14 Best Hotels in Laguna Beach in 2024
Wondering where to stay in Laguna Beach, California? This comprehensive guide covers how to choose the best hotels in each of the top areas!
Well-known for its stunning coastal beauty, Laguna Beach is a picturesque Southern California haven with pristine beaches, art galleries, and a vibrant cultural scene. Nestled along the Pacific coastline, Laguna Beach offers a variety of accommodations, ensuring a delightful stay for every type of traveler.
With its charming village atmosphere and a diverse range of activities, Laguna Beach beckons visitors to explore its tide pools, art festivals, and scenic coves. The town’s inviting ambiance extends to its accommodations, where you can find options ranging from luxurious resorts to cozy boutique inns.
While Laguna Beach may not be the most budget-friendly destination, the choice of lodging depends on your preferences and budget. So, with every travel style in mind, here are my recommendations for where to stay and the best hotels in Laguna Beach, California.
Overview of Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach, nestled along the picturesque Southern California coastline in Orange County, is a charming seaside destination.
Famous for its untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffside views, Laguna Beach offers a quintessential coastal experience.
The town is dotted with art galleries, boutique shops, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it a haven for art enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the town’s numerous coves, including the popular Thousand Steps Beach, or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.
With its inviting village atmosphere, diverse dining options, and a range of accommodations, Laguna Beach is a coastal gem that appeals to travelers looking for a blend of scenic landscapes, artistic inspiration, and a laid-back California vibe.
How to Get to Laguna Beach
John Wayne Airport is about 15 miles from Laguna Beach — and it’s one of the easiest airports to navigate. Once you arrive, you can either take an inexpensive Rideshare (Uber or Lyft) or rent a car at the airport. I recommend having a car while visiting Laguna Beach.
If you’re driving, Laguna Beach is accessible via the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) or Interstate 5.
Choosing the Right Hotel for Your Needs
Selecting the right hotel is a crucial aspect of planning any trip, and the perfect accommodation can enhance your overall travel experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best hotels based on your specific needs:
- For Families: If you’re traveling with family, prioritize hotels that offer family-friendly amenities. Look for spacious rooms or suites, on-site activities for children, and perhaps a pool for some relaxing family time. Proximity to family-friendly attractions and a safe neighborhood are also essential.
- For Couples: For a romantic getaway, opt for hotels with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Look for accommodations that offer special packages for couples, private balconies with scenic views, and maybe a full-service spa for a serene retreat. Consider a location that provides easy access to romantic dining spots or beachfront strolls.
- For Solo Travelers: Look for a mix of comfort and social opportunities. Consider staying in a hotel with communal spaces where you can meet fellow travelers. Safety, central location, and a variety of dining options in the vicinity are crucial factors for solo adventurers.
No matter who you’re traveling with, you’ll want to consider your budget, the amenities offered by the hotel, and your personal preferences. Laguna Beach offers beachfront locations, hotels with historic charm, and luxurious accommodations, so look for a hotel that checks all of your boxes.
You’ll also want to consider the location of your hotel, so make sure it is close to all of your planned activities and consider your transportation options before booking.
The Best Hotels in Laguna Beach
Now, let’s look at the top hotels to help you plan your perfect trip, no matter what your interests are or how you prefer to travel!
Capri Laguna Hotel
The Capri Laguna Hotel stands out for its beautiful oceanfront location and charming Mediterranean-style design.
Located on the quiet and picturesque Mountain Road Beach, this hotel is perfect for a Laguna Beach getaway. It’s also walking distance from most downtown attractions, making it perfect for solo travelers or couples who want to balance social activities with quiet days at the beach.
Capri Laguna Hotel offers free parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and free WiFi.
Read more: 25 Easy Weekend Getaways from San Diego (By a Local)
Montage Laguna Beach
The 5-star Montage Laguna Beach is a standout luxurious Laguna Beach resort renowned for its prime oceanfront setting and elegant Craftsman-style architecture.
Offering gorgeous views of the Pacific, this upscale hotel features direct beach access and a lavish pool surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
This hotel is perfect for couples as it’s located on Treasure Island Park where you’ll find a spacious beach, and garden picnic spots perfect for soaking in romantic sunsets over the Pacific.
Hotel Joaquin
Hotel Joaquin, nestled in Laguna Beach, is a charming boutique hotel celebrated for its cozy atmosphere and stylish design.
This hotel is perfect for families because it’s just a 3-minute walk from Shaws Cove, a laid-back neighborhood beach popular for swimming, scuba diving, and boogie boarding.
It’s also a short walk to Crescent Bay Beach, a scenic inlet with rocky cliffs and tide pools to explore and just 3 miles from the Top of the World hiking spot.
Hotel Joaquin offers free parking, an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, and an on-site restaurant and bar.
Read more: The Best Beach Towns in California + Where to Stay
Pacific Edge Hotel
Pacific Edge Hotel, located just a short distance south of downtown Laguna Beach, is a beachfront hotel known for its easy going vibe and casual style.
