Laguna Beach is the stretch of coastline that put Orange County on the map long before reality TV ever did. The cliffs, the coves, and the bright blue water all make it look like a modern-day California postcard. Surfers ride the waves, artists fill the galleries, and almost every lookout comes with that classic backdrop of the ocean kissing the cliffs. It’s busy yet charming, upscale yet quaint, and packed with great shops, restaurants, and hotels that make it one of California’s easiest beach towns to fall in love with. Ahead, dive into the best of Laguna Beach.
Where to Stay
Hotel Joaquin
Hotel Joaquin is one of those places you check into and immediately consider extending your stay. Right above Shaws Cove, it feels like a secret hideaway-meet-SoCal surf bungalow. Guests get morning coffee service delivered to the room, a heated pool, and access to the Adventure Outpost stocked with bikes, bodyboards, and beach gear. It’s intimate, stylish, and perfectly relaxed.
Laguna Surf Lodge by SCP Hotels
Right in the heart of town, this eco-surf lodge brings a cool, consciously minded twist to the Laguna beachfront. The location is unbeatable (steps to the beach, galleries, and restaurants), the rooms are cozy and chic, and the staff is local and helpful. For travelers who want surf culture, sustainability, and walkability in one place, this is the spot.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
A little inland and tucked between the canyon and the coast, The Ranch shows off Laguna’s cool, outdoorsy side. There’s a golf course, garden-to-table restaurant, pool, and rooms that feel like elevated beach cottages. It’s quiet, classic, and a bit under the radar.
Where to Visit
The Beaches (Of Course)
Laguna isn’t a one-and-done beach kind of place — each cove has its own personality. Main Beach is buzzy and busy, Victoria Beach has an iconic pirate tower, Shaw’s Cove is great for snorkeling, and Thousand Steps (spoiler: there are lots of steps) has that wide, soft sand everyone loves.
Stroll Downtown Laguna
Downtown has the small-town energy that makes Laguna so charming. It’s small and walkable, with indie boutiques, surf shops, local art galleries, and enough cafés and ice cream spots to justify multiple stops. It’s busy in the summer, but in a way that feels nostalgic — like every SoCal beach town scene you grew up seeing on TV.
Explore Heisler Park
This bluff-top trail looks straight out of a Visit California commercial — winding paths, lookout points, tide pools, and gardens that make even a casual walk feel special. Come at sunset for the best color show in town.
Visit the Laguna Art Museum + Local Galleries
Laguna’s art roots run deep, and the Laguna Art Museum is a great place to see that history in action. Afterward, browse the galleries scattered throughout town. You can find a mix of contemporary, coastal, and classic work all over.
Hike the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
When you need a break from the beach, head inland to the canyons. The trails range from mellow to challenging, with ocean views and rolling hills. It’ll give you a nice glimpse into another side of the area.
Where to Eat & Drink
Las Brisas
The views are unreal, the margaritas are strong, and the seafood-heavy Mexican-American menu always hits. Yes, it’s a little iconic-touristy… but, for the view alone, it earns its reputation.
Coyote Grill
Coyote Grill is a South Laguna staple, best known for its coastal Mexican dishes, classic charm, and strong margaritas. Come for the fish tacos and enchiladas, and stay because the vibe makes you feel like a local. (Pro tip: there’s a daily happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM.)
Driftwood Kitchen
Driftwood is the definition of “oceanfront dining” in Laguna. It has fresh seafood, cocktails, and a dining room close enough to hear the waves. Go for brunch or sunset dinner; both are lovely.
Nick’s Laguna Beach
Nick’s is one of those places everyone recommends because it’s just consistently great. American comfort food done really well, strong cocktails, and a buzzy-but-not-chaotic atmosphere. It’s perfect for date night or a group dinner.
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