Laguna Beach-Not just for Art Lovers

If you are staying in Laguna Beach, the Hotel Laguna offers the most convenience with a bit of a price during the summer months. You can see the many galleries of Laguna, but the best way to enjoy the beach is to follow the path from the Main beach. You can walk north until you reach the Las Brisas restaurant for sunset cocktail overlooking the ocean. If you visit during the summer, you can catch the Pageant of the Masters and Art Festival or Sawdust Festival. If it is during the winter, there are many restaurants to enjoy. You can try the Beach House which has the best view of the ocean for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. For something more casual, try the Laguna Beach brewery. Walk the Pacific Coast highway for some live music, usually offered on weekends.

Quick Tips:

Parking is a nightmare in Laguna, so if you are staying at a hotel, park and stay put until you leave Laguna. Otherwise, there are lots off Pacific Coast Hwy that you can pay a - charge depending on the season. My suggestion is start early and avoid crowds or avoid the summer for parking craziness.

Best Way To Get Around:

Walk, walk, walk the town of Laguna-the people, sights, and sounds are something you will love.

The Hotel Laguna has lovely rooms, some of which have a view of the ocean. If you are not that lucky, you will enjoy the private beach at the Hotel Laguna. The hotel was built in 1888, but has been renovated since that time to have all the modern comforts. The Hotel Laguna''s restaurants are well known by Southern California residents. There are only 63 rooms, so the summer books quickly.

The Beach House varies in price depending on the meal you have, but you will not be sorry when you see the view either lit by sun or by light. The restaurant used to be the home of a Hollywood actor, Slim Summerville who appeared in Grapes of Wrath and All Quiet on the Western Front. Those films may be before your time, but you will enjoy the atmosphere either way. Every table has a view of the ocean and the food is great for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The best thing about Las Brisas is the view from the terrace outside. I would suggest a cocktail at sunset especially their margaritas, but avoid the meals. The Mexican food is pricey and really not worth it. If you want Mexican cuisine, there are local hangouts and some tasty dishes at the El Torito Grill at Fashion Island, Newport Beach. Brunch is worth the price if you get a good table and the price includes champagne and muffins galore. Otherwise, if you are hungry for something different try Five Feet or travel to "Greece" at the Aegean Cafe which is well worth the money and includes some Greek dancing entertainment.

The Aegean Cafe will entertain you even if you are not a lover of Greek food. This place is crazy on the weekends with dancing waiters, live music, and belly dancers. The food is good if you enjoy Greek food. Try the Athenian chicken with spinach and feta or the mousaka and enjoy all the appetizers which are all very tasty. The Aegean Cafe has a full bar and a view of the ocean. If you like to be entertained while eating, this place is for you.

For a casual atmosphere with live music most evenings, you can visit the White House. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and the price ranges from $5 to $18 (dinner is $9-18). There is music beginning at 9 or 10 pm, so if you want to get a seat, eat late and enjoy the music later. They do take reservations for large parties. This is the type of place that after 10pm can have a line out the door for the college age to get in to hear the band.