At Laguna Beach, you and your family can effortlessly discover all the fun and excitement of California’s Orange County. Spend your days lounging on the local beaches, or help your kids explore the numerous tide pools to spark an early interest in marine biology. Head inland to explore the picturesque scenery of Laguna Canyon, and when you’re finished, stop for ice cream at one of the many local frozen dessert parlors. Book a stay at an incredible Laguna Beach vacation rental today. Here are the most exciting points of interest to visit in Laguna Beach.
1. Traverse the Tides at Totuava Bay
This beach in South Laguna is accessible on foot only at low tide, making it a fun adventure for energetic kids. Walk or swim from the north end of Thousand Steps Beach to reach Totuava and enjoy a secluded spot that’s great for sunbathing. Be sure to keep track of time so you can return to the main beach on foot.
2. Take a Trip on the Laguna Beach Trolley
Catch a free ride on the Laguna Beach Trolley ride every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the spring season. This vintage-style trolley bus runs in a loop around some of the most interesting spots in Laguna Beach and makes for an easy trip between your vacation rental, and some of the best restaurants and shopping in town.
3. Indulge Your Inner Pirate at Diver’s Cove
Located toward the south end of Picnic Beach, Diver’s Cove is known for its rocky terrain and fascinating natural formations that look like something straight out of an adventure story. Bring your gear and dive into the waters to spot sea life, such as eels and lobsters, or stay on the shore and explore the beach with younger children. Plan your trip for a calm day, as this cove closes if the waters are particularly rough.
4. Enjoy a Local Gelato or Ice Cream
The seaside town of Laguna Beach is known for its handmade gelato, available from several shops within walking distance of the shore. Choose your favorite flavor in a cone or cup, and take a leisurely stroll while enjoying this warm-weather treat. Corner stores and takeout restaurants offer plenty of options for fixing a picnic to take to the beach or back to your vacation rental.
5. Say Hello to the Sea Lions at Pacific Marine Mammal Center
The Pacific Marine Mammal Center is a sanctuary and rehabilitation center specially made for seals and sea lions. Spend an afternoon here and learn more about your favorite ocean creatures. Most of the seals and Sea Lions living at the center are eventually released back into the wild.
6. Hike a Trail at Laguna Canyon
Though perhaps best known for its beaches, Laguna Beach is also close to picturesque inland wilderness, including the vistas of Laguna Canyon. Break out your hiking boots and trek out on a kid-friendly trail such as the Dartmoor Boat Canyon Trail. The views and terrain here make for awesome photo opportunities.
Find the perfect Laguna Beach vacation rental on Tripping.com. Tripping.com is the world's #1 vacation rental search engine with over 10 million properties!
7. Explore the Tide Pools
The Laguna Beach shoreline is dotted with tide pools that are a habitat for marine snails, anemones, starfish, and other sea creatures. Take your kids out to the beach and let them interact gently with these harmless animals. The tide pools in Laguna Beach are protected wildlife habitats, so be sure to take only photographs.
8. Get Back to Nature at the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
The Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is a 7,000-acre wilderness park in the heart of Orange County. Head into the park to experience a small slice of the numerous species of plants and animals that make their home here. Stop by Nix Nature Center to traverse one of the kid-accessible trails around the area. Arrive at the Center on a weekend to take advantage of weekly family activities and workshops.
9. Go on a Sea Kayaking Adventure
The waters around Laguna Beach are ideal for sea kayaking at all levels of expertise. Take a lesson or two from a tour company like La Vida Laguna, and head out onto the waters in a rental kayak or one of your own. Rent a tandem kayak from one of the numerous sports equipment stores in Laguna Beach, and let younger kids sit safely in the middle seats while you do the paddling.
10. Enjoy the Local Arts Scene
The community of Laguna Beach boasts a thriving art scene, with many independent galleries and museums. Book your vacation rental during the summer months to check out the annual Festival of the Arts. This festival runs through July and August and offers workshops and classes for kids, as well as gallery tours and open studios.
11. Catch a Concert at Bluebird Park
Take a walk down to Laguna Beach’s Bluebird Park on any Sunday in July or August to enjoy a free, family-friendly concert as part of the city’s Music in the Park event. Spread out a blanket and listen to the tunes, or get up and dance with your kids. Not into the crowds? Check out Bluebird park on any other day of the week to enjoy the large, clean green space that’s ideal for picnics, frisbee, and soccer.
12. Explore Laguna Beach History at the Historical Society
Visit the Laguna Beach Historical Society and immerse yourself in the interesting history of the area. Be sure to check out the Murphy Smith Bungalow, an authentic heritage dwelling constructed in 1923 by the Murphy family. Visitors to the bungalow can enjoy a hands-on tour by an experienced docent. Transport yourself back to the humble beginnings of Laguna Beach, and foster an interest in history in your little ones.
Ready to go? Check out these amazing Laguna Beach California vacation rentals on Tripping.com.