Set atop a stunning coastal bluff above the sandy shores of Salt Creek Beach with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is the ultimate seaside getaway in Dana Point, CA. Known for its Five Diamond service, the property offers luxurious accommodations, locally-sourced cuisine, an assortment of eco adventures, and a world-class spa and fitness center.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Laguna Niguel is an ocean-inspired wellness sanctuary that incorporates elements of the sea to restore balance and nurture the body. Spa services feature ingredients such as marine collagen, sea salt, beach stones and seaweed, in addition to skincare products from renowned skincare lines like ESPA and SkinCeuticals. Aside from the spa’s relaxing amenities, guests also enjoy use of the fitness center, along with multiple swimming pools.

We chatted with Rebecca Muniz, Director of Spa & Fitness at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Laguna Niguel, who shared insider tips, recommended treatments to try, and more.

Why You’ll Love It: Located on a bluff overlooking miles of the Pacific Ocean, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is an iconic beachfront property, celebrated for its luxurious coastal-inspired guest rooms, celebrity chef-driven dining outlets, and ocean-centric amenities and experiences such as the spa. Spa treatments incorporate healing elements of the water to restore balance and nurture the body, including marine collagen, sea salt, beach stones, seaweed, and other natural ingredients from the sea. 

Key Features: Using elements of the ocean to restore balance, The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a comprehensive wellness journey and 12 treatment rooms. All of the rooms are bathed in soft hues of aqua and beige, while tranquil water features add to the overall sensory experience. High-style locker rooms, public spaces, and saunas ensure a soothing aura throughout. 

Spa treatments, from massages to skin therapies, embrace the resort’s natural surroundings by incorporating sea salt, minerals, and water to leave guests feeling refreshed and renewed. The Ritz-Carlton Spa is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and reservations can be made online or by calling the spa directly at 949-573-2235. 

For an added wellness experience, the resort features a fully-equipped fitness center with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offers daily morning yoga and Pilates classes. Classes are complimentary and only available for in-house guests. Pam Anderson and Laurie Miller, Anderson Miller, Ltd., Birmingham, Michigan. designed the spa. 

Bonus: Guests are welcome and encouraged to enjoy the eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, dry sauna, and relaxation lounge both before and after their treatments. 

Snacks Served: Antioxidant-infused spa water, hot tea, nuts, fresh fruit, and other vegan treats are available in the spa relaxation lounge. Specialty beverages accompany seasonal offerings.  

Insider’s Tip: The Ritz-Carlton Spa provides highly-personalized experiences for group getaways. Whether it is a group of friends celebrating a birthday or a corporate group taking a break during a conference, spa groups receive off-menu, curated treatment suggestions and unique gift ideas.

Insider’s Favorite: Our spa menu changes regularly and guests love our springtime rose bud-inspired pedicure that features an aromatic foot soak, exfoliating sugar whip scrub, and soothing massage of lower legs and feet. It feels like you're immersed in California's Super Bloom!

Splurge Treatment: Laguna Wellness Experience. Treat your body like a temple with this firming, hydrating and detoxifying treatment inspired by local surroundings, harnessing the benefits of oceanic ingredients including a specially formulated seaweed body wrap and collagen facial mask. Customized massage techniques infuse powerful anti-oxidants, restoring hydration to the skin and leaving your body looking sleek and smooth. This balancing experience creates a feeling of total harmony and well-being.  

Unique Treatment: Coastal Illuminating Facial. This indulging treatment is the ultimate luxurious experience and is specifically tailored to your desired outcome. This deeply relaxing and revitalizing facial will leave your skin looking and feeling transformed. Marine collagen and beneficial precious minerals restore a youthful glow. 

Featured Products: HydraFacial is an exciting new addition to The Ritz-Carlton Spa’s menu of services.  HydraFacial uses patented tools to cleanse, purify and hydrate skin, leaving it plump and saturated with antioxidants and peptides. Other facials are performed with renowned skincare lines ESPA and SkinCeuticals. KNESKO gemstone masks are often incorporated into skincare services. Massage and body treatments utilize ESPA and Epicuren products.

For more information on The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, visit their website and follow on Instagram: @ritzcarltonlagunaniguel

[Photos courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel]

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

One Ritz-Carlton Drive

Dana Point, CA 92629

949-240-2000