Renovated in March 2015, Laguna Beach House looks like a standard bi-level motel on the outside, but walk inside, and it’s like stepping into the living room of a surfer with an eye for mid-century modern design. Planked white walls give way to oak wood floors, neutral toned sofas and butterfly chairs. There are bohemian cushions and plenty of flora adding vibrant pops. Eclectic trinkets pepper the lobby, from a croquet set to a shelf holding maracas, encyclopedias, and action figures. The coastal inspiration is clear from the decorative surfboards, lamps with rope knot bases, and elevator door painted to look like the sky. The outdoor pool deck, complete with music on the sound system and strung lights, is a popular -- sometimes crowded -- place for guests to lounge. The small-ish space isn’t conducive to large groups, but invites a sense of relaxation with a splash of adventure that’s ideal for anyone wanting a mellow but fun California getaway. 

Although perched just off a busy highway in the middle of Laguna Beach, the hotel’s location near the beach escapes traffic noise while offering fantastic ocean views. The city’s boardwalk of restaurants, galleries, museums, and shopping are within walking distance, and most popular scenic attractions are close by as well. Major tourist spots like the Laguna Art Museum, Main Beach, and Heisler Park are under 10 minutes away on foot. Hiking trails in Laguna Canyon are an 11-minute walk away. Crescent Bay Point Park is a 17-minute walk away from the hotel. There’s a bus stop located a five-minute walk from the hotel, but cars are a quicker bet to reach farther locations like the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.  

John Wayne Airport is a 21-minute drive away. Los Angeles International Airport is an hour-and a-half away by car. 

Light beige carpets, bright white walls and shutters, linen bed throws, and wicker chairs keep the spacious rooms here feeling airy and matching the coastal surroundings. Accent cushions, surfboards above the headboards, and beach-themed wall prints and books add touches of warmth and character. 

Guests choose either Coastal Level King or Pool Level King or Queen rooms. Some Coastal Level Rooms include small, private balconies offering gorgeous ocean views. A handful of Pool Level Rooms come with private patios overlooking the water, hills, and pool deck. All rooms provide large dressers and closets, plus ironing equipment. Keurig coffeemakers are included, and decently-stocked minibars and baskets of snacks are available for purchase. Rooms also have air-conditioning and 32-inch flat-screen TVs. Unlimited Wi-Fi, along with a canvas tote containing beach needs like towels, shovels, and underwater cameras, are provided as part of the daily amenity fee. 

Bathrooms have an unconventionally open layout; beautifully painted sinks with plenty of counter space are located outside the toilet and shower areas, which can be either awkward or convenient depending on travelers’ preferences. All bathrooms have shower/tub combos with fixed showerheads and natural-based Lather toiletries, but no hairdryers. 

The mandatory nightly fee includes most of the hotel’s amenities, including daily newspapers in the lobby and beach rental equipment like surf and boogie boards. While there’s no kitchen or restaurant on-site, the fee also covers daily coffee, tea, yogurt and granola in the mornings, along with a wine hour plus cookies and milk every evening. 

The pool deck, expanded as part of the hotel’s renovations, is a standout feature that includes a spacious hot tub and a fire pit. While the pool itself isn’t large, lots of chairs with umbrellas, along with light music, make the space suitable for lounging when it’s not too crowded.

A meeting room fits 15 people for small business or personal events. Special stay packages include surfing or stand-up paddleboard lessons, or Champagne and sweets on arrival. The hotel also sells custom-designed souvenirs at the front desk.  On-site covered parking is charged per night.