4 BEDROOMS, 3 BATHROOMS, 2 HALF BATHROOMS APPROXIMATELY 5,100 SQUARE FEET OF LIVING AREA APPROXIMATELY 15,400 SQUARE FOOT LOT
Sited at the end of the point just south of the famed Montage Laguna Beach, this architecturally significant property designed by Bill Murray features stunning 270-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and offers rare direct beach access via the estate’s private staircase. The interiors, curated by Tommy Chambers, are a study in form and function: concrete, glass, natural stone, and wood elements are seamlessly combined throughout.
Web# LG23084437
$24,900,000
Explore these popular spots to create the season of your dreams. By LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE STAFF
62
BEACH READS A SLICE OF SUMMER
Check out these books that local experts say are trending this summer. By ASHLEY RYAN
64 IN THE BAG
Four prominent Laguna Beach ladies offer a glimpse at their go-to products for summer days filled with surf and sand.
By ASHLEY PROBST
Contents features / departments
THE ART OF ANTICIPATION
Take a sneak peek at everything new and exciting happening at this summer’s art festivals.
By ASHLEY PROBST
MILESTONE MOMENTS
Pageant of the Masters shares historic photos and memories to celebrate the iconic show’s 90th anniversary.
By SHARON STELLO
THE SHAPER AND THE PAINTER
The Ranch at Laguna Beach adds two new exclusive cultural experiences to the mix.
By JENNIFER PAPPAS YENNIE
REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE
Tour some of Laguna’s top homes currently on the market.
TASTE OF THE TOWN
Explore this restaurant resource for dining out in Laguna Beach.
for summer
(page 50).
Around Town
A look at the latest happenings around Laguna
Community
Beauty in Grace Luncheon; Art of Giving Gala; Laguna Playhouse Gala; Art Star Awards 28
Fabric of the Community: Underwater Wonders
Dedicated stewards from the Laguna Ocean Foundation have worked to sustain ocean ecosystems for the last 20 years, and their work isn’t done yet. 30
Active: Home Run Hitters
Fun and fitness come together in the city of Laguna Beach’s summer softball league.
W&D: Frozen Flavors
As summer heats up, turn to these cold treats to cool you down.
Q&A: Farm Fresh
The Salt Horse helps connect the community to the land with seasonal produce, specialty goods, workshops and more.
82
Last Impressions: 10 Minutes With … Craig Cooley
The president of Laguna Beach Pride 365 talks about the organization’s efforts to support the local gay community, the rainbow lifeguard tower coming to West Street Beach and more.
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER
Steve Zepezauer
GROUP EDITOR
Sharon Stello sharon@firebrandmediainc.com
MANAGING EDITORS
Justine Amodeo, Ashley Ryan
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jessie Dax-Setkus, Sharael Kolberg, Jennifer Pappas Yennie, Ashley Probst, Tanya A. Yacina
DESIGN CREATIVE DESIGN DIRECTOR
Tracy Powell
DIGITAL MEDIA CONTENT WRANGLER
Kim Zepezauer
Magazine
SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
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julie@firebrandmediainc.com
Carol Josepher
carol@firebrandmediainc.com
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dawn@firebrandmediainc.com
Chris Mattingley
chrism@firebrandmediainc.com
PRODUCTION PRODUCTION MANAGER
Tina Leydecker
CORPORATE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & FOUNDER
Steve Zepezauer
PRESIDENT OF SALES & MARKETING
Scott Sanchez
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Tiffany Thompson
CREATIVE & MARKETING DIRECTOR
Tracy Powell
PUBLISHED BY
TO OUR READERS: Laguna Beach Magazine invites you to share your reactions to our latest stories. Send your correspondence to Editor, Laguna Beach Magazine, 900 Glenneyre St., Ste. B, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, or to edit@lagunabeachmagazine.com. The magazine accepts freelance contributions; however, unsolicited materials cannot be returned, and Laguna Beach Magazine accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to unsolicited materials.
