From Beaches To Art Galleries In Laguna Beach

Photo source: AnaheimOC.org

The views along the coast in the Orange County town of Laguna Beach are so spectacular they look like they belong in a painting. Perhaps that's the reason this picturesque place has had such a close relationship with the art world over the years as artists can't help but be inspired by the beauty that surrounds them. Here are the best ways to combine the waves and the arts in Laguna.

Hold Still

Leave the beach and drive a bit up Laguna Canyon to find the famed "Pageant of the Masters" which is held every July and August. The 2015 edition runs July 8-August 31 with the theme of "The Pursuit of Happiness."

The Pageant is unique in that it creates "living pictures" of famous paintings throughout history by having live people in costume and makeup pose in settings to recreate iconic, classic and contemporary paintings. The 90-minute show takes place each night at 8:30 p.m. in the cool of the evening as the sun sets.

In addition to the Pageant, the "Festival of Arts" grounds are also host to an art show during the summer and shows and events throughout the year, including a number of events for kids.

Sifting Through Sawdust

The Sawdust Summer Art & Craft Festival has featured local artists since 1966. Its calendar is similar to the Pageant - for 2015 it runs June 26-Aug. 30 - and the grounds are located just across the street from the Pageant on Laguna Canyon Road so it's easy to access both.

The Summer Festival features over 200 Laguna artists and crafts-people. There is also a Winter Festival that runs on weekends in November and December as well as classes, celebrations and activities throughout the year.

Sounds of Surf

The motto of Surf & Sand Resort is "Our best asset is our loudest asset." That asset is the sound of the waves breaking on the sand, which guests don't have to strain to hear since the balconies of the rooms sit right over the beach. If you're the type of person who finds the sounds of the ocean soothing, you'll sleep like a baby. If not, don't worry, they provide earplugs in every room.

When you're not sleeping, walk right on to the beach from the hotel, lounge by the pool overlooking the ocean, get a treatment at the Aquaterra Spa, or take advantage of onsite dining options that provide great views.

Bites By The Beach

Visiting Las Brisas restaurant, located on a hilltop at the north end of town, is worth a visit for the views alone, but you'll also find yourself marveling at the Mexican Riviera seafood dishes. The restaurant has been drawing visitors for decades by offering fresh seafood as part of its breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch menus.

In addition to the restaurant, Las Brisas has a large patio that is a popular spot for stopping in to enjoy drinks and appetizers while watching the sun set into the Pacific Ocean.

Whether it's painted or natural, travelers will find themselves surrounded by beauty in Laguna Beach.

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Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.