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Laguna Beach, California for Spring Break
Along the southern route of the Pacific Coast Highway, through Orange County, California, are sleepy little surf towns that line the coast. While cruising the PCH, if you blink, you very well could miss them, but it would be a whole lot cooler if you didn't. Laguna Beach, California, is the quintessential beach town ready to entertain on a multi-generational level and it's definitely a perfect spot for a beach photo shoot.
In the late 1800's, Laguna Beach was to the local artists and celebrities what Malibu is today. Even now Laguna Beach still boasts an area rich in culture and charm. Within the 7-mile stretch of coast it is a vibrant town full of hidden nostalgia, gastronomical finds, galleries, boutiques, festivals and a plethora of activities for sun-filled days making it a top spot for Spring Break.
Lagun Beach, California for Spring Break
Hit the Beach
Surf's Up...for some fun in the sun, grab your beach gear and head to Main Beach. The center of town, and the most popular beach in Laguna, Main Beach is more than just sandcastles and surfboards. There, pick up a game of sand volleyball or let the kids loose on the playground. Across the way is Johnny Rockets- burgers, fries and milkshakes on the beach, what could be more So Cal than that? If Main Beach is too much action, Laguna Beach has over 20 coves and public access beaches to enjoy, along with several tide pools. Add some exploration and sea-life education into your day by taking a docent guided tour of one of the many naturally formed tide pools like Shaw's Cove or Bird Rock. Set up your day by visiting www.lblg.org.
Museums
An Affair of the Art...summer brings some of Laguna Beach's most acclaimed living arts and festivals like the Sawdust Festival and Pageant of the Masters, but spring gives way to the opportunities to live through art like the local artists do. First Thursdays Art Walk happens the first Thursday of every month, where the village comes alive with wine, music and h'ours d'oeuvres. There is a free trolly service and free admission to the Laguna Art Museum (specializing in California art) from 6-9pm. Looking for some bonding time? Enjoy a new program at the Laguna Art Museum called the Kid's Art Studio. Together your family will create a work of art inspired by the pieces on display in the museum. Of course, there are more than 80 works of public art exhibited throughout Laguna Beach. Just cruise into the Visitor's Center and grab a brochure to take a self-guided tour during a leisurely stroll.
Recreational Activities
Fit Families...the real beauty of Laguna Beach? Location, location, location. It is smack dab in the middle with Newport Beach a few miles to the north and Dana Point a few miles to the south. Both cities offer recreational activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP), and more world famous beaches for surfing and skimboarding. Back in Laguna Beach start or end your day with yoga on the beach, long hikes through the nearby canyons or exploring the town by bike.
Lodging
Sleep Here...for the ultimate luxury family resort try Montage Laguna Beach. A family friendly atmosphere with breath taking views and Craftsman-style architecture and design, Montage Laguna Beach puts thought into everything needed to make the most out of a family vacation. And, it is OK to admit that a little quiet time, just once, during this fun-loving vacation jammed packed with an itinerary full of memories, would be lovely, wouldn't it? Everyone needs a bit of a recharge, so send the kids to Paintbox- a half day or full day kid's camp located on the resort. Rejuvenate at the spa or lunch poolside while kids are entertained with a schedule like no other. The Paintbox is well-known for offering such incredible programs, it will be hard to pull them away. Before leaving the resort, be sure to enjoy a spectacular sunset at The Lobby Lounge with a cocktail and mock-tail menu, all hand-crafted, pretty to look at and quite delicious.
Shopping and Restaurants
Shop and Dine...one of the best parts about vacationing in Laguna Beach is the shopping and dining. Authentic beach and surf gear, boutiques with laid back glamour, specialty shops for teas, wines, chocolates, and cheese proves there is almost nothing you can't find in Laguna, except a big box store, Whole Foods Market will come the closest. Everything in Laguna Beach tastes good- local bakeries and gelaterias, cafes and French bistros are perfect for breakfast and lunch. Try Anastasia Cafe, 460 Ocean Avenue, for fresh blended juices like their Vampire juice, and out of this world pain du caramel. The hardest part about dinner is deciding where to go. With plenty of seaside and outdoor dining locations, the choice can be almost unbearable. For the best of both worlds, consider the legendary Las Brisas, 361 Cliff Drive.
Ready to start planning? Visit www.VisitLagunaBeach.com for more suggestions and specific calendar information for your travel dates, along with special packages and deals for Laguna Beach hotels. Bon Voyage!
Where is your favorite place to travel for Spring break?
Stefanie Van Aken is a luxury family travel + sophisticated lifestyle writer and blogger covering travel, tastes, and trends for you and your entourage at www.RockStarMomLV.com. She is a mom to four and is based out of Las Vegas, but ready to take on the world. Discover more of her luxury family escapades at www.TravelingMom.com. Stay in touch on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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