Rooms are larger, filled with tasteful contemporary furniture and have reasonably-sized terraces. The facade and public areas were attractively redone during the last make-over. A staff that is eager to help gives this hotel an extra spin. If you're in the mood for beauty therapy or fitness, The Spa at South Coast Plaza is the just the ticket. With its cheerfully designed treatment rooms, gyms and pool, it's more like a sleep-over spa than a day center.
Massages here are highly touted.
Conversation in the jacuzzi centered around raves for the masseurs and masseuses. There wasn't an unpopular one among them. Quiet Balboa Island faces Newport Harbor and can be accessed by way of the Marina Avenue Bridge or by the historic ferry, which departs throughout the day from the peninsula, carrying three cars and 30 passengers. The island is best explored on foot. Wander down the north bayfront walkway for a view of the boat basin.