With seven miles of dazzling coastline, world-class art, and a coastal village charm that’s been inspiring artists for more than a century, Laguna Beach is one of California’s most magical seaside escapes. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, exploring tide pools, or browsing galleries, here are our favorite ways to spend your time.
Beaches & the Coast
- Main Beach — The heart of Laguna Beach, with iconic basketball courts, a wooden boardwalk, and easy access to downtown shopping and dining.
- Crescent Bay — A picturesque cove that’s a favorite for skim boarding and watching the sunset from the bluff above.
- Thousand Steps Beach — A locals’ favorite reached by a long staircase, offering tide pools, sea caves, and a quieter slice of coastline.
- Victoria Beach — Home to the famous “Pirate Tower,” one of the most photographed spots in town.
- Treasure Island Beach — Tide pools and clear water make this Montage-adjacent beach a snorkeling favorite.
Outdoor Adventures
- Heisler Park — A bluff-top park with sweeping ocean views, walking paths, public art, and a perfect sunset perch.
- Crystal Cove State Park — Just up the coast, with miles of beach, hiking trails, and historic seaside cottages. crystalcovestatepark.org, 949-497-7647.
- Laguna Coast Wilderness Park — Over 7,000 acres of canyons, ridgelines, and trails right in town. ocparks.com, 949-923-2235.
- Snorkeling, Kayaking & SUP — Glide along the Marine Protected Area to spot Garibaldi, sea lions, and the occasional dolphin pod. La Vida Laguna and Laguna Beach Kayak offer rentals and guided tours.
- Whale Watching — Year-round trips depart from nearby Dana Point harbor, with peak gray whale season December through April.
Art & Culture
Laguna Beach’s identity is rooted in its art scene, with more than 100 galleries and three major summer art festivals.
- Laguna Art Museum — California art from the 1800s to today, perched right above the beach. lagunaartmuseum.org, 949-494-8971.
- Festival of Arts & Pageant of the Masters — A summer tradition (July–August) featuring living tableaus of famous artworks. foapom.com, 800-487-3378.
- Sawdust Art Festival — A beloved summer festival with handmade work from over 200 local artists. sawdustartfestival.org.
- Laguna Playhouse — One of the oldest continuously operating theaters on the West Coast. lagunaplayhouse.com, 949-497-2787.
- First Thursdays Art Walk — A free, self-guided tour of dozens of downtown galleries on the first Thursday of each month.
Family & Easygoing Fun
- Pacific Marine Mammal Center — A working rescue and rehab facility you can tour. pacificmmc.org, 949-494-3050.
- Tide Pool Exploration — Crescent Bay, Shaw’s Cove, and Treasure Island all have rich tide pools at low tide.
- Walk Forest Avenue & PCH — Window-shop boutiques, ice cream shops, and seaside cafés.
For more inspiration, visit VisitLagunaBeach.com or stop by the Visitor Center at 381 Forest Avenue, 949-497-9229.