California has more than 100 beach towns along its 840 miles of coast. That number, which can be overwhelming for both visitors and residents, has given me a cynical way to look at those aforementioned towns. I keep saying to myself, “How is one town different from the other?” or “Why should I make an effort to visit another beach.” Therefore, I approach them from a “side trip”, “necessary stop” or “change of scene” perspective. Usually, I don’t make a beach my “main destination.”
Some months ago, my husband had to work around Laguna Beach. He came home very excited and kept raving about the place. That was kind of interesting since he is not easily jaded by places. I knew there was something worth to discover in the area.
I decided, for once, to make a beach town my destination (at least for a day). After spending quite a lot of time in Newport and Huntington Beach, I have never felt the urge to explore a little bit south. And no, I have never seen any episodes of a famous show exposing the real side of California’s Orange County.
Confession time: I may be wrong about judging all beach towns as the same. Laguna Beach is beautiful from all angles. Go to the main beach and you are rewarded with soft sand, deep blue seas, rounded boulders and tide pools full of life. Walk along Heisler Park and take a bird’s look at the many coves along the shore and pelicans surfing the waves. Go to the Alta Vista Park (which some call the Top of the World) and get surprised of how huge wilderness areas survive in the middle of a heavy populated area.
Downtown is full of galleries, restaurants and particular shops. There is even a Pacific Mammal Rescue Center on the main road leading to downtown. They rehabilitate seals and sea lions (and it’s free to visit). For those who are hooked on hiking, there are miles and miles of trails in some nearby parks (wasn’t able to hike since the trails were close because of rain).
In short, Laguna Beach appeals to people with different tastes. I probably saw one third of what the town offers (I have heard there are some awesome plant nurseries and gardens in the area). Well, maybe I should make the beach a destination more often.
I leave you with photos, photos and more photos. Enjoy!
Main Beach
Lifeguard Tower
Main Beach
West end of Main Beach
Main Beach seen from atop the rocks
Heisler Park
Heisler Park
Cove
View from Heisler Park
Alta Vista Park (Top of the World)
Laguna Beach seen from Alta Vista Park
Irvine and Lake Foerst seen from Alta Vista Park
Downtown
Laguna Beach’s City Hall
Back streets
Government buildings (with mansions in the background)
Building in Downtown
Pacific Mammal Rescue Center
Baby seals at Pacific Mammal Recovery Center
Murals
Whale Mural
Beach Scene
Afternoon
Sun going down
Tidepools
Sunset
Sunset
Sunset
Have you visited Laguna Beach? Let me know in the comments section below.
Lane says
Ah, Laguna Beach is wonderful. Throughout the summer they offer an arts festival. The highlight is “living art”, a.k.a. Pageant of the Masters. Google for more info. p.s. Tickets are expensive but worth it!
Ruth says
Yes, I know about the summer festivals. I want to visit this year. I think they sell packages for the different events. That makes it a little bit more affordable.
Michaela says
It’s so cool how each beach seems to have it’s own character. Growing up in Virginia Beach, I can really appreciate a beach that’s not packed with people! Love your pictures. They make me wanna hop in a plane and go somewhere warm!
Ruth says
Hey Michaela,
Well, Laguna Beach was warm when I visit but the temperatures have dropped since then. I don’t wanna know how the weather feels now.