Laguna Beach Travel Guide

What to Pack for a California Trip

Que the OC theme song “California” because today I’m sharing my Laguna Beach travel guide featuring a complete three day itinerary. While three days may seem like a short time to stay in a town, figuring out how to visit in a long weekend becomes a lot of fun. And I absolutely love the idea of a long weekend to new cities. Because it allows you to get a taste of the city and prioritize what you want to see and do. This Laguna Beach Travel Guide will help you make the most of a long weekend.

 

I actually get to California pretty often, which is a bit odd considering it’s a 4 hour plane ride away from home (I live in Chicago for those who may not know) Part of the reason I go so often is for work, however Mike and I love to vacation there too.  Fun fact; Mike and I took one of our first trips together to San Diego. Since then we have been back 3 times personally and too many times for work to count:)

 

Our most recent trip was to Laguna Beach, which was exciting for so many reasons. First, sunshine in February was just what i need.  Second (and maybe embarrassing) I loved watching Laguna Beach on MTV years ago and have wanted to visit there ever since.  That show was amazing! So I was very excited to visit and put together this Laguna Beach Travel Guide.

 

We spent three days in Laguna Beach and packed in as much sunshine, fun and relaxation as we could.  I’m sharing our itinerary for each day below, but don’t stop there I’ve included extra activities and restaurants below.  We couldn’t ‘t get to everything, but I wanted to include all the recommendations we received. So here it is…my Laguna Beach Travel Guide.

 

Day 1

Partial travel day – We flew into Santa Ana and drove the short distance to the hotel.  

Explored hotel grounds – We stayed at The Ranch at Laguna Beach and the property was amazing.  

Explored Downtown Laguna Beach – The downtown area is full of cute little boutiques and restaurants. We grabbed a quick treat at Gelato Paradiso.

Relaxed at The Ranch – Headed back to the hotel to clean up, take a cat nap and get ready for dinner.

Dinner at San Shi Go – This place came highly recommend from the hotel and a few travel sites.  While the food was good, the location and vibe of the restaurant left something to be desired. Overall I would give it a B-.  

 

Day 2

Breakfast at Harvest – We slept in a bit and ate breakfast at the hotel. You can eat on the deck and take in the beauty of the canyon as the sun warms up.

Shopping in downtown Laguna Beach – While the previous day we explored a little we actually didn’t shop in any of the stores, we took time to do that today.  

Beach Day at the Main Beach – Located at the center of downtown Laguna Beach, this beach is where the action is.

Back to hotel for early drinks on the patio with live music – Our hotel had an amazing patio (complete with twinkling lights) with fireplaces and couches.  They have live music there nightly. We grabbed a bottle of wine, got cozy and enjoyed the laid back vibe.

Dinner at Harvest Restaurant – We were having such a good time on the patio we decided to stay on the property that night for dinner.  The restaurant and bar was lively and the food was delicious.

 

Day 3

Early morning hike at Top of the World – We ate breakfast in the room and hit the road early to get to our hike.  The Top of the World at Alto Park is a great area to hike in. They have trails for all skill levels and easy-to-read maps.  

Late brunch at The Deck – We worked up an appetite on the hike and enjoying a cocktail beachside was just what we needed.  

Drive down the Pacific Coast Highway – On the way back to the hotel we decided to keep on driving down the PCH.  The views are amazing and there are tons of spots and beaches to stop at along the way.

Dinner at Nick’s – We spent our last night in town at Nick’s, we made a reservation weeks before, though.  The food is delicious and the crowd is down to earth and lively.

 

We packed as much as we could into the three days while balancing a bit of relaxation.  In fairness we took this trip in February and we left the 15 degree Chicago weather for the warmth and sunshine and wanted to enjoy it.  While we couldn’t get to everything, we did receive some other recommendations that I wanted to share with you. .

 

Where to Eat

Driftwood Kitchen 

A great spot for dinner as it’s located on the beach.  The restaurant is enclosed with floor to ceiling windows and an open ceiling.  This allows you to enjoy the beautiful elements, but protects you against the wind.  Order the fresh seafood, its delicious!

 

The Deck on Laguna Beach 

Best place in Laguna Beach for oceanside cocktails.  They have a creative cocktail menu that will not disappoint.  The atmosphere is laid back and friendly, while every seat in the house has an amazing view!  Perfect for brunch or a late afternoon drink.

 

Harvest at The Ranch at Laguna Beach

This place offers a wide selection of California Comfort food.  They serve all meals and offer a unique twist on classic favorites.  The aesthetic in the lodge is to die for, it’s like California cool meets Fixer Upper Chic.

 

Nick’s

Located on the main strip of downtown Laguna Beach, Nick’s is a California staple.  Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner this place is always packed. Be sure to get a reservation a couple weeks out to guarantee your spot, otherwise you can take your chances and walk up.

 

Where to Stay

The Ranch at Laguna Beach 

This hotel’s history dates back to 1871 when it was a one room shack.  It has come a long way and today is a luxury ranch nestled in a canyon across from the ocean.  The property is secluded and offers privacy and top notch accommodations. It features a golf course, a community lodge and a breathtaking outdoor patio with live nightly music.  This place is a true gem!

 

The Inn at Laguna Beach

A beach front property located on the top of a cliff.  This hotels offers fresh beachside accommodations and a rooftop restaurant.  It is conveniently located and you will feel right at home here.

 

The Surf and Sand Resort 

Located right on the Pacific Coast Highway, this property’s backyard is the ocean!  There isn’t a room without a view in this place. With four onsite dining options you could literally stay here forever.    

 

What to Do

Beaches

Visiting one of the many beaches that Laguna is a must do.  I would dedicate at least one full day to the beach. Grab your beach towel, pack some snacks and get your sunscreen on and soak up that beautiful California sun!  Some of my favorites include; Thousand Step Beach, Montage Beach, Main Beach and Oak Street Beach.

 

Hike

There is nothing better then seeing the ocean from the top of a cliff that you hiked to the top of. And Laguna Beach is full of beautiful hiking trails for beginners and advanced hikers. Before you start your hike, be sure to bring plenty of water and a protein bar too. Plus, you will want to be familiar with the trails, so you don’t get lost. Your cellular service may not work in some of these place so don’t plan on using it.  Some great places to hike are Top of the World and El Morro.

 

Shopping

Downtown Laguna Beach has the cutest little shops.  From home decor to women’s boutiques the main strip is a great destination.  Grab an iced latte and sit outside the local flower shop and enjoy the local vibe.  

 

Relax

Take in the west coast vibe and relax a bit.  Wake up late and take your time easing into the day.  The laid back vibe in California will set your mind at ease.

 

Want to see what I packed for this trip?  Check out my post on the top four travel essentials its great for any long weekend trip!

Have you guys been to Laguna Beach?  What are your favorite things to do there?  Let me know in the comments below!