Hotel Joaquin, a perfect exterior motel located just off the Pacific Coast Highway in Laguna Beach is everything you want it to be. Tucked away from the downtown Laguna crowds, this hotel is located just steps from the bench and close enough to town you can feel all of the Laguna charm. Recently renovated to a minimalist perfection, this hotel will make you dream of California long after your stay.
The Hotel and Surroundings
Laguna Beach is a picturesque coastal town nestled in Orange County, California, known for its stunning beauty and laid-back charm. Just a short stroll from the hotel, you'll discover some of the town’s most breathtaking beaches and hidden coves. Crescent Bay, just steps away, is particularly beloved for its tranquil waters and serene cove setting. With only 22 rooms, the hotel exudes the intimate charm of a stylish friend’s beach house, offering inviting communal spaces like a central living room and bar that fully open to the refreshing California breeze. The pool, reminiscent of a 1960s motel design, has been thoughtfully renovated to create an irresistible spot to unwind after a day spent by the ocean. Our favorite time to visit Laguna is after June gloom, anytime later July - November is a stunning time of the year there.
The Interiors
Hotel Joaquin opened in
2018 with interiors by the wonderful Robert Mckinley team. The renovation transformed the property into the bohemian yet modern boutique hotel it is today, blending mid-century design elements with coastal influences to create a relaxed feel. The thoughtful redesign preserves the charm of the original space while elevating it with contemporary touches that feel at home in the relaxed setting of Laguna Beach. White oak details throughout the bedrooms and communal spaces give an almost Japanese feel to the space, further creating an oasis within this beach town. We prefer the upper level rooms with sea views to experience that ocean view the moment you wake up and open your drapes.
In the neighborhood
Our favorite thing to do while in Laguna Beach is waking up and going into the ocean. While Crescent Bay is just steps away, there is also several other favorites of ours within only a short drive away from the hotel. Thousand Steps beach, as advertised, will take you a thousand steps to reach, is worth the struggle and away from the tourist crowds with mostly locals only. Treasure Island Beach, located just steps down from The Montage hotel, is a favorite of ours for snorkeling. A protected cove that is south facing offers one of the most magical settings in town. Table Rock Beach, another private beach setting within Laguna Beach, is a stunning beach with striking cliffs right on the sand. It's a favorite among locals for surfing.
Within the town of Laguna Beach, you'll find many local cafes and restaurants. Laguna restaurants are casual and laid back, mostly relaxed cafes in the area. For a real local feel, we love the Orange Inn to pick up sandwiches and juices as a break from the beach day. La Sirena Grill is a Mexican cafe in town that we love to order to go and take down to the beach with us. For coffee in town, Bear Coast Coffee is our favorite place to sit on their terrace and watch PCH and the coast. Urth Cafe, in North Laguna close to the hotel is an another great spot for a quick lunch in the town.
For a local dinner, Nicks in town or Sapphire are good options for a buzzy atmosphere. Lumberyard or Brussels bistro are also nice options within the downtown streets where you can walk to and from different bars for a pre or after dinner drink. During the summer, visiting the Sawdust Festival for local crafts and art is a must in an open air market setting. Pageant of the Masters is also a wonderful summer activity, in an open theatre in the woods where you can see people posing in famous paintings in a theatrical way. Laguna Beach is the most artistic town in Orange County with an incredible art scene and galleries throughout. There is no shortage of things to do.
