Montage Laguna Beach, Laguna Beach, CA. Photo: Montage Laguna Beach

It’s the perfect time to start planning a pre-summer escape, and Laguna Beach is at the top of our list for a California coastal getaway.

We teamed up with our go-to travel advisor and friend of the brand, Allison of Sur Collective, to put together a curated guide to Laguna Beach. Save this post for inspo for your next weekend getaway and read on for some of our favorite places to stay, eat, sip, and shop by the sea.

Stay

Casa Loma

A newly remodeled boutique hotel tucked in the heart of Laguna Beach. Casa Loma blends classic California charm with modern, elevated interiors, making it an easy favorite for a stylish stay. You’ll be just steps from the beach and walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants. It’s the kind of spot where you can unpack and instantly feel like a local.

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Le Petit Pali

Le Petit Pali brings a dose of European romance to the Laguna coastline. Along with complimentary breakfast, expect thoughtful touches like nightly homemade cookies delivered to your room. The aesthetic is warm, inviting, and layered with coastal charm. It’s a lovely choice for a more intimate, design-forward stay.

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Hotel Joaquin

Tucked away just a few blocks from Shaw’s Cove, Hotel Joaquin feels like a secret worth keeping. With only a handful of rooms and a dreamy mid-century meets Mediterranean vibe, it’s the kind of place you check into and never want to leave. Start your morning with a housemade breakfast and end your day with a sunset walk to the beach. It’s laid-back luxury at its best.

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Montage Laguna Beach

Perched on a coastal bluff overlooking the Pacific, Montage Laguna Beach is pure oceanfront luxury. Every detail here feels elevated, from the sweeping views to the world-class spa. Spend your days poolside or strolling along the cliffside trails. It’s the ultimate escape when you want to indulge and unwind in equal measure.

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Coffee & Breakfast

Rye Goods

For the carb lovers and pastry purists, Rye Goods is a must. Their naturally leavened, locally milled breads and baked goods are unmatched. Whether you’re picking up a morning croissant or a weekend loaf, everything here is made with care and intention. It’s a quick but essential stop on any Laguna itinerary.

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Kitchen in the Canyon

This hidden gem is located just off the main drag in Laguna Canyon, offering a peaceful spot for breakfast or lunch. With fresh, flavorful food and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s beloved by locals and visitors alike. Grab a latte and breakfast sandwich, then take a seat on the patio surrounded by canyon greenery. It’s the perfect start to a slow morning.

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Jedidiah Coffee

Jedidiah Coffee is all about cozy, coastal vibes. With a sun-drenched patio, great coffee, and a community feel, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger a little longer. Their menu includes rotating specialty drinks alongside classic favorites. It’s an ideal pit stop before heading to the beach.

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Drinks

Splashes

Set at the Surf & Sand Resort, Splashes is made for sunset sipping. The restaurant’s oceanfront location means you’re practically dining over the water. Order a glass of wine, lean into the coastal breeze, and take in the golden glow. It’s one of the most cinematic drink spots in town.

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Montage Lobby Lounge Bar

This luxe lounge is the perfect place to toast the end of the day. With panoramic views of the Pacific, impeccable service, and a plush setting, it’s a go-to for cocktails at golden hour. The bar menu features everything from classic pours to inspired seasonal creations. Come for the view, stay for the vibe.

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Larsen

Located in Hotel Laguna, Larsen boasts one of the best beachfront patios in Laguna Beach. The coastal-inspired menu pairs perfectly with a crisp cocktail and an ocean breeze. Come here for dinner or just drinks. Either way, the view is the star. It's ideal for a relaxed yet refined evening out.

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The Deck

The only restaurant in Laguna Beach that sits directly on the sand, The Deck delivers unbeatable ocean energy. Whether you're ordering oysters and champagne or a casual cocktail, there's something magical about dining right by the waves. It’s fun, social, and always buzzing — a must for first-timers and locals alike.

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Dinner

AhbA

AhbA is that cozy neighborhood spot everyone wishes they had back home. Tucked behind a white fence with twinkle lights and communal tables, it's casual, lively, and full of flavor. The menu leans Mediterranean with a few SoCal twists, and the burger is a local legend. It’s a great place to unwind after a day at the beach.

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Shop

Mercado Laguna

Part gourmet market, part gift shop, Mercado Laguna is a well-kept secret. You’ll find fresh produce, grab-and-go eats, and a curated assortment of pantry items, home goods, and thoughtful gifts. Don't skip the chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwiches — trust us. It’s a great stop whether you’re stocking your hotel fridge or browsing for something unique.

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Good Together House

A warm, well-edited space with coastal California at its core. Good Together House is filled with beautiful objects: think handcrafted ceramics, cozy textiles, and vintage-inspired furniture. Everything here feels personal, intentional, and effortlessly cool. It’s the kind of shop where you want to take your time and soak in the details.

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Willbo

Willbo is a lifestyle brand that embodies the spirit of Southern California. Their flagship store in North Laguna, known as the Ocean Clubhouse, feels like walking into the chicest beach house. Browse relaxed apparel, elevated basics, and coastal-inspired accessories. It’s an essential stop for the style-savvy traveler.

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Abode

Abode captures the essence of California casual through a curated mix of decor, furniture, and gifts. The shop is airy, bright, and packed with beautiful finds for your home or suitcase. Whether you're after a linen throw, scented candle, or locally made art piece, you'll likely leave with something you didn’t know you needed.

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Explore

Heisler Park, Crescent Bay, Victoria Beach, Treasure Island
Laguna Beach is home to some of the most scenic and photogenic stretches of coastline in California. Heisler Park offers dramatic cliffs and lush pathways perfect for a sunset stroll. Crescent Bay and Treasure Island are both dreamy for sunbathing and tide-pooling. And Victoria Beach is known for its hidden tower and storybook charm — a favorite for photographers and beach romantics alike.

From serene beach walks to boutique stays and golden hour cocktails, Laguna Beach is full of aesthetic moments worth savoring. Whether you're here for a weekend escape or something longer, it's a destination that delivers beauty at every turn. Use this guide to plan your trip, hit the highlights, and discover a few hidden gems along the way.

Ready to book your next trip? Reach out to Opulist contributor and travel advisor, Allison, to add free perks to your next stay. Email her at hello@thesurcollective.com to get in touch, and find more Opulist gems in Laguna here as well.

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