11 Best Beachfront Hotels in Laguna Beach CA

The gorgeous Laguna Beach boasts more oceanfront and beachfront accommodations than any other California city. Not only do you get a dose of the amazing Californian culture, but also you get the opportunity to enjoy some sun, sand, and sea in peace. What’s more, Laguna Beach is not just a beach town but is also famous for its lively art scene. And, of course, there are surfing opportunities, stunning tide pools, sea caves, coves, and sandy beaches to explore – and also stay at. The best options for an oceanfront or beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach run the gamut from button-up and upscale to casual ones with a boutique barefoot vibe.

But the best bit is that a major chunk of the hotels on this list sits right on the beach. So, a hop, skip and jump from your room, and you’re on the sand. Not for nothing is Laguna Beach considered one of the best beaches in California! So, what are you waiting for? Here are the 11 best oceanfront and beachfront hotels in Laguna Beach, CA.

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

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You can always rely on a Ritz-Carlton property to be amazing, and The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, offers the ultimate beachside living on the California coast. This oceanfront/beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach sits on short cliffs overlooking the beach and the ocean. The sandy beach is accessible via a sloping downward path that’s accessible to everyone – because there are free shuttles to ferry you to the beach! The expansive property offers breathtaking vistas from everywhere, including the sea-and-sand-inspired rooms and suites. Walk-in closets, luxe bathrooms, and private balconies are standard, but the house’s beachfront rooms are the best. 

Explore the rest of the property, which has two pools, a swanky gym, and Adirondack chairs everywhere so you can take in the sea breeze. When the hunger pangs come calling, the many restaurants and bars await you, with tempting menus and impressive sea views.

The Ranch at Laguna Beach

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If your idea of beachside living also includes a round of golf or hiking, then the Ranch at Laguna Beach is your jam. It’s not one of California’s top resorts for nothing. This slice of paradise is within a golf-buggy-driving distance of the beach, along with stunning verdant views of inland California. Besides the nine-hole course, the Ranch also has a shuttle to bring guests down to the beach. So, you can spend a day at the beach lounging around, swimming, kayaking, and surfing. For slower-paced mornings, relax by the outdoor saltwater pool and the hot tub or indulge in a massage at the Sycamore Spa. The many restaurants take care of all hunger and drinking cravings, one of which is the oceanfront cafe with spectacular views.

You’ll love the spacious accommodations here, all of which have furnished balconies and patios with sweeping views of the lush grounds. For those who want more space, there are even suites.

Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa

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The Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa is a gorgeous oceanfront/beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach that’ll transport you right to the heart of Morocco. This Pacific Ocean coast hotel features shades of reds, blues, and pops of terracotta that showcase its Spanish roots and Moroccan influences. However, this boutique hotel is a real escape, with foliage all over, tucked-away seating areas, and an overall serene vibe. Enjoy the complimentary glass of sangria upon arrival as you’re shown to your rooms, which either have garden or sea views. For the ultimate in Cali living, book the “Bungalow” suite, which has a separate clawfoot tub and a large sea-facing balcony with a hammock.

During the day, lounge by the pool or enjoy a massage or a treatment at the indoor-outdoor spa. And while the hotel doesn’t have a formal restaurant, it offers a delicious complimentary breakfast. And, of course, there are small bites and homemade pastries served throughout the day that you can enjoy in your room, by the pool, or in the lobby.

La Casa Del Camino

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The vibe is “Old California” at the 1929-built La Casa del Camino, which has been an Orange County landmark since it opened. Think a beautiful tiled fireplace in the lobby, wrought iron balconies, and dark wood, arched doors. With just 37 rooms and suites, staying here is as intimate as it gets. What’s more, they’re a mix of traditional, Spanish-style rooms and modern ones, all of which have plush beds and swish bathrooms with rainfall showers. Some of the best rooms have partial sea views, but the popular Rooftop Lounge will steal your heart. Besides killer ocean views, it also serves delicious sandwiches, salads, and cocktails. Wind up the day with a Mediterranean dinner at the ground-floor bistro. The best bit? The beach is half a tick away.

