BookResorts™ is an independent travel network offering over 100,000 hotels worldwide.is an independent travel network.

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa Dana Point, California
Book Now Or call, 24/7+1 (888) 605-1350
Rooms & Suites Dine & Drink Activities Spa Gallery FAQs
Ready to book?Lowest online rate, free perks and upgrades.Book nowCall 24/7 · 888-605-1350
Hotel comparison guide

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa vs The Resort at Pelican Hill

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa is a blufftop, family-friendly coastal resort in Dana Point with heated pools, a full spa, and easy access to Dana Point Harbor. The Resort at Pelican Hill is a landmark five-star Newport Coast resort known for grand scale, golf, and three outdoor pools — read this if you want a practical comparison for a family stay, a golf-focused getaway, or a luxury Newport Coast experience.

Updated

Aerial view of Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa with red-roofed buildings and coastline

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

Blufftop · Family-friendly · Harbor access

Best for families and harbor-side activities — kids’ splash zone, seasonal kids’ camp, and quick access to Dana Point Harbor and whale-watching.

The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Beach, California

The Resort at Pelican Hill

Landmark five-star · Golf & pools · Grand luxury scale

Best for resort-scale luxury and golf — Pelican Hill is a five-star Newport Coast property with on-site golf, three outdoor pools, and villa-style rooms with private patios.

Quick Verdict: Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa vs The Resort at Pelican Hill

When Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa wins: choose Laguna Cliffs if you want a family-friendly, active seaside base in Dana Point with easy harbor access, two heated pools including a kids’ splash zone, a large on-site spa, and extensive meeting/wedding space.

When The Resort at Pelican Hill wins: choose Pelican Hill for a five-star, large-scale Newport Coast resort experience focused on championship golf, villa-like accommodations with private patios/fireplaces, multiple pools, and a more formal luxury tone.

Bottom line: both are polished coastal resorts — pick Laguna Cliffs for family-focused harbor access and events; pick Pelican Hill for classic Newport Coast luxury and golf-oriented stays.

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa vs The Resort at Pelican Hill – At a Glance

Side-by-side facts for Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa and The Resort at Pelican Hill
CategoryLaguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and SpaThe Resort at Pelican Hill
Overall vibeActive, family-friendly blufftop resort with harbor access and larger event spaces.Formal, landmark five-star Newport Coast resort with golf-course setting and grand architecture.
LocationPerched on a bluff above the Pacific in Dana Point, steps from Lantern Bay Park and close to Doheny State Beach and Dana Point Harbor.Newport Coast; near Pelican Hill Golf Course and about a short drive from Crystal Cove State Park and local beaches.
Size (rooms)378 guest rooms across four floors (resort sources).332 guestrooms (supplier listing).
Ages / audienceAll ages — family facilities and seasonal kids’ camp.All ages (listing indicates family-friendly; not adults-only).
PoolsTwo heated outdoor pools (Del Mar Pool with Kid’s Splash Zone; Laguna Pool more adult-oriented) plus whirlpools.Three outdoor pools and multiple poolside bars (supplier listing).
Restaurants & barsMultiple on-site options including Lantern’s Edge (signature California-Mediterranean), Barrel & Brews, OverVue Lounge & Deck, and seasonal poolside dining.Two restaurants on site (Pelican Grill plus a coffee shop/cafe) and room service/snacks per supplier listing.
Spa & wellnessThe Spa at Laguna Cliffs — a 14,000 sq ft full-service spa with separate men’s/women’s lounges, Swiss showers, steam rooms, and outdoor treatment spaces.Full spa services on site (treatments, steam room/Turkish bath listed) and fitness classes/yoga available.
Known forDana Point Harbor access, whale-watching departures, family amenities, and large event/wedding facilities.Pelican Hill Golf Course proximity, grand luxury scale, villa-like rooms with private patios/fireplaces, and complimentary beach shuttle.
Event & meeting spaceExtensive — roughly 50,000+ sq ft and large ballrooms (Richard Henry Dana Ballroom ~10,060 sq ft; multiple outdoor lawns).Conference/business services and banquet halls available (supplier listing shows conference space and meeting facilities).
Accessibility & servicesWheelchair-accessible rooms and paths; valet and self-parking (fees); resort fee applies; on-site fitness and activities.Wide accessibility features listed (accessible shuttle, ramps, van parking), valet, free Wi‑Fi, concierge, and beach shuttle.

