If you’ve been craving sunshine, sea breeze, and a dash of luxury, Laguna Beach is your go-to destination for a Southern California weekend getaway. Nestled along the Pacific Coast in Orange County, this idyllic beach town combines natural beauty, elevated dining, boutique shopping, and unforgettable adventures—all in one breathtaking location.
Whether you’re planning a romantic couples trip, a relaxing solo escape, or a weekend getaway with friends, this Laguna Beach travel guide has everything you need to know—from the best restaurants and activities to where to shop and unwind. Let’s dive into how to make your 48 hours in Laguna Beach absolutely unforgettable.
Where to Eat in Laguna Beach
1. Splashes Restaurant at Surf & Sand Resort
Start your day—or end it—at Splashes, located right on the sand at the Surf & Sand Resort. With floor-to-ceiling windows and the ocean waves crashing just below, this spot offers the best ocean views in Laguna Beach.
Their menu focuses on fresh California coastal cuisine. Don’t miss the lobster Benedict for breakfast or the ahi poke at dinner. Pair it with a glass of wine and soak in the scenery—you’ll want to linger long after the plates are cleared.
Splashes Restaurant
2. The Deck on Laguna Beach
For casual beachside dining with serious style, The Deck is the place to be. With toes-in-the-sand vibes and a vibrant atmosphere, this beachfront spot is perfect for a laid-back lunch or lively sunset dinner.
Try the grilled shrimp tacos, signature calamari, or a refreshing Laguna Margarita as you listen to the waves and people-watch. It’s one of the best places in Laguna Beach to unwind with good food and ocean air.
3. Harvest at The Ranch
Tucked into Aliso Canyon, Harvest at The Ranch is a farm-to-table gem. This cozy yet elevated restaurant features seasonal dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
From mushroom risotto to roasted chicken, the meals are comforting and refined—perfect for a post-beach dinner under twinkling lights. Their wine and craft beer list adds the perfect finishing touch to your evening.
4. The Cliff Restaurant
If panoramic ocean views are high on your dining wishlist, you’ll love The Cliff Restaurant. Perched above the Pacific, this open-air eatery delivers incredible vistas and delicious food to match.
Favorites include macadamia-crusted chicken and seared ahi with wasabi soy. Bonus: The Cliff is home to the Laguna Beach live webcam, so you can relive your visit anytime. Enjoy cocktails at sunset, live music in the evening, and a quintessential SoCal dining experience.
What to Do in Laguna Beach
1. Captain Dave’s Whale Watching Safari
Add a bit of adventure to your weekend with Captain Dave’s Whale Watching Safari, one of the best tours in Orange County. Hop aboard a catamaran with underwater viewing pods and knowledgeable guides who’ll bring the ocean to life.
Depending on the season, you may spot gray whales, blue whales, humpbacks, and huge pods of dolphins. It’s family-friendly, awe-inspiring, and a magical way to experience Laguna’s marine wildlife up close.
2. Heritage Park – Dana Point Hidden Gem
Just a short drive from Laguna Beach, Heritage Park in Dana Point is a quiet escape that offers sweeping views of the harbor and ocean. This scenic hilltop park features lush landscaping, open grassy areas, and walking paths perfect for a relaxed picnic or photo op.
It’s ideal if you’re looking to slow down and soak in the beauty of the California coast—especially during golden hour.
3. Lounge on Laguna’s Beaches
Laguna Beach boasts over 30 scenic beaches and coves, each with its own charm. I spent a peaceful afternoon lounging under a palm tree with a good book, and it was pure bliss.
Main Beach is ideal for volleyball and people-watching, while Thousand Steps Beach and Treasure Island Beach offer more seclusion and natural beauty. Pack your sunscreen, grab a beach towel, and prepare for ultimate relaxation.
4. Golf at The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Golfers, rejoice! The 9-hole course at The Ranch is carved into the Aliso Canyon and surrounded by nature. It’s serene, accessible, and beginner-friendly—perfect for a casual round.
You don’t have to be a golf pro to appreciate the peaceful vibes and sweeping canyon views that make this spot so special.
5. Laguna Lumberyard Mall – Shop and Stroll
If boutique shopping is your love language, head to Laguna Lumberyard Mall. This charming open-air plaza is home to artisan shops, fashion boutiques, art galleries, and coastal décor stores.
From one-of-a-kind souvenirs to local designer finds, it’s the perfect place to browse, splurge, or pick up a thoughtful gift for someone back home.
Need a quiet moment between shopping stops? Look for the small hidden park tucked within the Lumberyard. Shady, peaceful, and often overlooked, it’s a great spot to relax with a coffee, snack, or just give your feet a rest.
Kids can run around, and adults can soak in the laid-back Laguna lifestyle from a shady bench.
Insider Tips for Your Laguna Beach Trip
Parking gets crowded fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early or opt for rideshare.
Layer up—even sunny days can bring cool ocean breezes.
Best time to visit? Late spring and early fall offer perfect weather with fewer crowds.
Don’t miss local events like art festivals, live music, or pop-up markets—Laguna Beach has an incredible creative scene!
More Laguna Beach Noteworthy Stops
Best Coffee Shops and Breakfast Spots
Give readers a morning itinerary with top coffee and breakfast places like:
Urth Caffé for organic coffee and healthy breakfast bowls
Zinc Café & Market for al fresco garden vibes
Heidelberg Café for a casual breakfast with beach-town charm
Instagram-Worthy Spots in Laguna Beach
Perfect for travelers who love to capture their adventures. Include:
Top of the World for sweeping views
Victoria Beach’s Pirate Tower for a fairytale photo op
Heisler Park for stunning coastal paths and sculpture gardens
Laguna Beach Art Scene
Since Laguna is known for its artsy vibe, include:
A visit to Laguna Art Museum
Exploring the First Thursdays Art Walk
Browsing local galleries and artisan pop-ups
Attending seasonal events like the Sawdust Art Festival or Pageant of the Masters
Wellness and Spa Experiences
For those looking to unwind, highlight:
Spa treatments at Montage Laguna Beach
Outdoor yoga on the beach or at The Ranch
Sound baths or meditation sessions offered locally
Laguna Canyon hiking trails for mental clarity and movement
Why Laguna Beach is the Perfect Southern California Weekend Getaway
From its sun-drenched beaches and cliffside dining to outdoor adventures and charming shopping spots, Laguna Beach is everything you want in a weekend getaway—and more. Whether you’re sipping cocktails with ocean views, whale watching at sea, or finding hidden gems around town, you’ll leave refreshed, inspired, and ready to return.
So pack your weekend bag, put on your sunnies, and escape to Laguna Beach—where every view is postcard-worthy, and every moment is a memory in the making.