Best Restaurants, Activities & Hotels in Laguna Beach

Advisor - Ali Antell
Curated By

Ali Antell

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  • USA

  • California

  • Laguna Beach

  • Beaches

  • Domestic Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Outdoors

  • Coastal

  • Foodie

stairs lined with palm trees leading down to the beach
Curator’s statement

Laguna Beach is a beautiful, picturesque beach town in Southern California. The town includes beaches, hiking and a cute walkable downtown area. My favorite part is the variety of local restaurants in the area!

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Where to stay in Laguna Beach, California

The Inn at Laguna Beach

Set on a cliff overlooking the ocean, this gorgeous coastal hideaway boasts chic bungalow-style rooms and a hip bar with panoramic views.

Surf & Sand Resort

Elegant beachfront resort with breezy rooms offering views of the Pacific.

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Things to do in Laguna Beach, California

palm trees with buildings and the ocean in the background
  1. 1000 Steps Beach - This popular spot is located between 9th and 10th street on Southern Coast Highway. This is the perfect spot for you if you want time to relax, play beach volleyball or just get a nice walk on the beach in!

  2. 935 Laguna Canyon Rd. - This spot has a lot of cool murals to check out and get some artsy pics.

  3. Watch a sunset on Crescent Bay - I don't think anyone can go wrong with a beach sunset, so grab your special someone or friends and have a picnic on the beach to watch!

  4. Dartmoor Trail - An easier, more chill hike along the coastline.

  5. Shopping downtown - There is a lot of shopping and cute local boutiques that are worth checking out. Some of my favorites are Hobie Surf Shop, Stitch and Feather and Experience Divine Vibes.

  6. Wine Tasting in the Canyon - Check out Laguna Canyon Winery, with a variety of wines from Napa and Sonoma valleys.

  7. Whale Watching Cruise - This is a year-round opportunity, with different species visible either year-round or during certain seasons.

  8. Monthly Art Walk - This is the perfect event if you are interested in checking out the art scene. The first Thursday of every month, hop on the trolley to attend this free event from 6-9 where you can check out each art gallery around town along with some refreshments and live music!

Day Trips from Laguna Beach

Newport Beach is a drivable destination that has a lot of great things to do! If you like Mexican food, I highly recommend El Cholo for an amazing lunch. If you have the time, you should check out Blooms Flower Shop to make your own flower bouquet!

Places to eat & drink in Laguna Beach, California

street lined with palm trees and buildings during daytime

Breakfast & Brunch in Laguna Beach

  • Las Brisas - An amazing spot for brunch and every better for the views! Being able to sit on the outside patio with bottomless mimosas makes for the perfect weekend brunch option!

  • The Cliff Restaurant - Another great spot for brunch or late lunch/happy hour. The views are amazing here, and the cheese board is even better!

  • Laguna Coffee Company - Craving some good coffee? This is a great casual spot to grab coffee and pastries and catch up with friends!

Happy Hour in Laguna Beach

  • Skyloft - Great spot for a few drinks while you take in the view.

Dinner in Laguna Beach

  • Nick's - A great spot for drinks and dinner, I highly recommend it for a special occasion - must try the steak entree!

  • Sapphire - Located on the south side of Laguna, this place is a great spot for a nice dinner and has a great cocktail list! The atmosphere is very relaxed.

Need to Know

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Eunice Kindred's guide to SoCal: The Perfect Weekend in Southern California.

Advisor - Ali Antell

Travel Advisor

Ali Antell

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California.