Best of the Best 2018 - 227
THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL DA N A POIN T, CA LIFOR N IA N E I G H B O R H O O D Dana Point Situated atop a 150-foot bluff overlooking the Pacific, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offers a playful approach to luxury and majestic views of the California coast. Epicureans will enjoy enoSTEAK, an intimate boutique steakhouse featuring the finest wines to pair with your meal, and RAYA, a concept by Chef Richard Sandoval showcasing sustainable Pan-Latin coastal cuisine. Experiences for all include spa treatments, golfing, surfing, exploring miles of sandy beach and 15 different excursions offered in the Eco-Adventure Center. For the ultimate wow, enjoy the sunset from 180blu, the resort's outdoor oceanfront lounge. VIRTUOSO AMENITY A DV I S O R T I P $100 resort credit per stay. Enjoy top-notch rooms, staff and restaurants. The view from the outdoor bar is among the best to see a sunset over the Pacific. -Nicholas Cutrone Andover, New Jersey Distance from Santa Ana Airport (SNA): 25 miles/40 km Size: 396 rooms Room Style: Contemporary Vibe: Sophisticated ADVENTURE BEACH WELLNESS MONTAGE LAGUNA BEACH LA GU N A B EA CH, CA LIFOR N IA N E I G H B O R H O O D Artistic Community VIRTUOSO AMENITY A DV I S O R T I P Room upgrade at time of booking, if available; $100 spa services credit per stay; and, when booking a suite for two nights or more, $200 spa services credit and welcome gift. The Loft features an "interactive cheese bar" with a cheese concierge. -Ruth Turpin Fort Worth, Texas Distance from Santa Ana Airport (SNA): 18 miles/29 km Size: 250 rooms Room Style: Indigenous Vibe: Casual BEACH LOCAL IMMERSION WELLNESS HOTEL BEL-AIR, DORCHESTER COLLECTION LOS A N GELES, CA LIFOR N IA N E I G H B O R H O O D Bel-Air / Westwood Receive the star treatment at Hotel Bel-Air, whose glamorous aura was skillfully enhanced by designer Alexandra Champalimaud. Sure to amaze are the seven one-of-a-kind suites; all offer grand, residential-style living with large garden patios and fireplaces - some have Jacuzzis. With more than 12 acres of landscaped gardens - including a tranquil lake complete with swans - this luxurious Spanish mission-style urban oasis has long been favored by celebrities seeking luxurious seclusion. Yet you might see one dining in its legendary restaurant, now overseen by Wolfgang Puck. VIRTUOSO AMENITY HOTEL TIP $100 spa services credit per stay. You'll find some of the best anti-aging facials at Hotel Bel-Air Spa by La Prairie. Distance from Los Angeles Airport (LAX): 15 miles/24 km Size: 103 rooms Room Style: Contemporary Vibe: Sophisticated BEACH CITY LIFE LANDMARKS 227 CA NA DA & U NIT ED STAT ES The 250 guestrooms and suites of Montage Laguna Beach are designed with your every comfort in mind. You'll love their feathertop beds, private ocean-view balconies, Internet access and flat-screen televisions. In a nod to the town's artist-colony past, the resort showcases museum-quality art amidst its inviting Craftsman-style lines. Settle into comfortable elegance at Spa Montage, with its indoor/outdoor beachfront facilities and marine-based treatments. Don't miss Studio, featuring cuisine by award-winning Executive Chef Craig Strong.