🌞 Sunrise to Sunset in Laguna Beach: Art, Ocean, and Sunset Splendor

From the golden glow of sunrise on sandy coves to twilight dinners with panoramic views, Laguna Beach delivers a day full of color, creativity, and coastal magic. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or just one unforgettable day, this sunrise-to-sunset itinerary is your perfect guide to experiencing the best of Laguna Beach—beachside, bite by bite.

🌅 Sunrise Serenity: Morning Calm at Crescent Bay

Start your day with sunrise at Crescent Bay Beach, one of Laguna’s most peaceful coves. With dramatic cliffs and a wide stretch of sand, it’s ideal for a quiet walk, yoga session, or some serene reflection as the first rays light up the water.

Then, head over to Heidelberg Café & Bistro for a relaxed breakfast on the patio. Enjoy ocean breezes along with eggs Benedict, fresh-squeezed juice, or fluffy pancakes. It’s just the right mix of hearty and scenic.

🎨 Midmorning: Artsy Explorations & Coastal Views

Laguna Beach is known for its artsy soul. After breakfast, explore the Laguna Art Museum—a small but stellar museum focused on California artists. If you’re visiting in summer, check out the Sawdust Art Festival or Pageant of the Masters (depending on timing).

From there, stroll through downtown’s boutique-lined streets and pop into Wyland Galleries or JoAnne Artman Gallery for some inspiration. Grab an iced coffee from Laguna Coffee Company and head toward Main Beach Park for people-watching and laid-back vibes.

🥗 Lunchtime with a View: The Cliff Restaurant

Tuck into lunch at The Cliff, perched above the ocean with sweeping views of the Pacific. Order the seared ahi sandwich or fresh seafood salad, and don’t skip the house margarita. The views alone are worth lingering over.

Alternative Lunch Spot:
Driftwood Kitchen – Elevated coastal cuisine just steps from the sand with a laid-back but elegant feel.

🏖️ Afternoon: Sun, Surf & Salt Air

After lunch, it’s beach time. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or tide-pooling at Victoria Beach, famous for its fairytale-style pirate tower and soft sands. For a more active outing, rent a paddleboard or take a surf lesson from local outfitters like La Vida Laguna.

Need a break from the sun? Head into the Treasure Island Park area near the Montage Resort—perfect for scenic strolls with photo-worthy views and shady benches.

🌇 Golden Hour: Rooftop Drinks & Sunset Magic

As the day winds down, head to The Rooftop Lounge at La Casa del Camino—an iconic open-air spot perched above the coastline. With panoramic views of the Pacific, this is one of the best places in Laguna Beach to catch the sunset. Sip a signature mojito or local wine while soaking in the glowing skies and coastal breeze. The vibe is chic, yet relaxed, and it’s perfect for golden hour photos.

Prefer something quieter? Try Splashes Bar at the Surf & Sand Resort—right over the water, it’s one of the most romantic places to toast the day.

🍝 Evening: Ocean-Inspired Dinner

Stay seaside for dinner at Selanne Steak Tavern, co-owned by NHL legend Teemu Selanne. It’s stylish, upscale, and filled with local flavor—try the filet with truffle butter or the fresh-caught fish special.

For a more casual dinner, Nick’s Laguna Beach offers a buzzy atmosphere and excellent comfort food with a twist (think: buttermilk fried chicken or short rib tacos).

🌙 Nightcap & Coastal Stroll

End your day with a moonlit stroll along the beach or down Forest Avenue, which sparkles at night with twinkle lights and soft music wafting from nearby bars. Stop for gelato at Gelato Paradiso or share a slice of warm pie at Urth Caffé before heading back.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• 🏨 Casa Loma Beach Hotel – Walkable to everything with coastal views and charm.
• 🏨 Montage Laguna Beach – The luxury pick with oceanfront pools and a spa that’s worth the splurge.
• 🏨 Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa – A romantic hideaway with a Spanish-style courtyard and serene setting.

📌 Quick Tips:

• Parking can be tricky—use the city’s Laguna Beach Trolley or ride share to hop around.
• Download the Laguna Beach Local App for maps, events, and trolley tracking.
• Visit midweek or early for fewer crowds and more elbow room.

🌴 Laguna Beach in a day? Yes, you can. From sunrise surf to sunset spirits, this slice of SoCal serves up a picture-perfect beach escape, no filter required.

Craving the perfect mix of desert views and ocean breezes? ☀️ From Desert to Ocean: The Ultimate Road Trip from Las Vegas to Laguna Beach maps out every scenic stop, bite, and beach along the way—start planning your coastal escape now!