Laguna Beach is an Ocean-lovers paradise. Here are but a few things you can do to get acquainted with this magical wonder of the world when you stay at The Retreat In Laguna.
Explore the Tidepools - You will find a high/low tide chart in your villa when you arrive at The Retreat In Laguna that tells you when the best time to explore the tidepools are. You can take a low tide walk on the beach or join a tour led by a certified docent with OC Wildlife & Beach Tour. Explore the fascinating creatures that inhabit the shallow salt water pools revealed during low tide in Laguna Beach. Learn about Sea Anemones, Barnacles and Starfish. Find out their roles under the sea as well as some the different areas they inhabit in these marine protected areas.
Observe rescued sea lions and seals at The Pacific Marine Mammal Center just off Laguna Canyon Road in Laguna Beach. The Pacific Marine Mammal Center is the only non-profit center which specializes in marine rescue in all of Orange County. They specialize in the rescue, rehabilitation and release of elephant seals, northern fur seals, harbor seals, California sea lions and cetaceans. This organization is largely supported by volunteers and while admission to the center is free, donations are accepted and they also have a gift shop that helps to raise money for the center.
Go on a Whale Safari - Head south from Laguna Beach to Dana Point for whale watching with Dana Wharf. While Gray whale migration has already reached it’s peak and this season, Dana Wharf spotted over 500 Gray whales. We are now waiting for the Blue Whales to make their appearance in Laguna Beach any day now. Take an unforgettable trip with their knowledgable crew and get to know these truly amazing gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Surfs Up! - Make it an endless Summer by taking Stand Up Paddle lessons with the pros at Costa Azul Surf Shop. They are located right down the alley from The Retreat In Laguna. Costa Azul is Laguna Beach’s only full service surf shop and rated #1 in Orange County for Surf & Stand Up Paddle board lessons. Already a seasoned surfer? Find rentals for stand up paddle boards, surfboards, wetsuits, bodyboards, skimboards, even masks & fins if you prefer to snorkel. The shop features a full store of surf gear for sale too, including custom boards designed by owner and shaper, Rod Greenup.
Tour The Wyland Gallery - Visit one of the premier galleries in Laguna Beach featuring art by World renowned Wyland who’s art is inspired by California, the Florida Keys and Oahu’s beautiful North Shore sunsets and the sea. The Wyland Gallery features Wyland’s new series of original paintings is a combination of abstract expressionism with contemporary art to reflect the radiant colors and organic shapes reflected in natural world.” The Wyland Villa (Villa Teatro) is currently showing Wyland Art and our Wyland Package donates 10% of proceeds from the sale of the package back to the Wyland Foundation which supports the preservation of our beautiful Oceans through education.