Laguna Beach is the perfect destination for anyone wanting to get closer to nature with tons of activities for people of all ages both by the ocean and in the canyon.We’ve compiled a list with the help of the Laguna Beach Visitor’s Center to bring you our Top 10 Things for Nature Lovers in Laguna Beach, many of which are just a short walk from your villa right here at The Retreat.
- Explore the Tide-pools – Explore the amazing marine life hidden just below the waves. Laguna Beach boasts impressive tide-pooling opportunities, giving you an up-close look at marine life. Drop in to the Visitors Center to view an Emmy-Award winning DVD on the tide-pools of Laguna Beach. Want a closer look? Let us arrange to have a guide from the OC Wildlife and Beach Tours take you on a Low Tide Walk along the California Riviera.
- Pacific Marine Mammal Center – The only marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation center in Orange County, the nonprofit Pacific Marine Mammal Center specializes in rescue, rehabilitation and release of marine mammals. Stop in to see the animals up close…you may even catch a feeding! Free admission. Donations accepted. Open everyday from 10am-4pm. 20612 Laguna Canyon Road. After rehabilitation at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, sea lions are released back into the Pacific Ocean. Watch as they are reunited with their natural environment. Contact the PMMC to find out when the next release will be held. (949) 494-3050
- Dolphin & Whale Spotting – Did you know that Laguna’s dolphin population exceeds that of Florida, Hawaii and the Caribbean combined! If you happen to be in the right place at the right time and keep your eye on the ocean, you just might see a playful pod go by…maybe even right from your balcony right here at The Retreat. Otherwise, take a tour with Dana Wharf Whale Watching or take a ride with Captain Dave on a Dolphin and Whale Safari.
- Bird Watching – Laguna Beach is one of California’s greatest bird sanctuaries, home to several unique and endangered species. Learn more about how to spot them in their natural habitat by visiting the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road. (949) 923-2235.
- Crystal Cove State Park – Immerse yourself in its three miles of California coastline, wooded canyons, open bluffs, and offshore waters designed as an underwater park. Swim surf, scuba, fish, mountain bike, or hike – this park truly has something for everyone. At Crystal Cove State Park, you can explore on your own, or take part in a public tour of the Historic District on the second Saturday of each month.
- Walk with a Naturalist – Each Saturday a Naturalist from the Laguna Canyon Foundation meets at Willow Canyon to share Laguna’s unique flora, fauna, and natural habitat. Willow Canyon & Laguna Canyon Road intersection. 9:00 am departure. (949) 923-2235.
- Kayaking – Kayak Southern California’s most magnificent coastline and see Laguna Beach the way it was meant - from the Pacific, where nature performs daily. Explore hidden coves, rugged cliffs, reefs, beaches and playful sea lions. Take a guided tour or paddle out yourself.
- Protect the Environment – Locals and visitors alike are invited to participate in First Saturday’s beach clean-ups. Volunteers gather to keep our beaches pristine. Get a “red army” T-shirt and your own trash “picker” from 10:00am-12:00noon.
- Explore the Outdoors of Laguna – In Laguna Beach access over 20,000 acres of wilderness. Hike or bike on your own or take a guided eco-tour with La Vida Laguna and enjoy Laguna Beach’s beautiful outdoors. Parking at the wilderness parks is $3 for the entire day.
- Go on an Luxury Outdoor Adventure – Looking for something a little more daring? Get your heart pumping and your lungs burning on a luxury hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering trip with Lux Adventures. Activities designed with the discriminating adventurer in mind.
