Steps away from shops, restaurants, cafes, and art galleries, Main Beach is the most iconic beach in Laguna Beach, California. Located in the center of town, along Pacific Coast Highway, it's known for its historic lifeguard tower, gentle sandy shores, a playground, basketball and volleyball courts, and a boardwalk.
A short walk downstairs from the Montage, you'll find this beautiful beach and can explore the tide pools at low tide.
Relax and unwind with a specialized treatment you'll never forget...and did I mention you have an exclusive pool to bask in the sunshine and sip a cocktail with unobstructed ocean views? Check out the spa at Montage Laguna Beach for some of the best R&R in town.
*Reservations Required
Explore like a local and take this ffree trolley service on Coast Highway between North Laguna/ Heisler Park, downtown, South Laguna/ Mission Hospital and Ritz Carlton in Dana Point.
Monday-Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes.
Looking for one of the best ocean views in Laguna Beach? Venture up to the Rooftop Lounge in Laguna Beach and feast your eyes. While you're up there, enjoy some of our favorites: champagne mojitos (off menu) and ahi poke.
Pro Tip: Visit in the morning for your best chance of spotting dolphins.
*Reservations Required
Founded in 1918, LAM exclusively features California art and is the oldest cultural institution in the area. It has been known as the Laguna Beach Art Association, as well as the Laguna Beach Museum of Art. A visit in October offers a more relaxed time to enjoy Laguna’s art scene post-summer.
Once a home, this historic setting on Pacific Coast Highway now houses a winning steakhouse. Inside, a variety of settings welcome guests, ranging from the upstairs Loft, the bistro-style Wine Library, the handsome Tavern, or outside on the Veranda or Sunset Terrace. The buzzy bar is also a favorite perch for a crowd that's both relaxed and regulars.
Pro Tip: Selanne's monkey bread can't be missed.
*Reservations Required
The Ranch at Laguna Beach Golf Course is a scenic 9-hole course set within the dramatic walls of Aliso Canyon. When you're finished, stay for some live music by the fire under the stars.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll in Heisler Park. October brings clearer skies and fewer crowds, arguably the best time to walk this stretch.
The Top of the World hike in Laguna Beach starts right in the center of town, and after a short but steep climb through Aliso and Wood Canyon Wilderness Park, you'll have views from Catalina Island to Mt Baldy on a clear day.
Pro Tip: Bring a water bottle with you and your phone to snap pictures of the most stunning views.
Looking to explore the happiest place on earth while you're in town? Head 30-50 minutes by car to Disneyland Park for their Halloween-themed rides, shops, and eateries.
Disneyland Park was the first theme park opened by the Walt Disney Company and the only one designed and constructed under the direct supervision of Walt Disney, opening on July 17, 1955.
Pro Tip: Wear sunscreen and comfortable shoes, and bring your own water bottle to fill up as you go.
*Reservations Required
The Pelican Hill Resort features a couple of Tom Fazio-designed 18-hole layouts: Ocean South, which debuted in 1991 and Ocean North, a slightly longer sibling that came along a couple of years later. Both courses are laid out on a cliff top setting at Newport Beach and both deliver a good, solid resort golf experience that offers spectacular Pacific vistas aplenty.
*Reservations Required, Club Rentals Available
It wouldn't be a trip to California without some fresh fish tacos! Visit Bear Flag in Newport Beach for some of the best + an ocean view. Remember to ask for extra Tommy sauce on the side.
Pro Tip: If you're looking for incredible sushi and a smaller crowd, sit at the bar during the week to order Kat's favorite: the Hurricane Roll. No sushi is served on Saturdays. No reservations are required.
Fashion Island is an exquisite outdoor regional shopping mall in Newport Beach, California. Full of high-end shops, eateries, and ocean views, bask in the sun as you shop or dine.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to check out the Koi Gardens (Martin's Favorite)
Looking for elevated Mexican cuisine? It doesn't get better than Javier's. With authentic flavors, tequila flights, and an ocean view, you're in for a treat!
*Reservations Required
Explore the beautiful Dana Point Harbor by water! Conveniently located on the docks, all water sport equipment is at the water's edge, so you can paddle away in no time.
Dockside instruction, board/kayak use, and lifejackets are included in your fee. No reservations are required and there are no pre-requisites as long as you are in good general health and “water safe”.
Perfect for a sunset (or sunrise) stroll, Salt Creek Beach is flat and long so you can walk for miles along these gentle shores.
Pro Tip: Pick up a sandwich and drinks for a nice picnic on the beach before or after at Young's Beach Shack, right next to the sand.
*Disclaimer: there is quite a bit of a hill that you have to walk down & back up in order to get to and from the beach.
Truly Pizza...where the destination is just as good as the food itself. Located in the heart of Dana's Lantern District, enjoy artisan pizza at one of the best (our favorite) spots in South Orange County.
Pro Tip: Don't skip the soft serve dessert.
*Reservations Required
Did you know that Dana Point is known as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World? If you're up for an ocean adventure check out Captain Dave's Whale Watching tour for an exciting morning or afternoon at sea. Don't forget to share your pics from your adventure!
Pro Tip: Bring a blanket and a snack for your comfort while you explore.
*Reservations Required
The Ocean Institute is an ocean education organization located in Dana Point, California. Founded as the Orange County Marine Institute in 1977, it offers ocean science and localized maritime history.
15-20 min away from Laguna Beach is River Street Marketplace, a 60,000-sqft community destination in the heart of San Juan Capistrano. The space features modern dining concepts, curated retail, local art, a butcher, and a full bar and brewery...cowboy boots optional!
General Center Hours 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
No place in SoCal does BBQ better than Heritage! Known for their Texas-style BBQ, they offer a rotating menu of sides served in an easygoing eatery that has picnic tables. No reservations required.
*Only Open: Wednesday - Sunday 11AM to 7PM