Dana Point
800/722-1543 or 949/234-3200
www.stregismb.com

Glitzy Tuscan-inspired resort on 172 landscaped acres of gardens and fairways, with views of the ocean but set back from it (a 5-minute walk away).

ROOMS 400, all large, with a modern residential look (ebonized wood; lots of chenille; neutrals, blacks, grays), down duvets, high-speed Internet, flat-screen TV's.
SERVICE Staff-to-guest ratio of 0.9 to 1. Butler service.
FOOD Aqua (seafood with a view), Motif (tapas-style California cuisine).
FACILITIES Golf course, 3 pools, 8 tennis courts, 30,000-square-foot spa, private beach club.
COST Doubles from $490.