Situated along the stunning oceanfront of Southern Orange County, Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach offers a boutique experience that transcends traditional luxury. With casual elegance at its core, it crafts an immersive sensory journey that captivates the senses while honoring the vibrant spirit of Laguna Beach. As a treasured enclave in this coastal community, Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach curates memorable experiences with unscripted moments that evoke a feeling of belonging. Our legacy as stewards of this coastal paradise is a commitment deeply rooted in our ethos. Here, you’ll embrace the natural splendor of our oceanfront setting with spacious and serene accommodations featuring private balconies overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Whether you seek serenity, excitement, or a perfect blend of both, you’ll find your desired rhythm here. A coastal institution, Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach is a seaside haven where nature’s embrace rekindles the soul and awakens the senses.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
Powered by AI
Nestled in a prime location with breathtaking ocean vistas, Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach is lauded for its serene, luxurious atmosphere and beautifully remodeled rooms. Guests commend the exceptional cleanliness and the professional, warm service that enhances their stays.
However, the resort's value proposition has been questioned, particularly during periods when renovations limit amenities and modern conveniences like USB ports are missed. While the remodeled rooms earn praise for their beauty and comfort, some guests report discomfort from construction noise and dated features.
Atmosphere
Luxurious
Rooms
Dated
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Immaculate
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Top-notch
Was this helpful?
Tripadvisor is not responsible for this summary or the opinions in it. For more information, please read the traveler reviews and learn more about how the site works.
What a wonderful resort with amazing staff! Everyone was so friendly and accommodating! The newly remodeled rooms are gorgeous, and as always I sleep like a rock on the comfy beds listening to the waves! My only dilemma was trying to decide if I should take a bath in the deep soaking tub (that was bath salts to use) or take a shower in the huge spa shower! I couldn’t decide so I did both each day! It was a luxurious stay and I can’t wait to go back after the renovation is complete!
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: November 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Norm Hutton, Guest Services / Front Office at Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Responded Dec 4, 2024
Thank you for such a lovely review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a luxurious and relaxing stay with us. It’s wonderful to know our friendly and accommodating team helped make your experience so memorable. We’re thrilled you enjoyed the newly remodeled rooms, comfy beds, and the indulgent bath and shower options—sounds like you made the perfect decision to enjoy both each day! We can’t wait to welcome you back once our renovations are complete for another dreamy getaway by the waves. See you soon!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This is without a doubt the best hotel I have ever stayed in my 65 years of life (and I have stayed at many 5-star resorts)!! There are no words to describe the professionalism of the staff, the views, service and all the rooms would exceed anyone's expectations. Thank you for a memory of a lifetime.
Mike McDaniel's was our contact person before our arrival and during our stay he went well above all expectations to ensure we had more than anything we needed or wanted. Ali North was a wealth of information and was very generous with her time to make sure all our questions were answered, and we had what we needed. She was very giving and thoughtful. I can't thank either of them enough. This resort is a 10 plus.
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: September 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:This is without a doubt the best hotel I have ever stayed in my 65 years of life (and I have...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Norm Hutton, Guest Services / Front Office at Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Responded Sep 30, 2024
Thank you for your incredible review and for calling us the best resort in Laguna Beach! We are truly honored by your kind words. Our team works hard to create a unique and memorable experience for our guests, and it’s wonderful to hear that we made a lasting impression on you. Your feedback inspires us to continue delivering the exceptional service and amenities that set us apart. We can’t wait to welcome you back for another unforgettable stay. If you have any special requests for your next visit, please let us know!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveler reviews.
