A Celebrity-Favorite Escape on the California Coast
The Montage Laguna Beach has long been a go-to destination for those seeking a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Since its opening in 2003, this five-star resort has become a hidden gem on the Southern California coastline, offering an exclusive retreat that blends natural beauty with high-end amenities.
Located on 30 acres of prime Pacific coastline, the Montage provides the kind of privacy that celebrities crave when they want to unwind without the constant attention of paparazzi or fans. While Malibu and Beverly Hills are often associated with star sightings, the Montage has quietly established itself as a favorite among actors, musicians, athletes, and other high-profile individuals.
Over the years, the resort has welcomed a wide array of famous guests. From former Eagles player AJ Brown, who married his wife overlooking the ocean in a lavish celebration, to icons like Justin Bieber, Richard Gere, Keanu Reeves, and former Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora, the Montage has hosted some of the most recognizable names in entertainment.
Justin Bieber, in particular, has shown a strong affinity for Montage properties. He was married at the Palmetto Bluffs location, but it’s the Laguna Beach property that holds a special place in his heart. The singer has been spotted spending time with his wife Hailey poolside, and he even serenaded his then-girlfriend Selena Gomez during a staycation.
The Montage is not just a spot for weddings and date nights—it’s also a popular location for romantic proposals. Dancing with the Stars pro Cheryl Burke got engaged to Matthew Lawrence on the property, and although their marriage didn’t last, the memorable photos remain.
During our visit in late May, we saw numerous couples celebrating beachside engagements, babymoons, and family fun in the pools. The resort offers a mix of relaxation and luxury, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the daily grind.
A Rich History Rooted in Hollywood
The Montage has deep ties to Hollywood history. Before becoming a luxury resort, the land was once a trailer park where Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz filmed the 1953 movie The Long, Long Trailer. Their legacy lives on in the form of two small palm trees planted on the lawn, named after the I Love Lucy actors.
Today, the Montage is far removed from its humble beginnings. The resort features suites and three-bedroom villas that promise the ambiance of a private beach house. Many of the accommodations are located in secluded areas close to the ocean, offering unobstructed views and the perfect setting for celebrities who want to avoid being recognized.
The opulent resort, which sold for $360 million in 2015, boasts 258 rooms and bungalows with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean thanks to its horseshoe layout. While the price tag can be steep—rooms start around $800 and can cost upwards of $2,500 a night—the exclusivity and service make it worth the investment.
Unmatched Service and Experiences
The Montage has cultivated a loyal following among travelers who frequent other Montage destinations, including Deer Valley, Big Sky, and Palmetto Bluff. Similar to Four Seasons devotees, visitors return year after year, drawn by the hotel’s famously attentive service. Staff members seem to anticipate guests’ needs before they are even spoken, whether it’s arranging last-minute reservations, coordinating special occasions, or ensuring every detail of a stay runs seamlessly.
For example, if you book a poolside cabana for the day, you’ll pay around $1,000 plus for the experience, but the perks are well worth it. A helpful attendant will bring you Veuve Clicquot, a fruit platter, and even help secure elusive reservations. During a recent visit, the attendant was able to obtain an almost impossible last-minute Saturday night reservation at Nick’s, known for its ‘ridiculous wait times.’
Dining with a View
The Montage offers a range of dining options for guests. For those who want to enjoy a casual meal poolside, Mosaic Bar and Grille serves lighter fare like salads and fresh local seafood. The most famous restaurant is Studio Mediterranean, a special occasion spot meant for birthdays, engagements, and Instagram-worthy cliffside photos.
Reserve a table on the oceanfront patio at sunset for the best possible views. Don’t miss the Greek salad, which is mixed tableside and uses the freshest heirloom tomatoes and olive oil from Chef Dennis Efthymiou’s native Greece. The Mediterranean Island Martini Collection cocktails are another standout, each coming with a small side snack, from kalamata olives to candied lemon peels.
Newly opened pastry shop Bouchée is a sweet treat paradise, serving up flaky croissants along with house-made chocolates (they are also provided during turn down and you will want to take them home).
Wellness and Relaxation
For visitors who prefer to be active rather than lounging on the beach, there are plenty of wellness experiences available. Red light Pilates and aromatherapy breathwork are just a few of the options. The elite Forbes five-star spa offers a range of extremely high-end treatments, including the exclusive Face Tight Facial by Skin Design London, which uses an advanced technique to infuse cosmeceutical nutrients and stimulate collagen production. Massages start around $600 and there are plenty of specialized treatments to choose from.
A Hidden Luxury Gem
More than 20 years after opening on the Orange County coastline, the Montage Laguna Beach still feels like one of California’s best-kept luxury secrets. It’s easy to see why celebrities continue to make the drive for romantic getaways and long weekends.
