5 Outdoor Activities to do in Laguna Beach; Five for 5

Our Five for 5 blog series focuses on what to visit, see and do in Laguna Beach. This fourth story will be about some of the outdoor activities to enjoy in Laguna.

MAIN BEACH FUN

Main Beach is the hub of activity with people passing by on the boardwalk and relaxing on the beach. Main Beach is truly the heart of Laguna and offers several FREE and fun activities. Pick up a game of basketball on the courts that are steps from the sand, or jump down in the sand and enjoy a game of beach volleyball. Skip down to the water's edge and swim or body surf in the refreshing Pacific Ocean. Whatever youchoose, Main Beach has something for you.

Need to Know:

Parking along PCH and Ocean Ave. Make sure to have money for meters

Beach is open 5am to 1am year round

CANYON HIKES

Laguna has more than 20,000 acres of land designated as a wildlife sanctuary. The preserved land is in and around the canyon, off Highway 133, and stretches out nearly to the shores of the Pacific. Here you can find thousands of miles of trails to explore that transport you out of the ‘city feel’ and into a diverse wilderness oasis. The Laguna Canyon Foundation sponsors a variety of guided hikes that cover topics from how the indigenous people of the area lived, to the native horticulture and animal life found in the area.

Need to Know:

Laguna Canyon Foundation

Recommended $2 donation

Parking $3

For full listing of events and to RSVP click HERE.

SURFING AND PADDLE BOARDING

It's no secret that Laguna Beach has an amazing coastline that draws millions of visitors each year to its shores. One of the most popular activities is grabbing a board and harnessing the pour of the ocean for a thrilling ride. On any given day, you’ll see surfers, body boarders, skim boarders and paddle boarders in the water. Laguna Beach is home to the innovation of skim boarding back in the ‘20s when lifeguards used driftwood to skim and jump the waves. With many coves offering calm waters, Laguna Beach is a popular spot for paddle boarders. If you're new to the sport of surf, there are several local companies that offer lessons and board rentals.

Need to Know:

SUP 

La Vida Laguna 

For a rundown of the best surf, paddle, skim boarding spots click HERE. 

 SNORKELING AND DIVING

Get below the ocean’s surface and take a dive into its depths to view sea life. In the early morning hours, you'll often see local scuba divers at Diver's Cove, named such for the excellent diving spot. Another popular spot is Cleo Street Beach that has a shipwreck 200 yards offshore that divers enjoy exploring. Treasure Island with its unique rock formations and tide pools is another fantastic spot for snorkelers.

Need to Know:

Be sure to check tide tables and water conditions before heading out.

Beaches are open 5am to 1am year round

MOUNTAIN BIKING

With a myriad of trails that traverse the changing terrain of Laguna, mountain bikers have found a reason to keep returning to Laguna Beach. From the highest point at 'Top of the World,' attracting downhill bikers to the steep climbs, coupled with the rocky terrain of El Moro, which entice  expert cross-country riders. Willow and Big Bend are popular staging areas for the beginner to intermediate rider. No matter the trail you choose to ride, you'll surely be treated to gorgeous canyon and ocean views.

Need to Know:

Check OC Parks for trail conditions and information

Remember bikes must yield to hikers on all trails.

By Anne-Marie S.