A Look Inside Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

See all photos →

Location: Dana Point bluff vs Newport Coast setting

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa – Location

Laguna Cliffs sits on a bluff above the Pacific with short walks to Lantern Bay Park, Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach.

  • About a 1-minute walk to Lantern Bay Park and short walk to Dana Point Harbor.
  • Close to harbor activities: whale-watching, sailing and kayak charters depart nearby.
  • Good for day trips south toward San Diego or north toward Laguna Beach.

Pick Laguna Cliffs for direct Dana Point harbor access and quick beach/boat activity access.

The Resort at Pelican Hill – Location

Pelican Hill is set on the Newport Coast near Pelican Hill Golf Course and a short drive to Crystal Cove State Park and local beaches.

  • Near Pelican Hill Golf Course and about a short drive to Crystal Cove State Park and Crystal Cove Beach.
  • Complimentary beach shuttle helps connect guests to nearby sand and surf.
  • Fashion Island and Newport’s coastal attractions are a short drive away.

Pick Pelican Hill for a classic Newport Coast location with golf and access to Crystal Cove and Newport Beach.

Rooms: standard resort rooms vs villa-style five-star rooms

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa – Rooms

Laguna Cliffs offers 378 guest rooms and a range of views including partial ocean, ocean, pool and resort views.

  • 17 room types listed, many with balconies or patios and options for sofa beds.
  • Family-friendly room options that accommodate up to 4 guests in many layouts.
  • In-room Wi‑Fi may carry a nightly fee; Marriott Bonvoy program accepted.

If you want straightforward family-sized guest rooms and easy booking via Marriott Bonvoy, Laguna Cliffs is practical and familiar.

The Resort at Pelican Hill – Rooms

Pelican Hill lists 332 guestrooms; many rooms and villas have private patios and fireplaces per supplier notes.

  • Rooms feature private patios and fireplaces and typically emphasize villa-like privacy.
  • Room entertainment includes flat-screens and DVD players per listing.
  • Pelican Hill offers both standard rooms and villa-style accommodations on property (supplier listing).

Pelican Hill leans toward villa-style, private-feeling accommodations with patio space and fireplaces.

Dining & drinks: local-Californian at Laguna Cliffs vs formal Pelican Hill options

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa – Dining & drinks

Laguna Cliffs’ dining centers on Lantern’s Edge plus casual pool and lounge options.

  • Lantern’s Edge is the resort’s signature restaurant with California-Mediterranean cuisine and set hours for breakfast/brunch/dinner.
  • Barrel & Brews and seasonal Del Mar Pool dining cover casual meals and late-night drinks.
  • On-site options include an OverVue Lounge & Deck with ocean views and poolside food service in summer.

Choose Laguna Cliffs for approachable California-Mediterranean fare and a casual poolside scene.

The Resort at Pelican Hill – Dining & drinks

Pelican Hill lists two restaurants and a coffee shop/cafe on site, with poolside bars and room service available.

  • Pelican Grill is a signature on-site restaurant referenced in supplier highlights.
  • Two poolside bars and a coffee shop/cafe provide snack and beverage options around the resort.
  • Room service and snacks are available during limited hours per the supplier listing.

Pelican Hill offers fewer on-site restaurants but maintains formal dining and poolside bar service consistent with five-star properties.

Pools & beach access: family splash vs multiple resort pools

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa – Pools & beach access

Laguna Cliffs operates two heated outdoor pools — a family-focused Del Mar Pool with a Kid’s Splash Zone and an adult-oriented Laguna Pool.

  • Del Mar Pool includes ocean views, poolside bar service in season, and a children’s splash area.
  • Laguna Pool is quieter with lounge seating and a more adult atmosphere.
  • Pools are heated; pools and pool bars have seasonal hours and live music on some weekends.

Families will appreciate the kids’ splash zone and separate adult pool at Laguna Cliffs.

The Resort at Pelican Hill – Pools & beach access

Pelican Hill lists three outdoor pools and multiple poolside bars on the supplier listing.

