More to Love in Laguna

You might not know that Laguna Beach has more beachfront lodging properties, from cozy inns to luxury resorts, than any other California coastal city. That means more breathtaking panoramic ocean views backed by waves to soothe the soul. And, you may not know that Laguna is constantly adding more hotels and restaurants to love. Check out the most recent additions that opened pre-Covid, then make your next trip a coastal love affair.

New Restaurants

Harley Laguna Beach  debuted in Laguna Beach, taking the place of the former Three Seventy Common Kitchen + Drink space. Owner Greg Daniels has redesigned the space with a midcentury modern flair. The menu features “New American Small Plates” with items are only sourced from organic farms, ranches and rod-and-reel enterprises. Harley offers dinner seven days a week and is open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

Lost Pier Café, operated by The Ranch at Laguna Beach, is a recent beachfront dining venue located at the site of the former Aliso Creek Pier. The restaurant acquired its name from an interesting backstory. The landmark diamond-shaped pier, built in 1971, became an extension of the Aliso State Beach for surfing, fishing and exploring the Pacific. Fifteen years later, a wave of El Niño storms crushed the existing structure, and, when engineers were brought in to rebuild it, they found the underwater canyons and powerful currents would make it difficult, if not impossible, to reconstruct and history would likely repeat itself.

Laguna Beach Beer Company was founded in 2014 out of a passion for craft beer by two Laguna Beach natives and childhood buddies, who sought to bring the laid-back and local vibes of their hometown to the beers they drink. Co-founders and lifelong Laguna Beach residents Brent Reynard and Mike Lombardo recently opened the Laguna Beach location in their hometown.

oak brings a rustic yet modern menu and environment, rich with coastal favors and local inspiration, to Laguna Beach. oak’s coastal California comfort food menu starts with small plates to share including the Local Albacore Stack, South-of-the-Border Ceviche, Fried Green Tomatoes and Crispy Duck Drums. Seasonal soups and fresh salads are available for the lighter fare. Burgers and Daily Taco offerings include the signature Oak Burger, Chef Z’s Hot Chicken and Sandra’s Pork Shoulder Tacos.

For a complete list of Laguna Beach restaurants, please visit here.

New Hotel Happenings

Hotel Joaquin opened in late 2018, drawing inspiration from the beaches of St. Barth’s while paying homage to classic Southern California with an elegant, laid-back aesthetic. Designed by Robert McKinley of Montauk’s The Surf Lodge and SoHo food staple Sant Ambroeus, the oceanfront property is just the place for an idyllic weekend escape. Vinyl record players replace television sets, and a private beach paired with access to the Adventure Garage—home to surfboards, hiking and diving gear, beach toys, and more—encourages guests to unplug during their time in Laguna Beach. The hotel’s lobby and restaurant, Saline, is on its way to becoming a town hotspot.

Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa, a popular 23-room luxury boutique hotel, redesigned its guest rooms and lobby recently, partnering with famed celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard. Paying homage to the historic nature of this property, furnishings include hand-painted imported French tile throughout the guest room bathrooms and lobby. Casa Laguna is a recipient of the 2017 Reader’s Choice Award by Conde Nast Traveler.

For a complete list of Laguna Beach hotels, please visit here.

Photos courtesy of TravMedia and Visit Laguna Beach