My husband and I spent the weekend at this resort to celebrate our anniversary. Every single staff member we came in to contact with was friendly and attentive. The hotel is under renovation, but we were not disturbed in any way by the renovation. The breakfast buffet in the VUE restaurant was delicious and offered a wide variety of breakfast foods. The pool and jacuzzi were packed with children and since there was only one pool open, it was a little crowded and loud, but we still found a place to lounge and relax. The concierge staff provided great restaurant recommendations and the front desk staff accommodated every request with genuine interest and a smile.

I'm not sure if this resort is tailored for bringing your kids, but it was mayhem around every turn with little kids running, screaming, and crying everywhere. Don't get me wrong, the hotel itself is very clean, the pools & spa are nice, and the service staff is surprisingly helpful and polite.

The location is actually up on a hill, so don't let the pictures on the website deceive you into thinking it's "on the beach". You have to take a car down the hill, and even then you're at Dana Point Harbor (not beach), but Doheny is just down the road.

We stayed for brunch on Sunday, and the food was great. There was a wedding the night before, and most of the wedding party and guests were in the restaurant (packed), but it didn't seem to affect the prompt and very friendly service.

If you're looking for a quiet poolside / spa / beach resort experience though, this is not the place. The screeching of little kids playing, coupled with the constant crying of one of them that slipped by the pool is way too much to be able to relax. I don't feel like hiding in my room when I pay that much to stay at a resort.

I have to say that Laguna Cliffs Marriott is hands-down one of the best Marriott resorts at which I have stayed when it comes to superior customer service and a fantastic and helpful staff. I have been a platinum member with Marriott hotels for the past four years, and I have definitely seen my fair share of Marriott properties. While this particular property isn't the most modern in the world (e.g., the lobby and restaurant music is stuck in the 80s and the decor could definitely use some revamping), the overall friendliness and extreme helpfulness of EVERY staff member eclipses anywhere that the outdated style and smaller sized rooms may lack. This is a fantastic property and the view is absolutely breathtaking. I would definitely come back here just to experience it all over again. If you are looking for a very low-key trip with a beautiful view and nearby beaches and shops, this is your pick. Again, I would definitely come back here!! It is wonderful!!

We stayed three nights at this property. The hotel needs some updating, the rooms were ok, but not great, although they were clean. The staff was very attentive and helpful. But, the best thing was the location. The grounds are very well maintained and the flowers are beautiful. There is plenty of green space and a lovely view of the ocean. Also, a state park is very nearby--just down the hill and across the street.