SoCal summer series: What to do, see and eat in Laguna Beach
Given its location, weather and epic beaches in all directions, Southern California is among the most popular destinations for folks across the Southwest every summer. Over the next few weeks, BOSW is going to close out summer with the definitive guide to exploring SoCal in style. Today’s beachside beauty: Laguna Beach.
Need more? Read more: SoCal summer series: What to do, see and eat in Oceanside
Laguna Beach: Where ocean meets art and culture
With more than 30 coves and beaches, Laguna Beach is the ideal spot for those seeking sun-filled days of snorkeling, swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, volleyball and tide pools as well as access to 22,000 acres of wilderness for hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching and more.
Nestled along the rugged coastline of Southern California, Laguna Beach stands as a shining gem in Orange County. The blend of dramatic cliffs, tide pools and golden sands offers a more intimate, varied beach experience than many other coastal towns.
But Laguna Beach is more than just a beach town — it is a community rich in natural beauty, artistic heritage, bucket list dining and epic adventures.
Stay in coastal luxury
There are dozens of waterfront enclaves, but for something extra special, book the Surf & Sand Laguna Beach, which recently underwent a stunning redesign that will take one’s breath away. The enchanting update begins in the lobby, which has a dramatic Mediterranean vibe and open-air seating, seamlessly blending with the breaking ocean waves just steps away. In a nod to the region’s acclaimed creative scene, impressive art lines the space, including works from the likes of Dale Chihuly, Ran Ortner and Eric Zener.
Each of the rooms and ample suites — as well as several penthouses for those seeking the ultimate in seaside luxury — have been completely redesigned with contemporary coastal elegance. Floor-to-ceiling glass patio doors and private balconies bring sweeping Pacific views into the interior’s sun-lit space. Guests can take their in-room experience to another level by adding a bath ritual service, which is specially drawn bath in one’s room featuring a custom-designed bath soak, body oil and aromatherapy candle or spray.
As for public spaces and entertainment, it does not get much better than Surf & Sand, starting with the oceanfront Bella Vista Terrace, which boasts a pool and bar as well as beach and spa access. The Aquaterra Spa is another homerun, a true palace of pampering and sanctuary for the soul. Each of the treatments is personalized and features organic ingredients, native botanicals and the natural essences of ocean and earth, with standouts including the Neroli Blossom Sensory experience as well as the Earth and Sea Scrub using a unique blend of algae and sea salts.
A culinary destination like no other
One of the preeminent culinary destinations for epicurean excellence in Southern California, Laguna Beach offers something exquisite for every palate. Splashes restaurant at Sand & Surf is a stand-out with its panoramic ocean views. The menu tends toward coastal-inspired cuisine utilizing locally sourced ingredients. Equally impressive are Oliver’s Osteria, The Deck, The Cliff Restaurant, Starfish Restaurant and Selanne Steak Tavern.
Chef Erik De Marchi, originally from the Imola region of Italy, leads Michelin-starred Oliver’s, where he crafts handmade pastas and much more, all rooted in his heritage. In addition to the primary menu, he offers a chef’s table option, which is a five-course adventure for all senses.
Starfish Restaurant is a tantalizing exploration into the flavors of Asian coastal cuisine. The diverse Asian menu celebrates the regions of Thailand, Korea, Vietnam, China and Japan, with over 70 shareable plates and exotic hand-crafted libations. It’s as if Tommy Bahama, Kona Grill and PF Chang’s came together to create a super-eatery, in the best possible way. And the cocktails? They are truly on another level. The cocktails are so popular that several are available to-go through their canned cocktail program as well. Oh, and many are part of their beloved Opium Hour daily starting at 3 p.m. across the entire restaurant and boasts deals you will not see anywhere else.
The Deck on Laguna Beach is completely open-air and offers 190-degree ocean views. The Deck specializes in California seafood and handcrafted cocktails and is one of the best spots in town to watch the sunset.
The Cliff Restaurant offers 180-degree ocean views and a massive menu of culinary delights for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Selanne is tucked into a historic 1934 home on Pacific Coast Highway and is co-owned by six-time Olympian Teemu Selanne. The steak program here is a cut above (pun intended) and the pairing of proteins with California wines is especially impressive.
Play by the shore — and beyond
Certainly, beach pursuits dominate the outdoor activities across Laguna Beach. For beaches, do not miss Main Beach, with the infamous Laguna Beach Lifeguard Tower and boardwalk that extends up into Heisler Park, home to many public art pieces. Despite its name, Thousand Steps is only about 220 steps, but has outrageous waves and a walkable sea cave.
Outside of the beach, do not sleep on the golf scene in the region, thanks in great part to The Ranch at Laguna Beach, which offers a serene and scenic experience. This 9-hole, par-32 course blends natural beauty with casual sophistication, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned players. Surrounded by lush hills, towering trees and ocean breezes, the course provides a unique and relaxing environment. Its eco-friendly design and laid-back vibe reflect the spirit of Southern California.
Monarch Beach Golf Links and Pelican Hill Golf Club are also nearby. Pelican, technically in neighboring Newport Beach, is exceptionally cool as both its north and south courses were designed by Tom Fazio, the most award-winning architect alive. Also, its GPS-enabled golf carts are second to none. And as a bonus, the course’s eco-friendly water recycling system conserves 50 million gallons of water annually. For more information, visit visitlagunabeach.com.
