse me while I pack for my trip to California haha
Hahaha I’m right there with you Anne!
Wow, it looks like such a lovely place to stay! I love that it is super close to a canyon, and the Disneyland resort!
The location is literally perfect. We can’t wait to return – we only sampled the property, now I want to vacation there!
Wow – makes me wish my horseshoes would work for the lottery ! There are so many wonderful places you have described that I would LOVE to visit – the Laguna Niguel is right up there ;)
I’m so glad I am assembling quite the travel bucket list for you! And I agree – if lottery winnings ever came my way, the first thing I would do is travel!
Stunning! I wish I could click my heels together and take the family there right now!
You and me both Jodi! My husband has referred to our OC day as one of the best days ever!
Wow you sure know how to pick them! I have the feeling this is a vacation worth saving up for?
It certainly is, Jenny!
Breathtaking view Lena! Thanks for the recommendation, adding to bucket list too
Please do Carlee… it’s one of those places you simply MUST visit!
One of the best vacations ever…ever!!!
It truly was :)
Looks amazing! I’ve never been to California or Disney
Oh, you simply must visit, Sharlene!
I would definitely give up my winter here for a trip there.
Yup… I definitely need to return in February :)
i bet bacon tastes even better at that hotel
I’m sure it does :)
wow looks amazing , i guess i can dream of them places , it looks so beautiful :)
One day, Treen!
Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous! I am itching to travel now!
It’s the perfect time for a Cali vacation, Victoria!
Wow, so beautiful! I’m jealous! Some day! :)
Indeed Holly – should be on everyone’s bucket list!
wow – looks amazing! would love to visit someday. a girl can dream!
It can be a reality Nicky! Careful planning and budgeting is needed :)
i do like playful approaches to luxury
The best kind!
What a gorgeous place!
It is indeed, Athena!
That looks like such gorgeous getaway. WIshing I was there
Wishing I could go back!!!
I look out my window and all I see is gray in the sky, that sky that pool that beach is what I wish I was seeing right now.
Same… I’m seeing snow right now, so I completely agree!
Would love to visit that area one day,it looks so beautiful and inviting….someday
Wow this place looks amazing and I’d love to stay there with the warm weather and that beautiful beach
I have added this place to my bucket list,it’s so beautiful !