🚶‍♀️One Perfect Day in Laguna Beach: Beach Walks, Bites, and Boutique Stays

Golden cliffs, sun-kissed sands, oceanfront dining, and a creative soul—Laguna Beach is the quintessential SoCal coastal experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor, this curated one-day itinerary takes you through the best of Laguna Beach in just 24 hours. From morning beach walks to sunset cocktails and boutique stays, here’s how to make every moment count.

☀️ Morning: Start with a Seaside Stroll and Local Coffee

There’s no better way to begin your Laguna Beach adventure than with a peaceful walk along the shore. Head to Main Beach, the heart of town, where gentle waves meet soft sand and volleyball games dot the shore.

From there, stroll north to Heisler Park, a cliffside path offering panoramic ocean views, tide pools, and art installations. It’s an ideal spot for photos and spotting dolphins offshore.

Fuel Up: Grab a locally roasted coffee and a fresh pastry from Urth Caffé or Zinc Café, both walkable from the beach and loved by locals.

Pro Tip: Parking fills up fast near Main Beach—arrive by 8:30 AM for easy access and the best light for photos.

🖼️ Mid-Morning: Explore the Artistic Side of Laguna

Laguna Beach has long been a haven for creatives, and you can see why. Mid-morning, browse the Laguna Art Museum or explore the countless galleries lining Coast Highway. Prefer to keep walking? Check out the colorful public art murals tucked along downtown alleyways.

🍽️ Lunch with a View: Oceanfront Dining at Its Best

After soaking up the art, settle in for lunch at one of Laguna’s famed oceanview spots.

Top Picks:

• Driftwood Kitchen – Known for its seafood and sweeping coastal views.
• Las Brisas – A long-standing favorite with a Latin-Californian menu and sunset-perfect patio.
• Nick’s Laguna Beach – Stylish, modern California cuisine just steps from the beach.

Tip for Foodies: Make a reservation—especially on weekends. These places fill up fast.

🛍️ Afternoon: Boutique Shopping + Hidden Beaches

Post-lunch, meander through Forest Avenue and Laguna’s village-style boutiques, filled with locally made goods, beachwear, and art. For a quiet break, wander down to Victoria Beach, home of the iconic “Pirate Tower,” or snorkel-friendly Treasure Island Beach near the Montage Resort.

🍸 Sunset Cocktails & Golden Hour

There’s no better way to wind down than with a cocktail in hand and the sky on fire.

Best Sunset Spots:

• The Rooftop Lounge – Panoramic ocean views and signature mojitos.
• The Deck on Laguna – Casual, beachfront, and perfect for toes-in-the-sand dining.

Time your visit for golden hour and watch the cliffs glow as the sun dips below the horizon.

🌙 Evening: Check into a Boutique Stay

Make your Laguna Beach escape last a little longer with an overnight stay at one of the area’s top-rated boutique hotels.

Where to Stay:

• Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa – A romantic, Spanish-style gem with ocean views and spa options.
• The Inn at Laguna Beach – Steps from Main Beach with rooftop lounging and coastal charm.
• Hotel Joaquin – Design-forward, adults-only, and a serene hideaway from the crowds.

💡 Final Tip: Plan Ahead, But Leave Room to Wander

Laguna Beach rewards spontaneity. While this guide maps out a perfect day, the real magic happens when you take a detour—whether it’s down a hidden stairway to the beach or into a gallery you’ve never noticed before.

✅ Download the Free Laguna Beach Day Planner PDF

Want this itinerary in your pocket? [Download our free printable guide] to help you explore Laguna Beach like a pro—complete with a walking guide, dining tips, and where to stay.

Ready for the perfect sun-soaked escape? Dive into Beach-Hopping from Dana Point to Laguna: A Coastal Day Trip Guide and discover hidden coves, iconic shores, and the ultimate seaside itinerary—start your coastal adventure today!