07/18/07

Spacious-yet-intimate spa that envelops guests in cerulean relaxation at the Marriott Newport Beach.

by Mar Yvette

In Short
Stepping into this azure-hued retreat, guests are greeted with wafts of lavendar and the soothing sounds of soft music. The 16 treatment rooms, spread across 14,000 square feet, are where patrons can indulge in everything from a Kerstin Florian caviar facial to a Blu Sea body wrap. Signature rituals include the 80-minute shell therapy body service, which offers an exfoliating salt scrub and aromatherapy massage using hot tiger cowrie sea shells.

Hits: The spa's signature cold water foot bath is a perfect way to jolt your senses after working up a sweat in the whirlpool, eucalyptus steam room or sauna.
Misses: The poolside cabanas are a lovely feature, but the area is still undergoing a little unsightly construction.