WALDORF ASTORIA MONARCH BEACH RESORT & CLUB, Dana Point

Each guest room at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club includes a private balcony or terrace, premium down duvets, and a 50-inch LCD TV. The en suite bathroom is finished with marble tile and offers an oversized bathtub along with a separate shower. Suites such as the Fireside Terrace rooms provide an outdoor fireplace, while penthouses offer additional space and panoramic views.

The resort houses two restaurants and five bars or lounges, including Bourbon Steak with panoramic Pacific Ocean views and AVEO Table + Bar serving coastal Mediterranean fare. Bourbon Steak showcases creative dishes using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from land and sea, while AVEO offers an oceanfront outdoor patio. For quick bites, Part & Parcel Market provides coffee, made-to-order pizza, and a selection of grab-and-go items.

The on-site full-service spa offers massage therapy, facials, body treatments, and a sea-to-spa package, as well as hair and nail services. Guests have access to three outdoor pools, including a heated children's pool and a lagoon pool with a pool bar, alongside three saltwater hot tubs. The championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. stretches along the coastline, and a private Monarch Bay Beach Club provides exclusive beach access with complimentary chairs and umbrellas.

The Monarch Beach Kids Club offers a children's program and babysitting services, allowing parents time to explore the resort. A dedicated children's pool and shallow-end pool areas ensure safe swimming for younger guests. The resort also provides complimentary tram service to nearby Salt Creek Beach Park and a pet-friendly policy with pet beds and bowls available upon request.

Situated on a hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Dana Point, the resort is a 10-minute drive from Mission San Juan Capistrano and 30 minutes from John Wayne Airport. On-site amenities include electric vehicle charging stations, secure valet parking, and a dedicated personal concierge service. The property also features a business centre, meeting and banquet facilities, and a barber or beauty shop.

Awards: AAA Five Diamond Award and GOLF Magazine Gold Medal Resort

Beach: Exclusive private Monarch Bay Beach Club

Golf: Championship course by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

Dining: Five bars/lounges and two signature restaurants

Wellness: Full-service spa with sea-to-spa package

Family: Monarch Beach Kids Club with babysitting