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Laguna Beach

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About Laguna Beach

Now touched by the suburbs of Los Angeles, Laguna Beach started out as an artist’s colony between Los Angeles and San Diego. And there’s a lot of beauty to inspire art in this place. Seven miles of picture perfect, secluded sandy coves, buffeted bluffs, calm beaches, sea caves and tide pools, and around 20,000 acres of protected wilderness. But it’s also a large town, with streets lined with galleries, restaurants and cafes, and some seriously luxurious hotels and resorts, some of which we’ve included on our list of the best places to stay in Laguna Beach.

When it comes to atmosphere and ambience, Laguna Beach differs from other Californian beach towns, because of its strong traditions in the arts, and its arts-and-crafts cottages and bungalows. And Laguna Beach’s waterfront is dotted with public sculptures, so it’s got a bit of a Riviera feel. The beachfront hotels are certainly some of the most popular, but if you’re looking for incredible views you should aim a little higher and consider staying close to Alta Laguna Park, which is where the Top of the World Walk starts. The area around the Crystal Cove State Park is worth considering too, and Thousand Steps Beach.

If you’d prefer to be in the thick of things then stay along Main Beach, which is just a short stroll from the centre of town. And if you’re looking for an escape consider The Ranch at Laguna Beach, a real ranch, surrounded by green parkland and mountain views, yet close to the heart of Laguna Beach.

As with all coastal towns in this region, the best places to stay in Laguna Beach get filled up pretty quickly. So if you're planning a visit, do your homework and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Laguna Beach

For a romantic stay

  • The Casa Laguna Inn and Spa is a 22 room boutique hotel with stylish decor reminiscent of Moroccan tiles. It is set just back from the beach, but it still has ocean views from its second floor, where there are also private balconies. It’s comfortable and peaceful, with an intimate air, plus an outdoor pool and a spa.
  • The Hotel Joaquin is a boutique resort nestled above Shaw’s Cove. It has 22 individually designed rooms and suites, decorated with great vintage finds, customised furniture and a carefully curated collection of art. There’s a chic outdoor pool and a sun terrace. And it’s adults only.

For families

  • The Ranch at Laguna Beach will possibly surprise you: it’s a real ranch, surrounded by empty lands and mountains, which make for a beautiful view. The location, in Aliso and Wood Canyons, is the reason, but it’s still right up against Laguna Beach, and well located for exploring Los Angeles. There are 97 rooms, suites, cottages and villas here, along with excellent facilities, offering something to please guests of any age.

Prefer an Apartment or Villa?

  • If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

  • The Los Angeles area, which includes Laguna Beach, is served by five major commercial airports: Santa Ana, Los Angeles Airport, Burbank, Long Beach, and Ontario, and which one you fly into probably depends on where you’re flying from. Santa Ana is probably closest, only 20-30 minutes in a cab. From LAX the transfer is a bit more of an adventure, involving routing through Union Station and either bussing or cabbing it from San Juan’s Amtrak Station. The transfer from Long Beach involves around two hours worth of bus journey. Or you can arrive in San Diego airport and catch a couple of trains and a couple of buses.
  • If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
  • In summer Laguna Beach plays host to numerous large art festivals, and, as summer turns to autumn, it’s time to look out to Laguna’s ocean where you’ll start to see minke, finback and blue whales migrating. August is the hottest month in Laguna Beach, with maximum daily average temperatures at 28°C. January and February are coolest, with daily maximums around 18°C.

Still not sure?

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Monthly Weather in Laguna Beach

Best Hotels in Laguna Beach

  • Scp Seven4one Hotel Laguna Beach 12 rooms from AU$302

    Outstanding location  -  This hotel is perfectly located a stone's throw from Laguna Beach, home of beautiful beaches, beautiful people and boho chic
    Local exploring  -  Great dining opportunities, art galleries and varied entertainment are all in easy walking distance
    Beach Life  -  Calming, peaceful rooms with coastal decor and sea views, across the road from the ocean!
    Short break  -  It's the perfect place to escape the city for a long weekend
    Air conditioningTennisPet friendlyViewsParking

    A boutique eco-retreat just steps from the beach. Sporting minimalist coastal-chic decor (plenty of white and driftwood hues), sustainable bedding and eco bath products the rooms are a haven of peace and clarity. Plus there's a lounge and patio overlooking the ocean. Ideal for an intimate getaway. See More

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  • Laguna Beach House Laguna Beach (California) 36 rooms from AU$347

    Local exploring  -  The hotel's location means that all of Laguna Beach's best shops, boutiques, galleries and restaurants are walking distance
    Total relaxation  -  Come here to enjoy the beach, soak in the hot tub, catch the surf and end the day around the fire-pit with friends
    Beach Life  -  It's just steps to Laguna Beach's famous and historic Main Beach, with its iconic tide pools and great surfing
    Surfing  -  From the hotel there is direct access to gentle waves, making this perfect for beginners
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParking

    Grown-up surfer shack for sporty couples and groups of friends. This laid-back inn channels old-school California; a fresh white palette is combined with vintage touches, surfer decor & cosy homely clutter. Enjoy endless ocean views out of shuttered windows, party-style pool, firepit & hot tub. See More

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  • The Inn at Laguna Beach Laguna Beach (LAGUNA BEACH) 70 rooms from AU$512

    Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of Laguna Beach with the best galleries, shops, restaurants, and nightlife within walking distance
    Beach Life  -  The elevated position gives spectacular sea views while the beach is just steps away
    Great walks  -  The starting point of the Top of the World trails of Laguna Canyon are within easy reach of the property
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolPet friendlyParking

