A Seaside Staycation at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Valentine's Day Lobby Flowers_Credit Pacific Dream Photography.jpg

With the most recent stay-at-home order lifted, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is making it easy for those lovers who made it past quarantine to keep the romance alive.

The much-needed change of scenery will be as sweet as ever as you arrive at Dana Point’s most famous luxury retreat — red and pink roses scattered throughout the expansive grounds, whiffs of ocean breeze serving as the breath of fresh air you need to finally leave everything behind and head straight into resort living. 

Serving as the original Ritz (the resort opened in August of 1984), The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel sits atop a seaside bluff with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, offering direct access to more than three miles of sand, including the world renowned Salt Creek Beach which attracts professional surfers from around the world for its stellar breaks. 

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

The surfside oasis is popular amongst celebs (and US Presidents) and is known for creating distinctive and unforgettable moments that embrace its oceanfront setting — from family-friendly eco-adventure excursions and unique surfboard displays to daily outdoor yoga and pilates classes and sea-inspired spa treatments at the hotel’s very own spa.

(Just one of The Ritz’s Coastal Illuminating Facial’s and you’ll say goodbye to Botox forever.)

With 396 guest rooms and suites with personal patios or balconies (some complete with an ocean view gas fire pit), the iconic resort emphasizes five-star service while delivering a playful approach to luxury.

Heart Rose Petal Turndown - Pacific Dream Photography.jpg

For those couples wanting to completely relax and enjoy their special day by not lifting more than a finger in the kitchen (unless it’s more champagne), The Ritz’s culinary team has combined to create a salivating in-room dining menu for overnight guests on Saturday, February 13th and Sunday, February 14th.

Their two indulgent Valentine’s Specials include:

Brunch, featuring Berry Parfaits, Shrimp Cocktails, Smoked Salmon, Eggs Benedict, and Ritz Signature Donuts, amongst more breakfast faves ($140 package for two);

and Dinner, a multi-course feast of your dreams including a starter Fig or Beet salad paired with your choice of Pan Seared Salmon, Prime Filet and Maine Lobster, or Roasted Chicken Breast, followed by a Chocolate Strawberry Mousse Cake and a Chocolate Cheesecake so you can share ($240 package for two).

End Your evening with a nightcap at the hotel’s outdoor lounge, 180blu, which offers unparalleled views of the ocean (and plenty of heaters to stay warm). 

180Blu Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Whether you’re coming from afar, or are simply an Orange County local looking for a reason to get out of the house, cozy up with your bae for a much-needed romantic getaway in the very lap of luxury that is The Ritz.

Because after the past year, it’s a staycation that you need — and a staycation that you deserve.

Book the Ritz’s Sunset Romance Package, which includes overnight accommodations, a complimentary resort fee, daily breakfast credit, and champagne and chocolate covered strawberries for $699, through the end of the year. 


Lindsay DeLong is the Editor-in-Chief of Laguna Beach Living. A brand strategist and web designer, she is well-versed at building brands from the ground up, establishing online identity, and getting facials at The Ritz. Reach out to her at lindsay@lagunabeachliving.com or on her personal site, iLikeLindsay.com.

Photos provided by The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel.