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Curator’s statement
A town known for its collection of small cove beaches (30 in total!), Laguna Beach is a unique slice of Orange County with a laid-back yet sophisticated vibe. It’s the perfect place to land for a week to relax on a honeymoon, with a feeling of being secluded from the hustle of Orange County and Southern California. It’s also located smack-dab in the middle of OC, so if you are itching to see more of this beautiful part of the country, it is a short drive to San Clemente, Dana Point, Newport Beach and other coastal cities. I currently live in Costa Mesa and spend lots of time down in Laguna — Crescent Bay is one of my favorite places in the whole world to watch the sunset! I’ve also spent some time poolside at the Montage, and the last time I was there I was thinking how perfect the resort would be for a honeymoon. Combine a beautiful property with great art and restaurant options nearby, and you have the perfect destination for a couple looking to relax oceanside in California.
The Fora Difference
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Orange County
Montage Laguna Beach
Montage Laguna Beach welcomes guests into the heart of Southern California’s preeminent artist colony and features two outdoor pool decks, two spas and three signature restaurants with spectacular views.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 resort / hotel credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa
Dreamy boutique stay designed with Moorish tiles and terra cotta details along California's Pacific Coast Highway.
Fora Perks
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$25 hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome treat in room on arrival.
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Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Set on nearly 90 acres of ranchland, this quaint resort features 2-story cottages and suites, plus a high-end restaurant and luxe spa.
Fora Perks
- ★
$50 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Welcome treat in room on arrival.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Rachel to book your trip.
Things to do in Orange County
Art Museums:
There are more than 100 art galleries and museums in Laguna Beach, but don’t let that overwhelm you! A good place to start is the Laguna Art Museum.
Pottery Class:
Get outside of your comfort zone a bit and book a pottery class while you’re in town at Arttime Barro. Super fun bonding experience!
Surf Lessons:
Speaking of comfort zone, there’s nothing like standing up on a surfboard for the first time! Laguna Beach Surf School offers private surf lessons and would offer a really fun excursion in the wind and waves for a new couple.
Hiking:
There are lots of hills surrounding Laguna Beach, offering lots of great hiking options! Visit Laguna Beach has a list of all of the hiking options based on difficulty level.
Snorkeling:
If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can buy a cheap snorkel at a nearby store and head down to Shaw’s Cove. It’s a beach that offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities for people of all ages.
Paddleboard or Kayak:
La Vida Laguna offerings different types of tours for kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and even e-bike tours. Book a tour to see a part of Laguna in a new way!
Easy Overlook:
Top of the World is a must-see at some point before you leave town. Lots of street parking available, but a short walk up to a flat overlook offers 360-degree views of Laguna Beach and a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean.
Shopping:
There are so many cute boutique stores in downtown Laguna Beach, perfect for window shopping or supporting a local artist with a unique piece of jewelry to commemorate your honeymoon in Laguna Beach.
Day Trips:
Newport Beach and Dana Point are also great nearby towns you could spend some time exploring, or you could leave from one of their harbors for a day trip to Catalina Island.
Places to eat & drink in Orange County
South of Nicks
You will need a reservation for this popular higher end Mexican spot, but if you plan ahead with enough time, it’s worth the trip.
Nicks
Same owners of South of Nick’s, but this spot offers more traditional American and steakhouse cuisine. Don’t leave without getting the butter cake!
Skyloft
A more casual dining experience, but with rooftop dining you can’t beat the views and ocean breeze.
Urth Cafe
Very casual, order at the front and sit down with a table number type of spot. Lots of options for any time of day, this healthy spot is a favorite among tourists and locals.
Ahba
This is the best spot for tacos! If your honeymoon overlaps with a Tuesday this would be the spot to hit for their Taco Tuesday deals.
Gina’s Pizza
Another casual option, perfect for grabbing takeout to head back to the hotel or down to the beach for a picnic. It’s a local’s favorite and a staple in Laguna Beach.
Succulent Coffee
Finding a good coffee shop when away from home is important! Personally, have tried a few in the area and Succulent is by far the best.
Gelato Paradiso
Without a doubt, if you’re in Laguna Beach, you have to make a stop at some point during your week at this gelato shop. There might be a line, but it is worth the wait.
Need to know
Travel Advisor
Rachel Taylor
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Girls' Trip to Newport Beach, Orange County, California.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Orange County.