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It’s not on another continent, but Laguna Beach, California, has all the ingredients for a hot, sexy mini beach honeymoon. Surf, sand, spas, and dining under the stars make this seaside spot in Orange County, known for both its hippie roots and bevy of reality TV blondes, a the perfect spot for a blissful beach getaway. Relax surf-side or head out for dress up for a night out on the town in this versatile, laid back town with our 3 day itinerary for an ideal weekend honeymoon.
Day one:
Afternoon: The nearest airport is in Long Beach, and Los Angeles and San Diego are each about an hour and a half away, but don’t worry, the drive along the coast is picturesque. Check into Montage Laguna Beach for a seaview and resort feel, or the brand-new Ranch at Laguna Beach for luxe canyon vibes just across the street from the sand. Pool or beach time should be at the top of your list.
Evening: Sunset is a magical moment in Laguna, and everyone stops to watch wherever they are. The Deck is a perfectly positioned beachside destination for catching the spectacle with a cocktail—try the Silver Surfer—in hand. Try Driftwood Kitchen next door for dinner, or another of the town’s favorite eateries like Las Brisas. Ask for a window table for the view and soundtrack of crashing waves, and splurge on martinis with blue cheese-stuffed olives, and a seafood tower overflowing with lobster, crab legs, oysters and more.
Day two:
Morning: The surf’s almost always up in Laguna, and there are nearby beginner’s breaks too, so try out your skills during a surf lesson or test your balance on a standup paddle board outing. Landlubbers can play a round of golf at Ben Brown’s golf course in picturesque Aliso Canyon.
Afternoon: After casual lunch of fresh Mexican at local favorite La Sirena Grill or street tacos at Papa’s, walk the steps down to Table Rock beach, a hidden spot for sunbathing, swimming (if the swell isn’t too strong) and photo ops—the waves crashing into the rock formations are epic. Don’t forget snacks and icy drinks!
Evening: A dinner at Studio instantly makes for a special occasion. The five-star fine-dining restaurant represents the height of romance and puts sophisticated spins on modern French and California cuisine. It’s pricy but impeccable, from the service to the ever-changing dishes savored while overlooking the Pacific. Leave space for a cheese course before dessert! If you’re looking for a fun after-dinner spot, Marine Room offers has live music, and Sandpiper is a classic, friendly dive.
Day three:
Morning: Fuel up for a hike or swim with an insanely satisfying Smoked Bourbon-Bacon Cinnamon Roll at The Ranch, part of their excellent breakfast menu. Or if ultimate honeymoon relaxation is what you seek, visit Spa Montage for the Romantic Couple’s Journey, which incorporates a marine mineral bath, body polish, and his-and-hers massages.
Afternoon: Stroll up and down the Pacific Coast Highway, where beachy boutiques and galleries—plus the excellent Laguna Art Museum—line the streets. If you’re feeling frisky, join a sandy game of volleyball at Main Beach.
Evening: Watch your last sunset from Crescent Bay or The Rooftop at Casa del Camino, where 360 degree views call for a couple of glasses—or bottle!—of bubbly, alongside tasty bites such as Hawaiian ahi poke, and bacon-wrapped dates. In the moment it’s hard to imagine anything more beautiful than the fiery orange sun dipping below the white-capped ocean.
See More: A Winter Wedding in Laguna Beach—and the Bride Wore Pink!