Laguna Beach has always been one of my favorite places to reset. It’s beautiful in a way that feels natural rather than curated, and relaxed without losing its sense of elegance. I recently spent some time in Laguna Beach with the intention of slowing down, trading my schedule and to-do list for ocean air and slow mornings. Staying at the Surf and Sand Resort made this reset very much worthwhile, with its beachfront setting, private beach access, and falling asleep to the ocean waves (literally).
When you’re searching for that perfect beachfront escape where luxury meets authentic coastal charm, the Surf and Sand Resort delivers on every expectation. As a distinguished member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection, this Laguna Beach gem exemplifies what it means to offer an elevated beach experience without sacrificing the relaxed, natural beauty that makes Southern California’s coast so irresistible.
A Location That Simply Cannot Be Beat
Let’s be clear: the Surf and Sand Resort couldn’t provide a better location if it tried. Perched directly on one of Laguna Beach’s most pristine stretches of coastline, nearly every room in the property faces the Pacific Ocean. This isn’t a side-angle ocean glimpse or a “partial view” – we’re talking about waking up to panoramic vistas of rolling waves and endless blue horizons.
The resort’s position allows you to fall asleep to the sound of the surf and wake to the sight of the morning sun dancing across the water. For those of us who have experienced countless beachfront properties, this level of oceanfront access is rare and remarkable. Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee on your private balcony or simply gazing out your floor-to-ceiling windows, the connection to the sea is constant and captivating.
Culinary Excellence at Splashes Restaurant
Splashes Restaurant is, without question, one of the resort’s crown jewels. This isn’t just hotel dining – it’s a destination in its own right. The restaurant seamlessly combines sophisticated California coastal cuisine with an atmosphere that feels both upscale and effortlessly beachy.
What sets Splashes apart is the way it captures the essence of Laguna Beach dining: fresh, locally-sourced ingredients prepared with finesse, served in a space where the ocean is your constant companion. The indoor-outdoor flow allows you to dine with the sea breeze and sound of waves as your backdrop. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a sunset cocktail, or an intimate dinner, the experience feels special without being stuffy.
The menu showcases the best of California’s coastal bounty, with an emphasis on sustainable seafood and seasonal produce. The presentation is beautiful, the flavors are refined, and the service strikes that perfect balance between attentive and unobtrusive. For travelers who appreciate exceptional dining as part of their resort experience, Splashes delivers consistently.
Coffee Culture Done Right
The on-property coffee shop deserves special mention – it’s fantastic. For those of us who need that perfect morning coffee to start our day, this amenity elevates the entire resort experience. Rather than settling for standard hotel coffee or venturing out before you’re ready to face the day, you have access to quality espresso drinks and artisanal coffee right on site. The café embodies that Southern California coffee culture: well-crafted beverages, a welcoming atmosphere, and the kind of quality that makes you actually look forward to your morning ritual.
The Private Beach Experience
Perhaps nothing defines the Surf and Sand experience quite like the private beach access. This is where the resort truly shines, offering guests a slice of Laguna Beach that feels intimate and exclusive. The resort provides everything you need for a perfect beach day: comfortable loungers, attentive beach service, umbrellas, and that all-important feeling of having your own coastal sanctuary.
The private beach isn’t just an amenity – it’s an experience. You can transition seamlessly from your room to the sand, from morning yoga sessions to afternoon reading, from sunset watching to evening stargazing, all while enjoying the comfort and service that makes a luxury resort worth the investment. For guests who value both pristine beaches and thoughtful service, this combination is pure perfection.
The Preferred Hotels & Resorts Difference
As a proud member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection, the Surf and Sand Resort upholds the standards that distinguish this portfolio: independent character, genuine hospitality, and a commitment to creating memorable experiences. This affiliation isn’t just about brand recognition – it’s an assurance of quality and service that experienced travelers have come to trust.
The resort embodies what makes Preferred properties special: it maintains its distinctive Laguna Beach character while delivering the consistent excellence and attention to detail that the collection is known for. Whether you’re earning or redeeming loyalty benefits or simply seeking that level of refined service, the Preferred Hotels & Resorts connection adds another layer of confidence to your booking.
Final Thoughts
The Surf and Sand Resort succeeds in that delicate balance of being both luxurious and authentically coastal. It’s refined without being pretentious, upscale without losing its beach town soul. For the discerning traveler who has experienced numerous beachfront properties, this resort stands out for all the right reasons: an unbeatable oceanfront location, exceptional dining at Splashes, a fantastic coffee shop, and that coveted private beach access.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a girlfriend’s retreat, or simply seeking a few days of coastal rejuvenation, the Surf and Sand Resort offers exactly what you’re looking for. It’s the kind of place where you can truly disconnect from daily demands and reconnect with what matters – whether that’s the sound of the waves, the taste of exceptional cuisine, or simply the pleasure of being in a beautiful place that takes excellent care of its guests.
