JW Marriott Transforming Dana Point Resort into Ocean Cliffs

JW Marriott is set to unveil a major transformation of its Dana Point resort, which will debut as The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort. The multi-million-dollar renovation will significantly enhance the property, adding new amenities and expanding existing spaces to better serve both leisure travelers and meeting planners.

The transformation will include the introduction of an expansive resort pool, a new 6,000-square-foot ballroom, and an expanded multi-acre event lawn. These additions will complement the existing indoor-outdoor gathering spaces and classic Victorian-era architecture, creating a more modern and versatile venue for events and gatherings.

General Manager Ben Ly of The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort, expressed the resort's commitment to the Dana Point community. "For nearly 40 years, this storied property has stood as a beacon overlooking Dana Point Harbor, calling both locals home and visitors to our shores to experience the quintessential Southern California coastal lifestyle. This renovation evolves the resort to be in tune with the rising tide here in Dana Point, complete with a refreshed design, new destination-style resort pool, a prominent signature restaurant concept, engaging experiences, and larger gathering spaces catering to both visiting guests and locals alike."

The property, currently known as Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, has been an enduring favorite in Dana Point for decades. The transformation is part of a broader effort to align the resort with the standards and expectations of the JW Marriott portfolio, which focuses on exceptional hospitality, holistic well-being, and meaningful connections.

The redesign will balance the property's historic character with a contemporary, luxurious aesthetic inspired by Dana Point's coastal heritage. The arrival and public spaces will be expanded to showcase ocean views and deepen the property's connection to its bluff-meets-sea setting. The lobby will flow through dining spaces and onto an expansive ocean view deck, ideal for sunset cocktails and mingling. Pre-function meeting areas will be reimagined as indoor-outdoor environments to enhance flexibility and flow for gatherings.

The resort's event lawn, set just steps from Dana Point's beloved Lantern Bay Park, will be expanded and relocated adjacent to its Richard Henry Dana Ballroom. This will anchor the guest experience with the ability to welcome larger groups and multiple simultaneous events, each with its own unique experience. The central pool will serve as a focal point of the guest experience, complemented by locally inspired food and beverage offerings, refreshed lounge areas, and sweeping ocean views.

The 371 guest rooms will be thoughtfully refreshed to reflect the property's reimagined design vision, drawing inspiration from Dana Point's coastal heritage and relaxed seaside character. The resort will continue to offer its recently renovated family pool area, cabana rentals, Kid's Club, and Splash Zone, while introducing new locally inspired programming and outdoor activities designed to encourage discovery and meaningful shared experiences for guests of all ages.

The transformation is part of a broader effort to enhance the resort's appeal and positioning in Southern California's premier travel destinations. The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort, is expected to become a premier destination for leisure travel, meetings, and celebrations, offering a blend of historical charm and modern sophistication.