Convenient to both Sleepy Hollow Beach and Cleo Street Beach, this is the perfect hotel for taking in the sunset.
I love this hotel for solo travelers because of its walkability to Heisler Park and the Laguna Art Museum. It also has an open-air beachfront restaurant and lounge to enjoy as the day winds down.
Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa
Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa, is a historic Spanish-style hotel just a 15-minute walk from the famous Victoria Beach and Pirate Tower.
The indoor and outdoor spa makes this a perfect spot for couples to take in a couples massage — they even throw in a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine!
The hotel’s mix of comfort and a bit of luxury makes it a nice choice for those seeking a stylish and cozy experience in Laguna Beach.
Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa offers free parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and free WiFi.
Read more: The Most Beautiful Road Trips in California + Where to Stay
La Casa Del Camino Hotel
Only a block from Cress Street Beach, this Mediterranean-style boutique hotel is also a 15-minute walk from Downtown Laguna Beach.
This hotel is perfect for solo travelers because of the rooftop lounge, offering panoramic ocean views and a chance to meet fellow travelers.
La Casa Del Camino Hotel offers free parking, an outdoor pool, free WiFi, two restaurants, a bar, a fitness center, and a private beach area.
With its one-of-a-kind ambiance and a great location, La Casa Del Camino Hotel provides a memorable experience for those seeking something a little different in Laguna Beach.
Surf & Sand Resort
Surf & Sand Resort is an upscale coastal retreat known for its direct beach access and stunning oceanfront setting. The private patios or balconies in many guest rooms offer breathtaking views of the Pacific.
This is the perfect hotel for any traveler because it has a little bit of everything — access to a beautiful beach and a seaside pool, a casual cafe, an upscale restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and a super cool cocktail lounge with outdoor seating and firepits.
They even have a spa onsite with everything you need to make this the most pleasant and indulgent trip ever.
Laguna Beach House
Laguna Beach House is a retreat in the heart of Laguna Beach known for its laid-back atmosphere and beachy charm.
This Mediterranean-style hotel is a 4-minute walk from hiking trails in Heisler Park and less than a mile from Main Beach.
One thing I love about this motel-turned-hotel are the packages they offer — whether you’re looking to take up surfing while you’re here, are wanting to make your stay ultra romantic, or want to take in all the attractions Laguna Beach has to offer, they have a package for you.
Read more: The Most Beautiful Oceanfront Hotels in California
Casa Loma Beach Hotel
Boasting charming coastal decor and a welcoming atmosphere, Casa Loma Beach Hotel captures the essence of a classic beach retreat.
This Laguna Beach hotel is perfect for solo travels because it’s just a 4-minute walk from Main Beach Park, 3 miles from Crystal Cove State Park and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, and offers chances to interact with other guests at the wine socials in the lobby or on the rooftop bar.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely day by the sea or exploring nearby attractions, Casa Loma Beach Hotel provides everything you need for a beachfront escape in Laguna Beach.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
A bit off the beaten path, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is a special haven, set against the backdrop of the picturesque Laguna Canyon.
Perfect for couples, the resort is surrounded by nature, with scenic golf courses and hiking trails right at its doorstep.
Guests can also enjoy farm-to-table dining at the upscale Harvest Restaurant, indulge in the outdoor heated pool or hot tub, and take in some of the specialty spa treatments.
Best Western Plus Laguna Brisas Spa Hotel
The Best Western Plus Laguna Brisas Spa Hotel is a gem in Laguna Beach, offering a comfortable stay with a range of amenities.
The hotel boasts a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, inviting serenity amidst coastal breezes.
With a convenient beachfront location, warm hospitality, and thoughtful amenities, the Best Western Plus Laguna Brisas Spa Hotel ensures an enjoyable stay for guests exploring Laguna Beach.
Laguna Beach Lodge
This hotel is a 5-minute walk from Treasure Island Beach and just 3 miles from the tide pools and sculptures at Heisler Park.
Perfect for families, the Laguna Beach Lodge has a heated saltwater pool, a shuttle to get to all the attractions, and kids under 17 can stay for free!
Read more: Best Weekend Getaways & Staycation Ideas in California
Hotel Laguna
Once a favorite spot of Old Hollywood icons, this laid-back hotel built in the 1930’s has true historic charm and is a minute’s walk from Main Beach Park’s oceanfront boardwalk.
Perfect for families, the Hotel Laguna features a private beach with bar service, a day spa and salon for the adults, and a casual restaurant/bar with an oceanfront terrace and regular live music.
Art Hotel Laguna Beach
Just a 6-minute walk from Crescent Bay Beach, Art Hotel Laguna Beach offers a unique experience, showcasing the artistic side of the area. The rooms are adorned with unique artwork, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Families will love the free popsicles, the available family rooms, and being able to rent boogie boards to take to the beach!
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