From oceanfront luxury to artsy boutique escapes, discover the best places to stay in Laguna Beach for every travel style.
Laguna Beach is one of the most magical destinations in California, known for its hidden coves, coastal cliffs, artistic soul, and peaceful, sun-soaked atmosphere. Whether you come for the beaches, the art galleries, the oceanfront dining, or the slow, dreamy pace of life, where you stay can completely shape your experience.
Some travelers want luxury with panoramic ocean views. Others look for boutique charm, artistic details, or a cozy stay near the beach. Laguna offers all of it—and the beauty of this town is that every hotel feels like its own world.
This guide explores the best hotels in Laguna Beach for 2026, covering luxury resorts, boutique stays, budget-friendly options, and hidden gems that offer unforgettable experiences.
“Laguna Beach isn’t just a place to stay. It’s a place to feel inspired, relaxed, and reconnected with the coast.”
Top Luxury Hotels in Laguna Beach
1. Montage Laguna Beach
A true Southern California icon and one of the most luxurious oceanfront resorts on the West Coast.
Why It Stands Out
- Located directly on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific
- Expansive pools with panoramic ocean views
- World-class dining and award-winning spa
- Steps from Treasure Island Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in California
Every detail here feels refined. Guests can expect soft neutral tones, ocean-inspired interiors, and impeccable service. It is perfect for couples, honeymoons, anniversaries, or anyone seeking a luxury retreat.
Best For: Luxury travelers, couples, and families who want upscale amenities
2. Surf & Sand Resort
A beachfront resort where the sound of the waves becomes the soundtrack of your stay.
Why It Stands Out
- Rooms are directly over the sand
- Private balconies with ocean views
- Stunning pool area overlooking the coastline
- On-site restaurant with incredible sunset dining
Surf & Sand is all about the water. Every room feels close enough to the ocean that you could touch the waves. It offers a cozy, romantic coastal escape with an unbeatable location.
Best For: Couples, ocean lovers, and travelers who want true beachfront access.
3. The Ranch at Laguna Beach
A nature-forward, luxurious oasis in the canyon between the beach and the mountains.
Why It Stands Out
- A unique setting surrounded by nature
- Cozy, elevated cottage-style rooms
- Award-winning golf course
- Eco-friendly, sustainable luxury
- Beautiful outdoor pool with canyon views
The Ranch feels peaceful and secluded while still being close to the beach. It is a favorite among travelers looking for quiet mornings, natural beauty, and California rustic charm.
Best For: Travelers seeking tranquility, golf lovers, wellness-focused stays
Best Boutique Hotels in Laguna Beach
4. Casa Loma Beach Hotel
Historic, charming, and perched right above the ocean.
Why It Stands Out
- Spanish-style architecture
- Quaint and full of character
- Walking distance to Main Beach and galleries
- Romantic atmosphere
This boutique hotel feels like a storybook stay. Casa Loma is ideal for travelers who want something cozy, intimate, and full of Laguna’s artistic spirit.
Best For: Couples, artists, solo travelers, boutique lovers
5. La Casa del Camino
A stylish boutique hotel with a legendary rooftop bar and oceanside rooms.
Why It Stands Out
- Iconic rooftop overlooking the Pacific
- Vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired interiors
- Steps from the beach
- Popular dining and social scene
La Casa del Camino blends authentic charm with modern updates. Many rooms offer partial ocean views and a warm, coastal atmosphere.
Best For: Groups, couples, travelers who love art, cocktails, and views
6. Hotel Joaquin
A relaxed, chic, no-TV, “unplugged” boutique hotel perfect for slow living.
Why It Stands Out
- Stylish, minimal, boho-inspired design
- Curated, calming interiors with beautiful natural materials
- A private, serene atmosphere
- A short walk from Shaw’s Cove
Hotel Joaquin was designed for travelers who want to disconnect and focus on the ocean, rest, and simplicity.
Best For: Minimalist travelers, unplugged retreats, couples seeking quiet
Oceanfront Hotels With Amazing Views
7. Pacific Edge Hotel
Bright, airy, and right on the beach with a laid-back vibe.
Why It Stands Out
- Rooms directly overlooking the ocean
- Cool, relaxed design perfect for summer getaways
- Great for families and groups
- Steps from boutique shopping and restaurants
The Pacific Edge is known for its ocean-view lounges and colorful rooms that feel like a true beach vacation.
Best For: Families, friend groups, long weekend trips
8. Laguna Beach House
Retro surf vibes blended with modern comfort.
Why It Stands Out
- Relaxed, nostalgic OC surf style
- Fire pits, s’mores, and social spaces
- Wine hour and free coffee
- Short walk to the beach
This is one of the most fun and personality-filled places to stay in Laguna. It feels youthful, warm, and endlessly photogenic.
Best For: Young travelers, couples, anyone who loves beach culture
9. Capri Laguna Hotel
This boutique oceanfront hotel is renowned for its stunning balconies and tranquil atmosphere.
Why It Stands Out
- Direct beach access
- Beautiful ocean-facing rooms
- Great value for a beachfront stay
- Peaceful and intimate
Capri Laguna offers the perfect balance between affordability, views, and comfort.
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, couples seeking ocean views
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Laguna Beach
10. Laguna Brisas Hotel
A casual and comfortable hotel close to the beach.
Why It Stands Out
- Affordable without feeling cheap
- Convenient location
- Rooftop terrace
- Large rooms
Best For: Budget travelers, short weekend getaways
11. The Tides Laguna Beach
A small boutique-style inn with a friendly atmosphere.
Why It Stands Out
- Great pricing
- Walkable location
- Outdoor pool
- Free parking
It is simple, clean, and surprisingly charming for the price.
Best For: Road trips, budget-friendly coastal escapes
12. Laguna Beach Lodge
An affordable stay near Treasure Island Beach.
Why It Stands Out
- Across from one of Laguna’s best beaches
- Cozy rooms
- Very reasonable pricing
- Great for families
Best For: Families, long stays, budget travelers wanting a great location
What Part of Laguna Beach Should You Stay In?
North Laguna
- Close to art galleries
- Beautiful snorkeling coves
- Walkable streets
Central Laguna
- Near Main Beach and downtown
- Great for first-time visitors
- Tons of restaurants and shops
South Laguna
- Quieter and more scenic
- Close to beaches like Victoria, Table Rock, and Thousand Steps
- Perfect for romance and relaxation
Conclusion
Laguna Beach has a unique ability to make every visitor feel at home. The coastline, the art culture, the warm neighborhoods, and the sound of the waves create a destination worthy of slow mornings, long walks, and unforgettable sunsets. Choosing the right hotel helps shape that experience.
Whether you want luxury with panoramic ocean views, a quiet canyon retreat, a stylish boutique escape, or a cozy beachfront stay, Laguna Beach offers something perfect for every traveler. Your 2026 getaway starts with picking the place that feels right — and from there, the magic unfolds naturally.