Where to Stay
Ok this place is everything. It’s a beautiful hotel located in Dana point area. The pool area is a dream + the rooms are beautiful. It’s just off the PCH and within a quick driving distance to Laguna, Newport Beach etc.
Book a walk out fireplace room where you can walk out to the courtyard area or pool directly from your room. They will also supply you with a smores kit for roasting marshmallows over your own personal fire pit.
Where to Eat
Aveo does Sundays right! Their Sunday brunch is bomb. Anything + Everything you can think of. If you’re lucky enough you can get a table outside on their patio with the fire pit overlooking the ocean and courtyard area.
Nobu does Japanese food right. Located right on the water in Lido Marina Village, Nobu is a cool spot for dinner. The patio is beautiful on a warm night. Their patio overlooks the marina and you can watch the boats come in and out. Nobu is definitely share style and is fun with a group. I’ve been to other Nobu locations but I have to say that Newport Beach location is a favourite. I love the ambiance and the massive wood staircase leading up away from their lounge area to the dining area. Have a cocktail while a dj spins downstairs before being seated at your table.
Located in the heart of Laguna Beach, Alessa, is great for an intimate dinner on their patio or fun for a more casual vibe with friends. Always ask for the patio. Their Cali Cali pizza is soooo good. Avocado on pizza.. nothing says California more. Or opt for one of their many yummy pastas. I’ve been here on a few occasions and this little restaurant definitely has me coming back. If you’re waiting for a table be sure to put your name in and browse some of the shops on the streets close by.
Best breakfast spot. I’ve been to Babette’s on a few occasions, the first time was for my cousins girls breakfast before her wedding. Great spot for brunch with your girls or with your significant other. My favs are a Lavendar Latte + The Don Omlette. I wouldn’t have thought of ordering sweet potatoe fries with breakfast but it’s surprisingly so good. If you are thinking of heading to the beach or on a hike somewhere get some of their cold pressed juice + their rosemary chips to go. They also do wraps and salads to go. Crystal Cove is just across the street on the other side of the PCH.
A new steakhouse in the OC. Bourbon is actually located in The Monarch. Delicious steaks + yummy sides.
I love Sprinkles. They have a few locations but if you are in the area drive along the PCH and stop to get some seriously delicious cupcakes. They are on Avocado ave. How cute!
Where to Shop
The cutest little bookstore.
Faherty I just adore this brand.
Love their maxi dresses!
Le Labo I fell in love with Le Labo after staying in the Fairmont hotels and became acquainted with their signature scent Rose 31. I first discovered Santal 33 here at Le Labo in Lido Marina Village + fell in love. Now the scent reminds me of California and everything that California dreams are made of. Be careful as this scent is addictive! Le Labo has other bath products, perfumes, candles, oils + lotions.
Looking for a new tote or handbag? Look no further than Clare V.
Currently crushing on all their furniture and home goods.
Love their workout gear!
They have everything.
Where to Beach
Monarch Bay
Take the tram for hotel guests down from The Monarch to the beach. You could walk but it is a bit of a trek and the beach tram is seriously cool. The private beach is for hotel guests or people living on the golf course.
Once you reach the beach there is a private club down there where you can order drinks or food and sit in the restaurant or take it out to the chairs or sit on the beach and enjoy it.
They have a guy down there you can get towels, chairs and umbrellas from. Outdoor showers are also provided to rinse off before you head back up from the beach.
This spot is perfect for watching the waves rolling in and out or for talking a walk on the beach. From time to time you can catch a few surfers doing their thing.
Worth checking out if you are in the area. The wedge is cool too.
Good area for a hike or if you are there in the morning check out the Beachcomber and enjoy their delicious coconut macadamia nut pancakes.
