Why the Montage Laguna Beach Spa Should Be Your Next Wellness Getaway

Hey there, fellow spa enthusiasts! If you’ve been dreaming about the perfect coastal getaway that combines luxury wellness with breathtaking ocean views, I’ve got a treat for you. Let me take you on a journey through what might be Southern California’s most spectacular spa destination: the Montage Laguna Beach.

Finding Your Way to Paradise

First things first – getting here is surprisingly simple. If you’re flying in, you’ve got two great options: John Wayne Airport (a quick 20-minute drive) or LAX (about an hour away). While ride-sharing services are available, I’d honestly recommend renting a car. There’s something magical about driving down the Pacific Coast Highway to reach this coastal haven, and trust me, that drive alone sets the perfect mood for what’s to come.

What Makes This Place So Special?

Picture this: 30 acres of pristine California coastline where every spa treatment room offers front-row seats to the Pacific Ocean. Not kidding! From the moment you pull up to the Mediterranean-inspired property, you can feel your shoulders dropping and your breath deepening. The whole place has this incredible knack for balancing luxury with laid-back California charm.

The Rooms (AKA Your Home Away From Home)

Let’s talk about where you’ll be staying, because these rooms are something else. Even the standard rooms are massive (we’re talking 600-700 square feet), and they come with all the good stuff:

• Heated bathroom floors (because cold feet are not part of the wellness journey)
• Smart everything (from climate control to those fancy blackout curtains)
• Nespresso machines for your morning coffee fix
• Beds that honestly feel like sleeping on a cloud

The Spa Experience (The Real Reason You’re Here)

Let’s get to the good stuff – the reason you’re probably reading this post in the first place. The spa at Montage Laguna Beach isn’t just another hotel spa trying to check the “wellness” box. It’s a genuine sanctuary that takes full advantage of its spectacular oceanfront location, and honestly, it’s where the magic really happens.

The Space Itself

Picture this: you step into a 20,000-square-foot oasis where every detail has been thoughtfully designed to make you forget the outside world exists. The spa features 12 treatment rooms, each with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the Pacific Ocean like a living painting. And don’t worry about privacy – they’ve cleverly designed the spaces so you can enjoy those million-dollar views while staying completely secluded.

The color palette throughout the spa mirrors the coastal environment – think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and touches of sea glass green. Even the air feels different here, infused with subtle aromatherapy that changes seasonally. During my last visit in spring, it was a heavenly blend of lavender and sea sage that I’m still dreaming about.

Your Pre-Treatment Journey

Here’s where I need to give you some serious advice: arrive AT LEAST an hour before your treatment. Trust me on this one. There’s a whole pre-treatment ritual that you won’t want to rush through. Here’s how to make the most of it:

The Pools

Start with the infinity pool – it’s heated to the perfect temperature and seems to merge with the ocean horizon. Pro tip: grab one of the loungers facing the ocean and just listen to the waves for a few minutes. It’s better than any meditation app I’ve ever tried.

The Heat Experiences

Next up, hit the wet areas in this order (thank me later):

• Begin with 10-15 minutes in the eucalyptus steam room (amazing for your sinuses and skin)
• Cool off in the refreshing rain shower (they have different settings – try them all!)
• Spend some time in the dry sauna with ocean views
• Finish with a quick dip in the cold plunge pool (I know, I know, but it’s so good for you)

Relaxation Spaces

The meditation garden is your next stop. It’s this gorgeous outdoor space with private nooks where you can curl up with tea and listen to the waves. They’ve got these incredibly comfortable zero-gravity chairs that make you feel like you’re floating.

Active Wellness

For the early birds:

• The sunrise yoga sessions on the outdoor deck are almost spiritual (6:30 AM, but worth it)
• The fitness center isn’t your typical hotel gym – it’s state-of-the-art with Peloton bikes and ocean views
• They offer guided beach walks that combine exercise with breathtaking views

The Treatment Menu Deep Dive

Now, let’s talk about those life-changing treatments. While everything on the menu is exceptional, here are the standouts that I’d book again in a heartbeat:

The Ocean Massage (90 minutes)

Their signature treatment is popular for good reason. The therapists use a combination of:

• Locally sourced seaweed-infused oils
• Marine minerals for deep tissue work
• Wave-like massage movements that mimic the ocean’s rhythm
• Hot stone therapy using stones collected from local beaches

What makes it special is how they personalize it. Before you start, you’ll have a brief consultation where they’ll adjust the pressure, focus areas, and even the scent profile to your preferences.

