I enjoyed a birthday getaway at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, a AAA Five-Diamond Retreat in Dana Point, CA.

Every year for my birthday I like to completely unplug from outside distractions and immerse myself in a day of relaxation and wellness. It gives me the chance to recharge, reflect on the past year, and focus on enjoying the present moment.

I had the pleasure of celebrating my last birthday with an overnight getaway at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club (formerly known as Monarch Beach Resort), a stunning coastal getaway in Dana Point, CA. Located about halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, it makes for the perfect day trip or weekend escape.

The AAA Five-Diamond Retreat is situated on 175 acres of a 150-foot seaside bluff and includes a private beach club, fine dining, outdoor adventures and coastal activities, and a world-class Waldorf Astoria Spa. During my stay I enjoyed some of the property’s finest offerings, including a spa day where I tried my very first 111Skin Hydrafacial.

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I arrived just before sunset, pulling up into the valet area of the hotel’s elegant entrance. It felt like I was a guest at someone’s private coastal estate as opposed to checking in at a hotel, and each staff member I came across greeted me warmly and made me feel very welcome. I knew I was in for an incredible experience over the next two days.

The property is situated on 175 acres of a 150-foot seaside bluff and makes for the perfect coastal getaway.

Here’s what you’ll love about Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club:

The elegant AAA Five-Diamond retreat in Dana Point, CA features the perfect blend of Southern California’s legendary laidback luxury combined with the iconic culture of Waldorf service and hospitality.
Situated on 175 acres of a 150-foot seaside bluff, the property offers a wide array of fine dining options, outdoor adventures and unique coastal activities, including access to the private Monarch Bay Beach Club.
Avid golfers can enjoy a round (or several) of ocean front golf at Monarch Beach Golf Links.
The hotel underwent a $30 million refresh of its 400 guest rooms and suites that were revealed in September 2022 with new floors, furnishings and finishes. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations including Fireside Terrace Rooms with upgraded private fire pits and ocean, golf fairway or resort views.
The property has three sparkling swimming pools for soaking up the sun including the Monarch Pool, Family Pool, and Adults-Only Spa Lap Pool.
Complimentary beach cruisers are available for overnight guests along with a fun variety of lawn games.
Waldorf Astoria Spa offers guests curated experiences in a luxury setting, including results-oriented signature treatments from 111Skin, an innovative line of doctor-led skin care products that have been created with cutting-edge formulas backed by surgical expertise.

AVEO Table + Bar is the resort’s Mediterranean restaurant that offers pool and ocean views.

I checked into my room, which was a beautiful Fireside Terrace Room with resort views. As part of the resort’s recent $30 million refresh of its 400 guest rooms and suites that were revealed in September 2022, the Fireside Terrace Rooms feature upgraded private fire pits along with a relaxing coastal color palette, curated artwork and natural finishes.

My accommodations were spacious and comfortable with a sitting area, marble bathroom, double-sink vanity, walk-in shower, and my personal favorite: a deep soaking tub. I was looking forward to enjoying an evening bath, but first I had dinner reservations at AVEO Table + Bar, the resort’s Mediterranean restaurant.

The restaurant has an elegant indoor dining room, but because the weather was so nice I opted to dine al fresco on the airy outdoor patio overlooking the beautiful Monarch Pool (one of the resort’s three swimming pools), Monarch Beach Golf Links and the Pacific Ocean. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, AVEO utilizes locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors in its modern dishes that have a Latin American twist ranging from seafood to sandwiches.

I started out with a Green Flash cocktail from the spirits menu, which featured a combination of Dos Hombres Mezcal, pineapple and lemon juice, cilantro agave and topped off with a Tajin rim. It was the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a hint of spice— I couldn’t think of a better drink to enjoy during golden hour! Other selections range from a Guatemalan Old Fashioned and Paloma to a Passionfruit Fresno Margarita, so those with adventurous palates will especially enjoy the cocktail selection.

The dinner menu is filled with culinary delights such as charred octopus, filet mignon skewers, Peruvian lentil soup, Poblano Mac & Cheese (one of my favorites with Poblano peppers), yucca fries, and more. There is also a selection of fresh salads including El Caesar with romaine hearts, roasted pepitas and cilantro caesar dressing; an abundance of fresh seafood and various meat dishes; and for dessert, delectable delights like churros with dulce de leche sauce, a pineapple upside down rum cake with coconut ice cream, and a creme brûlée dish with brown sugar cane and Brazilian nut cracker.

I arrived just in time to witness a beautiful sunset at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club.

