As life flies by, it feels as though we are always celebrating something – birthdays, anniversaries, babies being born, you name it!
As always, our go-to spot to celebrate (with each other, or with a group), is Laguna Beach. This sunny beach town has it all – great restaurants, stunning views, pampering day spas, and more! Today we’re going to round up our favorite places to relax, sip champagne and party with friends… Because no matter the occasion, chances are it’s worth a party.
CELEBRATING A BIRTHDAY
MORNING
Start your morning with breakfast at BLK Dot coffee. Nothing says “treat yourself” like their Iced Sea Salt coffee and Avocado Toast. We suggest ordering it to go, and taking it to the beach. But if a long, relaxing brunch is more your style, some “birthday worthy” spots are Sapphire Laguna, where they serve some incredible Roasted Pineapple pancakes – or Reunion Kitchen, who has (arguably) the best Biscuits and Gravy in town! Then, pack up your sunscreen, towel, and a book (you can grab one at Laguna Beach Books), and head to the beach! We love Victoria Beach for their iconic “Pirate Tower” (that looks more like a castle), and their lively tide pools when the tide is low. It’s a little bit of a hike to get to, but that typically means there’s less crowds. Treasure Island is another favorite of ours, as its picture-perfect white sandy beaches are prime for laying out. Plus, it’s close to Montage Laguna Beach in case you want to treat yourself to a glass of bubbly! And if you want to be close to the Laguna Beach hustle and bustle, or play a little volleyball, Main Beach is where the party’s at!
AFTERNOON
Lunch at Zinc Cafe is a must! Have a “Zinclini” (orange and peach juice, raspberry puree, and sparkling wine) and their fresh Thai salad, and enjoy them on Zinc’s lively outdoor patio. Just a quick walk down the road is the Sawdust Art and Craft Festival, where depending on the time of year, you can spend the afternoon shopping unique handmade goods from local vendors. (Their annual Winter Fantasy opens November 17th – weekends only!) Sawdust also offers a vast array of different art classes – from pottery, to glassblowing, jewelry making, screen printing, and more! We took a watercolor class not too long ago, and LOVED it! You can find out more about their classes and the schedule here.And if you’re feeling more adventurous, go surfing or paddle boarding! La Vida Laguna offers daily tours and lessons, and their friendly team will have you feeling like a pro in no time. All you have to do is know how to swim, and they’ll handle the rest. Make sure to keep an eye out – you might spot some dolphins or sea lions!
EVENING
Catch the sunset at The Rooftop Lounge, where you can enjoy one of their famous Mojitos (happy hour is 3-5pm!) and their tasty Ahi Poke appetizer. Then jump on the free Laguna Beach Trolley (running every Friday-Sunday), and take it to Driftwood Kitchen for dinner. If it’s just the two of you, we recommend requesting a table on their outdoor patio. And you must order the Parker House Rolls – they’re life changing! End your night with dessert (get the Chocolate Praline Crunch!) and a nightcap (the Woodwalker is a favorite of ours!), at Broadway by Amar Santana. We enjoy grabbing a seat at the bar and watching their skilled mixologists at work. Let them know it’s your birthday, and they might even do something special for you!
Stay
Nothing says “Happy Birthday” like a night at the iconic Surf & Sand Resort. You’re so close to the ocean, you can hear the waves break from your room! Their attention to detail and luxurious accommodations make it the perfect option for a birthday celebration. Make sure you leave some time in your schedule for a dip in their stunning, oceanfront pool!
