This weekend I was able to spend time in Laguna Beach for a friend’s wedding. I grew up in the area, but my family has since moved, so it is always nice to have an excuse to visit. You really cannot choose a more beautiful setting for a wedding. The couple was married just before sunset on a deck overlooking the ocean.
Image courtesy of LGOCA.com
Because I like to see friends when I am in Laguna, I do not usually partake in the typical tourist activities. But, if you like perusing art galleries and spending time at the beach, it is the perfect town for you. There are more than 100 art galleries and artist’s studios to explore within the city limits and 30 different beaches to explore. And, if you are traveling with children there are tide pools and ice cream parlors galore (and you are within driving distance of LegoLand and the Disneyland parks if you are feeling ambitious).
This trip, we stayed at the Surf and Sand Hotel. The Surf and Sand has been part of Laguna ever since I can remember. I have now stayed at the hotel twice and both times I have been underwhelmed by the interior spaces. It has very standard “beach hotel” feel – think lots of driftwood and light colors.
By far, the best thing about the hotel is the view. In fact, most guest rooms have an unobstructed view of the ocean and the view cannot be beat.
In addition, many of the rooms are perched over the shore, which means you can watch the waves as they roll beneath your balcony. It also means that guests are lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves at night.
Image courtesy of BroadwaybyAmarSantana.com
While we were in Laguna we ate dinner at Broadway by Amar Santana. It was excellent. We started with the Organic Free Range Egg Yolk Raviolo, It was made with fresh ricotta cheese and finished with duck proscuitto and aged balsalmic vinegar.
For the main course we enjoyed the Pan Roasted Maine Sea Scallops and the NY Strip Steak. The preparation of both of these dishes was excellent and the service was attentive.
For dessert we had the Chocolate Praline Crunch. Unfortunately, we were so excited about it that we forgot to take a photo. It was that good.
In my opinion, Laguna Beach is one of the best weekend destinations in California. It is small enough to be manageable for a two or three-day trip but large enough to keep you interested all weekend. With the weather typically hovering between 65-70 degrees, it is the perfect place to explore on foot. There are delicious restaurant options and you really cannot beat the view. I am excited to find a reason to go back.
* Unless otherwise noted, all images original to RevolvingDecor.com.
