I am a single mom with three young boys and I don't often have the opportunity to spoil myself these days. When we do travel we usually stay at properties that I think will be fun and exciting for kids. I never have been spoiled like I was this weekend. I have never really imagined the Ritz as particularly "kid friendly" and boy was I surprised. From the moment we arrived it was obvious that this property caters to families and loves kids. I discovered that they not only offered a kid's menu but that they even had a kids room for them to dine. The front desk provided so much family support I was actually in awe at their ability to make us feel welcome. This is not always the case when I arrive with three energetic boys in tow. The rooms were very luxurious which is what you would expect at the Ritz-Carlton. Ours had a balcony that overlooked the cliff and ocean and it was amazing. There was a fridge which was a welcome relief and many extra little touches to make us feel very comfortable and right at home.
The resort offered several kids activities including tide pool excursions and whale watching which we totally loved. The Eco-Adventures were for families with slightly older children than mine but they provided plastic beach toys for each of the boys and even invited them to participate in a treasure hunt throughout the resort. We had great fun together as a family exploring the unique gardens and when we completed the hunt they came out with a huge treasure chest for the boys to choose their prize. They still talk about that "pirate booty" and beg for a chance to return and look in the chest again.
The pool was so clean and relaxing that they only wanted to leave to play on the beach that we could see from our room.
Most parents find themselves compromising on their own comfort and enjoyment for the sake of their kids and this is one time that I felt this was about me too.
The final test of being family friendly in my book is how they treat you in the restaurant and I must say I was completely delighted by how they catered to ALL of us. The boys were able to order exactly what they wanted and the waiters treated them like very special guests instead of an inconvenience.
I have to also rave about the amazing food and service we received at the resort's Raya restaurant and honestly must say the dinner we had was the best I have ever had. Now, before I became a mom I traveled a lot and was fortunate enough to dine in 5 star restaurants quite frequently all around the US and the world. I am not easily impressed and this food and presentation blew me away. The food was so unique and freshly prepared that each item we tasted was a culinary delight. My favorite was the Pan Seared Sea Scallops which I can still taste as I write about it. The menu choices were so amazing that we all had to share what we ordered because they were so interesting and wonderful.
The overall family experience that the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel offered my family is one that I will never forget and will often dream about repeating. Don't be afraid to take young kids because they will be made to feel as welcome as some of the rich and famous guests that frequent this property.
