THE RITZ-CARLTON, LAGUNA NIGUEL

One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, California 92629 USA
Phone:  (949) 240-2000   •  Contact Hotel
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Calendar of Events



Lively Activities, Surrounding Our Southern California Luxury Hotel and Resort
Anticipate the possibilities that each new day brings at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Fill your days and nights at this prestigious Southern California luxury hotel with excursions, themed events, culinary classes, fine dining and more. Indulge in as much or as little as you please. The choice is yours. Explore the infinite possibilities that pervade this award-winning luxury resort in Southern California – inside and out.






 
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Valentine's Day

February 13 through February 17, 2012 from 6 to 9 p.m.

A Valentine's Day Celebration
Chef Marissa Gerlach’s Valentine’s Day Menu


♥
Oysters on a Half Shell / Champagne Chipotle Mignonette
♥
Salmon Tiradito / Pomegranate White Soy Ponzu / Mango / Wasabi Aioli
♥
Chorizo Queso Fundido/Oaxaca/warm flour tortillas/sweet fig chile salsa
♥
Avocado Gazpacho/ Dungeness Crab / Caviar / Watermelon / Cucumber / Cilantro
♥
Pan Seared Sea Scallops/Roasted corn/Nopalito/Char Siu Pork Belly/Sushi Rice/Mojo

♥

"Passionately Sweet"
Cardamom Spiced Doughnuts/ Creamsicle


$95 per person without wine pairing
$145 per person with wine pairing

The Valentine's Day Menu will be available Monday, February 13 through Saturday, February 17
A vegetarian menu is also available




 
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Market to Table Chef's Table Dinner

Thursday, February 23
7 p.m.

Experience how ordinary ingredients found at any market can be turned into an extraordinary menu. Chef Jimenez showcases how it’s not the ingredients, but rather what is done with the ingredients than can make for a true culinary experience.

Chef’s Tables are held monthly in the resort’s Private Dining Room. The dinners start at 7 p.m. and are $169 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity and wine pairing.

More Info
 
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“Heat it up… Latin Style" Culinary Demonstration Class


Saturday, February 11, 2012
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
$109 per person

Hosted by Raya Chef Marissa Gerlach
featuring special guest Chef Richard Sandoval

The culinary demonstration is followed by guests enjoying the lunch prepared by Chef Gerlach and Chef Sandoval.

MENU

hibiscus water (aguas frescas)
"Fresh fruit waters, or Aguas de Frutas, made with crushed or blended fruit are a common and popular drink all over Mexico. This recipe is extremely flavorful and refreshing, especially when fresh strawberries are in season."

pomegranate lime champagne

oysters on a half shell / champagne chipotle mignonette

salmon tiradito / pomegranate white soy ponzu / mango / wasibi aioli

pink-red cocktail

avocado gazpacho / dungeness crab / caviar
watermelon / cucumber / cilantro

adobo thai prawns / veracuzana / pickled poblano / fufu / tostones

champagne sabayon / grapefruit / almond crunch / cilantro


Reservations required


Click here for additional Culinary Demonstration Classes.


 
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Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

 
Request
 

Romance Eno-Versity

Friday, February 24, 2012
Bring your special someone to our Romance Eno-Versity where you and your sweetheart will enjoy an interactive class learning how to create romantic champagne cocktails.

6 to 7 p.m.
$40 per person

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.

 
Request
 

250 Miles of Cuisine Chef's Table Dinner

Thursday, March 29
7 p.m.

The focus on local and regional cuisine has never been more important and, in March, Chef Jimenez creates a menu utilizing only ingredients harvested, picked or raised within 250 miles of the resort. Guests will also learn about what ingredients are available within the region and how they can be turned into an amazing menu.

Chef’s Tables are held monthly in the resort’s Private Dining Room. The dinners start at 7 p.m. and are $169 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity and wine pairing.

