Laguna Beach — a Small Paradise Nestled in SoCal

Laguna Beach is a famed California getaway known for its sun-kissed beaches, many art galleries as well as fabulous hiking trails. Of all the top attractions in Laguna, I consider the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park to be the best. One of my favorite place to take guests when visiting in on a hike through these coastal canyons. The park offers 40 miles of hiking trails that wind through oak and sycamore woodlands and ridges framed by rocky bluffs. There are equestrian trails there as well, and it is always fun to see horses on your hike.

Exploring Crystal Cove State Park is my next favorite activity. This park lies on the border of Newport Beach and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California, including Moro Bay and Reef Point.

Next, I would recommend a walk in Heisler Park, where you can visit Picnic Beach, Rockpile Beach, Diver's Cove as well as the infamous Main Beach. Enjoy a walk on the boardwalk and watch some beach volleyball while you end up in the main area of shopping and eating in town.

Further south of town, in front of the famed Montage Resort is Treasure Island Beach. This little secret, located between Victoria Beach and Aliso Creek Beach, offers the clearest waters in Laguna Beach. There are glittering tide pools to enjoy as well as prime snorkeling spots.

If snorkeling is your vibe, Crescent Bay Beach is a large cove off North Coast Highway in North Laguna. It is a gorgeous beach that is a wonderland for snorkelers. If you are a scuba diver, you are in heaven in Laguna Beach. Diver's Cove is a 300-foot-long cove protected from swells. Divers can find an array of colorful marine life, including lobsters, sea stars, purple urchins and the famous California Garibaldi fish.

Day trips

If you are interested in venturing out of Laguna for a day, a trip to Catalina Island is a fun destination. There are ferry options or helicopters to reach this little island that is filled with shops, restaurants and beautiful mountainous trails to explore.

Breakfast/Lunch

Cafe Heidelberg, a secret among locals south of town. Great breakfast menu as well as lunch offerings. A variety of California-inspired omelets as well as salads.

Zinc Cafe, an iconic restaurant with outside tables in downtown Laguna, amazing breakfasts and also serves lunch. I love their healthy breakfast with scrambled egg whites, black beans, brown rice and a yummy marinara sauce. Great pastries as well.

Harvest at the Ranch offers lovely outdoor seating overlooking the golf course at this quaint hotel. The elegant restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. I love taking guests there for lunch when visiting for an upscale experience.

Dinner

Hands down, the best restaurant in Laguna Beach for dinner is Nick's. It is a neighborhood favorite and requires reservations far in advance unless taking your chances at the bar. The fried deviled eggs and seabass are personal favorites.

Splashes at the Surf & Sand Hotel is definitely a dramatic experience. Sit outside with the waves splashing up against the glass wall and live the California Dream. Fresh seafood and pricey menu. Pro Tip: go early and sit in the bar to watch the sunset right on the water. No better view in Laguna!

The newly renovated Hotel Laguna is host to Larsen's Restaurant, named after the original Laguna Beach Greeter. It is a magical spot to sit outside on the terrace or in the glassed dining room and enjoy creative California cuisine.

A trip to Laguna Beach is not complete without a visit to a Mexican restaurant. My personal favorite is Javier's in Crystal Cove in North Laguna. A true hotspot offering consistent, authentic Mexican cuisine.

If you are looking for a date night option, I recommend Maestro's Ocean Club, also in Crystal Cove in North Laguna. The traditional steakhouse features primarily fresh seafood at this location with a wonderful bar area that has fabulous live music. The pretzel bread, seafood tower and butter cake will change your life!