Laguna Beach

The town of Laguna Beach has become famous due to the eponymous MTV reality show, but the show did not do this enchanting little beach town justice. Laguna Beach is built along the coast, with residential streets climbing up the coastal hills. It’s often compared to a Mediterranean resort. I’ve been going to Laguna Beach for several decades and have seen some expansion and renovation over the years, but the town has managed to retain much of its original character and charm.

Laguna Beach is 9 square miles in size and has a permanent population of about 25,000. The population grows by a few hundred thousand during the summer when tourists descend, bringing heavy traffic and creating parking problems. There are 7 miles of coastline within the city limits. Unlike the wide sandy beaches of Huntington Beach, Laguna’s beaches are located on the bottom of cliffs and within sheltered coves. There are tide pools, rock formations and inlets that are popular for scuba diving.

The hills above the downtown village of Laguna Beach are filled with winding streets where you’ll find both tiny beach cottages and mansions anchored to the sides of cliffs. The highest part of the city is called Top of the World. There are wilderness parks with challenging hiking trails at Top of the World and in South Laguna.

Laguna began as an artist colony in the early 20th century and is still home to many artists and galleries. In the summer it hosts a couple of art festivals and the Pageant of the Masters, a unique theatrical performance that presents living recreations of famous works of art.

The residents of Laguna Beach cherish the unique character of their town and are willing to put up with the inconveniences of summer tourism in exchange for spectacular ocean views, first class restaurants and artistic atmosphere,

One of the best things I feel Laguna Beach has to offer is its art culture and beachside eateries that double as some wonderful bars to hangout in once the sun goes down. I’ve spent a lot of time in Laguna Beach attending events, having lunch with friends and trying out the café’s and restaurants the city has to offer. For breakfast I would recommend visiting Zinc’s located on Ocean Ave. between Beach St. and 3rd St. For a nice lunch location I think The Rooftop Lounge is fabulous. The food tastes great; the price are reasonable and if you can find seating upstairs on the rooftop deck the view of the ocean is breathtaking. It can double as a romantic rendezvous spot or a fun place to hangout with friends. Be prepared for a crowd either way. And if a nice dinner is more your taste I would suggest Hush Restaurant which has a beautiful bar area or one of my Laguna Beach favorites, Mozambique Restaurant. I have yet to try something that wasn’t delicious on the menu and I love that it has a very casual but sophisticated ambiance to it. If you can make it down on Sunday evening you can also enjoy their live reggae band which only adds to the restaurants appeal.