The Best Hotels to Book in Dana Point, California

The Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort and Club exudes a feeling of laid-back Southern Californian luxury. It’s perched on 175 acres (71ha) of space, atop a seaside bluff with views of the water below – there’s even a private beach. Dine at one of the numerous on-site restaurants, spend time relaxing in spacious guest rooms or suites, lounge at the pool or get a treatment at the spa.

The 378-room Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa sits in a central location close to Doheny State Beach and Dana Point Harbor. The style is beach-chic, with views of the Pacific Ocean and a casually sophisticated feel in the restaurants, rooms, pool and full-service spa. Many of the rooms feature balconies – perfect for taking in a sea-view sunrise or sunset. Rooms are furnished with sturdy hardwood floors, rain showers and widescreen TVs.

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is perched upon a bluff overlooking the sea. Here, guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art golf course, walk along a selection of winding beach-bound paths or use the on-site concierge to plan customized eco-adventures. On-site restaurants RAYA and 180blũ are great choices for ocean-view dining and cocktails. There’s also a spa that offers a selection of massages, facials and body treatments integrating ocean elements such as sea salt and algae.

Unparalleled ocean views await each guest at the romantic Blue Lantern Inn, an intimate boutique B&B property featuring 29 bright and spacious guest rooms in the heart of Dana Point – conveniently located just a short walk or bike ride from the center of downtown. A bespoke wine and cheese mini-picnic is included for each night’s stay, along with freshly baked cookies, perfect for picnicking. Travelers can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast for two each morning, hand-prepared by the on-site chef.

The Marina Shores Hotel is just a few blocks away from Doheny State Beach and a short distance from Dana Point Harbor. This three-story, 87-room hotel offers several room and suite types. The king whirlpool suites give you extra relaxation space, a king-size bed and Roman-style whirlpool tub. Every room or suite here includes a refrigerator, in-room coffee and a phone line with two data ports.

Riviera Shores Resort on Capistrano Beach is perfectly perched between the rolling hills and the striking coastline of Southern California and offers spacious accommodations with a partial kitchen, an outdoor barbecue and two TVs. You’ll also find two swimming pools, hot tubs and a fitness center on-site. The welcoming atmosphere of Capistrano Beach and the range of recreational adventures on offer make this a pleasant escape from the city.

At Capistrano Surfside Inn, each guest room features its own full kitchen and balcony with a barbecue grill. It’s within walking distance of Doheny State Beach and only minutes from Dana Point Harbor. The property also offers bicycles and boogie boards for rent, as well as a selection of videos to check out and relax with in your room after a day of outdoor adventures.