San Manuel Indian Reservation Near Highland, CA (June 6, 2023) – The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians (“SMBMI” or “San Manuel” or “Tribe”) today announced that the San Manuel Investment Authority (“SMIA”) through its affiliated entities acquired an ownership interest in the newly renovated Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club (“Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach” or “Waldorf Astoria”) in Dana Point, Calif. One of Southern California’s iconic luxury resort destinations, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach will be the Tribe’s latest addition to its expanding resort portfolio.
“Investing in a luxury destination resort such as Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach represents another milestone for our Tribe, enabling us to continue executing our long-term diversification strategy,” said SMBMI Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena. “The stunning coastal setting, along with its exceptional guest service and amenities, are features that our Yaamava’ and Palms guests will enjoy. We are excited to partner with Ohana Real Estate Investors and impressed with Hilton and Waldorf Astoria’s strategic repositioning of the property over recent years.”
“We are proud to join forces with San Manuel to advance the growth of this wonderful asset,” said G. Christopher Smith, Founder and CEO of Ohana Real Estate Investors (“Ohana”). “San Manuel and Ohana share a common vision for Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach’s future, one where we will continue to elevate its world-class offerings while providing an unparalleled experience to our discerning guests.”
SMIA’s investment in Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach consists of an approximately 40% interest in the property with the option to increase its ownership through one or more future transactions.
The blufftop resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean is one of California’s most sought-after destinations, renowned for an array of luxurious amenities for resort guests and members. Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach boasts 400 newly refreshed guest rooms and suites, a private beach club, seven dining destinations including Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak, Waldorf Astoria Spa & Salon, three pools, expansive indoor and outdoor meeting and event spaces, and an 18-hole championship golf course.
SMBMI owns and operates Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel on the Tribe’s Reservation in Highland, Calif. A governmental instrumentality of the Tribe, the San Manuel Gaming & Hospitality Authority (“SMGHA”), became the first Native American owners and operators of a casino resort in Las Vegas with the purchase of Palms Casino Resort which reopened under the SMGHA’s ownership in April 2022.
Jefferies LLC and Berkadia Real Estate Advisors LLC acted as financial advisors, and Goodwin Procter LLP acted as legal counsel for San Manuel in relation to this investment.