  • Three outdoor pools provide varied pool atmospheres and poolside service.
  • Poolside bars (two listed) supply drinks and light fare around the pools.
  • The resort runs shuttle service to nearby beaches for guests who want sand access.

Pelican Hill is the choice for guests who prefer multiple pool options and poolside service in a resort-garden setting.

Wellness & nightlife: full-service spas and on-site activities

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa – Wellness & nightlife

Laguna Cliffs’ 14,000 sq ft Spa at Laguna Cliffs and 24-hour fitness center anchor on-site wellness.

  • Spa includes separate men’s/women’s lounges, Swiss showers, steam rooms, and outdoor treatment areas.
  • 24-hour fitness center with Life Fitness equipment plus yoga and fitness classes available.
  • On-site recreation includes pickleball, tennis, miniature golf, and complimentary bicycles.

Laguna Cliffs blends a large, feature-rich spa with family-oriented recreational options.

The Resort at Pelican Hill – Wellness & nightlife

Pelican Hill features on-site spa treatments, fitness classes, and golf instruction/amenities.

  • Spa services include massages, facials, many treatment rooms, and Turkish bath/Hammam facilities listed.
  • Golf driving range, lessons with a pro and optional golf privileges are prominent on-site options.
  • Fitness classes and yoga are available; the property lists accessible fitness and shuttle services.

Pelican Hill emphasizes golf and spa in a refined resort atmosphere — good for wellness-focused or golf-centered stays.

Who Wins? Best Pick by Travel Style

Best for families & kids
Hotel reception desk and circular lobby floor pattern at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

Laguna Cliffs — Kid’s Splash Zone, seasonal kids’ day camp, family pools, and close harbor/beach access.

Best for golf & luxury scale
The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Beach, California

The Resort at Pelican Hill

The Resort at Pelican Hill — on-site Pelican Hill Golf Course access, golf lessons, and villa-style luxury.

Best spa experience
Lawn and resort exterior with veranda and red-roofed central pavilion at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

Laguna Cliffs — The Spa at Laguna Cliffs is a 14,000 sq ft facility with separate lounges and outdoor treatment areas.

Best for a formal five-star stay
The Resort at Pelican Hill, Newport Beach, California

The Resort at Pelican Hill

The Resort at Pelican Hill — positioned as a landmark five-star Newport Coast resort with multiple pools and formal dining/service style.

Frequently asked questions

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa vs The Resort at Pelican Hill: FAQs

See all FAQs →
Which resort is better for families with young children?

Laguna Cliffs — it has a Kid’s Splash Zone, seasonal kids’ day camp, family-oriented pool and easy access to Dana Point Harbor activities.

Which resort is better for golf?

The Resort at Pelican Hill — proximity to Pelican Hill Golf Course, on-site driving range and golf lessons make it the clearer choice for golfers.

Do either of these resorts operate beach shuttles?

Pelican Hill lists a complimentary beach shuttle; Laguna Cliffs is a short walk to Doheny State Beach and nearby beaches instead of a shuttle listing.

Which resort has more pool options?

Pelican Hill lists three outdoor pools; Laguna Cliffs has two heated pools including a children’s splash zone and a quieter adult pool.

More Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa Comparison Guides

Explore how Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa stacks up against other hotels nearby:

Book your stay

Cliffside Ocean-View Rooms

  • Lowest rate guarantee
  • Complimentary perks & upgrades
  • 24/7 concierge
Offer terms

Price comparison & offer terms

These terms apply to the price comparison, Lowest Price Guarantee, free perks and concierge service shown on this site.

How we compare rates

The nightly rate shown is the lowest nightly rate we found for Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa after searching every available night up to 12 months in advance, based on single occupancy (one guest). We compared that rate with publicly available rates on other online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Expedia, Hotels.com and similar sites, and show the price difference we found. We don't name the specific site each comparison came from.

Rates and availability change constantly. The rate for your dates, room type and number of guests may be different. The full price, including taxes and fees, is shown before you confirm.

Lowest Price Guarantee

Free perks & upgrades

24/7 concierge

General

BookResorts may change or end these offers at any time. These terms are in addition to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not affiliated with Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa.

Legal

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Please read these Terms carefully. They contain important information about limitations of our liability and the resolution of disputes through binding arbitration and a class action waiver (Section 16), and our right to change these Terms (Section 18).

