Immersive Luxury, Exclusive Beach Retreat, and Unparalleled Hospitality Create Unforgettable Holiday Memories
During this special season, Christmas stands out as a time of immense significance. It’s not just about embracing the act of giving; it’s an invaluable opportunity to bond with loved ones and fully engage in the festive spirit that envelops the holidays.
This year, my parents made the decision to travel from the Bay Area to Southern California, aiming to spend cherished moments with me, my brother, and his wife. Our residence lies in the vibrant Little Tokyo/Arts District area near downtown Los Angeles.
As first-generation immigrants from China who came to America before my brother and I were born, my parents aspired to provide us with a better life. They toiled tirelessly, managing multiple part-time jobs during our formative years. Nothing brings them greater joy than a brief staycation, celebrating the successes born from our collective efforts.
Our choice for spending the Christmas weekend in Southern California was none other than the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach. The suggestion came from an unspecified member of our group, and despite the enticing photos on the website, the actual experience surpassed our expectations. To add to our delight, my brother’s wife boasted Diamond status with Hilton Honors, granting us extra benefits like a daily $50 credit and an upgrade to rooms with picturesque pool views.
Situated in Dana Point, the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach sprawls across 175 acres of breathtaking landscapes atop a majestic 150-foot seaside bluff. Its allure is well-known among Orange County residents, resonating with its buzz and natural beauty. While Waldorf Astoria has establishments in Beverly Hills and Las Vegas, none can rival the unique and incomparable panoramic vistas found in this exceptional location.
Upon arrival, the essence of a 5-star resort experience greets you instantly. The valet team welcomes you warmly, swiftly taking charge of your vehicle for the entire weekend. What sets this resort apart is the convenience – everything you could possibly need is right within its grounds.
Stepping onto the premises, you’re immediately enchanted by a towering, exquisitely adorned Christmas tree, accompanied by a grand sleigh ride setup, perfect for capturing epic photos. It was evident that this weekend marked the pinnacle of activity, drawing in families from around the globe for check-in. This wasn’t merely an escape from their usual dwellings; it was a lavish indulgence in luxury!
My loyal companion Slim was by my side, and the resort’s staff extended kindness by offering treats, a toy, and a stylish Waldorf Astoria bandana for my puppy. Their exceptional hospitality towards my pet spoke volumes. They went the extra mile by delivering a cozy dog bed along with food and water bowls straight to our room—an unprecedented experience for me! The way they treated my dog as a cherished guest meant the world.
Another standout feature was the resort’s complimentary water service. Water bottles were readily available in our room for our convenience, and my brother’s room even came stocked with an ice bucket! What amazed me further was the accessibility to free water from various spots like the valet, concierge, spa, or fitness center—a rarity in many hotels based on my experiences. Most places tend to charge for such amenities, but here, hydration felt like an unspoken privilege.
Among the weekend’s highlights were the remarkable dining experiences. Our first evening led us to Bourbon Steak, conveniently situated on the same floor as the lobby. What astonished me was that despite arriving at ground level, it turned out that the main floor was actually the 5th floor, owing to the resort’s hilltop location!
Though initially concerned about sitting outside due to the coastal chill, the heat warmers provided were an absolute game-changer. Beyond that, the service was exceptional, and as someone who served tables for nine years, I appreciate good customer care. To our surprise, the chef (Chef Michael Mina) graciously treated us to complimentary soup samples and fries, adding an extra touch of delight to our dining experience.
As a vegan, I naturally inquired about vegan options and was thrilled to learn they offered a Cauliflower Steak entree. However, they didn’t have the babaganoush sauce I desired, so the waiter kindly removed the dish from the bill! I absolutely adore this place.
The following morning, I was eager to explore the fitness center. By 11 am, I joined a Singing Bowls Meditation, just one of the numerous complimentary classes available for resort guests. With over 40 classes and workshops per week, I’m still feeling the effects of Saturday’s Box & Burn session! Additionally, they provide beach yoga, outdoor cycling, and scenic beach hikes along the bluffs.
Let’s discuss the gym for a moment. I hadn’t planned on working out, but the gym was so impressive that I hurried upstairs to grab my running shoes (since I was in sandals and the receptionist required closed-toed shoes for entry). The modern machines and diverse options for a full-body workout are fantastic. The splendid open windows overlooking the pool outside serve as great motivation to get moving!
If you know me well, you’re aware that massages are my ultimate guilty pleasure. While the spa’s prices for a single treatment initially surprised me, I had to convince myself. Was I really going to leave without experiencing one of their massages? Absolutely not. I indulged in a 90-minute Serenity Massage for $415, and it turned out to be the best decision ever.
This indulgence also granted me access to the Women’s Lounge, featuring a sauna and steam room—an ideal retreat to cleanse away the toxins accumulated throughout the year. It seems like 2023 was a challenging year for everyone, and the objective was to conclude it on a high note. Mission accomplished!
Just when I believed I’d encountered everything, I hopped on the tram to reach the private beach a mere six minutes away. Despite being alone, the intimacy, seclusion, and exclusivity of the beach combined to create one of the most tranquil sensations I’ve ever experienced in my 32 years. In that moment, all the stress and worries of life dissipated as I savored the invigorating ocean breeze, a reminder of the breathtaking beauty of nature.
At this spot, there’s a restaurant named Monarch Day Beach Club that literally offers a panoramic view of the entire beach, evoking a sensation akin to being on a remote tropical island, luxuriating in days away from work. Their provision of towels and cold water was a thoughtful touch, greatly appreciated!
Waldorf Astoria, thank you for providing a Christmas weekend that will remain etched in memory.
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