By Miranda Katz
Opened on August 27, 1984, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is approaching its thirtieth year of hospitality and is reinventing itself for the occasion.
The Southern California resort’s 396 guestrooms have all been enhanced and new fireside guestrooms and suites feature outdoor fireplaces with beautiful ocean or coastline views. Further changes include four new restaurant concepts, a world-class eco-adventure center, a full upgrade of the expansive meeting space and stunning changes to the gardens and landscape.
These enhancements are all a part of The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel’s mission to reinvent itself and remain relevant among new competition in burgeoning Orange County.
“As the destination’s very first resort, we’ve worked hard to invest strategically, which is a testament to our ongoing commitment to this iconic resort and world-class destination,” commented General Manager Bruce Brainerd. “We challenged the designers, architects and restaurateurs to fully meet the potential of our oceanfront location and they delivered. This transformation has truly unleashed our potential and has validated our strategy to evolve through innovation in order to lead in the luxury marketplace.”
Guests can now enjoy panoramic oceanside dining at the 180blũ lounge, pan-latin coastal cuisine at Raya (named “Restaurant of the Year” by Riviera Orange County in July 2011), grass-fed, pasture-raised beef at enoSTEAK and a wide variety of coffee, espresso, sweet treats and more at The Market Place, a grab-and-go style dining option.
The adventurous vacationer can take advantage of the Eco-AdventureCenter’s offerings, which include exploring the shore and surrounding ecosystems, whale watching and snorkeling. The excursions are led by expert naturalists and allow kids, families, adults and groups to learn about and enjoy Southern California’s amazing natural wonders. The redesign of the resort’s gardens and landscape creates a visually stunning experience, reflecting the Pacific Ocean and active California lifestyle while still emphasizing the Ritz-Carlton’s commitment to exemplary service.
www.ritzcarlton.com/lagunaniguel