The Montage is a beautiful property in a fabulous location. The rooms are well appointed, the pool is lovely, the access to the beach is fantastic and the food is wonderful. Much effort and care is taken to make the Montage a wonderful getaway. But... there's something wrong here, and maybe most people don't see it but by the end of our stay we were happy to leave.

This hotel has a staff requirement that drove my husband and I nuts - when a guest is walking down the hall, down a path, or down some stairs and passes a staff member it appears the staff member must stop, put their hands behind their backs and smile as you pass, almost at attention. I expect a pleasant "good morning" or "good evening" from a housekeeper in the hall, for a gardener to perhaps look up and greet me as I pass while he tends the flowers; but to have a hard-working lady or gentleman stop their work, stand up and put on a fake smile (which withers after you walk past) to adhere to this standard is embarrassing to both the guest and the staff member. I found myself hurrying by so as not to interrupt the gardener at his tasks instead of walking by in a leisurely manner enjoying the fruits of his labour, as I would have preferred. The awkwardness was irritating.

The facade continued throughout the hotel, in the restaurants and front desk. As soon as the transaction with the guest is complete the facade drops, often before the guest has walked away. A scraping front desk clerk exuded all the professional gravitas in the world, but before I even walked away the clerk picked up the phone, took it off hold and said "what's up dude?". I did not object to this, but I wish a bit more personality and genuine warm hospitality had been apparent throughout the hotel. The most genuine folks I dealt with during our three day stay were the valets, who were all friendly, helpful, and chatty if you wanted them to be.

Perhaps this is a southern California thing - it felt very much like appearance was most important, but it didn't feel REAL. Perhaps the general clientele enjoy having people just standing to attention, waiting to serve their whim. We do not. We enjoy a luxury hotel and have been fortunate to stay in many all over the world, and the best hotels have staff that make you feel like they are truly happy to be there at that moment (whether or not they are is another matter), OR they are professionals who are there to do their jobs with pride and efficiency with deference but without fawning.

If the service had been warmer we would have enjoyed our stay much more, and this review would have been about the loveliness of the grounds and well appointed rooms. I would definitely recommend this hotel for a night or two for a romantic getaway, but when we return to the coast later this year we probably would not consider returning to the Montage.

Location, location, location. The beach, pool and view were spectacular. The room/suite was fantastic - king bed and full-size L-sofa in bedroom, living area with queen sofa-bed, arm chairs, two large bathrooms, two balconies, two large flat screens (which we never watched). Parking is pricey, and food poolside was average for the price. Staff were very curtous, attentive and eager to make the stay as comfortable as possible. I was there for a conference (great rate). I usually attend these alone, but my family joined me to stay at this hotel - and they really enjoyed it. I would go back in a heart beat - especially at the conference rate!

I love the Montage. Each turn reveals a spectacular view. Great rooms, comfortable beds, clean everywhere. Benches are located throughout the property so you can stop and relax. The gym is great, and there is a free wi-fi option. The beach access is convenient (walk down a ramp). The staff is incredible from the moment you walk in to the moment you leave and every drink, pool visit and call in-between. I have nothing bad to say about the Montage. You will not regret your stay here. It is a slice of heaven. One caveat: I was there for a conference and did not pay the full rate. I have no idea what this experience would have cost ordinarily.

Pricey but absolutely impeccable facility and service...can't wait to go back!