We decided to travel to the Surf and Sand to heal from the recent death of a family member during Thanksgiving. We needed a place to grieve, feeling that an ocean get away would help. As soon as we entered the lobby we were greeted by a resplendent sunset. The oranges, reds, and aquamarine of the sea transported us away to a private aquarium away from it all. Our newly remodeled ocean view room offered us serenity, with its colors of sea foam green, crisp whites, coral touches and sea pictures. The room hung over the sea offering 365 degree views of the pacific. We enjoyed frolicking dolphins, flying seagulls, moonlight beams across gentle waves, sunrises of purples and oranges, and breathtaking brilliant sunsets. We felt as we were in a dream. The next night we ate at Splashes, and enjoyed the best of California Coastal cuisine. Our waiter Carson was a joy to talk to. As we were checking out we were greeted again by the concierge manager who regaled us with stories of the hotel and even took our picture. It was a healing trip and we thank the Surf and Sand for an exceptional stay. 5 Stars all the way.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:We loved midweek and December charming time to come.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Norm Hutton, Guest Services / Front Office at Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Responded Dec 14, 2024
Thank you for choosing Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach as a place of solace during such a challenging time for your family. We are deeply touched that your stay provided a sense of healing and tranquility, and we are honored to have been part of your journey. Your vivid description of the sunsets, ocean views, and the peaceful ambiance of your newly remodeled room warms our hearts. It’s wonderful to hear that the natural beauty of the Pacific, combined with the thoughtful touches in your room, helped transport you to a place of serenity and reflection. We’re thrilled that your dining experience at Splashes and the service provided by Carson brought joy to your stay. Our team, including our concierge manager, takes great pride in creating memorable experiences for our guests, and we are so pleased they could make your visit even more special. Your words inspire us to continue providing exceptional hospitality and a haven for our guests. We deeply appreciate your kind feedback and the time you took to share your experience. We hope to welcome you back in the future and be a part of more cherished memories.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My recent attempt to stay at the Surf and Sand Hotel in Laguna Beach left much to be desired, especially considering my previous positive experiences with the establishment. Booked for a birthday weekend and spa day, my anticipation quickly turned to disappointment upon arrival.
The hotel failed to communicate ongoing renovations, leaving the entire frontage blocked with no visible signage to guide guests. Even the Cal Trans signage was turned off and unhelpful, It took 3 trips around the block to find the entrance.
Despite being promised an ocean view room during the booking process, the reality fell far short of expectations. The room assigned to us was obstructed by a construction tower, and the aroma of fish dinners from the restaurant below wafted up, diminishing the overall experience.
Attempting to rectify the situation, I requested a different room, only to be met with refusal from the staff. This was particularly disheartening, given that I had been assured of ample vacancies in the hotel when booking ( guest services told me for some reason plenty of room avail ). Instead of accommodating my request, the suggestion to cancel my reservation was offered, an impractical solution for someone who had made the trip for a special occasion.
Fortunately, my familiarity with the area allowed me to secure a room at the neighboring hotel, which proved to be a stark contrast in terms of hospitality and accommodation. The staff there were welcoming and understanding, and able to accommodate a last minute, late evening request to book a room while offering a much better rate! ultimately providing me with the oceanfront experience I had hoped for to celebrate my birthday.
I am awarding two stars for the hotel's prompt cancellation of my reservations and spa appointments. However, the lack of communication about renovations and the refusal to accommodate a reasonable room change are significant drawbacks. Hospitality, a key factor in selecting a hotel, was sorely lacking at Surf and Sand this time around. Given the multitude of options in the area, my family and I will be exploring other accommodations for future visits.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Norm Hutton, Guest Services / Front Office at Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Responded Mar 4, 2024
Thank you for taking the time to review and leave your feedback. I apologize for the issues you experienced during your stay. As part of our continued commitment to our valued guests, we have begun an exciting property-wide transformation! This transformation will build upon our celebrated legacy established in Laguna Beach over the past 75 years, inviting you to create memories for generations to come. Upon completion, Surf & Sand Resort will emerge entirely reimagined, with brand new luxurious guest rooms, gorgeous bathrooms, state of the art technology, new air conditioning and heating systems, updated finishes throughout the property, a new pool deck, and an awe-inspiring arrival experience complete with an ocean view lobby and lounge. Would love to speak to you about your stay in more detail. Feel free to reach out to me at any time. Thank you again for the feedback and we look forward to welcoming you back soon. Kind regards.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DO NOT stay here. Do yourself a favor and don't stay in this hotel. Otherwise you'll be like me and have to move hotels. It has been a nightmare from start to finish. Here's what you really need to know the hotel rooms DO NOT HAVE A/C!!!!!
If you're coming Fall to Spring that's fine but it is absolutely sweltering and over 90° in the hotel rooms other than that. They have giant box fans, but they only allow you one. I had a second one brought to my room and then in the morning somebody came in and took it.
