Laguna Beach Unveiled: A Laid-Back, Chic Local’s Guide to Southern California’s Coolest Coastal Town

Explore local beaches

Laguna Beach is so much more than Main Beach. To experience its true beauty, grab a towel, some Have’a chips and a beach chair, and try one (or all) of these hidden gems:

Thousand Steps Beach (South Laguna): Not quite a thousand, but 300 steep steps lead you to one of the most iconic surf breaks in Laguna. The water here is not for the faint-hearted, but the view is worth every step.

Victoria Beach (South Laguna): A favorite for both tourists and locals, this beach features a unique pirate tower and scenic tide pools. Insider tip: Park on Nyes Place and walk down — just be sure to go early in the summer to avoid the crowds!

Shaw’s Cove (North Laguna): A quieter beach with mellower waters, ideal for snorkeling and families looking for a more serene spot.

Crescent Bay (North Laguna): This beach has beautiful views and is relatively quiet. Its tranquil waters make it suitable for families.

Treasure Island (South Laguna): Located by the Montage resort, this is the perfect alternative to Main Beach for a full family day. Parking is easy at the garage or metered spots along PCH. Grab quesadillas from La Sirena Grill across PCH.

Bop and shop

Laguna Beach embraces the art of the dilly-dally. Stroll the charming streets, grab a coffee and indulge in these effortlessly cool boutiques:

WillBo: A California lifestyle brand in North Laguna known for its laid-back yet stylish clothing line.

Good Together House: This shop feels like an ode to slow living — think handmade mugs from Italy and timeless home goods. Their motto says it all: "In short, we want Good Together House to be a worthwhile place for you to spend time."

Ligne Blanche: French beach bags and sustainably sourced fashion that will make you the chicest parent on the sand.

Vertigo Home: Home to unique decor pieces and a potential vintage find, like that classic black D&G blazer you've always wanted.

Laguna Surf & Sport and Thalia Surf Shop: For authentic Laguna Beach merch — classic surf style, perfect for everyone in the family.

Little Bohemian: Surfer meets Danish chic — a perfectly curated selection of apparel and accessories.

Laguna Beach Books: A local bookstore with a heart, offering an excellent selection of reads for beach days.

Get active together

From coastal activities to mountain trails, Laguna is full of family-friendly ways to stay active:

SUP Rentals: Perfect for families with older kids ready for a little adventure on the water.

Hiking and biking: Take in breathtaking ocean views as you hike or bike the iconic Laguna trails — there’s something for every level.

Haus of Wellness Pilates: Sneak in some “me time” with the best pilates class.

Heisler Park morning walk: Grab coffee from Blk Dot and take a leisurely walk through Heisler Park, soaking in the stunning coastal scenery.

Breakfast:

South Swell Donuts — Somehow, tourists haven’t found this spot yet, so consider this your insider tip. Not only do they have the best donuts I’ve ever had, but their ham and cheese croissant is also a must-try. Come back later in the day for pho!

Beachcomber – Skip the line at the (overrated) Urth Cafe and head to this diner-style institution right on the sand. Located in Crystal Cove, it’s a beautiful short drive North of Laguna. You can take a golf cart from the parking lot down to the restaurant right on the beach.

Boozy on the beach:

Larsen – Right on Main Beach, it’s a perfect spot for a long lunch with the family (kid-friendly!) or catching the sunset, sans kiddos. The food is solid, and the beachfront location can’t be beat.

The Deck – A great daytime spot with a lively vibe right on the beach. Expect fresh bites, delicious cocktails and a fun atmosphere for a sunny afternoon.

Good sit-down food:

Miki Sushi — Formerly 242 Sushi, this cozy spot was formerly owned by an iconic sushi chef and offers some of the best sushi around. It’s a small venue with a cult following.

AhbA – For Greek dishes with fantastic vibes and cocktails, order at the window and seat yourself. It can get busy, but the food is worth it. Insider tip: head next door to Helen’s Cocktails, an intimate "if you know you know" bar with a 70s house feel, where you can enjoy a quieter atmosphere while still getting the food from Abha.

Grab and go:

La Sirena Grill — You’re not a local until you’ve picked up food from La Sirena Grill. Favorites include the blackened salmon salad, quesadilla and burrito — perfect for taking to the beach.

Mercado Laguna — This curated small grocery store in North Laguna is ideal for grabbing picnic essentials before hitting the beach.