Surf & Sand Resort, Laguna Beach

Location

The resort lies on the beach’s shoreline where the waves of the Pacific meet 500 feet of pristine sand. From here, enjoy Californian surfing and body boarding or introduce yourself to stand up paddle boarding with a lesson from a local expert. Slightly further afield, there’s sailing, sport fishing, jet-skiing and whale watching at Dana Point while San Juan Capistrano, a historic Spanish mission, features 10 acres of gardens and fountains. There’s also Temecula Valley Wine Region with over 35,000 acres of rolling hills and, of course, vineyards. You’ll also be within striking distance of LA’s glitz and glamour.

Accommodation

Setting it aside from other Californian resorts, all 167 rooms and 13 suites feature spectacular views of the Pacific from private, furnished balconies. Back inside the rooms, interiors are designed with a palette of ocean colours, realised in textiles, crisp linens and custom furnishings. Suites come with whirlpool baths, deluxe wet bars and glass-walled penthouse balconies complete with boutique rattan furnishings.

Dining

Whether it’s gourmet cuisine or a sunset bite in the bar, Surf & Sand offers a selection of unforgettable, oceanfront dining experiences. Splashes, the hotel’s signature restaurant, sits just 25 feet from the shoreline and serves dishes inspired by local ingredients while 15FiftyFive offers a more relaxed atmosphere complemented by fire pits and an excellent cocktail selection. Lastly, there’s Pacific Perk, perfect for quick breakfasts or lunches on-the-go with fresh salads, sandwiches and artisanal coffee.

Facilities

The resort is probably best known for its Aquaterra Spa with its multiple treatment rooms including an ocean view couples room offering extensive spa menus. There’s also a steam room, outdoor Jacuzzi and a relaxation area complete with a fireplace and refreshments. Join a Fitness on the Beach class (with yoga and cardio classes) or get your health kick in the gym or pool.