Destination Laguna Beach

Carolina Bonetti

Southern California has an incredible collection of posh and adorable beach-towns lining its coastline. Just over an hour away from Los Angeles, Laguna Beach is a destination you can visit for the day or for a weekend to enjoy the endless activities. A great option during the summer is the Sawdust Festival, an ongoing event that showcases various art work and is the perfect stop for art enthusiasts and anyone looking to browse. There are also plenty of sports available from paddleboarding, surfing, and sailboat renting.

For water sport equipment or boat rentals, you can find everything you need at Harbor Boat Rentals in Dana Point. You can also find paddleboards, bikes, rafts, and kayaks to rent at La Vida Laguna to enjoy a day out on the water.

When in Laguna Beach, don’t be afraid to explore. A free trolley loops around every 15 minutes, allowing you to hop around the picturesque beach town with ease. Take it to The Ritz to enjoy a spa treatment and treat yourself to lunch on the ocean, challenge yourself to one of the many hiking trails, or relax along 1,000 Steps Beach.

If you are escaping from reality and in need of some serious rest and relaxation, then St. Regis is for you. Book yourself an appointment at Spa Gaucin, a five star location, and choose from their luxurious massages, oxygen microdermabrasion treatments, or customize your own spa package.

There is something for everyone in Laguna. While you are walking and shopping your way around town, indulge in a treat at Gelato Paradiso or stop for happy hour at The Deck, which specializes in seafood and creative cocktails as one of the few oceanfront restaurants in Laguna. At night, dine at Nicks or Broadway by Amar Santana.

DO:
Sawdust Festival from June 27-August 31

Surfing, Kayaking, Boat Rental, Biking:
Harbor Boat Rentals

Spa Day:
Spa Gaucin inside the St. Regis Hotel

EAT:
Gelato Paradiso
The Panna Cotta Gelato is life-changing. Add it to any cone or waffle and it will not disappoint.

Madison Square and Garden
Madison Square and Garden is an adorable little restaurant tucked away inside a garden. This whimsical venue serves breakfast and lunch. The pancakes are phenomenal.

Eva’s A Caribbean Kitchen
For those of you looking for a unique dining experience, this is the place. Located steps away from the Pacific Ocean, Eva’s delivers Caribbean fare with all the cheerfulness and flavor expected of the islands.

The Deck
Reservations are advised for this hip and scenic spot. From brunch to dinner, The Deck does not disappoint. While they do specialize in seafood, don’t be too shy to try their lunch and breakfast menus.

Nick’s
This intimate spot is a must for anyone looking for great food with a low-key atmosphere. Sit outside on their patio and enjoy a cocktail from the full bar, or wine from their wide selection and pair it with your dinner.  

Broadway By Amar Santana
Dine in style with the cuisine of America’s restaurant. Broadway is meant to delight foodies while providing top notch class and service with your dinner. For a more formal dining experience, there’s no better place to go than here.

DRINK:
The Rooftop Lounge
Pull up a chair and grab a front row seat to a West Coast sunset in style. What better way to start your evening than by ordering your favorite cocktail and watching the sun drop? This hip lounge offers music and a laid-back ambiance that you won’t want to miss.

The Deck
The Deck brings the night alive with DJs and drink specials that you won’t want to miss. Dance the night away with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.

180 Blu
Located inside The Ritz in Dana Point, 180Blu does not disappoint for a grand night out. Have a nightcap from their gorgeous bar to enjoy a soothing evening to end your day. Whether you enjoy wine or whiskey, there’s nothing better than sitting by the fire pit and listening to live music.

STAY:
St. Regis
The St. Regis boasts its own private beach, restaurant, bar, salon, yoga classes, excursion packages, and more. One of the ultimate locations for a fully pampered weekend.

Ritz Carlton
The Ritz is a statement all on its own. With everything you desire at your fingertips and sweeping vistas of the ocean, this is the ultimate in luxury.

Montage
Another luxury beach resort waiting to spoil your senses. The Montage boasts some of the friendliest staff around, with two fine dining restaurants, a bar, spa, and beach access. Located in the center of Laguna Beach, it might be your preferred hotel destination.

14 West Boutique Hotel
This hotel offers guests a relaxed approach to the Laguna Beach getaway. You can find kitchenettes in your suite along with cozy fire places and flat screen TVs. Located close to the beach, the atmosphere will leave you feeling completely refreshed.