While sipping wine on a patio hanging above the ocean, I marvel at the pulsating waves of the vast Pacific Ocean below me. The long-cresting waves crash along the coast, as surfers careen back and forth on the renowned Thalia Street surf break, embodying a vision from my East Coast childhood dreams. Scenes like this make Laguna Beach the essence of SoCal cool.
The newly renovated Laguna Surf Lodge, with a collection of wooden bungalows nestled in the bluffs above the sand, might just be the best place to rejuvenate the heart and soul. Oceanfront suites feel like mini apartments, with living rooms, fireplaces and inspirational surf photography accented with natural wood, woven rattan and textiles, soft, white-washed tones, bespoke furnishings and earthy textures throughout.
Large windows showcase the ocean, while the afternoon sunglow bathes the living areas in warmth. The sofas double as queen beds if needed, and multiple bathrooms in select suites provide a welcome surprise. A covered terraced porch comprises several wraparound balconies, providing the perfect space for shaded work sessions while gazing at the sea.
Choose from a blend of studio and one-bedroom oceanview suites, family suites with bunks and king, queen and double rooms—some with private oceanfront decks and fireplaces. A three-bedroom beach house and a nearby sister property, “741,” serves as a great rental for larger groups.
Total Wellness
Meander a few feet away to the lodge’s open roof jacuzzi, enclosed by windows and surrounded by foliage. Cuddle near the oceanfront firepits as the sun melts into the sea. In the lobby, catch the daily Surf Report, with essential wave conditions. Choose from a selection of herbal teas, a welcome accompaniment to a steamy soak.
To decompress, try wellness amenities like pillow spray, air purifier, bedside aromatherapy mister with essential oils and a sound machine with various sleep modes. The ocean air, comfy organic Avocado mattress and wellness features contribute to sound sleep. In the morning, enjoy the hotel’s rich coffee from local Succulent Coffee Roasters.
Grab the in-room yoga mat and slip outside on the private terrace to start the day with a stretch and inspiring views. Just steps to the beach, an invigorating morning walk inspires peace. The homes hanging off the bluffs sport weathered wood staircases and pops of colors, and a vintage redwood surfboard nailed under one home honors surfers Alex and Don MacGillvray, who famously rode it at Corona del Mar jetty in the 1930s.
Explore
The lodge’s proximity to Laguna Beach’s renowned art galleries, eateries and boutiques makes for a short shimmy down the road for lunch at The Cliff Restaurant perched above the ocean. The locals rave about this spot and The Deck restaurant, next to the lodge.
Stay for Good
Sustainability efforts at Laguna Surf Lodge are just as impressive as the epic views. The hotel is a plastic-free property, with water refill stations encouraging the use of reusable bottles. Recyclable aluminum cups are offered for fruit-infused waters and guests can delay daily housekeeping to reduce water use. The SCP's “Every Stay Does Good” program has partnered with SeaTrees, an organization dedicated to preserving the marine ecosystem and one “Sea Tree” (kelp plant) is planted with each hotel stay.
Surfing Cowboys
For a brief escape from the coast, venture to neighboring San Jan Capistrano, a historic mission town used as a setting in many films. Just 20 minutes from the lodge, the new Riverside Marketplace recently opened as a “surf cowboy” destination, filled with restaurants and shops. Hotspot newcomer La Vaquera is already popular for brunch and dinner, serving up a multitude of steak options from their 11-foot oak wood grill along with fresh seafood and farm to table produce. Share the Nebraska Gold filet mignon with chimichurri sauce with sides of crispy chipotle aioli Brussels and roasted poblano pepper cornbread in a skillet. Family style portions are encouraged, like Bone in Barbacoa Style Short Rib, Mary’s Heritage Spatchcock Whole Chicken, and Oak Grilled Striped Bass that serve two or three people.
Beach Life
Returning to Laguna Beach Surf Lodge feels like coming home to a private beach house, as onsite amenities provide connection and fun. Request playing cards, Jenga, chess, checkers, sports balls, frisbees, sand toys, bluetooth speakers and more. In summer, choose from a variety of experiences, from SCP’s "Soulful Start" sessions, featuring beachfront meditation, sound baths and rejuvenating stretches, to locally inspired "Epic Experiences" complete with surf lessons, gourmet beachside dining and guided driving tours. Fitting with the vibe, the hotel has its own classic Woodie convertible and vintage Land Rover.
Epic Adventures
Imagine booking the “Dawn Patrol” to live out your Point Break dreams and experience iconic surf breaks on a half- or full-day beach excursion. Departing from Laguna Surf Lodge in a 1967 Land Rover, equipped with boards and gear for an epic day of surfing alongside local guides, be treated to a gourmet beachside brunch and lunch, along with beach games and sunset views, followed by fireside S’mores and drinks back at the lodge.
The Lil’ Groms Program provides complimentary amenities tailored for kids, including boogie boards, sustainable sand bucket kits, a beach scavenger hunt and children's beach education books.
Here in this special location, it is easy to feel spiritual and commune with nature. Laguna Surf Lodge is the epitome of relaxed SoCal cool.
Cuddle near the oceanfront firepits as the sun melts into the sea.
Oceanfront suites feel like mini apartments.