JW Marriott and Aimbridge Hospitality announced plans to convert the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point, California, into a JW Marriott property. The hotel will reopen as The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort. The change comes with a phased renovation that adds new public spaces, event venues, and dining. Aimbridge Hospitality operates the resort, which sits on a bluff above Dana Point Harbor and has been part of the local scene for nearly four decades.

What Is Changing

The renovation centers on a new resort pool in the middle of the property, which is meant to take advantage of the Pacific views. The resort will also add a 6,000-square-foot ballroom and upgrade its existing meeting facilities. A signature chef-driven restaurant is planned, and the arrival experience is being redone, including the entry drive and porte cochere. The lobby will connect to dining areas and an ocean-view deck, while pre-function meeting areas will be redesigned to blend indoor and outdoor space.

The event lawn is being expanded to cover multiple acres and moved next to the Richard Henry Dana Ballroom. Its location is near Lantern Bay Park. The new layout is designed to host larger groups and several events at once. The resort has long been a go-to spot in Orange County for weddings, meetings, and special events, and the added space is aimed at groups of all sizes.

Design and Guest Rooms

Global hospitality design firms HKS and ROAM are handling the redesign. They are blending the resort’s Victorian-era architecture with a contemporary look drawn from Dana Point’s history, painted cottages, Lantern District, and surf culture. Details include classic millwork, curated art, and ocean-themed objects placed around the property. Interiors will be layered and residential in feel, with a coastal color palette.

All 371 guest rooms will be refreshed to match the new design. Family offerings stay in place, including the recently renovated family pool area, cabana rentals, Kid’s Club, and Splash Zone. New locally inspired programming and outdoor activities will be added for guests of all ages. The resort describes itself as a destination for multigenerational travel.

Ben Ly, General Manager of The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, said the project is meant to keep the resort in step with the changing Dana Point area. “This renovation evolves the resort to be in tune with the rising tide here in Dana Point,” he said. He added that the upgrades are intended to serve both visitors and locals.

Key Details

The press release did not include a timeline for the phased work or a date for the official debut as a JW Marriott. It also did not give a budget for the renovation. Marriott and Aimbridge are expected to share more details as the project moves forward.