We snapped this sunset shot from our terrace at The St. Regis Monarch Beach, a Five-Star hotel in Orange County, Calif. The Tuscan-inspired resort is a primo spot to see the sun sink into the Pacific Ocean because it sits on 172 acres at the top of a hill. Look closely, you can also make out Catalina Island, a luxe destination that is 22 miles from the shore. If you’re visiting the hotel between December and April, keep an eye out for pods of whales and dolphins from your private terrace. This area is known for some of the best whale watching along the Southern California coast. During peak season, around 40 whales pass Dana Point every day.
