Direct Beach Access: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, offers direct access to Salt Creek Beach with a private pathway leading guests to the sandy shores. Guests can easily enjoy both the luxury of the hotel and the beauty of the beach, which is just steps away.

Surfing and Beach Activities: Various water activities, including surfing, are available to enjoy at Salt Creek Beach. The Ritz-Carlton can arrange surf lessons or provide information on local rental services, ensuring a memorable day by the coast.

Walking Trails: For those who enjoy a little adventure, there are nearby walking and hiking trails that offer breathtaking coastal views. The Salt Creek Trail connects to other scenic paths, providing a peaceful way to explore the area.

Beach Volleyball: The beach also has volleyball courts available for use, so you can enjoy a friendly game if you’re up for some active fun.

Should you have additional time or an extended stay following our wedding, we recommend exploring these exceptional dining options in Dana Point, offering a diverse range of experiences from casual to fine dining.

Truly Pizza – A must-try for pizza lovers, Truly Pizza offers artisanal pies made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a perfectly crispy, thin crust. With options ranging from classic Margherita to seasonal specialties, Truly Pizza has earned its reputation as one of the best pizza spots in Dana Point.

Coastal Kitchen – Offering a menu of fresh, locally sourced seafood and contemporary American dishes, Coastal Kitchen provides a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere for a memorable dining experience.

Salt Creek Grille – A casual yet stylish spot with wood-grilled steaks and seafood, plus stunning views of Salt Creek Beach. It’s perfect for a relaxed meal with great flavors and ambiance.

Raya and 180blu at The Ritz-Carlton –

Located at The Ritz-Carlton, 180blu is the ideal spot for cocktails and light bites with stunning ocean views. For a more refined dining experience, Raya offers Latin-Asian fusion cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, providing a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere for a memorable meal.

Dana Point Harbor is the perfect place to shop, dine, and explore. You can also book a whale or dolphin watching cruise—Dana Point is known as the "Whale Watching Capital of the World!" It’s a great spot to enjoy the ocean and take in the beautiful scenery. Only a 2.6 mile drive from The Ritz Carlton!

CAPTAIN DAVE’S DOLPHIN & WHALE WATCHING SAFARI (949) 488-2828 // https://www.dolphinsafari.com/

DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING & WHALE WATCHING

(949) 496-5794 // https://danawharf.com/

For dinner on the Harbor:

Chart House – A popular choice offering seafood and steaks with stunning views of the harbor. Known for its scenic location and upscale ambiance, Chart House is perfect for a relaxed yet elegant dining experience.

Beach Harbor Pizza – For a casual, delicious pizza experience on the harbor!

Coffee Importers – Enjoy delicious coffee, famous bagels, sandwiches, fresh greens, and an organic juice bar at Coffee Importers. With its charming waterfront outdoor patio, it’s the perfect spot to relax and savor a casual meal while taking in the beautiful views of Dana Point Harbor.

Take a scenic drive from Dana Point through the charming downtown of Laguna Beach. Consider hopping on a trolley to explore the area and enjoy lunch, or continue along the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) until you reach Newport Beach. This route offers an ideal opportunity to experience the stunning beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Southern California’s coastline.

PLACES TO EAT IN LAGUNA BEACH

The Deck on Laguna Beach

Located right on the sand, The Deck serves up fresh seafood and delicious cocktails with beautiful ocean views. It’s a perfect spot for brunch or a relaxed evening meal by the water.

Starfish

Located near the heart of Laguna Beach, Starfish is a favorite for seafood lovers, offering a creative menu full of fresh sushi, sashimi, and other Asian-inspired dishes.