Your Perfect Laguna Beach Itinerary
Laguna Beach is the kind of place that feels like home, even if you’re just visiting for a couple of days. We’ve spent countless days wandering its winding streets, discovering the best of the town along the way. Since you’re staying with us at Costa Art Hotel, you’re already in the perfect spot to explore the town on foot – and by trolley. Laguna Beach’s free trolley is the kind of transportation you dream about when you’re on vacation – no parking stress, just hop on and off wherever you feel drawn.
So, here’s our take on how you can spend two memorable days exploring Laguna Beach, trolley-hopping from restaurants to beaches and everything in between.
Day 1 – Mornings by the Sea
Mornings in Laguna always feel like the town is waking up with you. From Costa Art Hotel, it’s an easy 5-minute stroll down to Crescent Bay Beach, where you can take in the ocean breeze and sound of the waves. Your first indication of a dream vacation. You can always enjoy one of our fresh breakfast baskets to enjoy on the beach, or you can experience somewhere local nearby, like Urth Caffé! They have an incredible selection of coffee and waffles you don’t want to miss out on.
Afternoon – Trolley Downtown and Beach Time
When you’re ready, catch the trolley heading south (the stop is super convenient from Costa Art Hotel, you can view the map here). The trolley is one of the best parts of visiting Laguna – it’s free, bright blue, and has that cheerful beach-town vibe. Jump off in downtown, right by Main Beach, and prepare for your day of adventure.
Sure, it’s the busy central beach, but there’s a reason for that—it’s iconic. The volleyball courts are buzzing, kids are building sandcastles, couples are laid out tanning, and the wooden lifeguard tower stands watch like it’s straight out of a postcard.
After soaking in some sun, downtown Laguna’s art galleries are calling. Wander slowly – we recommend popping into whichever galleries grab your attention, whether that be Kush Fine Art, Pop Art Masters Gallery, or Narrative Gallery. Each feels like its own tiny universe to explore. There’s no pretension here – just passion, art, and creativity. Of course, the Laguna Art Museum is always worth a stop as well, with its cozy but beautifully inspired art that genuinely feels personal.
Lunch time? Nick’s Laguna Beach and South of Nick’s Laguna Beach are popular for a reason. They’re upbeat and lively, and the food always hits the spot. Our take? You must try their Buttermilk Fried Chicken – crispy, flavorful, just right.
Evening – Sunset and Exploration
Late afternoon, hop back on the trolley southbound and head to Treasure Island Beach. It’s beautiful, quieter than Main Beach, and perfect for a sunset. We suggest bringing a little picnic – something easy like a mini-charcuterie board from Zinc Café’s market downtown. Watching the sky turn pink and orange here feels genuinely surreal.
For dinner, there’s plenty to choose from, but Carmelita’s is our pick. It’s casual and fun – and nothing beats their fresh guac and margaritas. Finish your evening strolling through town with gelato from Gelato Paradiso, because gelato is always the right choice. After that, you can head back to Costa Art Hotel and unwind after a day filled with sun and adventure.
Day 2 – Slower Pace, Hidden Gems
As we mentioned, you can always enjoy one of our cute breakfast baskets to start your day, take it out to the pool and start your day with a dip with the ocean breeze in the background. Plus, we have plenty of pool toys for you and your family to use, along with free popsicles all around! Afterward, head down to Victoria Beach, one of our favorite spots. The Pirate Tower tucked beside the cliffs is quirky and feels like a secret discovery. Plus, the early mornings here are quiet and calm.
Afternoon – Family-Friendly Fun
From Victoria Beach, hop on the trolley toward Aliso Beach Park. It’s chill, family-friendly, and laid-back. Even if you’re without kids, it’s perfect for lounging. Lost Pier Café is right there too, dishing up amazing fish tacos. Eat at a picnic table with the ocean breeze – it’s casual perfection.
Post-lunch, you can stroll around South Laguna’s small shops and galleries. It feels like a hidden village here – less busy, more local. Take your time and chat with the shopkeepers; they have great stories and even better recommendations.
Late Afternoon – A Bit of Nature
If you’re yearning for more adventure, head inland slightly to Laguna Beach Cliff Hike. Laguna isn’t just beaches – there are beautiful trails here that wind up through the hills. We recommend keeping it simple; the views from the trails overlooking the ocean are gorgeous and feel like a little escape from everything.
Evening – Final Sunset and Dinner
For your last evening, we recommend heading to Driftwood Kitchen. It’s classy but still relaxed – perfectly Laguna. Get a table by the window and watch your final Laguna sunset with a glass of wine. Their Lobster Spaghetti Carbonara always tastes like comfort after a long day.
After dinner, make your way back to Costa Art Hotel. There’s plenty more to explore, but honestly, Laguna evenings were made for relaxing. Sit by the pool or tuck yourself in with that book you’ve been meaning to read, or run through the memories in your head and start planning your trip to come back.
Laguna Beach is special – it’s warm, welcoming, and feels genuine in a way many beach towns can’t quite capture. Use the trolley as your personal chauffeur, wander a little off track, and soak in every beautiful, unexpected moment. That’s how Laguna Beach is meant to be experienced.
To learn more about Laguna Beach, head over to our Blog and Discovery pages!