The scenic drive from LAX to Laguna Beach is a mesmerising journey that unfolds like a picture-perfect dream. As you depart from the bustling energy of Los Angeles, the coastal highway unveils breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, stretching endlessly alongside the rugged coastline. The sun-kissed waves glisten in harmony with the azure sky, creating a tranquil backdrop framed by swaying palms and coastal cliffs. The Pacific Coast Highway meanders through charming seaside communities, offering glimpses of surfers catching waves and beachgoers relishing the sun. The drive is a sensory delight, with the salty breeze whispering tales of the ocean. As you approach Laguna Beach, the landscape transforms into a masterpiece of natural beauty, promising a serene escape where every curve of the road unveils a new chapter in this idyllic coastal paradise.
Stay at Montage Laguna Beach
Montage Laguna Beach stands as a pinnacle of coastal luxury, nestled along the pristine shores of Southern California. This opulent seaside resort boasts panoramic ocean views, private beaches, and world-class amenities. Renowned for its impeccable service and exquisite design, the resort seamlessly combines laid-back sophistication with five-star indulgence.
Upon arrival at Montage Laguna Beach, a symphony of impeccable service and visual splendour unfolds. Attendants, clad in crisp uniforms, extend a warm greeting, seamlessly whisking away any cares. The lobby, adorned with coastal-inspired decor, immerses guests in an atmosphere of refined luxury, and opens out onto a bright lounge area with a roaring fire and the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop. Montage Laguna Beach crafts a welcome that transcends expectation, where every detail and interaction exudes the commitment to an unparalleled guest experience.
30801 South Coast Highway Laguna Beach, California
7pm Dinner at The Loft
Montage Laguna Beach’s signature restaurant is a culinary sanctuary that offers incredible ocean views alongside an exquisite dining experience. The menu offers the epitome of Californian ‘feel good’ options that are healthy, balanced, nutritious and full of flavour. Aaron’s attentive service elevated our evening with his attentive service, preempting our needs and wonderful storytelling of the menu.
Start with the King Prawns served with a saffron pink sauce, lemon and grilled bread. The Pan-seared Ora King Salmon paired with snow peas and sunchokes and drizzled with lemon sauce. Save room for dessert, where the Warm Chocolate Molten Cake beckons with decadence.
8am Wake up in the Catalina Suite
This spacious two-bedroom suite offers breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island from its private balconies, allowing guests to savour the beauty of the Southern Californian coastline. A blend of opulence and modern comfort awaits, with a separate living area, plush furnishings, and well-appointed bathrooms featuring deep soaking tubs. Amenities include personalised concierge service, ensuring a seamless and bespoke experience.
8:30am Breakfast in bed
Embark on a lavish morning with breakfast in bed. Delight in a gourmet spread featuring the Montage’s signature Buttermilk Pancakes, adorned with vanilla mascarpone and local honey. Pair it with a cold pressed juice for a healthy balance.
Israel delivered our breakfast with the love of a doting parent, tucking us back into bed whilst he set everything up and put the Do Not Disturb sign on to ensure we ate in peace. He even brought us freshly baked banana bread as a treat.
12pm Lunch at Mosaic Bar & Grille
The outdoor terrace offers an al fresco dining experience, where the Pacific Ocean becomes a mesmerising canvas. Vivian was a ray of sunshine and embodied Montage’s commitment to excellent service, the icing on the cake for a beautiful lunch.
Start with the Daily Ceviche, created with the daily catch mixed into avocado, tomatoes, red onions and jalapeños, a combination bursting with flavour. The Chopped Lobster Salad is not to be missed, especially during lobster season. A perfectly grilled lobster on a bed of romaine lettuce, grapefruit, mango, avocado, asparagus, sun dried tomatoes with a drizzle of their homemade citrus vinaigrette.
3pm Walk along Treasure Island
Laguna Beach’s Treasure Island Beach stands as a coastal sanctuary, beckoning guests to revel in a peaceful retreat and you’ll be in good company with Justin Bieber having been spotted there recently. This concealed marvel is famed for its tide pools, offering an enchanting peek into underwater life. The beach’s sandy expanse extends beneath seaside cliffs, shaping an intimate inlet where tranquility prevails. A walk along the shore unveils elaborate rock formations and hidden nooks.
The vast Pacific Ocean unfurls before you, presenting a mesmerising panorama that enthrals the senses. The rhythmic ocean waves crashing against the coastline provide a calming soundtrack, heightening the prevailing sense of serenity. There is no better feeling than having the sun on your face and your toes in the sand.
7pm Dinner at Larsen – Hotel Laguna
The Larsen is located within the iconic Hotel Laguna, the historic landmark was the first hotel in Laguna Beach and first opened its doors over 125 years ago. A pinnacle during Hollywood’s Golden Age, the untouched Laguna terrain attracted film-makers in their droves with the likes of Lauren Bacall, John Barrymore and Joan Fontaine frequenting the hotel’s Pier Nine Bar.
Today, while the hotel remains closed for renovations, the restaurants are open so you can still experience this slice of history.
The Larsen at Hotel Laguna is a culinary haven that has been famed for the most incredible sunset views in the area, with hues of pink and orange painted the Pacific horizon. The menu uses fresh local ingredients and unique, chef-driven creations. Start with the Bread & Butter, each sourdough loaf is handmade in San Juan with only three ingredients – flour, water and salt, and complimented by French Border Butter. The Pacifico Bass seared to perfection and served with acorn and honey nut squash, Swiss chard and pistachio gremolata. End the meal with the Warm Chocolate Cake, a rich chocolate centre with caramelised banana, chocolate crumble alongside a sharp passionfruit sorbet.
425 S. Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach is a coastal gem and beckons with its artistic allure, pristine shores, and upscale charm. From the vibrant festivals to the scenic coves, this Southern California haven is a tapestry of natural beauty and cultural richness. Laguna Beach invites visitors to savour the sunsets, explore art galleries, and revel in a coastal paradise that lingers in the heart long after the waves recede.
