Nestled along the picturesque coast of Dana Point, just north of San Diego, the St. Regis Monarch Beach is a world-class resort offering a seamless blend of elegance, relaxation, and coastal beauty. Known as California’s only Mobil Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond resort, it remains one of Southern California’s most iconic luxury destinations.
(Note: The resort has since been rebranded as the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, but many still remember it by its celebrated name, St. Regis Monarch Beach.)
Luxury Accommodations & Suites
The resort features 400 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, each designed with Tuscan-inspired architecture, European stone, and marble accents. Guests enjoy spacious layouts with warm earth tones, custom-designed furniture, and fresh floral arrangements. Many rooms offer sweeping ocean views and private balconies for a true coastal retreat.
Fine Dining at Stonehill Tavern
Culinary excellence defines the St. Regis experience. The resort’s Stonehill Tavern delivers a one-of-a-kind dining adventure with multiple seating options:
Outdoor terrace perfect for sunset cocktails overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
A warm and inviting lounge and bar.
Private fireside dining rooms for intimate gatherings.
The menu highlights signature small plate trios, giving guests the opportunity to savor their favorite dishes in three unique preparations.
Spa Gaucín – A Sanctuary of Wellness
For relaxation and rejuvenation, Spa Gaucín offers a 30,000-square-foot wellness haven. The spa includes:
25 treatment rooms, including intimate couples’ suites with whirlpools and fireplaces.
Hydrotherapy and underwater massage rooms.
Steam rooms, herbal sauna, and whirlpools.
A state-of-the-art fitness center and lap pool with underwater lighting and sound.
This sanctuary is designed to invigorate the body and soothe the mind, making it one of the finest spa experiences in Southern California.
Monarch Beach Golf Links
For outdoor enthusiasts, Monarch Beach Golf Links provides a world-class golf experience. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this par-70 championship course offers:
18 holes along dramatic oceanfront bluffs.
Sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
An exclusive clubhouse and variety of play for all levels.
It is considered one of the most scenic coastal golf courses in California.
Location & Nearby Attractions
Located in Dana Point, the resort places guests near top Orange County attractions, including:
Doheny State Beach – perfect for surfing, picnics, and family outings.
Dana Point Harbor – offering whale watching, sailing, and shopping.
Laguna Beach – just a short drive away for art galleries and coastal dining.
The resort is easily accessible, only 25 minutes from John Wayne Airport and about an hour from San Diego or Los Angeles.
FAQs
Q: Is St. Regis Monarch Beach the same as Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach? A: Yes, the resort was rebranded as Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach in 2016, but many travelers still know it by its original name.
Q: What makes St. Regis Monarch Beach unique? A: Its combination of luxury accommodations, oceanfront golf, award-winning spa, and unmatched service make it one of Southern California’s top resorts.
Q: Does the resort offer oceanfront dining? A: Yes, guests can enjoy fine dining and cocktails with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Q: How far is Dana Point from San Diego? A: Dana Point is about an hour’s drive north of San Diego, making St. Regis Monarch Beach an ideal weekend getaway.
Plan Your Escape
Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a spa and wellness getaway, or a world-class golf experience, the St. Regis Monarch Beach offers the ultimate luxury escape in Southern California.