Treasures of Laguna Beach, Southern California

A charming city along the Southern California Coast, Laguna Beach is known for its sandy beaches, picturesque coves, art galleries galore, and mild Mediterranean climate all year round.

^{Last updated: September 9, 2024}

Welcome to Laguna Beach

A visit to Laguna Beach, a seaside resort city, should be on the itinerary of every local and visitor of Southern California. The charming coastal city in Orange County boasts some of the most beautiful sandy expanses, excellent snorkeling spots, and a myriad of hidden gems that wait to be discovered.

Story of Laguna Beach

The history of Laguna Beach goes back 11,700 years, according to the radiocarbon dating of a woman’s skull found in the area in 1933. Different tribes of Native Americans had inhabited the present territory of the city for centuries.

In 1841 Laguna Beach (Laguna Canyon then) was mentioned on a map as a Mexican region. After the Mexican-American War, the territory became a part of the United States. Eventually, the area was occupied by settlers from the East who officially founded the city in 1887.

Soon panoramic views and beautiful surroundings of the city enticed local and traveling artists. The influx of painters, filmmakers, and photographers triggered the establishment of Laguna Beach’s famous artist community, which is one of the distinguishing features of the area up to this day.

THINGS TO DO IN LAGUNA BEACH

Enjoy Sandy Beaches

Laguna Beach is well-known for its scenic beaches that stretch for almost eight miles. Each of over 20 beaches invites you to embrace the warmth and coolness of the sun, sand, water and explore some hidden caves along the way.

The city meets the majority of its visitor’s expectations. If you want to see new people and have delicious restaurant food within your reach, head to Main Beach. Secluded beaches such as Victoria Beach, Shaw’s Cove, Woods Cove, and Fisherman’s Cove can offer an almost private beach experience.

Hiking, swimming, surfing, fishing, scuba and skin diving are just a few ways to explore the gorgeous beaches of the city. Active beachgoers often hit the sandy stretches to enjoy California’s popular pastime, beach volleyball.

Volleyball courts are an integral part of the state’s beach culture. But have you seen basketball courts on a beach? Main Beach of Laguna Beach is the only place in Orange County where you can make a basket right on the beach.

                

Visit Art Galleries

The beaches are only a part of the area’s story. The city is also home to more than 100 art galleries and studios. Traditional fine art and contemporary art, wildlife art, sculpture, California art, painting and fine art photography… There is room for every creative endeavor.

If you happen to be in Laguna Beach on the first Thursday of the month, take advantage of the so-called Art Walk. On this day, many museums and art galleries get a little bit more festive, share their stories with more enthusiasm, and offer free evening admissions.

Partake in Festivals

The coastal town is famous for its year-round festivals such as Pageant of the Masters, Festival of Arts, Laguna Beach Music Festival, Laguna Plein Air Painting Invitational, Laguna Dance Festival and many more.

If you visit the city in the summer, be sure to see the Pageant of the Master, one of the most incredible recreations of classical and contemporary works of art by real people that you may never see anywhere else.

During another summer festival, the Festival of Arts, art lovers love to look for some unique and pretty affordable artworks. And when the winter takes over, enjoy classical and contemporary music at the Laguna Beach Music Festival.

The list of the festivals can go on and on. Just be sure to check the calendar of the festivals and events before leaving for Laguna Beach. There surely will be one or two festivals during your stay.