Hotel Joaquin

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Best for couples. SoCal of the 1950s meets St. Barths at the chic Hotel Joaquin, a gorgeous boutique oceanfront/beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach. This stylish yet eclectic property is peppered with one-of-a-kind vintage artwork and furniture, whether it’s the common areas of the 22 rooms. Moreover, they’re individually designed and feature thoughtful bathrooms and king beds, with some even featuring mesmerizing sea views. One of the best features in the rooms is “The Road,” a very impressive and well-written in-room guide full of local secrets and valuable addresses.

When you’re done relaxing in your room, head to the hotel restaurant that serves delicious meals, including a hearty complimentary breakfast. Later on, head down to the sun-kissed pool and lounge on the daybeds or head to the beach, which is a two-minute walk. Finally, the hotel’s onsite “Adventure Outpost” has everything from kayaks to snorkeling gear for you to borrow.

Montage Laguna Beach

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Most luxurious. Nothing says luxury in Laguna Beach better than Montage Laguna Beach, which sits sprawled across 30 acres on a Pacific Ocean-overlooking bluff. The accommodations here are one of the most spacious in Laguna Beach, as even entry-level rooms measure 500 sq. feet. The best bit? All rooms and suites have marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, private patios/balconies, and ocean views!

What could be better? We’ll let you be the judge of that. The hotel offers direct beach access down a staircase path, at the end, there’s a sandy beach sprinkled with daybeds and umbrellas. When you’re done with beach time, there’s also an outdoor pool with a hot tub to chill in. There’s also an award-winning 20,000-square-foot huge spa with fireplace lounges, steam rooms, redwood dry saunas, and an adults-only lap pool. Do you want to head into town? Simply hop on one of the resort’s complimentary transportation. That said, the hotel has not one or two but four food and drinking options.

Surf & Sand Resort

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The Surf & Sand Resort is not just an excellent oceanfront/beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach but also one of the best spa hotels in Orange County. Tucked on a 500-foot stretch of sandy beach, this exquisite hotel offers a boutique hotel experience sans all the uppityness. The small but full-service spa is much sought-after along the coast, while the restaurant/bar serves fresh Californian cuisine and offers splendid sea views. Begin your evening with a beverage on the outdoor deck. You’ll love the rooms and suites, which have slumber-worthy beds and private balconies and are decked out in tranquil coastal colors, all within earshot of the ocean.

Pacific Edge Hotel

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Best budget hotel. There’s little doubt as to where a hotel called the “Pacific Edge Hotel” will lie – overlooking the ocean, of course! This seaside budget hotel is perfect for travelers who’re looking for affordable beachside accommodation in Laguna Beach. Besides its enviable on-the-beach location, the hotel also lies within walking distance of Laguna Beach’s popular boutiques and galleries. Nevertheless, the accommodations are anything but less-than-amazing, with color palettes ranging from vibrant to minimal white. For the best views, book rooms with balconies overlooking the beach. Despite being a budget property, this place has not one but two outdoor pools and a jacuzzi to relax during the day. Thanks to two oceanfront restaurants, you’ll never go hungry it thirsty here. Are you looking for some privacy while out on the beach? There are even furnished, air-conditioned bungalows for rent.

The Inn at Laguna Beach

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The Inn at Laguna Beach is an excellent oceanfront/beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach and captures its vibe. It sits perched on a bluff overlooking the main beach, with accommodations featuring casual coastal themes. Think beige hues and rattan furniture, with the best of the lot boasting water views from balconies. When you’re done with relaxation, the beach, with its daybeds, umbrellas, and cocktails, is right out front. If at all you tire of the sand, the outdoor pool with the hot tub awaits you for lounging. Despite there being no onsite restaurant, there are many dining options nearby. But the hotel does have a fabulous rooftop terrace and bar, where you can enjoy a complimentary evening wine reception. Oh, and did we mention the snacks, cookies, and milk in the lobby? Yep.

Capri Laguna on the Beach

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Best on-the-sand location. The Capri Laguna on the Beach is a Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel that sits right on the sands. While it’s an older property, you’ll have no issues staying at this charming hotel, the best rooms of which face the pristine ocean. Nevertheless, all the accommodations are cozy, with plush bedrooms and kitchenettes in all of them. even the bathrooms are modern, ensuring a comfortable stay. Begin your day with a lovely continental breakfast that also includes Starbucks coffee. Then, spend your day on a daybed at the beach or the heated outdoor pool, complete with poolside service. You’ll also find a fitness center, laundry facilities, a business center, and free Wi-Fi, making this an excellent affordable property on the beach. 

Laguna Riviera

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Laguna Riviera is the best oceanfront/beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach. This beach hotel is more than just that; it’s a Laguna Beach landmark and has been since as long back as 1948! Choose from just 41 unique rooms and suites, all of which are simple and have furnished kitchenettes. But, the go-to room is the ocean-view suite, which also has a large private deck. The tropical gardens all over the property give it the feel of a wonderfully classic eco-surf lodge. You’ll even find a large courtyard with tables and grills where you can enjoy an alfresco evening under the stars. Other amenities at Laguna Riviera Beach Resort include free continental breakfasts, beach access, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Our Verdict!

While this list of beachfront Laguna Beach hotels is amazing, we’ve also listed some of the best hotels from the lot by their best features:

• Best luxurious: Montage Laguna Beach
• Best on-the-sands location: Capri Laguna on the Beach
• Best budget hotel: Pacific Edge Hotel
• Best for couples: Hotel Joaquin

Where to Stay in Laguna Beach

If this is your first time traveling to Laguna Beach, you need to know that it’s not just one single beach but rather 20 or so different little beaches and coves! So, you might need some help deciding which beach neighborhood is the best to choose an oceanfront/beachfront hotel in Laguna Beach.

We begin with Treasure Island beach, which has gorgeous public parks and clearer and calm water, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Secondly, there’s the main Laguna Beach, which is the central spot for all activity as it sits right in downtown. Besides the sandy, wide shoreline, the beach is easy to access and even has grassy parks and a wonderful boardwalk. Interestingly, there’s also the 1000 steps beach, which sits at the southern end of the main beach. It’s about 220 steps downward at the intersection of 9th Avenue and the Pacific Coast Highway.

Then, there’s Crescent Bay beach north of the main beach, which lies off Crescent Bay, hence the name. While it’s not visible from the Pacific Coast, there’s access via a gorgeous palm tree jungle down the cliffs. And, of course, there’s a sandy beach with clear water at the bottom!

Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Laguna Beach

• The Rooftop Lounge: This rooftop lounge atop the La Casa del Camino Hotel assures you of bird’s-eye views of Laguna and its gorgeous sunsets. Choose from a long list of white, red, and sparkling wines and specialty cocktails, such as mojitos in ginger, mango, and strawberry flavors. Dig into small bites such as coconut-breaded shrimp, bacon-wrapped dates, and BBQ meatballs to pair with your sips. The best bit? This bar is dog-friendly.
• The Deck: The drinks, food, and good vibes flow in abundance at this buzzing alfresco restaurant and bar that sits directly on the sand. Smell in the sweet ocean air and listen to the chilled-out beats as you dig into cilantro-spiked margaritas, lobster quesadillas, and mahi-mahi sandwiches – and indulge in waterfront selfies.

Recommended Activities in Laguna Beach

• Newport Beach Year-Round Whale Watching Cruise: 20 minutes north of Laguna Beach lies Newport Beach, where whale watching is a round-the-year activity! In fact, this cruise boasts a 96% success rate in whale viewing! Look out for various whales, including humpback whales and the elusive giant blue whale, which is more than 80 feet in length!