Weekend Wanderings in Laguna Beach, California, by a Travel Correspondent
Exploring Day 2 in Laguna Beach, California
Spend your second day in Laguna Beach exploring its diverse offerings, from breathtaking natural landscapes to vibrant art scenes and delicious dining options.
Heisler Park is a must-visit, known for its stunning coastal views, gardens, and walking trails. The park's gazebo and the stairs leading down to Picnic Cove make for particularly photogenic spots. It's an ideal place for picnics, yoga, and enjoying sunsets.
Crystal Cove State Park offers a peaceful nature escape with secluded beaches, tide pools, rock formations, and scenic hiking trails. The park also boasts a beachfront restaurant, perfect for a relaxing meal amidst nature.
For a more adventurous outing, head to Top of the World, a scenic lookout point accessible by a moderately challenging 2.4-mile hike. The panoramic views of Laguna Beach, especially at sunset, are truly breathtaking.
Art enthusiasts will enjoy Laguna Canyon Road Murals and Art Galleries. Here, you can explore vibrant outdoor murals and art fairs that showcase Laguna Beach's rich artistic culture, perfect for photography and cultural immersion.
If you're seeking a calmer beach experience, consider Treasure Island Beach. Its protective rock outcrops make it a tranquil spot away from the crowds. Accessible through private access from Montage Laguna Beach, this gem of Laguna Beach is surrounded by golden rocks and cliffs.
Main Beach Park nearby offers a classic Laguna Beach coastal vibe, with volleyball courts, colorful umbrellas, and a paved trail for a 2.5km ocean-facing stroll.
For dining, The Penguin Café offers American-style food such as cheese omelettes and pancakes, while Coyote Grill serves Mexican cuisine. If you're staying at Montage Laguna Beach, don't miss Studio Mediterranean, a contemporary and elegant Greek-Californian tavern, or Ahba, which offers breakfast burritos, egg sandwiches, burgers, and has a speakeasy-style apartment next door.
Rye Goods, the most popular bakery in town, is a great spot for avocado toast, peach pie, coffee, and Chai latte. Mozambique, a rooftop restaurant, offers ocean view ceviche, burgers, and salads.
After a day of exploration, unwind in Room 280 at Montage Laguna Beach, which offers a dreamy California postcard view with striped lounge chairs and a chic, minimalist decor.
If you're interested in surfing, consider heading to Dana Point, located on the way to San Diego. Known as the "whale watching capital of the world," Dana Point offers several excursion companies operating from its marina, and it's home to some of the best spots for learning surfing at Doheny State Beach, Salt Creek, and Strands Beach.
On the second day in Laguna Beach, you might also enjoy shopping for unique items at various boutiques along Forest Avenue.
For home and garden enthusiasts, exploring the Laguna Design Center, a furniture showroom, could provide inspiration for your living space.
In the evening, catch a movie at Rialto Theater, a historic art deco cinema, for an entertainment experience that's part of Laguna Beach's lifestyle.
If you're a sports fan, make sure to check out the latest model cars at nearby dealerships. You could even take a test drive to enhance your travel plans.
