Tucked between the bluffs and the Pacific, Laguna Beach is a sun-drenched haven that moves at a slower pace, yet pulses with creativity and coastal energy. Whether you're road-tripping through SoCal or escaping for a long weekend, here’s how to spend a perfect day in Laguna ~ slow, scenic, and by the sea.
Stay: Casa Loma Beach Hotel
We checked into Casa Loma Beach Hotel, a hidden gem perched just steps from the sand. With its mid-century coastal aesthetic and breezy balconies, this place feels like a locals-only secret. Morning coffee hits different when you’re watching the tide roll in from your room.
Morning: Beach Walks + Golden Light
First stop: the beach, obviously. Laguna’s shoreline is speckled with tidepools, sandstone coves, and locals with surfboards tucked underarm. We spent the early hours barefoot in the sand, salt in the air, watching the soft golden light bouncing off the water.
Midday: A Courtside Visit
Laguna’s beachside basketball courts are a vibe. Locals shoot hoops in the sun, music plays low from someone’s speaker, and the energy is pure California. We sat for a while ~ iced drinks in hand and watching pick-up games unfold with a backdrop of crashing waves. Unexpected, but maybe our favourite moment of the day.
Afternoon: Exploring Downtown
The main streets of Laguna are brimming with personality ~ indie boutiques, artist-run galleries, the sweetest cafés, and vintage surf shops. We wandered through Forest Avenue and the surrounding streets, ducking into dreamy stores and soaking up the laidback energy. Think ceramic mugs, sun-faded postcards, and linen dresses you’ll wear all summer. A stop by The Shop is a must ~ a sunlit boutique curated with breezy beachwear, everyday staples, and accessories that channel that effortless, coastal-cool vibe Laguna does so well.
Evening: Sunset from the Bluff
For sunset, head up to Heisler Park. With panoramic views over the Pacific, it’s the ideal way to wind down the day. Locals gather here with picnic blankets and pups, the sky glowing tangerine before fading into lavender. Pure magic.
Laguna Beach is the kind of place that lingers with you long after you leave. After just one day here, and we're already dreaming of when we'll be back next...
Photography Jamie Green