LAGUNA BEACH
DINE
SOUTH OF NICK'S: For the best skinny margarita of your life
BOURBON STEAK: For the celebration dinner you're trying to plan
THE LOFT: For date night
MOSAIC: For the friend lunch
BEAR FLAG FISH CO.: For the freshest fish
ZINC: For a colorful breakfast, lunch, or any beach picnic in-between
REBEL OMAKASE: For a (recently Michelin-starred) traditional Japanese meal in a modern setting
STARFISH: For takeout that's just as good as dine-in, albeit lacking the Friday night locals at the lively bar
WILD TACO: For the elevated taco bar
ORGANIC TREE: For your juice fix
LAGUNA COFFEE COMPANY: For any caffeination needs (and phenomenal pastries, including a homemade pop-tart)
LA SIRENA GRILL: For light but classic South of the border faves
JAVIER'S: It's not OC without it
STAY
One of the best resorts in California, and in general.
TRICKS
On the hike mentioned above, if you hit it on a Tuesday, Friday, or Saturday, after reaching the top of the Strand, continue on to the end of the cul de sac to the entrance of a trail, only open on the aforementioned days. The trail features arguably the best views in Orange County, with visibility from the tip of Laguna to San Clemente at its foremost point. Tiny critters inhabit the brush, and on lucky days it’s a perfect spot for whale watching. Go the extra mile and wind down into Dana Point harbor for breakfast at @organic_tree(Classic Avo Toast and a Green Lemonade) before leisurely making your way back up the bluff via the wilderness or PCH.