On our
recent vacation in Southern California, we spent three days and two nights in
beautiful Laguna Beach. I’ve been to
Laguna Beach a number of times - on business trips or to visit my sister,
Nancy, who used to live there – and I always enjoy going back. The town of Laguna Beach is a quaint little
village filled with many art galleries, specialty shops, and restaurants
sitting right on the Pacific Ocean. The
town is adjacent to Main Beach – a wide, beautiful beach with surfing,
volleyball, basketball, and a small boardwalk for strolling. The most famous structure on the beach is the
landmark lifeguard tower, which has become the symbol of Laguna Beach.
What I like
most about the area are the spectacular views from the hills overlooking the
beach and ocean. Heisler Park runs along
the top of the cliff behind the Las Brisas restaurant and has the best views of
Main Beach and the rugged coastline to the north. The park is also a popular place for locals –
jogging, dog walking, picnics and barbecues, or just spending the day. Unfortunately for us it was cloudy and
overcast most of the time we were there, so I wasn’t able to get too many good
pictures. I guess we’ll have to go back
again soon when the sun is shining.
While in Laguna Beach we stayed two nights at
the Casa Laguna Inn & Spa, a wonderful bed & breakfast. The inn is located on the side of a hill
right on the Pacific Coast Highway overlooking the ocean in South Laguna
Beach. I was impressed by the online
recommendation given by TripAdvisor and the great reviews from those who have
stayed there in the past, and we weren’t disappointed. Once inside the confines of the inn you’re in
a different world. The grounds contain a
pool and a number of peaceful courtyards, featuring lush vegetation and palm
trees. The rooms are nice but a little
on the small side - we stayed in a deluxe room with an ocean view patio - but
the highlight of the stay has to be the gourmet breakfasts served in the
beautiful Palm Court. Besides the usual
coffee, tea, juices, and fruit, you can order from a menu of lavish gourmet entrees
and side dishes. My favorite dish was
the “Just Peachy Waffles”. The inn also has a daily wine, cheese, and appetizer
reception in the evening.