Laguna Beach, California
Surf & Sand Laguna Beach
Pacific tideline resort
Pacific tideline resort
Built directly above the high-tide mark, this post-war seaside hotel keeps daily life tuned entirely to the waves.
What it’s good at
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The highway leads north into downtown Laguna Beach, where independent art galleries cluster on the way to Main Beach.
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The rooms
Motorized shades open to private balconies hanging over the water, where waves break directly below your bed.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Metal-arched cabanas and sun loungers look directly over the waves beside an outdoor hot tub.
The spa
Treatment rooms include an ocean-view couples suite, and an outdoor whirlpool sits outside the recovery lounge.
The gym
The fitness room holds Peloton bikes and interactive mirrors, with weekend yoga sessions held outside by the ocean.
Splashes Restaurant
Folding windows open directly above the breaking waves, and dinner focuses on seasonal coastal California seafood.
Splashes Bar
Lounge tables and an illuminated bar counter sit along a curving wall of windows right above the beach.
How it began
During the Nixon presidency, visiting White House reporters famously broadcasted from the terrace in suit jackets over swim trunks.
Laguna Beach
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The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.