More Info

Festival of Whales

March 3, 4, 10, and 11

The Festival of Whales in Dana Point celebrates the migration of the gray whales. From January through April, California Gray Whales leave the cold Arctic seas and follow the coastline to the calm, warm waters of Southern California and Baja. This migration brings much of the pod past Dana Point. The Gray Whale is essentially black, but has a grayish appearance caused by the accumulation of marine parasites on their skin. They measure 30 to 45 feet as adults and weigh about a ton a foot. Gray Whales do not have a dorsal fin like other whales; instead they have a series of "knuckles" along the after portion of the back. The whales travel up to 12,000 miles every year from their feeding grounds in the cold arctic waters to the warm, shallow lagoons of Baja California where they mate and bear their young. Twice hunted to near extinction, the Gray whale population has rebounded in the last 50 years to an estimated population of nearly 30,000 animals. For additional information visit the Festival of Whales web site.

Website
 
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Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

 
Request
 

Sangria Eno-Versity

Friday, March 23
6 to 7 p.m.
$40 per person

Sangria is a wine punch typical of Spain and Portugal. It normally consists of wine, chopped fruit, a sweetener, and a small amount of added brandy. Learn the art of making Sangria in this interactive class.

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.

 
Request
 

Mushrooms, Mushrooms, Mushrooms Chef's Table Dinner

Thursday, April 19
7 p.m.

Few ingredients are as versatile as the mushroom. Mushrooms are low in calories, fat-free, cholesterol-free and very low in sodium and, can also be featured as a dessert. In April, Chef Jimenez presents four wild mushrooms expertly prepared four different ways. A must eat experience.

Chef’s Tables are held monthly in the resort’s Private Dining Room. The dinners start at 7 p.m. and are $169 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity and wine pairing.

More Info
 
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Easter Brunch

Sunday, April 8
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$110 per person; $55 per child 3 to 12; children under 3 complimentary

Enjoy a lavish Champagne brunch in celebration of Easter. There will be live entertainment and a visit by the Easter Bunny.
 
Request
 

Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.

 
Request
 

Herbs, Flowers and White Wine Culinary Demonstration

Saturday, May 19
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

It’s spring thyme! Featuring Chef Andres’ Signature, Pan Seared Halibut, Creamy Fresh Herb Chimichurri Butter and Hibiscus Kir Royal. Learn how to impress your friends with this elegant meal.

$109 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity and includes a three course lunch with accompany alcoholic beverage following demonstration.

More Info

Dana Point Grand Prix

May 6, 2012

The Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling is one of the most prestigious one day professional bicycle races in America, hosted in the scenic coastal city of Dana Point. The event is a family-oriented celebration that promotes a healthy lifestyle, and offers a unique professional sports experience while raising money for outstanding charities. Top professional and amateur athletes compete on an exciting technical and challenging L-shaped race course set in the picturesque downtown and Heritage Park neighborhood, overlooking the breathtaking Dana Point Harbor. Watch cyclists take on one of the most challenging criterium courses in the country. Website

Yappy Hour

May 3, 2012 - 5 to 8 p.m.

Join us to sniff and schmooze with other dogs and their owners during Yappy Hour, our monthly cocktail party for canines and their companions. Kick back and relax while your pup kicks up some dirt on The Dana Lawn. Dogs will enjoy lapping up libations, thanks to water in his favorite flavor -- bacon, chicken, cheese, beef or liver -- while you enjoy wines from Mutt Lynch Winery.

Featured Mutt Lynch Wines by the glass include:
  • Unleashed Chardonnay
  • Merlot Over and Play Dead
  • Chateau D’og Cab Sauvignon

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local animal rescue organization.

Canines are complimentary; no host cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for their companions.

 
Request
 

Mother's Day Champagne Brunch

Sunday, May 13
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$110 per person; $55 per child 3 to 12; children under 3 complimentary

Enjoy a lavish Champagne brunch in celebration of Mother's Day. There will be live entertainment and a special gift for mom.
 
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Doheny Blues Festival

May 19 and 20, 2012

The Doheny Blues Festival is recognized as one of the nation’s top music events, having been named "Best Festival" by blues music's premier organization, The Blues Foundation in Memphis, TN. Attendees will enjoy this inviting festival layout, highlighted by three stages of alternating music, an international Food Court, an eclectic Vendor Village with 50+ unique booths, Microbrew Tasting, and our Kidz EcoFest with educational exhibits for the younger music fans. From Grammy winners to music legends, Doheny has been host to many of the top names in rock, soul & blues music, including B.B. King, The Black Crowes, Bonnie Raitt, Crosby, Stills & Nash, John Fogerty, Brian Setzer, Al Green, Etta James, Keb’ Mo’, Jonny Lang and Los Lobos, amongst others. Website

 
Request
 

Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.