After an incredible dinner and magical sunset, I headed back to my room to relax for the remainder of the evening. Turndown service had come while I was out and had left me a piece of chocolate with a decorative faux Monarch butterfly and a note with a wellness tip about how massage therapy can improve the quality of one’s sleep. It also suggested booking a relaxing spa treatment at the Waldorf Astoria Spa. Fortunately, I already had my spa reservation made for the following morning!

When I returned to my room, turndown service had left a lovely note with a wellness tip and chocolate on my bed.

After retreating to my room, I changed into a relaxing hotel robe before drawing a bath.

I changed into the comfortable hotel robe that was hanging in the bathroom and proceeded to draw a bath. I poured in the bath salts that had been provided and while I waited for the tub to fill, I relaxed on my patio next to the private fire pit while taking in the beautiful views.

The Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach makes for a great year-round destination, especially since we have such great weather a majority of the time in California, but there’s something extra special about being at the resort on a warm summer night accompanied by a light coastal breeze that feels so perfect and magical.

Once my bath was ready, I soaked for about half an hour before getting into bed. From the soft, plush pillows to the fresh bedding, I couldn’t have been more comfortable and within minutes I drifted off into a deep and relaxed sleep.

My room’s amenities included a marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub that put me into a relaxed state before bed.

My Fireside Terrace Room had its own private patio and fire pit with resort views—the perfect setting for s’mores and sunsets.

I got up early the next day because I wanted to take advantage of the resort’s complimentary beach cruisers and do some exploring around the property before my spa appointment later that morning. Before embarking on my bike adventure I ordered room service, which I enjoyed in the sitting area next to my open patio door.

The room service attendant also provided a retrieval button for me to press when I was done and she would come back to the room to collect everything. This was the first time at a hotel that I’d been given a retrieval button and it was genius. I hope that more hotels (and restaurants) follow Waldorf Astoria’s lead and offer them because they’re truly a game-changer!

In the morning I enjoyed room service for breakfast accompanied by calm coastal breezes through the open patio doors.

When I was done, all I had to do was press a button and room service came to retrieve everything.

Because it was still early, I strolled around the resort grounds which I practically had all to myself. Everything was so calm and peaceful, and I stopped to take in the views of the morning fog above the ocean that would eventually clear when the sun came out.

I headed to the concierge desk, which is located directly across from check-in. There, guests can check out bikes, get a map of the hotel, and arrange any activities they want to partake in during their stay. Beach cruisers are free to overnight guests, and all I had to do was fill out a form that included my room number and contact information, then I was taken over to a rack of bikes that are located on one side of the valet area.

I was extremely impressed by the selection of beach cruisers that were available, many of which were from Vivelo, a luxury bicycle brand with European roots. They make some of the most beautiful bikes I’ve ever seen—they’re hand crafted and custom made so you can choose a variety of colors, finishes and accessories when you order from their website.

The resort had them in different color combinations including white and gold, black and gold, and turquoise and pink (which was what I chose). It also came with a spacious bike basket to hold my belongings, and it had the softest seat. I’m actually planning on ordering a Vivelo bike soon, and I have Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach to thank for introducing me to such an incredible brand!

I enjoyed peaceful morning views of the resort, Monarch pool and Monarch Golf Links.

I started my morning by borrowing one of the hotel’s complimentary beach cruisers and going for a ride around the property.

The concierge also provided me with a detailed map that showed the trail for walking and biking, as well as the various stops for the tram, which can take guests down to the Monarch Bay Beach Club. For those that prefer to walk, there two different routes to choose from and one is just under a mile long while the other is 1.1 miles. The different routes can be viewed here.

I didn’t get the chance to check out the beach club because I didn’t have enough time that day and I also didn’t want to be late for my spa appointment, but I definitely want to come back and check it out next time I visit—it’s on my to-do list!

The beach club, which is only available to overnight guests and members, has everything one needs to enjoy a fun and relaxing day by the ocean including chairs, umbrellas and towel service on the sand, an indoor/outdoor bar and dining menu, as well as equipment (and lessons!) for surfing, paddle boarding, and stand up paddle boards. There’s also a live beach cam on the website that you can check out anytime for fun!

The Monarch Beach Golf Links Sea Villas Residences is a community of private luxury residences that offer direct golf course and ocean views.

I borrowed one of the hotel’s stunning Vivelo beach cruisers that came with its own bell and basket.

