Best Hotels in Dana Point

When booking a room at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, guests expect to receive superb service. And that's what they get. On top of that, they get a breathtaking ocean view and gorgeous grounds just northwest of Dana Point Marina. If you need any help reaching inner peace, the well-reviewed spa is happy to accommodate you. And this is no ordinary Ritz: In addition to the standard pool-tennis-fitness center combination, this property has access to several area golf courses and some excellent surfing waves. Plus, guests can explore the local environment with expert naturalists on eco-adventures organized by the hotel. As for dining, you can satiate your appetite at one of several on-site eateries. And when it comes time to call it a day, you won't be disappointed with the accommodations. Previous visitors love the serene pastel blue and cream decor in the guest rooms, as well as the private balconies and technology such as flat-screen TVs and internet access (included in the $50 daily resort fee). Plus, this hotel particpates in the Marriott Bonvoy program, so members can earn and use points by staying here.

Formerly a St. Regis property, guests can't stop raving about how beautiful the Monarch Beach Resort is. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Monarch Beach – about 60 miles southeast of Los Angeles – this resort caters to perfectionists. The grounds are well-manicured, the decor is both lavish, comfortable and up-to-date (accommodations were renovated in summer 2015), and the resort has a private beach. What more could you ask for? Well, you can also indulge at the handful of on-site eateries, swing a golf club in view of the Pacific Ocean or treat yourself to a decadent massage or sugar scrub at the Miraval Spa. Families love the wide range of activities for children, ranging from treasure hunts to the kids club to babysitting services. And previous visitors say the steep price is worthwhile and that the resort's staff deserves the highest praise.

A short walk from the Dana Point Marina (and about 58 miles south of downtown Los Angeles), the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa wins points with guests for its fantastic location and spectacular coastline views. But for some previous guests, this Marriott's ability to wow wanes once they looked beyond the vistas. Travelers are turned off by the resort's extra fees: the resort fee will run you an additional $25 daily, while $37 per day for valet parking adds up quickly (self-parking is not available). And though guests praise the seafood and American fare served on site at the Vue Restaurant, many say that room service here could use some improvement. That said, visitors are mostly pleased with the guest rooms and suites, which house pillow-top beds, flat-screen TVs and iPod docking stations. The Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort also boasts two heated outdoor pools, a fitness center and a full-service spa. What's more, this property participates in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, meaning members can earn or pay with points here.