 
Request
 

Sneak Peak of Summer Chef's Table Dinner

Thursday, June 28
7 p.m.

June 20 is the first official day of summer. Chefs Jimenez and his team prepare a Chef’s Table that offers a sneak peek on the benefits of additional sunlight. Experience dishes from the year’s best season (in the Chef’s opinion) for fresh, healthy, light produce and ingredients that will tempt the palate all summer long.

Chef’s Tables are held monthly in the resort’s Private Dining Room. The dinners start at 7 p.m. and are $169 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity and wine pairing.

More Info

Yappy Hour

June 7, 2012 - 5 to 8 p.m.

Join us to sniff and schmooze with other dogs and their owners during Yappy Hour, our monthly cocktail party for canines and their companions. Kick back and relax while your pup kicks up some dirt on The Dana Lawn. Dogs will enjoy lapping up libations, thanks to water in his favorite flavor -- bacon, chicken, cheese, beef or liver -- while you enjoy wines from Mutt Lynch Winery.

Featured Mutt Lynch Wines by the glass include:
  • Unleashed Chardonnay
  • Merlot Over and Play Dead
  • Chateau D’og Cab Sauvignon

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local animal rescue organization.

Canines are complimentary; no host cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for their companions.

 
Request
 

Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

 
Request
 

Concours d'Elegance

June 23 and 24, 2012

the Dana Point Concours d'Elegance invites you to commemorate 30 years of automotive heritage during its two day celebration. The Dana Point Concours d'Elegance hosts thousands of collector car owners, enthusiasts and families to the event each year to see Concours-ready vehicles display proudly on the lawn. Website

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.

Yappy Hour

July 5, 2012 - 5 to 8 p.m.

Join us to sniff and schmooze with other dogs and their owners during Yappy Hour, our monthly cocktail party for canines and their companions. Kick back and relax while your pup kicks up some dirt on The Dana Lawn. Dogs will enjoy lapping up libations, thanks to water in his favorite flavor -- bacon, chicken, cheese, beef or liver -- while you enjoy wines from Mutt Lynch Winery.

Featured Mutt Lynch Wines by the glass include:
  • Unleashed Chardonnay
  • Merlot Over and Play Dead
  • Chateau D’og Cab Sauvignon

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local animal rescue organization.

Canines are complimentary; no host cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for their companions.

 
Request
 

Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.
 
Request
 

Pageant of the Masters/Festival of Arts

July 7 - August 31, 2012

Pageant of the Masters is ninety minutes of "living pictures" - incredibly faithful art re-creations of classical and contemporary works with real people posing to look exactly like their counterparts in the original pieces. An outdoor amphitheater, professional orchestra, original score, live narration, intricate sets, sophisticated lighting, expert staff, and hundreds of dedicated volunteers have won recognition for the Pageant as the best presentation of its kind.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.
 
Request
 

Sunset Service

Daily

At sunset, relax on the bluff and enjoy a picnic basket of wine and cheese or Japanese beer and handmade sushi. Sunset Service is $90 per couple and is available daily.


 
Request
 

Tomatoes, Salt and Sangria Culinary Demonstration

Saturday, August 18
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

While they are at the peak of their season, learn all about tomatoes and the importance of seasoning. Experience the different types of salt and the benefits and usage of each. Lunch with feature among other recipes, Chilled Heirloom Tomato Water, Lobster and Basil Salad and Chef Andres’ favorite Sangria Recipe variations.

$109 per person inclusive of tax and gratuity and includes a three course lunch with accompany alcoholic beverage following demonstration.

More Info

Yappy Hour

August 2, 2012 - 5 to 8 p.m.

Join us to sniff and schmooze with other dogs and their owners during Yappy Hour, our monthly cocktail party for canines and their companions. Kick back and relax while your pup kicks up some dirt on The Dana Lawn. Dogs will enjoy lapping up libations, thanks to water in his favorite flavor -- bacon, chicken, cheese, beef or liver -- while you enjoy wines from Mutt Lynch Winery.

