By Camryn Wilneff By Camryn Wilneff | March 1, 2024 | Food & Drink, Lifestyle,
Laguna Beach is filled with pristine beaches, beautiful nature and lively culture. Here are some of the top spots to check out when visiting Orange County’s most stunning coastal city.
Where To Eat
361 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach, lasbrisaslagunabeach.com
Overlooking the ocean, this Laguna Beach staple is the ideal setting to snack on Mexican-inspired appetizers and indulge in a refreshing margarita. The bright corn mousse tostada and butternut squash tamales are just a couple of tasty dishes on the menu.
1464 S Coast Hwy, selannesteaktavern.com
Owned by former NHL star and Stanley Cup champ Teemu Selanne, this steakhouse tucked away on PCH is the perfect spot for an elegant dinner. Menu favorites include chops and a selection of wagyu steaks, as well as an impressive 2,750-bottle wine list.
1555 S Coast Hwy, surfandsandresort.com
Whether you’re looking to enjoy brunch by the sunny beach or take in the sunset during dinner, Splashes serves up delicious coastal cuisine all day. In addition to fresh seafood, the seaside restaurant blends Mediterranean classics with a SoCal twist like a wild mushroom flatbread.
619 Sleepy Hollow Ln, driftwoodkitchen.com
Driftwood Kitchen embraces an ocean-to-table concept with tuna tartare, oysters, pan seared scallops and more prepared just above the glistening Pacific Ocean.
328 Glenneyre St, broadwaybyamarsantana.com
Featuring an open kitchen and industrial decor, this NYC-inspired restaurant is a gourmet journey with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Adventurous eaters can reserve a spot at the six-seat chef’s table right at the kitchen window for a culinary experience like no other.
Where To Stay
985 N Coast Hwy, hoteljoaquin.com
This cozy getaway perched atop Shaw’s Cove is perfect for adventure seekers eager to explore Laguna. Each chic room is uniquely designed with custom furniture and beachy accents, and all are steps away from the ocean. Grab a bicycle, bodyboard or snorkeling gear from the hotel’s Adventure Outpost for a fun-filled excursion in the sun.
30801 S Coast Hwy, montagehotels.com
The Montage Laguna Beach is the epitome of coastal California luxury with ocean view rooms, spacious suites and open-air villas. Spend a day lounging by the sparkling Mosaic Pool and relaxing at the hotel’s serene spa.
31106 Coast Hwy, theranchlb.com
Nestled in the picturesque Aliso Canyons is The Ranch at Laguna Beach. Journey through the designated trails for a morning hike and grab a bite to eat at the beachfront Lost Pier Cafe. The secluded hotel grounds are also home to a nine-hole golf course and state-of-the-art spa.
1555 S Coast Hwy, surfandsandresort.com
Wake up to the sound of crashing waves and fresh sea breeze at this idyllic seaside escape. Each guestroom and suite at the Surf & Sand Resort features a private balcony that makes the perfect viewing spot for watching the sun rise across the water.
Where To Relax
30801 S Coast Hwy, montagehotels.com
The Spa Montage Laguna Beach embraces the power of nature to promote wellness and healing. Unwind in floral aromas and indulge in a customized massage with Spa Montage’s signature California Wildflower Ritual treatment.
1555 S Coast Hwy, surfandsandresort.com
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa day at Surf & Sand’s blissful Aquaterra Spa. Start with a refreshing facial and lavish beach stone therapy massage before a nourishing mani-pedi with a shea butter scrub.
Where To Shop
1020 S Coast Hwy, theshoplaguna.com
For an upgraded beachy wardrobe, browse the selection at The Shop Laguna Beach. This trendy boutique showcases stylish swimwear, cozy loungewear and summer dresses for fashionistas to complete their SoCal looks.
1200 S Coast Hwy, cockandtailhome.com
Cushy furnishings and chic homeware adorn the Cock & Tail Home boutique. The elegant store captures the essence of Laguna Beach living with relaxed furniture and crisp, white linens.
For Pre-Dinner Drinks
627 Sleepy Hollow Ln, deckonlaguna.com
Sip on surf-inspired cocktails like the cucumber-infused California Cooler or the Liquid Vacation topped with passion fruit foam on The Deck’s picturesque patio before heading out to dinner.
Share a margarita flight with friends before a night out or opt for the sweet Mango Mojito during Happy Hour at the intimate Rooftop Lounge atop La Casa del Camino Hotel.
1289 S Coast Hwy 4th floor, rooftoplagunabeach.com
Where to Hit the Town
422 S Coast Hwy, skyloftoc.com
Dance the night away to live DJ sets and jazz music throughout the week at this trendy rooftop. Grab a signature Skyloft cocktail like the spiked Cinnamon Latte and head out to the dance floor to ring in the weekend.
425 S Coast Hwy, hotellaguna.org
The iconic Hotel Laguna’s lobby bar is the best hangout for socializing and enjoying music after a busy week. Make a reservation at Larsen for light bites with a SoCal flair accompanied by your favorite cocktail to kick off the evening.
2894 S Coast Hwy, thedrakelaguna.com
Take a break from the beach and spend an evening immersed in a reimagined supper-club at The Drake. With a sleek piano bar lounge, live jazz and R&B tunes and an incredible dining experience, The Drake is a great spot for a classy night out.
Cultural Experiences
307 Cliff Dr, lagunaartmuseum.org
The Laguna Art Museum is an essential part of West Coast culture, highlighting an eclectic mix of artwork created by California artists. On display through February 2023 is Rebeca Méndez’s installation called The Sea Around Us, which takes viewers through the depths of the Pacific Ocean.
650 Laguna Canyon Rd, foapom.com
Every summer, the Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach hosts an elaborate exhibit showcasing the amazing works of over 100 artists based in Orange County. Throughout the year, art lovers can admire select pieces of the organization’s permanent collection at its foaSOUTH gallery.
Hidden Gem
Off the beaten path lies the Thousand Steps Beach– a secret Laguna treasure. The trek downward from PCH opens up to a stretch of smooth sands and clear, blue waves between sandstone cliffs. The calm water is ideal for bodysurfing and swimming.
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