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The Laguna Beach "Launch" Date San Diego

The Laguna Beach "Launch" Date Print E-mail
Written by Adam
August 30, 2009

Sunset_at_Casa_Del_CaminoMy wife has been so busy working on this website that I decided it was well overdue to reward her "billable" hours with some away play in Laguna Beach...  and in celebration of the exciting launch of this site.  Laguna Beach is only moments away from San Diego, but a true weekend getaway.  (This weekend date is under Marriage Refresh, but it's also the perfect way to build memories for those already dating.)

As this trip was a last minute decision, our limited options landed us in Dana Point (which is just south of Laguna), and in a hotel I wouldn't recommend.  But, I strongly recommend the hotel we last enjoyed in Laguna, The Hotel La Casa del Camino- as they say, it's a 1927 seaside retreat that "combines exquisite 'old-world' charm with modern amenities."  It's just far enough outside of the more touristy parts of Laguna to provide the perfect romantic backdrop to your weekend away.

After you check in, head straight up to their beautiful and happening rooftop bar.  Enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer... and one of the most scenic views in all of Laguna... yes, the ocean, but also the beautiful people who call this spot home on Friday and Saturday nights.  And, be prepared to join the locals in applause as the sun sets and your night truly begins.

Laguna is all about art... and there is no finer art in Laguna Beach than the food.  Partake, partake, partake...

Sapphire Laguna is a beautiful restaurant that is just a block north of The Hotel La Casa del Camino, which makes it the perfect spot for dinner on your first night.  There's nothing like checking into a hotel and putting away the car keys for at least the first night.  Note that Sapphire Laguna also has an expansive and creative lunch menu, and an umbrella filled patio for day play.

Make Saturday your day to venture into the heart of Laguna Beach (South Coast Highway and primarily south of Broadway Street).  Once there, venture around the quaint town and enjoy (or, if you're like me, keep your date away from) the abundant shopping. For lunch, our tried-and-true staple is 230 Forest Avenue. Simple and clean decor, wallet friendly and great farm fresh food.  And, yes, as long as you remember the name, you will have no trouble remembering the address for this restaurant that you're sure to enjoy.

Watermarc Restaurant is the more upscale, sister restaurant to 230 Forest Avenue.  Watermarc is one of the newest additions to Laguna Beach, and we thoroughly enjoyed our first experience.  I recommend 230 for lunch, and to save Watermarc for dinner.  The downstairs is fun and lively, but if you're looking for a more romantic and intimate experience ask for a table upstairs.  The wait staff were the perfect combination of attentive, knowledgeable and friendly and the food was unbelievable.  Venture out and try their seafood sausage.

For the perfect nightcap, make a surprise stop at the Montage hotel for a drink.  It is a spectacular hotel with all the things your date will love... wine, fireplace and a warm blanket (in the cabinet near the fireplace--wait to see thier eyes light up as you make this discovery).  Trust me:  This is a no-fail way to top off your night before heading back to the hotel for your reward.

Okay, by now, you're no doubt in need of a break from all the romance and would welcome some true OC people watching... that's where Javier's in Crystal Cove comes in.  Head there before the sun sets.  Just 5 miles north of The Hotel La Casa del Camino, Javier's gives you the perfect excuse for a scenic drive.  Javier's is a large restaurant with several hidden rooms and nice outdoor options with a comfortable feel, but it is BUSY... a multi-hour wait can be the norm, but that's why you're there... grab a drink, dark glasses (just keep telling your date that they're for the bright sun) and enjoy the OC scene.

Note that another great dinner option is Tabu Grill, which is less than 3 miles to the south of The Hotel La Casa del Camino and has an atmosphere that is all about Zen...  but, as it's located on a busy street, be sure to get a table inside, and then sit back and enjoy.

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