Perched atop a seaside bluff on 175 acres in Dana Point, our Five Diamond-rated resort is the perfect blend of Southern California’s laid-back luxury and iconic True Waldorf Service. This sophisticated beach-house retreat offers indulgence and inspiration, with a private beach club, three pools, oceanfront golf, luxury spa, unique coastal activities, California cuisine, and more. It’s a place to celebrate our love affair with the sea and sand.
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Oceanfront oasis: The ultimate California getaway in Monarch Beach
Experience Southern California at its best with picturesque beaches, fine dining, adventurous pursuits and no shortage of relaxation.
By Jessica Poitevien | January 2, 2025
Tucked away on an exclusive stretch of sand in southern California, Monarch Beach welcomes discerning travelers for an indulgent getaway in the under-the-radar city of Dana Point. From the five-star dining to the wealth of opportunities for both adventure and relaxation, Monarch Beach offers an escape that’s equal parts lavish and laidback.
Exquisite experiences
For a taste of all the finest things that this small seaside neighborhood offers, stay at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, which offers plenty of on-site fun, as well as prime access to exclusive local excursions. Whether you enjoy water sports, swimming or simply sunbathing, the beach concierge at the resort’s private Monarch Bay Beach Club will arrange everything for your perfect day by the sand and sea, including complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas. Relaxing by one of the resort’s two sparkling pools is equally tempting, but don’t forget to explore the rest of Dana Point. E-bikes are available to rent for an oceanfront ride along the coast, but if you visit during whale-watching season, be sure to have the concierge book a private boat tour for up-close views of these majestic mammals.
Distinguished dining
Southern California cuisine is known for its delicate balance of flavorful dishes that are indulgent yet healthy, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. These principles ring true on every plate served at the six restaurants and bars at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, but especially at AVEO Table + Bar. With oceanfront views and a laid-back vibe, immerse your taste buds in local seafood, complemented by Latin American dishes hailing from multiple countries. For more turf than surf, Bourbon Steak, the resort’s other signature restaurant, is a delightful take on the classic American steakhouse experience. The American Wagyu Tomahawk with whipped potato puree and mirin-soy glazed mushrooms is not to be missed. Off-property dining is worth exploring as well, with three Michelin-starred restaurants located in nearby Laguna Beach and another 16 found in other neighboring towns.
Ultimate unwinding
Relaxation and rejuvenation can take on many forms. Luckily, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach offers them all. If breaking a sweat leaves you feeling refreshed, try any of the more than 40 weekly group fitness sessions, including aerial yoga and outdoor spin classes. As a guest, you’ll also have complimentary access to the Monarch Beach Tennis Club courts. If hitting the green is more your speed, have the concierge book a tee time at Monarch Beach Golf Links. When it comes to unwinding, Waldorf Astoria Spa and Salon releases all tensions with one of its signature massages, which can be enhanced with optional CBD oil or hot basalt stones. With any spa service, you can extend your relaxation with all-day access to the steam room, sauna, relaxation lounges and whirlpool tubs.
Jessica Poitevien
Jessica Poitevien is an international storyteller with more than a decade of experience in writing and editing. Born in New York, she caught the travel bug throughout multiple moves that brought her to California, Spain, Colombia and her current home base in South Florida. She has visited over 40 countries including several solo trips and considers herself an expert in destination weddings and unique honeymoons. When she's not traveling, she enjoys making social media content, trying new food and acting as a travel agent for friends and family.
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