Orange County’s Coastal Wonders: A Drive from Laguna Beach to Long Beach

Orange County and southern Los Angeles’ coastal charm is as plain as day in its seaside towns, which mirror the area’s diversity and creativity. On this mesmerizing driving tour, you’ll hear inside stories as you take in stunning ocean views and learn about the people who shaped this region, from ancient Native Americans to modern celebrities.

Starting from picturesque Laguna Beach, a haven for artists and surfers, you’ll cruise along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway to Dana Point, a whale-watching hotspot. You’ll then double-back on the highway to Long Beach where the tour ends. En route, I’ll point out places to sample local specialties, like mouthwatering beignets on the beach in Crystal Cove and succulent lobster rolls in Newport Beach. You’ll also discover the best spots for seaside activities, vibrant nightlife, and shopping. You’ll drive along Mariner’s Mile, a stretch of highway that, during Prohibition, was notoriously known for its many secret speakeasies. Before the tour ends, you’ll have a chance to explore Naples Island, known locally as the “Venice of America” for its network of canals.

Along with discovering the beauty, history, and culture of this amazing stretch of coastline, you’ll also have a chance to:

• Feel the breeze in your hair as you cruise through Huntington Beach, Seal Beach, and Newport Beach
• Travel back in time and learn about the ancient Acjachemen and Tongva tribes, the original inhabitants of this land
• Find out about a Cadillac dealer whose crazy marketing stunt involved giving away land with every car purchase
• Explore the charming islands of Newport, where you can admire the elegant homes, yachts, and gardens of the rich and famous
• Visit Balboa Island and Balboa Peninsula, two of the most popular destinations for locals and tourists alike
• Witness the legendary surf scene at Huntington Beach, where the father of modern surfing, Duke Kahanamoku, introduced the sport in the 1920s
• Seek out Treasure Island Beach, the mysterious spot where a treasure ship lies buried under the sea
• Visit stunning landmarks and historical sites like the Astronaut Islands, the Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach Museum of Art, Lookout Point, and Crystal Cove Historic District
• Finish your tour with a bang by dining or staying on the Queen Mary, the majestic ocean liner that once ruled the seas

Prepare to be enthralled by the stories that await you, and to leave this tour with a profound appreciation for this sensational seaside paradise. The duration of the tour typically ranges from two to three hours, depending on traffic conditions, but feel free to extend your exploration over a couple of days. Remember, you possess this tour for life, which grants you full control over your adventure.

Let the voyage commence!