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A Perfect Fit
Alessa by Chef Pirozzi / Salerno by Chef Pirozzi
Belmont Village Senior Living
Berkshire Hathaway - Kendall Clark
Berkshire Hathaway - Shauna Covington
City of Hope Orange County
Coldwell Banker - Ballesteros Group
Coldwell Banker - Tim Smith
Compass - Carter Kaufman
Compass - Jim Ardery/Geoff Dunlevie
Correct Choice Dental Implant Center
Douglas Elliman - John Stanaland Festival of Arts
Fredric H. Rubel Jewelers
GG’s Bistro
gorjana jewelry huit
Julie Laughton Design Build
Kase Real Estate - Keven Stirdivant
La Casa del Zorro Resort & Spa
Laguna Coffee Co.
Laguna Playhouse
Lance Heck Jewelry
Livel Real Estate
Merkababe Designs
Montage Laguna Beach
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa
Perspire Sauna Studio Dana Point
Rancho Bernardo Inn
Red Dragon
Sawdust Art Festival
SchoolPower
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Surterre Properties - The Horton Team
The Blend
The Butterfly Man
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Turtle Bay Resort
Whittier Trust
Mom had a nose for business but Dad was more of an artist. Once they both passed on and I was left with the real estate Mom accumulated, I realized that I got my business sense from my father. I’m de nitely Daddy’s little girl. I found myself sitting at mom’s desk, staring at a little wooden boat my dad had carved and crying. I was so overwhelmed. But then my phone rang. Tim was calling to check in on me. He shared memories of Mom and Dad and also had some ideas for how to make this transition easier: paying bills, upkeep on the properties, managing investments – stu like that. Reaching out to check on me may seem like a little thing but it’s made all the di erence.
When their advisor called, I knew my parents were still watching out for me.
— Haley, San Jose
Fun in the Sun
As I write this, an introduction to our Sun & Surf issue, the June gloom is still casting its shadow over Laguna. Here’s hoping the gray clouds subside soon, so we can all enjoy a summer filled with our wonderful Southern California sunshine.
But no matter the weather, this issue of Laguna Beach Magazine offers plenty of inspiration for spending summer in town. Check out our guide (page 50) to our staff and longtime locals’ favorite places for dining with a view, shopping for swimwear and spots for outdoor activities, secluded beach days and watching the sun set. We also talk with some leading Laguna ladies to find out what must-have items they keep in their beach bags for carefree days at the coast (page 64). And for those who prefer lounging on the sand rather than diving into water sports, we’ve highlighted book recommendations for leisurely reading, from novels by Laguna authors to stories set in town and other popular titles coming out this summer (page 62).
Of course, the summer art festivals are back, too, and they’re jam-packed with art demonstrations, classes, music, food and special events. Our preview story, “The Art of Anticipation,” gives a glimpse of what’s in store this year (page 36). Meanwhile, Pageant of the Masters marks its 90th anniversary and so we celebrate the ever-popular show of living pictures with a roundup of fun and memorable vignettes and photos from the production’s history (page 40). From the first year’s parade to celebrities and critter visitors, the Pageant’s timeline is as action-filled as the show itself. So sit back and enjoy flipping through the magazine while we wait for the sun to come out.
Check out our guide to favorite summertime spots in Laguna, like Crescent Bay Beach (above), a great place for a secluded beach day, watching the sunset or just a stroll on the sand. For more staff and locals’ go-to places, turn to page 50.
Sharon Stello Group Editor sharon@firebrandmediainc.com
Are you Craving
Authentic Italian Cuisine in Laguna Beach?
Then head over to ALESSA or SALERNO, the best Italian restaurants in town!
Alessa and Salerno are modern and cozy restaurants that serve authentic Italian cuisine. Enjoy a heart-warming meal with family and friends with a variety of dishes made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Whether you want salad, soup, pizza, pasta, risotto, meat, or a seafood dish, they have something for everyone.
Come and join us at Alessa or Salerno and savor the flavors of Italy in every bite and get ready to be amazed!