I spent more time sitting and waiting at check-in than anybody should. Well over an hour.
If you are not in your pool chair for 30 minutes, they will take all of your items and remove them. This makes it very difficult to get anything to eat or drink. Or go back to your room for anything. Your chair will not be there when you come back. Their keys often disconnect and I've had to go to the front desk twice because the keys were not operational.
It's a shame, because the location and the set up for this hotel is so pretty. The room service was delicious.
The management here is equivalent to prison staff. They are absolutely awful and every one around the pool had the same complaint.
Read more
Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We came here to celebrate our anniversary, having honeymooned at this hotel 32 years ago. What a disappointment! The hotel is currently under renovation, and for $2,700 for two nights, the only amenity available was one restaurant with outdoor seating. They don’t serve breakfast anywhere except through room service, which took an hour to arrive and was cold.
The restaurant was only 30 feet away from construction workers using heavy machinery, making lunch quite unpleasant.
On top of that, the TV wasn’t working one day, the pool is closed, and the hotel looks nothing like it does on the website. While the views are amazing, this experience has been a huge waste of money, and I feel cheated. Not a resort experience. I would definitely recommend staying away until the renovation is complete.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Stay away until renovations are complete
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Norm Hutton, Guest Services / Front Office at Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Responded Sep 30, 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience with us, and for choosing to celebrate such a special occasion at our resort. We are truly sorry that your anniversary stay did not live up to your expectations, especially given the wonderful memories you have from your honeymoon here 32 years ago. We sincerely apologize for the inconveniences you faced due to the ongoing renovations. We understand how disappointing it must have been to find limited amenities and disruptions that took away from what should have been a peaceful and celebratory stay. Your experience with room service and our new Bella Vista Terrace setup also fell short of our standards, and we regret that this impacted your overall experience. We appreciate your feedback about the discrepancies between our current state and the website images, as well as the issues with the TV and pool closure. Please know that we are working diligently to enhance the property and restore the full range of services our guests expect and deserve.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My wife and I spent our 25th wedding anniversary here based on reviews. The only benefit of staying at this resort was the staff were very courteous and helpful. The food and ocean view were excellent. The 2-star review is based on the hotel room. We stayed in an ocean view room with a king size bed. As soon as we entered the room, we immediately noticed it was very old and dated. We had to keep the bathroom door closed because the toilet would run every 5 minutes. The jetted bathtub filter had hair in it and the bathtub was dirty. The room lacked outlets on the side of the bed and did not have any USB ports in the room. The television constantly loss reception and we were unable to watch any TV most of the night. The clock in the room did not function and I was unable to set the time on it. The bathroom was extremely small. It only contains enough room for one person. I barely had any room to open the shower door and step in the shower. I would rate this hotel as a 2.5 to 3-star hotel not a 4-star hotel. Parts of the hotel are currently under remodeling to update it, but I was extremely disappointed and was expecting a higher quality room based on previous reviews. As of writing this review, 12/31/23, I could not recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a high quality experience. I think most of the good reviews are based on the ocean view not of the quality of the rooms.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:I would not book a stay at this resort until they are finished remodeling the rooms. You will be...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Norm Hutton, Guest Services / Front Office at Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Responded Mar 4, 2024
Thank you for your review and feedback. We are glad you choose are resort for your 25th anniversary and that our staff were courteous and helpful. We pride ourselves in only giving the best service. You also really can't beat the food and the views. I apologize for any inconvenience caused during our resort renovations. We understand that these updates can sometimes disrupt the usual experience for our valued guests. However, please rest assured that these renovations are essential to enhance your future stays. Our team is working diligently to create an even more comfortable and enjoyable environment for you. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I love this hotel. It's been my favourite for the past 10 years. At approximately $500-700 a night it worth it for the pool, the restaurant and the view. They are currently renovating the hotel and have increased the prices to reflect the renovation. Fine, upgraded facilities and amenities = increased prices. HOWEVER, I went to book a room for next week at a steep $1200 USD per night and there are no amenities open. Spa- closed, restaurant- closed, pool- closed. They have the option for room service and the offer of a $300 resort credit to use for in-room massages if they have availability but that's it. If this is the price for the hotel with no amenities I would hate to see what the price is when everything finally re-opens. So sad to say farewell to the Surf and Sand but they have fully priced people who have consistently stayed there in the past out of the market.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2024Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Norm Hutton, Guest Services / Front Office at Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Responded Sep 30, 2024
