Dive Brief:
- The Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point, California, will convert under the luxury JW Marriott brand following a multimillion-dollar renovation, according to a Monday news release.
- The 371-key hotel will debut as The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort, offering “ elevated design, expanded gathering spaces, and enhanced amenities and experiences” centered on “holistic well-being” per the release. Plano, Texas-based Aimbridge Hospitality will continue to manage the property.
- The conversion comes as Marriott International expands the JW Marriott brand nationwide amid its broader push in the strong-performing luxury segment.
Dive Insight:
Upon its debut, the hotel will offer redesigned guest rooms inspired by Dana Point’s “coastal heritage and relaxed seaside character,” according to the release. The blufftop property, overlooking Dana Point Harbor, which has been around for nearly four decades, will also introduce new and enhanced amenities that showcase its ocean views. Global hospitality design firms HKS and ROAM are overseeing the project.
The JW Marriott will feature an expansive resort pool, an expanded multiacre event lawn, a revamped arrival area and a signature chef-driven restaurant. The property also will have enhanced meetings and events facilities, including a new 6,000-square-foot ballroom.
The resort will continue to offer its recently renovated family pool area, cabana rentals, Kid’s Club and Splash Zone, along with new locally inspired programming and outdoor activities, to cater to multigenerational travelers.
By converting under the JW Marriott brand, the hotel aims to embody “the thoughtful approach to luxury hospitality that today’s travelers are seeking,” per the release.
Marriott continues to expand its broader luxury portfolio as the segment drives performance results for the company. In the second quarter of 2026, Marriott saw luxury RevPAR up more than 9% year over year.
JW Marriott is expanding in Phoenix, where developers proposed the JW Marriott Downtown Phoenix last month, and in Atlanta, where Marriott’s W Atlanta Downtown converted under the brand earlier this year. JW Marriott also made its Virginia debut last year, with the opening of JW Marriott Reston Station.
