Laguna Beach is more than just sun and sand. It’s a place full of surprises, art, and hidden gems. If you plan a visit, this guide will help you explore the best spots. You’ll also discover local secrets most tourists miss.
Explore the Beaches
Laguna Beach has many beautiful beaches. Main Beach is the most popular. It has volleyball courts, tide pools, and a boardwalk. Families and first-time visitors love it.
But if you want a quiet spot, visit Thousand Steps Beach. It feels private. The stairs are steep, but the view is worth it. There are hidden sea caves and small pools.
Another calm place is Crescent Bay. Locals go there to relax. It has soft sand and calm waves.
“Every beach in Laguna has its own vibe. Just explore and feel it.” — Local surfer Mike T.
Walk Through Heisler Park
Heisler Park is not just a park. It’s a scenic spot on a bluff. Walk along its paths and enjoy the ocean view. There are picnic tables and sculptures, and artists often paint there.
Watch the sunset from the gazebo. It’s peaceful and romantic.
Visit the Art Galleries
Laguna Beach is an art town with more than 100 galleries. Forest Avenue is a good place to start. Here, you can find modern art, sculptures, and photography.
The Laguna Art Museum is also a must-see. It shows California art and supports local artists.
Discover the Local Festivals
If you visit in summer, check out the Sawdust Art Festival. It’s a fabulous event. Artists sell their work in outdoor booths. You can watch live demos and enjoy food and music.
Another fun event is the Festival of Arts. It includes the famous Pageant of the Masters. People recreate classic paintings using real actors. It’s fantastic to see.
Try Local Food
Laguna Beach has excellent places to eat. Nick’s Laguna Beach is a favorite. It serves American food with a twist.
For ocean views, try The Deck. It’s right on the water, and you can enjoy seafood while watching the waves.
Urth Caffé is suitable for coffee and organic food. It’s a popular breakfast spot.
Go Hiking in the Canyons
Hills and canyons surround the town. Hike the trails in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. You’ll see birds, deer, and wildflowers.
The Top of the World is a short hike with a great view. From there, you can see the ocean and the town.
Join a Yoga Class on the Beach
Many locals start their day with beach yoga. It’s free and open to everyone. Classes happen at Main Beach or Treasure Island Park.
Bring your mat, breathe deep, and relax to the sound of waves.
Explore the Tide Pools
Laguna Beach protects its tide pools. They’re full of life. Look for starfish, sea urchins, and small crabs. But don’t touch them. Just observe.
The best spots are at Shaw’s Cove and Treasure Island.
Take an Art Walk
Every first Thursday of the month, there’s an art walk. Galleries stay open late. You can enjoy wine, music, and local art.
Walk the streets, meet artists, and find a piece to take home.
Rent a Paddleboard or Kayak
Try paddleboarding in calm coves. It’s easy to learn. You can rent gear at several places in town.
Kayaking is also fun. Explore hidden beaches and sea caves. You might see dolphins or sea lions.
Hidden Gems & Local Secrets
The Painted Stairs
These stairs are a rainbow of color. Local artists repaint them often. Find them near Third Street and Mermaid Street. They’re great for photos.
Colette Wings Mural
Behind Slice Pizza on Forest Avenue, this mural—a set of angel wings painted on the wall—is perfect for Instagram.
British Phone Booth
Near Main Beach, this colorful phone booth is a quirky surprise. Locals love taking pictures with it.
Attend Local Events
Art-A-Fair
This art show happens from June to August. Artists from all over the world join. You’ll find paintings, jewelry, and more.
Music Festival
Laguna hosts a music festival in February. The festival blends classical and modern sounds, and local musicians and guests perform together.
Hospitality Night
Each December, the town lights up. There’s music, food, and Santa! It’s a fun way to kick off the holidays.
Most Instagrammed Spots
Pirate Tower
At Victoria Beach, there’s a tall, strange tower. It looks like it’s from a fairy tale. Go at low tide to get close.
Wyland Whaling Wall
This giant mural shows whales in motion. It’s on the side of the Wyland Gallery. A great spot for a picture.
Social Media Secrets
Secret Pools
Near Thousand Steps Beach, locals talk about tide pools that only show at low tide. These form natural “hot tubs.” Influencers love them, but they stay off the main tourist maps.
Full Moon Paddle Party
Some nights, locals gather at Crescent Bay with paddleboards and glow sticks. They paddle under the full moon. It’s not advertised but is often shared in Instagram stories.
Free Beach Bonfire Nights
Local surf shops sometimes host free bonfire meetups at Aliso Beach. Look for flyers in shops or posts on TikTok. Free s’mores, music, and fun chats with locals.
Final Thoughts
So, what to do in Laguna Beach? The real question is—what not to do? Every turn leads to something beautiful. Try something new. Talk to locals. Follow your feet and your heart.
You don’t just visit Laguna Beach. You feel it and live it. Come and see for yourself.