Laguna Beach Spots From A Non-Local
A Guest Edit Edition
If you're a millennial like me, your first introduction to Laguna Beach was probably via MTV in 2004. I remember watching it and thinking—what the fuck, people actually live there? Flash forward 200 years (give or take), and in a full-circle twist, one of my best friends moved from LA to Laguna for a few years with her husband. A born and bred Laguna man!
That meant I got to visit more times than I can count—and fell hard for Laguna. Since there is no rhyme or reason to any of my content on Substack, I figured I’d share some of my favorite Laguna spots. It’s truly one of the most low-key, beautiful towns I’ve ever been to—and a very quick drive from LA.
As always, this list is pretty chaotic and purely based on what I like. But for extra credibility, I’ve tapped in my BFF Kate—who was a Laguna local until she moved back to LA recently—for her expert takes and hot tips.
Also, if you’re a Laguna local or grew up there and disagree with our list - that’s your journey!
So I guess we’re doing guest edits now… cool :)
Okay, full transparency—Laguna isn’t exactly overflowing with trendy dining spots. But you know what? That’s not why we go. I’m not there for the scene, I’m there drive around with my friend, get frozen yogurt, perhaps a spicy margarita, and then watch That Thing You Do in her basement (sorry, perfect weekend?)
So below, I’m sharing the places I genuinely like—not because they’re buzzy or Instagram-famous, but because they make me happy.
AhbA
AhbA is definitely cool guy zone when it comes to Laguna. A very casual spot where you go up and order - amazing natural + funky wine, fantastic burger, you know the drill. They also have a little hidden speakeasy next door if that’s what you’re into!
Rye Goods
All around wonderful cafe with an insane pastry selection, natural wine, sourdough for days. Also adorable.
Ruby’s Diner
Wild choice, I know. I really stand by including this here.
First of all, Ruby’s is delicious. Second of all, it has a breathtaking view and you can always get a table so — win/win for me, ultimately. Kate agrees.
Great view. Great turkey burger.
-Kate Wells
Hotel Joaquin
Okay so this is a very beautiful + very special hotel. You technically can’t pop in for a drink or meal unless you’re a hotel guest, but one night we simply asked (begged) nicely, and the receptionist was in a good mood and let us stay…and drinks were on the house. Zero notes.
Selanne
I’ve never been here so we’ll just have to take Kate’s word on this one.
My Selanne order/ perfect happy hour is actually a martini and mashed potatoes.
-Kate Wells
Hotel Laguna
Hot tip: not, in fact, a hotel at all.
Go at sunset. Don’t get a full meal. Keep it to apps and drinks.
-Kate Wells
Honorable mentions:
Active Culture (can’t overstate how exceptional their frozen yogurt is)
Petit Pali (this just opened and I want to stay here stat!)
“Michelada cups & a tall boy tecate from Spigot and walking the beach at sunset” (deeply specific recco from Kate)
And I shall end with this: