Montage Laguna Beach

With works by noted Californian artists in the reception area and guest rooms and a classic wood-and-stone Arts and Crafts design, the ultra-luxurious oceanfront Montage Laguna Beach celebrates the Orange County town’s long tradition as an arts colony.

Pacific breezes wash through a sun-splashed lobby, where a balcony takes in views of bluff-top gardens, secluded coves, and Santa Catalina Island in the distance. That is the same view you will enjoy from airy rooms as pretty and inviting as a summer beach house.

Then again, even the most lavish beach house does not have a spa offering caviare facials. Welcome to Spa Montage, a 1900-square-metre retreat featuring dry redwood saunas, fireplace lounges and an ocean-view swimming pool, in addition to its personalised skin and body treatments.

The resort’s wellness offerings fit the setting, from Beach Boot Camp and Pilates in the Park to SurfSET, a class that utilises real surfing techniques to build balance and strength (classes are complimentary for guests). Popular local studio Ritual Yoga also offers a variety of practices for an additional fee.

Things stay luxurious with California-inspired contemporary French cuisine and modern Arts-and-Crafts-style beach cottage design at Studio, the Montage’s signature restaurant. The more casual Loft Bar offers panoramic Pacific views with all-day dining menus that include everything from cold-pressed detox juice to a cheese bar with more than 50(!) options. If you'd prefer to stay poolside, order seafood tacos, sizeable salads or a Frosé All Day cocktail from Mosaic Bar and Grille.

Find out more about luxury accommodation throughout the state on the California Now Podcast.