While dining at a table at RAYA by Executive Chef Richard Sandoval inside The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel, I noticed a group of surfers below pointing to a pod of dolphins surfacing nearby. Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the restaurant offers floor-to-ceiling glass windows for diners and guests to take in the spectacular beach, ocean and Catalina Island views.
"This is a favorite spot for dolphins," said Stacy Kolios, Director of Marketing at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel. "Almost every part of the resort including guest rooms, common areas and meeting spaces have ocean views."
Culinary Adventures
Raya is one of many onsite fine-dining restaurants at the resort. Executive chef Richard Sandoval's concept of Latin-inspired traditional dishes with innovative technique and skillful presentation focuses on seafood, fresh produce and flavorful spices.
As the chef and owner of Modern Mexican Restaurants, Sandoval is also a cookbook author, television personality, culinary consultant and brand ambassador.
Guests will never want to leave the resort for a meal, because there are an array of international dining opportunities that wow the senses. Besides Raya, there are two other stellar dining experiences - Taikun Omakase and Kahani.
Elegant Omakase Meal
Make a reservation at Taikun Omakase for a curated 16-course one-of-a-kind dining experience. There are two seatings available at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., at this intimate dining venue.
Sourcing from the finest international and local ingredents, the menu highlights a range of textures, flavors and appealing presentations.
Exciting Indian Dishes at Kahani
Reserve a table at Kahani to take an edible journey of Chef Sanjay Rawat's modern fusion approach to authentic Indian cuisine. The name of the restaurant translates to 'story' in Hindi, and Chef Sanjay's story is a multi-sensory presentation of color, flavor and aroma.
Rooms With A View
Each of the 373 California-style guest rooms and suites are spacious, and elegantly designed in cream and blue colors. Many feature a private balcony or terrace, including the ground level rooms with a fire pit on their patio. As with other The Ritz Carlton resorts, the beds are incredibly comfortable, with high-end linens and bedding. Some rooms have pool views, while others look out to Dana Point and the Pacific Ocean. Soon there will be two new corner two-bedroom suites with five oceanfront windows for maximum views.
World-Class Spa
The Ritz-Carlton Spa is currently under a complete expansion and renovation that should be open in the fall of 2025. Doubling in size, this new two level relaxing retreat will offer wellness and rejuvenation with signature facials, massages, and body treatments. The new serene environment will also have its own private swimming pool and relaxation terrace.
Upgrade to The Ritz-Carlton Club
The Club Lounge enhances one's stay with a 'hotel within a hotel' concept. Begin your vacation at the exclusive area to be greeted by a Club ambassador for a tour of the exclusive sanctuary. Make your dining reservations and learn about different elevated experiences at the resort.
Complimentary culinary offerings are available five times a day starting with a hot and cold breakfast in the lounge. Enjoy lunch, afternoon snacks, savory hors d'oeuvres with wine, beer, signature cocktails and cordials in the evening.
Salt Creek Beach
Below the resort is Salt Creek Beach, a beautiful spot for beach walks, sunbathing, surfing, and enjoying the ocean views. Take a shuttle down to the beach or walk along the exclusive path to the sand. The Ritz Carlton Beach Butlers happily provide towels, sunscreen and after-sun lotion to guests, as well as set up chairs and umbrellas.
The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Beach is the ultimate So Cal beach getaway destination.