I hopped on my book and rode down the hill through the Monarch Beach Golf Links Sea Villas Residences, a community of private luxury residences located adjacent to Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach with direct golf course and ocean views. The trail was surrounded by beautiful foliage and flowers, offering beautiful views (and if you keep an eye out, you just might spot some of the Monarch butterflies!)

The resort also offers daily e-bike rentals, as well as guided e-bike tours that will take participants on an exploration of seaside coves, hidden back roads and historic destinations. You can also complete the experience by adding on an exclusive Veuve Clicquot Tasting Experience. To reserve, call 949-234-3200 or email: snamo.reservation@waldorfastoria.com.

The back view of some of the private residences that overlook the bluffs.

During my bike ride I enjoyed unobstructed views of the golf course and lush lawn.

I was having such a great time on my morning bike ride that it was hard to stop and turn around, but the spa was waiting for me! After returning my cruiser, I headed over to the Waldorf Astoria, which is located on the fifth floor of the hotel. The expansive spa offers a wide range of amenities, so it’s ideal to give yourself some extra time to enjoy them before or after your treatments.

As soon as I walked into the spa, I instantly felt even more relaxed by the soothing nature-inspired color palette, materials and design details. Upon checking in, the spa attendant guided me to the women’s locker room. Guests get day-long access to spa amenities, and with all of the offerings that were available including an outdoor lap pool, steam room and sauna, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, and relaxation lounges, it would be easy to spend an entire day at the spa.

Waldorf Astoria Spa at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club offers a variety of treatments in a luxurious and tranquil setting.

The reception area embraces the soothing nature-inspired color palette that can be seen throughout the spa.

The waiting area in the main reception at the spa combines natural elements and design details with curated artwork.

The spa also has a cafe where guests can order healthy snacks and beverages.

Waldorf Astoria Spa also offers over 40+ complimentary weekly fitness classes for resort guests and members, which include everything from beach yoga to outdoor cycling and meditation. Select classes like aerial yoga require reservations and have a small fee that applies to resort guests only. To view the different classes and schedules, click here.

One thing that is really special about Waldorf Astoria Spa’s wellness and fitness programs is how they are designed to complement the resort’s coastal environment so that participants can be inspired by their surroundings while enjoying the best experiences to enhance their well-being. And when you’re by the beach, what’s better than the beautiful ocean and fresh air?

After changing into a robe and slippers, I spent a few minutes in the steam room to prep my skin and open my pores for the facial, followed by a 10-minute session in the jacuzzi to loosen and relax my muscles. Next, I got cozy under a warm blanket in the women’s relaxation lounge, where one of the attendants brought me a small bottle of champagne for my birthday! That’s another thing I really appreciate about the Waldorf Astoria brand—they pay attention to every little detail in order to enhance their guests’ experience and make them feel special during their visit.

Among the spa’s amenities are a sauna, hot tub and private pool.

Guests can curl up under warm blankets in the cozy relaxation lounge before and after their treatments.

Finally, it was time for my eagerly-anticipated 111Skin Hydrafacial! As a big fan of 111Skin products, I was excited to receive my first skin care treatment from the brand. I followed my aesthetician to a treatment room that had a comfortable bed and soft lighting—the ideal setting for a relaxing and rejuvenating facial.

My aesthetician stepped out of the room so that I could remove my robe and slide under the covers, then she returned to begin my treatment. The 111Skin Hydrafacial combines all the benefits of a signature Hydrafacial treatment with products from their Black Diamond line by Dr. Yannis (a world-renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon, and co-founder of 111Skin). It’s the ultimate results-oriented, anti-aging facial that will give skin a more youthful, sculpted and firmer appearance.

Their Black Diamond line features concentrated, high-performance and potent formulas that preserve, restore and renew skin. And when paired with the Hydrafacial, which is a non-invasive resurfacing treatment that deeply cleanses and exfoliates skin while hydrating it at the same time, one’s complexion is going to look renewed and refreshed afterwards!

I experienced a 60-minute 111Skin Hydrafacial that is designed to give skin a more youthful, sculpted and firm appearance.

My aesthetician started my facial by performing a gentle cleanse of my skin with Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm to remove any impurities. During the Hydrafacial, she did a deep cleanse and exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and reveal fresh skin underneath. Then she removed impurities from my pores with a gentle suction device, followed by intense infusion of moisture into my skin with hydrating serums that deliver antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and peptides. To further lock in moisture, she applied Naturopathica’s Manuka Honey Hydrating Gel Mask and left it on my skin for around 10 minutes.