    A hilltop hotel set in the heart of Laguna Beach commanding spectacular ocean views. Chic rooms have a coastal feel with wicker furniture, wooden blinds, and private terraces. Boasting an infinity pool, rooftop bar and daily wine receptions. A stylish escape just a stroll from the beach. See More

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  • Casa Laguna Inn & Spa Laguna Beach (California) 22 rooms from AU$513

    Great walks  -  Crystal Cove State Park for a stroll along the beach.
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Private Hot Tub
    Spa
    Air conditioningSpaSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Intimate Laguna Beach hotel is the perfect quiet, relaxing spot for a romantic weekend break by the coast. Rooms are comfortable, with garden or sea views and private balconies. There is an outdoor pool and spa treatments for all. Great spot for seeing Los Angeles. See More

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  • The Ranch at Laguna Beach Laguna Beach (Laguna Beacvh) 97 rooms from AU$585

    Active Holiday  -  The Ranch at Laguna Beach offers an array of activities to get you out and about enjoying the weather
    Families  -  With family suites available, and the beach nearby this is the ideal spot for a family getaway
    Cooking classes  -  Learn to rustle up a few of your favourite dishes from the menu at the in house cooking class
    Fishing  -  If you fancy a peaceful afternoon then head off along the coast for a spot of fishing
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel, Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

    The Ranch at Laguna Beach is located in the beautiful Aliso and Wood Canyons. Offering a variety of rooms, cottages and suites furnished in luxurious contemporary fashion with warm interiors and private patios. Enjoy American cuisine at the Harvest Restaurant. A stunning spot, perfect for families! See More

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  • Surf and Sand Resort Laguna Beach 167 rooms from AU$688

    Romantic Break  -  With an award-winning spa, romantic terrace dining, and rooms with private terraces - this is an idyllic romantic hideaway
    Beach Life  -  Commanding wonderful ocean views and just a short walk from the sands
    Restaurant  -  Splashes restaurant offers fine dining, south Californian cuisine in a seaside setting
    Surfing  -  Hire a board and hit the waves
    SpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A luxury hotel boasting an elevated position for epic ocean views. Spacious rooms are simple and stylish with large floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto private terraces. Complete with an infinity pool, an award-winning spa, and romantic terrace fine dining. An indulgent stay. See More

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  • Hotel Joaquin Laguna Beach 22 rooms from AU$695

    Romantic Break  -  With bright and airy rooms, a fantastic restaurant and grown-up, adults-only atmosphere, this hotel is great for couples
    Beach Life  -  Set a stone's throw from Laguna Beach, with an outdoor pool and sun terrace, this hotel is ideal for a beach break
    Local exploring  -  This hotel is perfect for local exploring, sitting between the beach and the San Joaquin hills
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Mr & Mrs Smith

    This boutique resort is nestled above Shaw’s Cove on the Californian coast. The individually designed rooms feature one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, customized furniture and carefully curated artwork in soft, pastel palettes. With a chic outdoor pool, it's the perfect place to unplug and unwind. See More

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  • Monarch Beach Resort Laguna Beach (Dana Point) 400 rooms from AU$742

    Beach Life  -  The area's private white-sand beach in unparalled. Dine facing the Pacific ocean at the beach club and enjoy views throughout
    Weddings  -  The sea-facing Grand Lawn, Pacific Ballroom and Hall of Mirrors make this an ideal backdrop for a show-stopping wedding
    Golf  -  The Orange Country Golf Club has an award-winning 18-hole championship golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr
    Total relaxation  -  Spend a day at the spa, one of the property's 4 pools, golf, tennis or simply hit the beach
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    One of a kind ocean-facing 175-acre resort in Laguna Beach. 7 restaurants, private beach, golf, spa, tennis and Kid's Club mean that every need will be met. The 400 well-designed and elegant rooms and suites are incredibly spacious, many with jaw-dropping sea views and enormous spoiling bathrooms. See More

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  • Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel Laguna Beach (Dana Point) 396 rooms from AU$849

    Families  -  Activities are well laid out for all age groups from toddlers to teenagers, giving parents an opportunity to simply unwind
    Beach Life  -  Beach Butlers organise everything you could need for a day by the sea from loungers to appearing with sun lotion!
    Spa  -  Signature treatments highlight local ingredients and healing rituals at Spa Alkemia
    Restaurant  -  Various options including gourmet steakhouse, and superb pan-Latin coastal cuisine
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking

    This luxury hotel is all about the spectacular cliff position overlooking Salt Creek Beach. Well-appointed rooms offer wonderful views (mostly ocean) and classic design. Just moments from a (renowned surf) beach and packed with activities, this is a great choice for both families and couples. See More

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  • Montage Laguna Beach Laguna Beach 258 rooms from AU$872

    Total relaxation  -  A 30-acres resort, spanning the coast, complete with fine dining, a spa, and two pools - there is hardly a need to leave!
    Families  -  With a kids club and a children's pool - this is a great choice for families
    Restaurant  -  Three restaurants
    Swimming Pool  -  Two outdoor pools
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    An elegant luxury hotel set within 30-acres of oceanfront grounds. Whitewashed rooms are simple yet stylish with indulgent bathrooms and private terraces offering ocean views. Complete with two pools (one is adult only), an indulgent spa, and three restaurants. A has-it-all stay. See More

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