Laguna is one of my favorite spots to escape the LA heat and soak up some ocean air. It’s close enough for a quick getaway (just about 20 minutes from John Wayne Airport!), but it still feels like a full-on vacation. Whether I’m craving a little boutique hotel time, a morning coffee with a view, or just want to wander cute shops and watch the waves roll in—Laguna always hits.

Here’s my cheat sheet for where to stay, eat, shop, and explore.

Where to Stay:

Casa Loma Beach Hotel
A boutique beachside gem with fresh energy after a big renovation. Steps from Main Beach with a rooftop terrace and cliffside pool—it nails that modern-meets-coastal-charm vibe. Check out my full tour HERE!

Montage Laguna Beach
Classic luxury with unreal ocean views. If you’re in the mood to splurge, this resort delivers full-on coastal glam—think spa days, fine dining, and dreamy sunsets from your balcony.

Le Petit Pali at Laguna Beach
Design-forward and effortlessly cool. This spot brings moody interiors, vintage coastal flair, and an intimate courtyard that’s perfect for post-beach hangs with rosé in hand.

Hotel Joaquin
Earthy, stylish, and adults-only. Think salty breezes, outdoor showers, vintage record players, and a pool you’ll never want to leave. A dreamy stay for design lovers.

Laguna Beach House
Retro surf motel energy in the best way possible. Fire pits, ocean views, and a laid-back vibe that’s ideal for friend trips or casual weekends.

Laguna Ranch
A private, 14-acre hillside retreat just minutes from the beach. Luxe suites, citrus groves, a spa, and yoga pavilion—it’s wellness meets coastal escape, and perfect for groups or quiet resets.

Coffee + Breakfast

Jedidiah Coffee – Light, airy, and slinging excellent espresso.
The Laguna Coffee Co – Cozy local fave for your morning fix.
MoonGoat Coffee – Trendy and tucked-away.
Lost Pier Café – Grab a breakfast burrito with your toes in the sand. One of my faves!
Rye Goods – Organic baked goods and flaky pastries.
Active Culture – Smoothies + bowls that taste like summer.
Bakery by Selanne – Yes, the hockey player. Yes, the baked goods are legit.

Lunch, Dinner + Everything in Between

AhbA – Mediterranean-ish, with a side of good wine and outdoor seating.
Seabutter Sushi – Sleek sushi spot with fresh rolls and chill vibes.
Salerno’s by Chef Pirozzi – Classic Italian, perfect post-beach pasta.
Selanne Steak Tavern – Treat-yourself dinner spot with serious surf-and-turf energy.
Dizz’s As Is – Quirky, beloved, and ideal for a cozy, old-school dinner.

Sweet Treats

Gelato Paradiso – Dreamy gelato tucked into a charming alleyway.
South Swell Ice Cream – Small-batch scoops that hit the spot.

Shop Small, Shop Cute

Ritual Refill – Refillable low-waste goods + chic home finds.
The Salt Horse – Pantry staples, gifts, and coastal-cool everything.
Laguna Beach Books – Cozy indie bookstore tucked next to The Salt Horse—great for a beach read grab-and-go.
Mercado Laguna – A curated mix of fashion, lifestyle, and accessories.
Cabana – Breezy fashion with California style.
Wigz – Playful, fun, and full of personality.

Beaches + Coastal Walks

Wood’s Cove – Fewer crowds, tide pools, and postcard views.
Table Rock Beach – Rugged and gorgeous.
Camel Point Beach – Tucked away and low-key.
Heisler Park Amphitheatre – One of the best sunset spots around.
Treasure Island Bluff Trail – Scenic strolls with sweeping ocean views.

Laguna Beach: Where to Stay, Eat, Shop + Soak Up the Vibes