SoCal Golf INSIDER

COVER STORY SoCal GOLF INSIDER bought the property in 2013, and after a two-year hiatus, The Ranch at Laguna Beach opened. The entire resort was renovated, including "tearing the guest rooms down to the studs, with the goal of reflecting the canyons and coast throughout the property," accord- ing to Don Chock, Director of Mar- keting and operations. The renovation was key to what the new owners envisioned for the property, which was long known as a hidden gem in Orange County: "to create an upscale re- sort and keep it very Laguna Beach," Chock said. "A place where our locals could feel like guests and our guests could feel like locals." While still retaining the laid- back atmosphere of the artsy com- munity of Laguna Beach (even the décor and furniture in the rooms are curated by Tuvalu, a local fur- niture store offering coastal and beach-inspired furnishings) the Ranch at Laguna Beach is an en- tirely different property in terms of the lodging and dining experience. It is now a full-service boutique hotel offering 97 rooms, along with a spa and restaurant. Every effort was made to high- light the natural beauty of Aliso and Wood canyons, where its 87 acres are situated, from panoramic ocean views from upper gue- strooms and public areas, to the distressed wood, period lighting and coastal color schemes that ac- centuate the Coastal Ranch visual aesthetic. The local connection is also re- flected in the Harvest Restaurant, helmed by executive chef Kyle St. John. One of three dining options at the property along with Ben's Pantry and poolside dining, the restaurant, wrap-around bar and private dining room honor the his- tory of California organic farming, brewing and wines. The menu changes each season, as fresh herbs, fruits and vegetables grown on the property's half-acre Harvest Garden are utilized. What isn't grown in the garden is locally sourced. This summer, St. John and his staff opened Lost Pier Café at Aliso Beach, located about a half-mile from the property. It offers break- fast, lunch and snacks for those who take the short walk or drive to enjoy Aliso Beach, which regu- larly makes the list of best family beaches in the state. For its sustainability efforts, which also include water conserva- tion and partnering with local or- ganizations to serve the hungry and other vulnerable populations, The Ranch has earned the notable continued on the next page > continued from previous screen

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