This Is Your Personal Guide to Laguna Bliss
Sometimes, you just need a solo day. It doesn’t matter if you’re an introvert or extrovert, a solo day can spark creativity, leave you with a new core memory or simply give you a chance to reconnect with yourself. Laguna Beach is the ideal destination to spend a day alone, taking in the charm and eclecticness of this seaside town while exploring the best restaurants, shops and beaches it has to offer. So take a drive up or down PCH (windows down with Jack Johnson on, obviously), bring your reusable tote bag (and maybe your film camera) and get ready to spend a day with you in Laguna Beach.
9 a.m.
Breakfast Smoothie at Active Culture
Start your day on the right foot with a nutrient-packed smoothie and ocean views. Active Culture is a local favorite where you can expect bare feet, cute pups and a health-focused menu. Order the Moonlight Mint Shake—made with organic housemade almond milk, organic frozen coconut, organic raw cacao powder, organic raw cacao nibs and fresh mint—or the Strawberry State of Mind, made with organic housemade almond milk, bananas, strawberries and agave, for a sweet start to your solo day.
10 a.m.
Hot Girl Walk Along Main Beach Boardwalk
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean your hot girl walks are too. Take your hot girl walk into the fall season with a brisk stroll along the Main Beach Boardwalk. Put on your Alo sweatshirt, Airpods, the latest TSC podcast and look out at the water for a moment of gratitude that this is where your morning walk gets to be! You’ll pass by plenty of fluffy doodles as you walk up to the gazebo area that overlooks the ocean from above.
11 a.m.
Coffee + People-Watch at Laguna Coffee Co.
Okay, now it’s about time for an oat milk latte. Head over to the tried-and-true Laguna Coffee Co to get your caffeine fix for the day. Find a seat on the outdoor patio (with more ocean views), do a little people-watching and just chill out for a few. The best solo days are accompanied by a book and journal, so don’t forget to pack these in your bag.
12:30 p.m.
Baked Treat at Rye Goods
This solo day is only getting better! Next up on your itinerary is Rye Goods. We could go on and on about how much we love this organic sourdough bakery, but we think you should go see for yourself. With locations in Newport Beach, Tustin and Laguna Beach, it’s safe to say the community agrees. Enjoy a seasonal apple cider donut or vegan pumpkin muffin, and pick up a bottle of natural orange wine for later. Fun fact: This location is the only one to offer a full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu.
2 p.m.
Explore the Treasure Island Tide Pools
Laguna Beach is known for its tide pools, so visiting for an hour or so is a must. Take the ramp down to the sand at Treasure Island Beach Park to discover the Treasure Island Tide Pools. Part of the Marine Protected Environment, the Laguna Beach Tide Pools are home to octopus, starfish, sea urchins and more. The water is clear and blue, giving visitors a great chance to spot these beautiful creatures. Keep in mind there is no touching or taking, and be mindful of the tide!
2/18
4 p.m.
Stroll Down Peppertree Lane
Located in an enchanting alley, you’ll find Laguna Beach landmark Peppertree Lane. Browse through La Rue du Chocolat or follow the smell of freshly baked waffle cones to Gelato Paradiso. The Saloon is also part of this little corridor, where you can stop in for a Popo shot if you’re feeling frisky! The brick-paved alley and large trees give you a cozy vibe to continue on with your solo day.
5:30 p.m.
Sunset at Wood’s Cove
Catching the sunset in Laguna Beach is a must, and the best place to do so is Wood’s Cove. The dreamy pink, purple and orange colors over the Pacific Ocean are nothing but magical. Wood’s Cove is a secluded destination with a quaint beach located off of Diamond Street and PCH. You may get a high tide during sunset, but you’ll get a beautiful sunset view from the stairs. Plus, the walk down to the beach through the lush greenery is so worth it, too.
7 p.m.
Dinner at Splashes Restaurant
The crown jewel of the newly reimagined Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach is Splashes Restaurant, now brighter and more refined after a stunning renovation. With marble tabletops, elegant furnishings, striking art and a custom ceiling sculpture, this Laguna Beach restaurant is perfect for a solo girl dinner.
Led by Chef Ron Fougeray, the menu celebrates innovative coastal cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients and vibrant local flavors. Whether enjoying dinner with the waves crashing below or sipping a sommelier-selected wine on the terrace, Splashes delivers a sensory dining experience like no other.
9 p.m.
Sweet Treat at South Swell Ice Cream
Last but certainly not least, the rules for a solo day state that it has to end with ice cream. It’s just the way it goes! With trendy details like a checkered-print wall and light pink hues throughout, South Swell Ice Cream is the stylish ice cream shop Laguna Beach needed. Order the ice cream bar with toasted marshmallow before heading home and climbing into bed after a long, successful solo day.
Taylor is a graduate from the University of Southern California with a degree in journalism. She is our Los Angeles and Orange County editor. You can find her dining at a new restaurant, in the ocean or planning her next adventure. Say hello!
