Peachhead™ Approved Vacations: Vacation in Laguna Niguel, Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel, August 2012

I love staycations, where you can get away but not spend a lot of time traveling. Last week I visited Laguna Beach to see the Pageant of the Masters. This truly is a unique show to see. Art comes to life as famous artistic works are recreated using real people--adults and children--in life-size paintings and statues. The cast members (all volunteers) spend hours getting ready for each show by having their make-up and costumes applied and they then appear in the pieces of art while an orchestra plays beautiful music and the narrator talks about the pieces of art and gives a little history on each artist. The show takes place in the beautiful outdoor amphitheatre in Laguna Beach. The Festival of the Arts also takes place during this time so plan on arriving early or staying after the show to view the art. There is a variety of art to view but my favorite section is always the kids' section, where art is displayed that kids from Kindergarten to High School have created. I am blown away by their talent. Before the show we walked around Laguna and discovered a great little Italian Restaurant called Salerno. This restaurant has been around for over 30 years. I had the most amazing Gorgonzola Gnocchi and tiramisu there.

Rather than drive down for the day, we decided to make it a little get away and we stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, located in Dana Point. This is such a beautiful resort. It is located on the beach (it is a bit of walk to the beach, but the Ritz Carlton provides beach shuttles). We took a walk to the beach path for a little exercise, and the walk back up was definitely a workout. I enjoyed relaxing by the pool. They even bring out beach balls for the kids to play with. As a guest, you are able to use the spa facilities and I enjoyed ending my day in the spa. The quiet room is a very enjoyable room in which to relax. If you need motivation to work out, stop by the fitness room in the resort as the cardio machines look out over the ocean. It is a very calming view while working out. Along the property, there are a number of places set up to just sit out on a patio or the grass and look out over the ocean. The outdoor restaurant/bar 180Blu is a lovely place to sit and have a drink and watch the sunset. It has beautiful fire pits, comfortable couches, and wonderful drinks. It is a great way to end your evening.

Whether you are looking for a little getaway with your family or a moms' weekend away, the Laguna area is a great place to visit. Media tickets were provided for the Pageant of the Masters as well as a media rate at the Ritz Carlton.

Linda Perry, August 2012
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