Featured Mutt Lynch Wines by the glass include:
  • Unleashed Chardonnay
  • Merlot Over and Play Dead
  • Chateau D’og Cab Sauvignon

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local animal rescue organization.

Canines are complimentary; no host cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for their companions.

 
Request
 

Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.
 
Request
 

Pageant of the Masters/Festival of Arts

July 7 - August 31, 2012

Pageant of the Masters is ninety minutes of "living pictures" - incredibly faithful art re-creations of classical and contemporary works with real people posing to look exactly like their counterparts in the original pieces. An outdoor amphitheater, professional orchestra, original score, live narration, intricate sets, sophisticated lighting, expert staff, and hundreds of dedicated volunteers have won recognition for the Pageant as the best presentation of its kind.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.
 
Request
 

Sunset Service

Daily

At sunset, relax on the bluff and enjoy a picnic basket of wine and cheese or Japanese beer and handmade sushi. Sunset Service is $90 per couple and is available daily.


Yappy Hour

September 6, 2012 - 5 to 8 p.m.

Join us to sniff and schmooze with other dogs and their owners during Yappy Hour, our monthly cocktail party for canines and their companions. Kick back and relax while your pup kicks up some dirt on The Dana Lawn. Dogs will enjoy lapping up libations, thanks to water in his favorite flavor -- bacon, chicken, cheese, beef or liver -- while you enjoy wines from Mutt Lynch Winery.

Featured Mutt Lynch Wines by the glass include:
  • Unleashed Chardonnay
  • Merlot Over and Play Dead
  • Chateau D’og Cab Sauvignon

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local animal rescue organization.

Canines are complimentary; no host cocktails and hors d’oeuvres for their companions.

 
Request
 

Tall Ships Festival

September 7 - 9, 2012

Come and explore the majesty and wonder of tall ships through the smells, sounds and sights of real working tall ships. Interactive living-history encampments including blacksmiths, scrimshaw artists, and the infamous Port Royal Privateers are sure to entertain and amaze guests of all ages and are not to be missed. Website

 
Request
 

Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.
 
Request
 

Sunset Service

Daily

At sunset, relax on the bluff and enjoy a picnic basket of wine and cheese or Japanese beer and handmade sushi. Sunset Service is $90 per couple and is available daily.


 
Request
 

Sunday a la Carte Champagne Brunch

Every Sunday in RAYA

A tempting a la carte brunch and flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA. Start with a fresh fruit martini and selection of pastries then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu.

$65 USD per person

Garden Tour

Daily; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Discover organic gardening beds with herbs, fruits, and vegetables hand-picked by The Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef on this complimentary hour-long tour. You will also get the chance to explore the native species of plants that have thrived on this unique landscape for thousands of years.

Howl-O-Ween Yappy Hour

October 25, 2012 - 4 to 7 p.m.

Join us for tricks and treats as our canine guests bark at the moon in celebration of Howl-O-Ween. At this special Yappy Hour celebration, kick back and relax while your pup struts his stuff in his favorite costume on The Dana Lawn. Dogs will enjoy lapping up water in his favorite flavor – Beastly Bacon, Creepy Chicken, Frightful Cheese, Ghoulish Beef and Ghostly Liver – while you enjoy wines from Mutt Lynch Winery. Featured Mutt Lynch Wines by the glass include Unleashed Chardonnay, Merlot Over and Play Dead, and Chateau d’Og Cabernet Sauvignon.

A panel of judges will determine which canine will take home the prize in the costume categories of Scariest, Funniest, Most Glamorous and, of course, Best in Show. Prizes awarded and proceeds from the event will be donated to a local animal resuce organization.

Living Green Tour

Daily; from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

On this complimentary one-hour long tour, explore what it really means to live green. Naturalists will guide you on a tour of the Learning Centers, both indoors and outdoors, on this crash course in being an Ambassador of the Environment.
 
Request
 

Sunset Service

Daily

At sunset, relax on the bluff and enjoy a picnic basket of wine and cheese or Japanese beer and handmade sushi. Sunset Service is $90 per couple and is available daily.