Coastal Crystal Healing (80 minutes)

Even skeptics (like my husband) have become believers after this treatment. Here’s what makes it unique:

• They use crystals sourced from California’s mineral-rich regions
• The massage combines traditional deep tissue techniques with energy work
• Each crystal is chosen based on your specific needs that day
• The treatment includes a take-home crystal with personalized meditation guidelines

Pacific Coast Body Wrap (100 minutes)

This is the treatment to book when you want to feel completely renewed. The experience includes:

• A gentle dry brushing to prep your skin
• A warm seaweed and marine clay wrap
• A heavenly scalp massage while you’re cocooned
• A full-body hydrating massage to finish
• A special focus on pressure points that aid detoxification

The Little Extras That Make It Special

What really sets this spa apart are the thoughtful details:

• The robes are heated and possibly the softest I’ve ever worn
• They offer a “spa concierge” service to help plan your perfect treatment sequence
• The relaxation room has these amazing loungers with built-in sound therapy
• Their spa cuisine menu actually makes healthy food exciting (try the coastal Buddha bowl)
• Every treatment ends with a personalized wellness consultation and home care tips

Making the Most of Your Spa Day

Here are my insider tips for the perfect spa experience:

Timing Is Everything

• Book treatments between 3-4 PM for the best lighting and most dramatic ocean views
• If you’re doing multiple treatments, start with water therapies and end with massage
• The spa is usually quietest mid-week and first thing in the morning

Booking Smart

• Book at least two weeks in advance (three weeks for weekend appointments)
• Consider their seasonal treatments – they create special experiences based on local ingredients available in each season
• Look into their spa packages – they often include extras like lunch or pool access that make them a better value

What to Bring

• Swimsuit (for the pools and wet areas)
• Workout clothes if you plan to join any fitness classes
• A good book for the relaxation areas
• Your own flip-flops if you prefer them (though they provide lovely spa sandals)

The Post-Treatment Experience

Don’t rush off after your treatment! The spa has created these amazing “treatment enhancement spaces” where you can:

• Slowly transition back to reality in the ocean-view relaxation room
• Enjoy a complimentary selection of wellness teas and infused waters
• Use their luxury beauty bars to freshen up
• Take advantage of the spa’s high-end skincare products
• Journal about your experience in one of their meditation nooks

Let’s Talk Food

The dining here isn’t an afterthought – it’s part of the whole wellness experience. Whether you’re at the fancy Studio Restaurant for a special dinner or grabbing a casual lunch at Mosaic Bar & Grille, the food is consistently fantastic. And yes, they’ve got you covered if you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have other dietary needs.

The Million-Dollar Question: Is It Worth It?

Let’s be real – this place is a splurge. Rooms start around $1,000 per night, and spa treatments range from $250-$750. But here’s the thing: you’re not just paying for a hotel stay or a massage. You’re investing in an experience that combines luxury wellness with that unique California coastal magic.

Pro Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay

1. Book at least two weeks ahead, especially during peak season
2. Try to snag a 3-4 PM treatment slot for the best ocean views
3. Plan to stay 3-4 nights to really get the full experience
4. Check out the complimentary wellness classes
5. Consider visiting in spring or early fall for perfect weather without the crowds

My Final Take

After spending countless hours researching and experiencing luxury spas (tough job, I know), I can honestly say the Montage Laguna Beach is something special. Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, you need to plan ahead. But if you’re looking for a wellness experience that combines world-class treatments with breathtaking ocean views and impeccable service, this is your place.

Whether you’re celebrating something special, need a serious reset, or just want to treat yourself to the ultimate spa getaway, the Montage Laguna Beach delivers. Just don’t blame me if you never want to leave!