1. Acceptance of these terms

These Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”) govern your access to and use of BookResorts and any booking you make through us. By using the site or making a reservation, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use the site.

2. Definitions

“We,” “us,” and “our” refer to BookResorts, operated by SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. “You” refers to the person using the site or making a reservation. A “Supplier” or “Travel Provider” is the hotel, resort, or other provider that supplies the travel services. “Travel Services” means the room stays and related services made available through us. “Content” means text, descriptions, images, reviews, and other material on the site.

3. Who we are

BookResorts is an independent online travel agency that acts as an intermediary between you and Suppliers. We are not a hotel, and we are not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any hotel or brand featured on the site. When you book, your reservation is made with the Supplier through us as agent.

4. Eligibility & use of the site

You must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority where you live) and able to enter a binding contract. You agree to use the site only to make legitimate reservations for yourself or for someone you are authorized to act for, to provide accurate and complete information, and to inform any other traveler of the terms that apply to their reservation.

5. Bookings & confirmation

All reservations are subject to availability and to the rate rules, restrictions, and policies shown at the time of booking. A reservation is confirmed only when you receive a confirmation from us. You are responsible for reviewing the rate rules (including cancellation terms) before you book.

6. Prices, fees, taxes & currency

Prices are shown in the currency indicated and include applicable taxes and fees unless stated otherwise; the total is displayed before you confirm. Our price may include a service fee and may differ from the rate offered directly by the Supplier. Currency conversions, where shown, are estimates. Certain taxes or resort fees may be collected by the Supplier at the property.

7. Cancellations, changes & refunds

Each rate carries its own cancellation policy, shown before you book (for example, non-refundable, or refundable up to a stated deadline). Refund eligibility and timing follow the policy attached to the rate you select. Service fees may be non-refundable. Failure to check in (“no-show”) may result in forfeiture of the amount paid, per the rate rules.

8. Your responsibilities

You are responsible for having valid identification and any required travel documents (such as a passport or visa), and for complying with the Supplier’s policies, including minimum check-in age, occupancy limits, deposits, and identification requirements. You are responsible for the accuracy of all guest information you provide.

9. Suppliers & third-party services

Suppliers are independent third parties. We are not liable for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, or negligence of any Supplier, or for the quality, condition, or safety of the travel services they provide. Any dispute regarding your stay or the services delivered is between you and the Supplier. Supplier terms and policies apply in addition to these Terms.

10. Third-party links

The site may contain links to third-party websites provided for your convenience. We do not control and are not responsible for those sites, and a link does not imply endorsement. Your use of any linked site is at your own risk and subject to that site’s terms.

11. Intellectual property

The site and its Content (excluding third-party trademarks) are owned by BookResorts or its licensors and are protected by law. Hotel names, logos, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used only to identify the property being booked. You may not copy, scrape, or reuse any Content without permission.

12. Prohibited conduct

You agree not to use the site for any unlawful or fraudulent purpose; not to make speculative, false, or fraudulent reservations; not to use automated tools to access or scrape the site; and not to interfere with the site’s operation or security.

13. Reviews & user content

If you submit reviews or other content, you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute it in connection with our services. You are responsible for what you submit, and we may remove content at our discretion.

14. Disclaimers

The site, its Content, and the travel services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis, without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, including as to accuracy, availability, or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that listings, prices, or descriptions are error-free.

15. Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, BookResorts will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of or connected with your use of the site or any booking. If we are found liable, our total liability will not exceed the greater of (a) the fees you paid to BookResorts for the booking at issue, or (b) US$100. This limitation reflects the allocation of risk between us.

16. Dispute resolution

We want to resolve any concern quickly and fairly. Before pursuing a formal claim, you agree to first contact our support team at 888-605-1350 or support@bookresorts.com and give us 60 days to resolve the matter informally. If we are unable to resolve it, any dispute will be handled by the state or federal courts located in California, as set out in Section 17 (either party may still bring qualifying claims in small claims court).

17. Governing law & venue

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, USA, without regard to conflict-of-laws rules. Any permitted court action will be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California, and you consent to their jurisdiction.

18. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. The version in effect at the time of your booking applies to that booking. Your continued use of the site after changes take effect means you accept the updated Terms.

