Enjoy a Salty Breeze and Views of the Pacific at These Waterfront Retreats
Looking to live out your West Coast dreams? With its palm tree-lined streets, pristine coastline, and breathtaking bluffs, Orange County is a must-visit for SoCal dwellers and far-away visitors alike. From Huntington Beach in the north to Dana Point at the south end, you’ll find some of the most charming and affluent towns in this iconic county. Whether you’re looking to spend the weekend surfing or indulging in some R&R at the spa, there are several Orange County beach hotels that are worth splurging on for a few nights. That said, pack your favorite swimsuit and sandals and get ready for sun, sand and surf! We’ve rounded up our nine favorite waterfront hotels in Orange County for a dose of vitamin sea.
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Wake up to panoramic Pacific views each morning at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. This luxurious resort sits on a seaside bluff on the coast of Dana Point and offers vacationers access to everything from cliffside dining to a sumptuous world-class spa. Enjoy a craft cocktail at sunset at 180blu before sitting down for dinner at Raya. The classy and bright dining room sets a romantic scene, while the Pan-Latin coastal menu boasts tasty dishes like blackened tuna tacos, grilled Spanish octopus and birria steamed clams. The cozy guest rooms and spacious suites are inspired by the allure of the California coast, featuring cool tones, calming artwork and breathtaking views. While the ocean-view rooms are most coveted, the garden-view rooms provide a poolside perspective that is just as charming. Once you’re ready to unwind at the spa, book the Laguna Wellness Experience. After indulging in an invigorating seaweed wrap, enjoy a customized massage and collagen facial before unwinding with a glass of wine in your room. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offers a true taste of barefoot luxury and the elevated SoCal lifestyle.
Location: Dana Point
Paséa Hotel & Spa
Head to Huntington Beach for a relaxing staycation at Paséa Hotel & Spa. This unique property blends laid-back living with modern amenities, creating an inviting and vibrant coastal ambiance. The pool and hot tub both offer views of the Pacific, and the on-site Aarna Spa takes a Balinese-inspired approach to wellness. The simple yet timeless rooms are predominantly white but feature accents of bright blue that complement the ocean views from the balcony. When it comes to food and drink, there are a couple of different on-site options. Though a new restaurant will be debuting in 2024, you can enjoy coastal California cuisine at The Study Kitchen + Bar and drinks at the Treehouse Lounge.
Location: Huntington Beach
The Resort at Pelican Hill
Sitting on more than 500 acres of premium Newport coastline, The Resort at Pelican Hill brings a slice of the Italian coast to OC. The private bungalows and villas are spacious and exclusive, providing a sense of seclusion and intimacy for guests. However, nothing beats an afternoon at The Spa at Pelican Hill. From deep-tissue to aromatherapy, there are several amazing massages to choose from. That said, the Coastal Renew body treatment takes you on a restorative journey unlike any other and includes a full body massage, an infused linen wrap, a mini facial, and more. For dinner, head to Pelican Grill & Bar and order the caviar-topped fries and Pelican Grill paella.
Location: Newport Coast
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Balboa Bay Resort
Take in views of luxurious yachts when you stay at the sumptuous Balboa Bay Resort. Located in Newport Beach, this Forbes Four-Star hotel boasts bayside views from its rooms and suites. Even if you’re not a big boater, being able to look out onto the marina and admire the beautiful vessels never gets old. Once you’re ready for a drink, pop down to A+O Restaurant | Bar for 90-point wines and fresh-baked focaccia. Other menu items worth ordering include the stuffed artichokes, hot crab dip and elote bites. In addition to a renowned spa, there is also a Drybar on property, making it easier than ever to look and feel your best before hitting the town.
Location: Newport Beach
Surf & Sand Resort
Located in the heart of Laguna Beach, the Surf & Sand Resort sits right on the sand—as the name suggests—getting you up close and personal to the iconic coastline. Many of the airy and beachy rooms look right out onto the ocean, allowing you to catch some of the most epic sunsets and sunrises. Plus, there’s nothing like falling asleep to the soothing sound of crashing waves. After a long day of catching some sun by the pool, sit down for a sunset dinner at Splashes, where the waves are known to crash up against the restaurant’s border. Whether you sit in the cozy dining room or out on the oceanside patio, you’ll have the best seat in the house. The Mediterranean-inspired menu features everything from seared scallops to Colorado lamb shank.
Location: Laguna Beach
Montage Laguna Beach
Montage Laguna Beach is another seaside classic that sits atop a beautiful bluff. The modern suites and rooms blend cozy, coastal decor with contemporary accents so you can stay in style. Feel even more at home when you book a nourishing massage at the spa. The Laguna Glow Stone Massage will have you shining from the inside out, while the refining body polish treatment leaves you with silky-smooth skin. If you want to enjoy lunch with a breathtaking backdrop, sit down at the property’s Mosaic Bar and Grille. This beloved eatery gets its name from the showstopping mosaic-tiled pool that the Montage Laguna Beach is famous for.
Location: Laguna Beach
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa has mastered the art of approachable luxury. The red rooftop is complemented by a blue, wooden exterior, giving the property an East Coast charm with West Coast perks and amenities. The recently renovated guest rooms keep things chic yet classic, and many of the 378 rooms look out onto the pool and offer a peek of the Pacific. Situated right next to a bright green lawn is none other than The Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs, an elegant eatery that has an expansive patio. Though seafood is never a bad idea by the ocean, the dry-aged steaks are a hit.
Location: Dana Point
Kimpton Shorebreak Resort
Ready for a surf-centric staycation? The Kimpton Shorebreak Resort is a boutique accommodation that sits right in the heart of Surf City USA. Simply step off the property, cross PCH and stick your toes in the sand for an exhilarating day of catching waves and rays before quenching your thirst with wine, beer or craft cocktails at Pacific Hideaway. This second-floor restaurant serves a fusion of Latin and Asian fare, with some menu highlights being the crispy duck spring rolls, sugar cane beef tenderloin and crispy whole snapper. You can also enjoy happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, along with live music every Thursday.
Location: Huntington Beach
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
Immerse yourself in the opulence of Orange County when you book a stay at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club. There are three different pools on-site, including an adults-only pool at the spa, and a massive golf course for those hoping to improve their swing. Best of all, the private beach club ensures that you can grab a chair and stick your toes in the sand while sipping on a margarita. All of the rooms maintain a warm yet contemporary style that relies on neutral colors and plush furnishings to make you feel right at home.
Location: Dana Point
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
