5 Must-Do Adventures in Laguna Beach, CA

An outdoor adventure paradise tucked away in the heart of SoCal bohemian chic.

Laguna Beach is famous for its beautiful beaches, beautiful people, and bohemian chic, but in addition to an array of water sports, it has also built a reputation for having an excellent network of trails that afford numerous hiking, biking, and running options in 20,000+ acres of protected land. Here’s a list of five “Must-Do” adventures the next time you visit Laguna Beach.

1. Explore the Laguna Beach Sea Caves & Pools

No visit to Laguna Beach is complete without exploring its extensive network of sea caves, sea arches, and tide pools, many of which are only accessible at low tide. Download the official Visit Laguna Beach App, which has tide tables and information specific to each beach and cave.

One of the must-see pools is at the base of La Tour / Victoria Tower, aka "Pirate Tower", and is a must-see. It's right of off Victoria Street on Victoria Beach, aka "The Pirate Tower", and is a must-sea.

2. Hike the Water Tank Trail in the Laguna Coast Wilderness

The Laguna Coast Wilderness is 7,000 acres of endless trails through glorious coastal canyons, mountains, and the only one natural lake in all of Orange County: Barbara’s Lake. The Water Tank Trail is just one option, but it gives some of the best views up and down the coast and in the spring, unsurpassed wildflowers overlooking the ocean.

3. Kayak the Laguna Beach State Marine Preserve

Sure you could surf, paddle board, snorkel or dive, but sea kayaking is your best bet for seeing the most of the 12 square miles of protected ocean and coast that make up the Laguna Beach State Marine Preserve.

4. Mountain Bike Car Wreck Trail

The Laguna Coast Wilderness and Aliso Canyon has hundreds of miles of mountain biking trails and “Car Wreck” has some of the best technical downhill in the area.

5. Climb Aliso Peak via the Valido Trail

Laguna’s “Mount Zion”, has arguably the best views of the city and the coastline. It’s a short hike, and no visit to Laguna Beach is complete without it.

Written by Josiah Roe

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!