Tourist Spots in Laguna Beach, California

Laguna Beach, California is a small coastal city located south of Los Angeles. It is well-known for the beaches, art galleries, tide pools, and of course the TV series, Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County. There are many tourist spots in Laguna Beach to visit and dine at during your time in this relaxed, friendly city. Here are just a few favorites that would be a shame to miss on a 3 day California road trip.

See the Window of the Sea

In the heart of downtown Laguna lies the “Window to the Sea.” Main Beach is the perfect place to go for a leisurely walk, have a picnic, play some sand volleyball, or take in the sights. This top tourist spot in Laguna Beach is something that everyone must see while in the area.
Location: N Coast Hwy and Broadway

Go for a stroll at Heisler Park

Heisler Park is one of our favorite tourist spots in Laguna Beach. It is near Main Beach and is beautifully stretched over the cliffs and the ocean. It’s also a great spot to go for an afternoon stroll or take in the cotton candy or vibrant sunsets that are notable at Heisler Park each day. One of the nice things about this tourist spot in Laguna Beach is you can stay for as little or as long as you want, but trust us… you’ll be back!
Location: 375 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Be entranced by the Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach

It would be easy to think you somehow made it to Treasure Island while visiting this tourist spot in Laguna Beach. The Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach has a fascinating history but you could also come up with your own story to tell. The tower was built in 1926 as an enclosed staircase to the beach for a California senator. Later, the senator sold his home to a retired naval captain, Harold Kendrick. Kendrick would dress in a pirate outfit and invite people over for stories and scavenger hunts. Today you can visit the Pirate Tower during low tide and imagine it as Rapunzel’s famous tower or that it is a part of a castle that once stood.
Location: 2713 Victoria Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Climb through the caves at 1,000 Steps Beach

Upon arriving at this tourist spot in Laguna Beach you’ll find a steep staircase covered in vines. After making your way down this one way down and one way up staircase, you will reach 1,000 steps beach – which in my opinion is one of the best beaches around LA. On the beach, you’ll see a cove to your left in which you will find two caves to explore! Inside we found many tide pools and enjoyed hearing the soothing sound of the waves crashing on the rocks. Be sure to wear proper footwear if you are planning to climb in the caves, otherwise enjoy the beauty of the beach as there is much to see there too.
Location: 31972 Pacific Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA92651

Visit one of the many stunning tide pool locations

All around the Laguna Beach area, you can find many tide pools. Each location is different from each another featuring different sea creatures that can come and go as they please while others have made this their permanent home. If you are planning to visit the tide pools in Laguna Beach make sure you follow some simple viewing guidelines so you do not hurt or destroy the homes of these fragile ecosystems. Do not touch or take any living or non-living items from the tide pools and be very careful where you step while climbing on the rocks. Tide pools are only accessible during low tide so make sure to plan accordingly!

Tide Pool Locations

• Shaw’s Cove
  Address: 989 Cliff Drive
• Crystal Cove State Park
  Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy.
  Fee: $15
• Heisler Park
  Address: 375 Cliff Drive
• Dana Point Marine Protected Area
  Address: 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive

Go dolphin and whale watching with Captain Dave

Another top tourist spot in Laguna Beach is in nearby Dana Point. You’re in for a treat if you take a cruise with Captain Dave! This whale watching tour is up close and personal as you can experience ocean life in a variety of ways. Climb to the bow to be able to see whales swimming gracefully and dolphins jumping and playing right in front of you. You can also head to one of the underwater viewing pods to see what lies beneath the waves. Each season brings in different sea creatures so be sure to look into the whale spottings on Captain Dave’s site!
Location: 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive
Price: $65/adult, $45/child, $20/infant

Tips:

• Arrive roughly 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour.
• Take Dramamine (or other medicine) if you suffer from motion sickness.
• Prepare to get wet if you stand near the bow!
• Bring a lightweight jacket as it can get windy when the boat is moving.

Take the ferry to Balboa Island

Balboa Island attractions are a favorite pastime for many that are still thriving. We took an uber over to the ferry loading zone then the ferry to the island for $1 one-way. While on the island stop at the coastal shops for some souvenirs and get tickets to some of the rides at Balboa Fun Zone, one of the most popular family attractions in the Newport Beach area. Don’t forget to get a chocolate covered frozen banana, the island specialty treat!
Address: Balboa Island, Newport Beach

Get a shake from Ruby’s Diner

Ruby’s Diner is a 1940’s style diner chain that is known for its American fare and thick milkshakes! We loved the vintage charm of the classic cars out front and the beboppin’ oldies music. While there are many locations to enjoy this Laguna Beach attraction and get a shake from Ruby’s, we have visited the location on Balboa Pier which is perfect if you happen to be visiting the Balboa Island attractions and there is also one in the heart of Laguna Beach.
Location: 1 Balboa Pier

Explore the history of Mission San Juan Capistrano

History buff or not, you’ll be fascinated by the beauty and story of this nearly 250-year-old mission. Its story begins in 1775 when Mission San Juan Capistrano was first founded by Father Lasuen. It was established to expand the territorial boundaries of Spain and teach the native people about Christianity. The mission is now run by the Catholic Church as a non-profit organization and has an impressive historical tour and beautiful architecture to view during your time at this tourist spot in Laguna.
Location:  26801 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano
Hours: Sunday – Friday,  9am – 5pm
Cost: $9/adults, $8/seniors, $6/children, FREE for children under 3 (prices include free audio tour)

Enjoy lunch at The Beachcomber

The Beachcomber has incredible brunch and lunch options with a really fantastic view of the ocean. We loved the shrimp pasta and soup and salad combinations. One thing’s for sure, don’t leave without getting some beignets to share. They may not be from New Orleans, but they’re still dang good!
Location: 15 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast

Ride the free trolley and take in the sights

How can anyone not love free transportation? Every day in the summer and every weekend in the winter months Laguna Beach offers their trolley services to get you to all of the top tourist spots in Laguna Beach. Wanting to get a good view of the city? Ride the loop from start to finish!
Hours of Operation: Fridays: 4pm-11pm, Saturdays: 11am-11pm, Sundays: 11am-8pm, July & August the trolley runs daily from 9:30am-11:30pm.

Experience every sunset while you can

Golden hour is something special in California. One day you’ll have a warm, glowing sunset; the next day will be cotton candy skies. One thing’s for sure… be sure not to miss a second of it! One of the best places to view sunset in Laguna Beach is from the Rooftop Lounge. The Rooftop Lounge is located on the top floor of the La Casa del Camino hotel so be sure to get their early to snag a spot at this tourist spot in Laguna.

Regardless of what is on your California road trip itinerary, don’t miss these tourist spots in Laguna Beach!

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