Perched on the cliffs above Dana Point Harbor, the property has occupied this site for almost four decades. Its Victorian-inspired architecture and indoor–outdoor event spaces have made it a landmark for leisure stays, weddings and corporate events in Orange County. The hotel, operated by Aimbridge Hospitality, is embarking on this transformation alongside the JW Marriott brand, which will take over operation of the property going forward.
A large-scale renovation programme
The programme includes an enlarged resort pool, a significantly expanded event lawn, and refreshed meeting and event spaces, including a new ballroom of around 557 sqm. The arrival experience will be redesigned, as will the dining offering, with a signature concept entrusted to a chef.
The property’s 371 guest rooms will also be refreshed to reflect the new positioning, while the recently renovated family zone — with pool, kids’ club and water play area — will be retained and enhanced with new local-inspired activities.
Design entrusted to HKS and ROAM
The architectural transformation has been entrusted to international firms HKS and ROAM, tasked with reinterpreting the property’s classic style through a contemporary aesthetic rooted in Dana Point’s history, drawing on both the historic Lantern District and the area’s surf culture. The entrance and porte-cochère will be redesigned to create a genuine sense of arrival, while the lobby will open onto a terrace with unobstructed ocean views.
The new event lawn will be positioned closer to the Richard Henry Dana Ballroom, allowing several large-scale events to be hosted simultaneously. The central pool, repositioned at the heart of the property, will become the focal point of the guest experience, surrounded by dining and lounge areas inspired by the California coast.
A project driven by local leadership
Ben Ly, general manager of The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort, highlighted the project’s local roots, saying that for nearly 40 years the landmark property has overlooked Dana Point Harbor, welcoming both residents and visitors drawn to the Californian way of life. He added that the renovation moves the resort forward in step with Dana Point’s own momentum, bringing a renewed design, a new destination pool, a signature restaurant concept, enhanced experiences and expanded event spaces for both resort guests and the local community.
Aimbridge Hospitality and the rise of third-party operators
The project illustrates the growing role of third-party operators in unlocking value from complex hotel assets in the United States. Aimbridge Hospitality, which describes itself as the world’s leading third-party hotel operator, continues to pursue a portfolio-repositioning strategy alongside major international brands, while remaining the property’s operator throughout the works.
JW Marriott strengthens its North American footprint
The JW Marriott brand, part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio, now spans more than 130 properties in 41 countries and territories. The group has also recently marked its entry into new markets, notably with the opening of the JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa in Greece. The addition of Laguna Cliffs to the JW Marriott portfolio confirms the brand’s strategy of growth through repositioning landmark assets, rather than relying solely on new-build development.
The project also fits within the ongoing restoration schedule for Dana Point Harbor, which is intended to support the destination’s broader upscale repositioning. Neither group has yet announced a firm completion date.
At a glance by The Hospitality Tribune
JW Marriott and Aimbridge Hospitality unveil The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa (California) to be rebranded The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort
Multi-phase renovation includes a new resort pool, an expanded event lawn and a new ballroom of around 557 sqm
Design led by global firms HKS and ROAM, inspired by Dana Point’s coastal heritage
371 guest rooms to be refreshed; new signature chef-driven restaurant planned
Property continues to be operated by Aimbridge Hospitality throughout the transformation