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused during your stay, especially regarding the closed amenities and perceived value. We understand that it can be disappointing when certain facilities are not available, and we regret that this affected your overall experience. Our team is currently working hard to enhance our property, and some areas are temporarily unavailable as we make improvements to better serve our guests. We strive to communicate these temporary changes upfront and appreciate your understanding as we work to complete the renovations. We continuously review our pricing to ensure it reflects the experience and services we offer, and your feedback helps us in this process. We hope you’ll consider giving us another opportunity in the future once all upgrades are complete. We would love to welcome you back to a fully enhanced experience that we believe will meet and exceed your expectations.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The customer service at surf and sand is absolutely phenomenal. Destiny at the front desk was so extremely helpful in procuring a room for us, going through the process to make it so easy. Housekeeping services was amazing with extremely friendly personnel as well as the greeters at the door. Everyone at the front desk when walking by throughout our stay was always courteous, polite and asked us if there was anything that we needed. We have stayed at surf and stand previously in your guest service is second to none, consistent and greatly appreciated. The newly remodeled rooms are first class and extremely beautiful and comfortable. Already looking forward to our future return visit.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Perhaps one of the best resorts I’ve ever stayed at in my life.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Norm Hutton, Guest Services / Front Office at Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach
Responded Dec 12, 2024
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear that you had such a positive experience during your stay. I’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to Destiny and the rest of our team—she will be especially pleased to know how much her help with your room made a difference in your visit. We take great pride in our customer service, and it’s fantastic to hear that the friendliness and attentiveness of our staff stood out to you throughout your stay. We strive to make every guest feel welcome, and your comments affirm that we are on the right track. I’m also delighted that you loved our newly remodeled rooms! We’re so glad you found them beautiful and comfortable, and we can’t wait to welcome you back for your future visits. Thank you again for your kind words, and we look forward to hosting you again soon.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We recently stayed at this hotel for 5 nights. We had a wonderful corner room with a balcony that had amazing views of the whole coast line. The sound of the waves was mesmerizing. Our room was large and very comfortable. There was a slight lack of outlets which is unusual in good hotels these days.
The bathroom, however, was suboptimal. While we were happy to have double sinks, the shower was tiny and the water temperature was very hard to control.
The staff at this hotel - lobby, valet, housekeeping - are extremely pleasant and really want to make your visit as nice as possible. However, the housekeeping services were very spotty. There were several days where items around the coffee machine were not replaced, as well as bathroom items.
We liked the location of this hotel, but some may find it too far from the center of Laguna. We didn't mind walking into town, because there were many interesting (read: non chain!) stores along the way.
Shout out to the valet staff- always pleasant and efficient! Another good feature: the hotel restaurant is excellent, both for breakfast and dinner.
In summary, this hotel has many advantages, but it is not up to the standards of a 4 star hotel, or its prices.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2023
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Balcony or corner balcony room recommended.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We have taken considerable measures to minimize any impact to our guests, including fencing off and isolating all work areas. There will be no work occurring in the buildings or public areas where our guests are staying, and we will minimize any visual and audible impact. No work will occur during the early morning or evening hours.
Currently most of our rooms do not have air conditioning. Upon completion, Surf & Sand Resort will emerge entirely reimagined, with brand new luxurious guest rooms, gorgeous bathrooms, state of the art technology, new air conditioning and heating systems, updated finishes throughout the property, a new pool deck, and an awe-inspiring arrival experience complete with an ocean view lobby and lounge.
it is rare that you would need air conditioning, we always leave our slider open the entire stay and it cools off at night.
FYI - the hotel currently has a plan to add air conditioning to the guest rooms.
There are more places to choose from in the Laguna Beach area.
PRICE RANGE
$905 - $1,136 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
the surf and sand hotel laguna beach, surf and sand hotel, surf sand hotel, surf and sand resort
LOCATION
United StatesCaliforniaOrange CountyLaguna Beach
NUMBER OF ROOMS
165
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including any mandatory fees. Taxes not included. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.