5 Must-See Stops In Laguna Beach: Enjoy Your Staycation In SoCal

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — With spring weather finally here, it’s time to get out and enjoy where you live, once again. During coronavirus, pre-vaccines, many of us stayed close to the nest. One year later, it’s time to get out and fly! Safely, that is.

In Laguna Beach, there is so much to see and do. Here is how to make the most of it when you visit, getting the full flavor of life in Laguna. Sure, we could point you to Heisler Park or Victoria Beach and believe us when we say they are truly breathtaking, but when you are visiting Laguna Beach, we offer a few suggestions to make the most of your stay.

1. Start Breakfast With A Smile at Heidelberg Cafe & Bistro

Start your day with a coffee and pastry at the Heidelberg Cafe & Bistro. The off-the-beaten-path long-running establishment will start your day right with friendly service - note: this is a walk-up to the counter and order spot.

In the spring of 2021, it will also keep you clear of Main Beach and Coast Highway road construction. Staff recommends the Eggs Heidelberg, breakfast burrito, and waffles.

2. Enjoy your breakfast coffee during a walk, with a Pacific view...

Take a stroll across South Coast Highway to the Oak Street Lookout. If you’re feeling adventurous, take your coffee and head to the sand. If you love watching surfers or skimboarders, we suggest heading down to Aliso Beach in South Laguna. If the waves are right, and the local stars are out, you’ll be entertained for hours watching them at play.

3. Shop Laguna. So many places to shop! Visit the funky and artistic shops along Coast Highway.

We love the Garage Collective - a unique curation of unique design elements from stylist and Laguna Beach local, Kristin Lewis.

At the Garage Collective, you’ll find mid-century modern flair, hand-woven blankets, unique pottery and a plethora of unique home-decor items you never knew you always needed in your life.

Her take on "curating a home you love" is spot on, and we love her motto: Life is too short not to have a RAD pad.

Read: Garage Collective Shines In Chamber Of Commerce Spotlight | Laguna Beach, CA Patch

4. Art Lovers' Paradise - Enjoy the artistic side of this funky beach town.

Stroll through the many galleries Laguna Beach has to offer. From the Laguna Arts Museum to the gorgeous marine mammal-focused Wyland Gallery, there are too many to count.

Wyland, the resident artist, is well known for his original Whaling Walls— see one between the gallery and the hotel next door! but there is so much more to see inside.

Over the summer, watch for special events at the Sawdust Festival, and when Laguna Beach offers its first Thursday art walk, be sure to take advantage of this artistic affair.

5. Dinner Under The Stars - Yes, we know you can dine indoors, but WHY?

Finish up your night under the stars dining at The Harvest at The Ranch At Laguna Beach, where you can enjoy the peace and quiet away from the madding crowds.

Or if nightlife is more your thing, try the Promenade On Forest.

Though many restaurants have reopened seating inside, this pedestrian-friendly area twinkles with gorgeous lights, sounds, aromas and a safe environment to make the most out of your evening in Laguna Beach.

Where to stay when you come? That’s a whole different "5 Favorite Places To Stay" list. Weigh in with your favorite places to stay in Laguna Beach!

What did we miss? What do you consider to be a “must visit” spot in Laguna Beach? Tell us in the comments or by emailing your Patch Editor.