Things To Do
in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach, located in southern California, is a picturesque coastal city known for its stunning beaches, vibrant art scene, and charming village atmosphere. The area is characterized by its beautiful coastal cliffs, tide pools, and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With a mild Mediterranean climate year-round, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events throughout the seasons.

The town also hosts numerous art galleries, festivals, and boutique shops, contributing to its unique charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Beach and Art Scene
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along Main Beach, soaking in the sun and watching surfers catch waves. Grab breakfast at a local café like the Laguna Beach Café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Laguna Art Museum to explore California art, followed by a leisurely walk through the nearby Heisler Park, enjoying its scenic ocean views.

evening
:

Dine at The Rooftop Lounge for stunning sunset views, then enjoy live music at a local bar like The Iridium.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, taking in the natural beauty of the area. Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots.

afternoon
:

After your hike, spend some time at Thousand Steps Beach, relaxing or swimming in the ocean. Check out the local shops in the downtown area.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at Nick's Laguna Beach, followed by dessert at Gelato Paradiso.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$4
🍔Lunch$15
🍽️Dinner$30
🏖️Beach Parking$15
🎨Museum Admission$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal views and beaches.
  • Vibrant art and cultural scene.
  • Pleasant weather year-round.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas.
  • Limited public transportation options.

Places to Visit in Laguna Beach

Visit one of these nice places.

Heisler Park

Offers breathtaking views of the coastline and beautiful gardens, perfect for sunset photography.

Thousand Steps Beach

A picturesque beach with dramatic cliffs and tide pools, ideal for capturing nature shots.

Main Beach

The heart of Laguna Beach, featuring iconic lifeguard tower and vibrant beach scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach offers a culinary scene that reflects its coastal location and artistic vibe, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and innovative cuisine.

Laguna Beach Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish Tacos

Freshly caught fish served in soft corn tortillas, topped with cabbage, salsa, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.

Must-Try!

Acai Bowls

A healthy blend of acai berries topped with granola, fresh fruits, and honey, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Laguna Beach Farmers' Market

Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Laguna Beach enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures in summer range from the mid-70s to low 80s °F (24-29 °C), while winter temperatures average between 50-65 °F (10-18 °C). Coastal breezes help moderate temperatures year-round, making it a comfortable destination for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, including not disturbing wildlife.

Dress Code

Laguna Beach has a casual vibe, but upscale restaurants may require smarter attire.

Politeness

Being polite and friendly is appreciated; greetings and smiles go a long way.

Safety Guide

Safety

Laguna Beach is generally safe, with a low crime rate, but travelers should always remain vigilant. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night, secure personal belongings, and be cautious when swimming in the ocean due to strong currents.

Tipping in Laguna Beach

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Standard tipping is 15-20% for service in restaurants; adjust based on service quality.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's good to have some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and art festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts crowds to the beaches; expect lively events and bustling nightlife.

Fall

Cooler temperatures provide a pleasant atmosphere for hiking and enjoying fewer crowds at the beach.

Winter

While temperatures are cooler, the off-season allows for quieter exploration and seasonal events.

Nightlife Guide

Laguna Beach at Night

Laguna Beach boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with a mix of casual bars, upscale lounges, and live music venues. Popular spots like The Sundeck and The Iridium offer great cocktails and often feature local bands, while The Rooftop Lounge provides stunning ocean views. Seasonal events, such as art walks and beach bonfires, also contribute to the lively atmosphere.

Hiking in Laguna Beach

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Offers a variety of trails with stunning views of the coastline and diverse wildlife.

Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park

Features trails through beautiful canyons and along ridges with panoramic ocean views.

Airports

How to reach Laguna Beach by plane.

John Wayne Airport (SNA)

Located about 20 miles from Laguna Beach, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the nearest major airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Laguna Beach is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and beaches are in close proximity. Many visitors enjoy walking along the scenic coastal paths and through local parks. However, some hilly areas may require more effort, and public transportation is limited.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Art Enthusiasts

Laguna Beach has a strong community of artists and art lovers, reflected in its numerous galleries and art events.

Outdoor Adventurers

Many locals and visitors engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and biking, contributing to a health-conscious community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

Laguna Beach is renowned for its surfing culture, attracting surfers from all over to its various beaches.

Beach Volleyball

With many sandy beaches, beach volleyball is a popular pastime among locals and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can become congested during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends. Public transportation options are available, but many visitors prefer to use cars or bikes to navigate the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Laguna Beach.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Laguna Beach provide vegan options, with several dedicated vegan eateries available.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free dishes are commonly offered, particularly in health-focused cafes and restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Laguna Beach is provided by several local clinics and hospitals, with the closest major hospital being Mission Hospital in nearby Mission Viejo. Emergency services are available, and many practitioners accept a variety of insurance plans.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide