Learn About Japanese Gardens in California

With its seclude coves, dramatic cliffs and white sand beaches, Laguna Beach is one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the Pacific. Hi, I'm Veronica Hill, your California travel expert. Let’s go explore some of the beautiful sites and attractions here in Laguna Beach. Easily one of my favorite beaches in the entire world Laguna Beach is home to seven miles of coastline and 22 unique beaches and coves each with its own personal charm. Alyssa Beach Park is a great spot for families with forgiving waves and ocean front playground and several nice tide pools. It’s also one of the best spots for skimboarding in Laguna hosting the prestigious Victoria’s skimboards world championship each July. While you're here set up a few cheers outside the fire pits for an evening on the beach. For great waves and fewer crowds head to Thousands Steps Beach at 9th Avenue, it’s a bit of a track but it’s worth it. This lovely cove 230 steps below bustling PCH is the local’s choice for great surfing, swimming and sunbathing. One of my favorite beaches in Laguna is Wood’s Cove located at PCH and Diamond with its breathtaking cliffs, less tropical foliage and crystalline waters it’s easy to see why actress Bette Davis moved into this 1929 Tudor Mansion during the 1940s. For great snorkeling and scuba diving head to Shaw’s Cove at Fairview Street. This popular swimming area is an ideal place to spot bright, orange garibaldi and other sea life in its clear waters. Diver’s Cove just south of Shaw’s is another great diving spot. With so much gorgeous ocean scenery it’s not surprising that Laguna is home to a huge art community. Today there are more than 100 galleries throughout town each with its own specialty. There are so many great galleries in Laguna Beach but one of my favorites is the Wyland Studio Gallery. Specializing in environmentally conscious art of ocean life the Wyland Gallery is also home to the first Whaling Wall. At the gallery we received a warm welcome from Wyland’s mother Darlene who proudly pointed out some of Wyland’s latest art from China and other recent works. After visiting the gallery, it’s easy to see why Wyland is one of the world’s most popular artists. The Laguna Art Museum known for its collections of California art is another must-see. Each October, the museum hosts the prestigious planar painting invitational trying the best planar painters in the country. During the summer, Laguna Beach celebrates its artistic roots with the pageant of the masters Ensadas Art Festival. The Festival of the art has been a top draw since 1932 featuring original works from California’s best artists. Another bonus during festival season held between June and August are the free trolley rides around Laguna Beach. At Main Beach located in the heart of town you’ll find a historic life guard tower, basketball courts and other amusements. The beach can get crowded here during the summer so be sure to arrive early. Across the street along Ocean and Forest Avenues you’ll find some great Laguna Beach shopping boutiques and bistros. When you're ready to cool off don’t miss a visit to Gelato Paradiso tucked away in Peppertree Lane. Each morning new batches of gelato are made with imported ingredients straight from Italy, mixed up to four of your favorite flavors or take suggestions from adoring fans on the bulletin board. It’s seriously the best gelato I've ever had. When it comes time to eat head to one of the many outstanding Laguna Beach restaurants, cool off with mojitos on the roof top lounge at La Casa del Camino or head south to Mozambique for some East African homage and Peri Peri grilled shrimp. For French-California cuisine with a view, don’t miss Studio perched on a cliff’s above Goff Cove Beach. I've always last enjoyed Las Brisas, Laguna Beach landmarks since 1978. Las Brisas serves up Mexican flair crispy nachos, spicy fish tacos and house made margaritas. I recommend the ultimate original margarita. Outside Las Brisas, a historic gazebo at Heisler Park offers glistening views of picnic beach in Diver’s Cove. Heisler Park Marine Reserve right below is a popular tide pool in the area. Laguna Beach hotels range from the affordable to the expensive. Two of my personal favorites are Inn at Laguna Beach, a friendly beach front hotel located just steps from the village and the luxurious Montage Resort at 250 guestrooms hotel overlooking Treasure Island Beach. Whatever hotel you choose you're sure to have a good time at this world’s class beach destination. For more California travel videos, tips and advice log on to CaliforniaTravelExpert.com.