Things To Do
in Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is a sun-kissed coastal city in Orange County known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine coves, and artists’ colony atmosphere. The town blends natural beauty with a thriving arts scene, featuring galleries, mural-filled streets, and frequent street performances. Five miles of sandy beaches and tide pools invite hiking, surfing, and kayaking against a backdrop of cliffside vistas.
Its relaxed vibe, seasonal events, and coastal charm make it a memorable year-round destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Laguna Beach, soaking in the coastal views as you drive along Pacific Coast Highway. Check into your beachside hotel and take a moment to unwind and acclimate to the ocean air. Enjoy a casual breakfast at a local café, choosing fresh pastries and artisanal coffee to start your trip right.
Spend your afternoon exploring the picturesque beaches, starting at Main Beach, where you can relax on the golden sands. Try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking in the calm waters, making sure to take in the stunning coastal scenery. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the local art galleries, immersing yourself in the vibrant artistic culture of the area.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring delicious seafood while listening to the waves crash nearby. After your meal, stroll along the海前沿、参加当地的悠闲木吉他表演，感受镇上的艺术氛围。结束你的一天，在海滩上漫步，享受星空下的宁静时光。
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery followed by the breathtaking views of Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Embark on one of the scenic hiking trails, where you can enjoy lush landscapes and panoramic ocean vistas. Keep your camera ready as you may spot local wildlife along the path.
After your invigorating hike, head to the Laguna Art Museum to explore California-inspired artwork. Take your time to appreciate the unique exhibitions and perhaps even participate in a hands-on workshop. Treat yourself to lunch at a nearby café, savoring fresh ingredients while reflecting on the morning's adventures.
In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife of Laguna Beach, beginning with a delicious dinner at a trendy downtown restaurant. After dining, catch a performance at the Laguna Playhouse or a local live music venue. As you wrap up your night, enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the sounds of the ocean under the moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $2,800-4,000 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $4-6 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $150-300 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastline and beaches
- Vibrant arts scene and galleries
- Walkable village center with great dining
- Mild climate year-round
- High prices for lodging and dining
- Coastal traffic and limited parking
- Crowds during peak season
- Smaller nightlife compared to big cities
Places to Visit in Laguna Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic shoreline backdrop with lifeguard towers and golden sunsets over the Pacific.
Dramatic coastal scenery with the distinctive tower—great for dramatic silhouettes at golden hour.
Pastel historic cottages lining a pristine cove, with rugged cliffs and clear blue water.
A prime vantage point for panoramic ocean views, rocky bluffs, and elegant sunsets.
Clifftop vantage near Laguna Beach offering sweeping views of the coastline and city lights.
Food in Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly battered or grilled fish in warm tortillas with slaw and lime, a staple at beachside eateries.
Must-Try!
Hearty seafood stew featuring local fish, shrimp, and crab in a tomato-saffron broth.
Stone-ground avocado on toasted sourdough with farm-fresh toppings—popular for breakfast and brunch.
Light, lemony seafood pasta often featured at coastal restaurants with sunset views.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, seafood, baked goods, and prepared foods in the downtown area on set days.
Occasional rotating food trucks along the Main Beach and Coast Highway corridor offering tacos, poke bowls, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Casual beachwear is common in public spaces; upscale venues and galleries may require smart-casual attire; ask before photographing people or private property.
Be mindful of residential areas after quiet hours; keep voices low near homes and hotels.
Dispose of trash properly, stay on trails, and avoid removing shells or wildlife from tide pools.
Safety
Tipping in Laguna Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., standard tips are 15-20% at restaurants; tip bar staff and hotel staff; some venues may add service charges.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors; many places support contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming native flora; coastal hikes are particularly pleasant; beach crowds begin to rise on weekends.
Warm, sunny days with peak beach activity; secure parking and arrive early for popular spots and restaurants.
Pleasant shoulder season with fewer crowds; great for hiking and sunset strolls along the coast.
Mild but cooler days; rainstorms possible; ideal for gallery hopping and scenic coastal walks without summertime heat.
Laguna Beach at Night
Hiking in Laguna Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail from Moro Canyon to the beach with sea views and cliff overlooks.
Extensive network in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park offering sweeping canyon and ocean vistas.
Clifftop route in the Laguna Hills area with panoramic views of the coast and city lights.
Scenic trail past emerald waters and rugged shoreline with viewpoints over the bay.
Airports
How to reach Laguna Beach by plane.
About 15 miles away; major domestic hub with frequent flights and convenient access to Laguna Beach.
Approximately 25 miles away; smaller regional flights and shorter security lines.
Around 50 miles away; broad international and domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for beaches, parks, and safe neighborhoods; good schools nearby.
Quiet neighborhoods and scenic views attract retirees seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
A historic arts scene with galleries, festivals, and studio spaces drawing artists and visitors.
A mix of locals and travelers who enjoy dining, shopping, and coastal recreation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core activity given the coastline; suitable spots along the south end of the harbor and nearby coves.
Regular gatherings on select beach areas during warmer months.
Popular calm-water activity in coves and harbors, with rental shops nearby.
Trails in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and Crystal Cove offer scenic workouts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laguna Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Laguna Beach spots offer robust vegetarian dishes; look for seasonal veggies, cheese boards, and hearty veggie bowls.
Plant-based options are increasingly common; request dairy-free cheese, olive oil-based dressings, and greens-forward plates.
Gluten-free menus and substitution options are widely available; remind staff of allergies when ordering sauces or bread.
Many seafood and farm-to-table menus can accommodate dairy-free needs with alternative milks and oils.