19. Force majeure

We are not responsible for any failure or delay caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, government actions, or Supplier closures.

20. Miscellaneous

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions stay in effect. Our failure to enforce a provision is not a waiver. These Terms are the entire agreement between you and us regarding the site.

21. Contact

Questions about these Terms or a reservation? Call our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350.

Legal

Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains how BookResorts collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal information when you use our site or make a booking. For the purposes of applicable data protection law, the data controller is SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. (operating as BookResorts).

1. Information you provide

When you search, book, or contact us, we collect information such as your name, email, phone number, billing and payment details, the names and details of other guests, your travel dates and preferences, and the content of your communications with us.

2. Information we collect automatically

When you use the site, we automatically collect technical and usage data such as your device and browser type, IP address, approximate location, pages viewed, referring URLs, and interactions with the site, using cookies and similar technologies.

3. Information from other sources

We may receive information about you from Suppliers, business partners, fraud-prevention services, and (if you choose to connect one) social media platforms.

4. How we use your information

We use your information to process and manage bookings; communicate with you about reservations; provide customer support; personalize your experience; send marketing where permitted (with the ability to opt out); analyze and improve the site; prevent fraud and secure our services; and comply with legal obligations.

5. How we share your information

To complete a booking, we share necessary details with the relevant hotel and room Suppliers and with payment processors. We may also share information with service providers who support our operations, with advertising and analytics partners, with our corporate affiliates, in connection with a business transfer, with authorities where required by law, and with your consent.

6. Cookies & tracking

We use essential, performance, functional, and advertising cookies and similar technologies. You can manage non-essential cookies through your browser and through our cookie settings. For more detail, see our Cookie Policy.

7. Your privacy rights

Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict the use of your personal information, to data portability, and to opt out of marketing.

EEA/UK (GDPR): You may access, rectify, erase, restrict, or object to processing of your data, withdraw consent, and lodge a complaint with your local supervisory authority. We process data based on your consent, the performance of a contract, our legitimate interests, and legal obligations.

California (CCPA/CPRA): You may request to know, delete, or correct your personal information, and limit the use of sensitive personal information, without discrimination. We do not sell or share your personal information as those terms are defined under California law, so no opt-out is necessary. To exercise any of your rights, contact us at support@bookresorts.com; we verify requests before responding.

8. Data retention

We keep personal information for as long as needed to provide our services and to meet legal, tax, accounting, and dispute-resolution obligations.

9. Security

We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

10. International transfers

Your information may be processed in countries other than where you live. Where required, we put appropriate safeguards in place (such as standard contractual clauses) for those transfers.

11. Children’s privacy

The site is intended for adults and is not directed to children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without appropriate consent.

12. Third-party links & social features

The site may contain links to, or features from, third-party services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties; please review their policies.

13. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The “last updated” date above reflects the current version, and we will provide notice of material changes where required.

14. Contact us

Questions or privacy requests? Reach our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350 or by email at support@bookresorts.com.

About BookResorts · Independent since 1993

A better way to book your hotel

BookResorts is a full-service, independent travel agency connecting travelers to unforgettable stays since 1993. Detailed hotel information, competitive all-in rates and 24/7 concierge support, all in one place.

Est. 199330+ years
100K+Hotels & resorts
200+Countries
24/7Concierge
This is not the official website of Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa or its parent brand.

Why travelers choose BookResorts

Best available rates

We compare rates from top suppliers. Taxes and fees included, no hidden charges.

100,000+ hotels & resorts

200+ countries and 2,000+ cities, from all-inclusives to boutique stays.

24/7 concierge

Real travel specialists to build, change or help with your reservation anytime.

Full transparency

Honest details on every property: rooms, amenities and policies.

Trusted since 1993

Three decades as a full-service, independent travel agency.

Secure & protected

Every booking is handled securely and your information is protected.

How booking with us works

Questions about a reservation? Our team is here 24/7 at 888-605-1350.
Full details in our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Lowest Price + Free Perks

UsOthers
Nightly rate
Price guarantee✓
No hidden fees✓
Perks & upgrades✓
24/7 concierge✓
Check availability

vs. sites like Expedia, Hotels.com and other OTAs ·

Book by phone888-605-1350
Book nowLowest rates Call usAvailable 24/7
Photo viewer