She also incorporated 111Skin products throughout the treatment including Y Theorem Light Day Cream NAC Y ², which repairs skin and provides a protective barrier against aggressors found in pollution with hyaluronic acid and a potent Vitamin Complex; and Y Theorem Repair Serum Y ², a powerful formula that helps to fade discoloration, reduce wrinkles, repair stressed skin, and protect against sun damage and environmental aggressors.

111Skin’s first product was developed by Dr. Yannis in 2007 and became known as the “dramatic healing serum” consisting of his patented NAC Y ²™ formula, which helped to speed up the healing process of post-surgery patients. He created the formula after discovering a gap in the skin care market for products that helped skin heal while also being sensitive enough for post-surgery patients.

One of the 111Skin Black Diamond line products that she used on me was the Celestial Black Diamond Serum, which features Diamond Particles to ensure deeper penetration into skin for optimum results and contains ingredients like licorice root to reduce pigmentation and discoloration, hyaluronic acid for maximum hydration, and Quebracho wood to ease inflammation.

The facial incorporates various 111Skin products into the treatment to achieve the ultimate results.

She applied Celestial Black Diamond Eye Cream under my eyes, which treats wrinkles and dark circles with licorice root, supports collagen production with Centella Asiatica, and inhibits muscle contraction to stop new lines forming with an expression-freezing hexapeptide!

A few other standout products from 111Skin’s Black Diamond line are the Under-Eye Masks with moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid, a Peptide Complex, Retinol and vitamins to hydrated and refresh tired eyes; and the Lifting and Firming Face Mask, which tones and tightens skin with Diamond Particles, powerful Peptides, triple-action Goji Glycopeptides, and Centella Asiatica (a powerful herb). These are great products you can use at home and I love storing mine in the fridge before use, which is a nice way to calm skin especially during the hotter months.

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And of course, my other favorite part of the treatment was the thorough and detailed massage she performed on my face, neck and décolleté area, as well as my hands. To keep my lips hydrated, she applied Naturopathica Sweet Cherry Conditioning Lip Butter at the end, which plumps and conditions lips with antioxidant-rich sweet cherry seed oil and a naturally plumping pomegranate-jojoba complex.

Just a note that the Hydrafacial is completely customizable (and ideal for all skin types, including sensitive) so depending on your skin needs, the aesthetician may use some different products to target specific issues—but regardless, you’re guaranteed amazing results!

If you’re looking to extend your treatment and amplify results, a 90-minute version of the 111Skin Hydrafacial is also available and it includes extras like LED light therapy to encourage detoxification and circulation. Various add-ons are available including cryo globes, diamond microdermabrasion, a wild lime scalp treatment, and more. For more information about the treatments available at Waldorf Astoria Spa, click here.

One of my favorite must-haves from 111Skin: Y Theorem Repair Light Serum NAC Y² helps fade discoloration, reduces wrinkles, repairs stressed skin, and protects skin from various stressors in the sun and environment.

After my transformational 111Skin Hydrafacial, I felt renewed and refreshed. My aesthetician handed me a mirror so I could check out the results, and I couldn’t believe my eyes! My dull complexion with patches of redness due to inflammation and dryness had been replaced with soft, glowing and hydrated skin. My chin area no longer felt tight or dry, my forehead was completely smooth without any lines, and my face and jawline also felt tighter, firmer and more defined.

Needless to say, I was hooked on the results from my incredible facial! My esthetician also set aside some product recommendations from 111Skin so that I could maintain my incredible results at home until my next facial, which I really appreciated. I also can’t wait to come back to the Waldorf Astoria resort and spa for another overnight wellness stay so that I can experience more of the resort and its amenities, try some of the other restaurants, and check out the beach club.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a loved one or your entire family, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club has everything one could ever want in a vacation destination. It has a wide variety of offerings and activities that will appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds, and it’s the perfect blend of laidback meets luxury for the ultimate Southern California coastal getaway that you’ll remember for the years to come.

Thank you, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, for making my birthday so special!

After my service, my esthetician set aside some of her product recommendations from 111Skin to maintain my results at home until my next facial.

Cost: 111Skin Hydrafacial ($450/60 min; $595/90 min)

Insider Tip: Give yourself 15 to 30 extra minutes before or after your services to enjoy the spa’s amenities. Bring a swimsuit for the hot tub and pool.

Hours: 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. (Daily)

Address: 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, CA 92629

Phone: 500-722-1543 (General Inquiries) 949-234-3900 (Local Room Reservations) 949-234-3368 (Spa)

For more information and to book a service, visit the website. Follow on Instagram: @wamonarchbeach

[Images by Kamala Kirk]

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