Open Wed-Sun 5:00pm-8:30pm
11:30am-9:00pm
calendarof events
“Southern California Contemporary Art: Gifts from the Stuart Spence and Judith Vida-Spence Collection,” showing at Laguna Art Museum
“SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CONTEMPORARY ART: GIFTS FROM THE STUART SPENCE AND JUDITH VIDA-SPENCE COLLECTION”
THROUGH AUG. 6; LAGUNA ART MUSEUM
This exhibition features pieces donated by art collectors and philanthropists Judith Vida-Spence and Stuart Spence, longtime supporters of Laguna Art Museum. Over the years, the couple provided the museum with 119 artworks, many of which are displayed in this show—including West Coast pop art, California conceptualism and more. (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org)
JUNETEENTH JUBILEE
JUNE 24; NEIGHBORHOOD
CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
For the second year, the Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center is presenting a Juneteenth celebration, this time in partnership with Neighborhood Congregational Church. A series of related events culminates with dinner and a concert. Enjoy a Tibetan meal and music by Vision, a four-piece
group that will perform R&B, soul, jazz and gospel hits. (949-652-2787; lbculturalartscenter.org)
PET PARADE & CHILI COOK-OFF
JUNE 24; NEIGHBORHOOD
CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
Join Laguna Real Estate/Charitable Assistance Fund for an exciting day in the sun as the group raises money for its own programs as well as the Laguna Beach Animal Shelter and Blue Bell Foundation for Cats. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, face painting, chili tasting, decorated golf carts and costumed dogs competing for fun prizes. (949-230-3353; lre-caf.com)
ART FESTIVALS
JUNE 30 - SEPT. 3; LAGUNA CANYON
The art festivals return this summer, offering the opportunity once again to view artwork, listen to live music, grab a bite to eat, see creative demonstrations, take a lesson or attend a special event. Laguna Art-A-Fair and Sawdust Art Festival will run from June 30 to Sept. 3 while Festival of
Arts begins July 5 and Pageant of the Masters starts July 7, with both running through Sept. 1. See our preview on page 36 for more information.
(Laguna Art-A-Fair: 949-494-4514; art-a-fair.com) (Sawdust Art Festival: 949-494-3030; sawdustartfestival. org) (Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Masters: 949-497-6582; foapom.com)
“TRIPTYCH”
JULY 1 - SEPT. 10; VANESSA ROTHE FINE ART
Dan McCaw, Derek Penix and Vanessa Rothe are the stars of this show, with all three California artists on display in the downtown gallery. Contemporary expressionist, realist, impressionist and abstract pieces will all be shown in the exhibit, which was curated by Rothe herself. (949280-1555; vanessarothefineart.com)
FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOW
JULY 4; HEISLER PARK
Spend the day soaking up the sun at the beach then watch as a dazzling fireworks display lights up the night sky on this beloved American holiday. The fireworks, which start at 9 p.m., will be shot off from Heisler Park so stick close to the coast to watch the show. Some north Laguna beaches and hiking trails will close early that day as well. (949497-3311; lagunabeachcity.net)
Artist Kim VanDerHoek
“2 PIANOS 4 HANDS”
JULY 5-23; LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE
This musical comedy features two talented men discussing piano playing, telling stories about past lessons, teachers they had and more as they perform classics from composers like Bach and more modern hits by musicians such as Billy Joel. With laughter, it also reveals the inevitable reality that you sometimes have to let go of your wildest dreams. (949-4972787; lagunaplayhouse.com)
WYLAND BIRTHDAY GALLERY SHOW
JULY 8; WYLAND GALLERIES
LAGUNA BEACH
Commemorate 45 years of Wyland’s art galleries with this special celebration, during which he will unveil new pieces he has created. Guests of the gallery can also shop for original pieces, lithographs, sculptures, books, jewelry and more in this inspired space. Refreshments will be served. (949-376-8000; wyland.com)
PARK YOGA
JULY 11; CRESCENT BAY POINT PARK
Bring your own mat, sprawl out and embrace the beauty of the universe as you flow through yoga poses with Avery Tescher of Dharma Yoga House. Organized by The Great Love Club, this outdoor session on the grass at the park will help ground you as you embrace a new day. A suggested donation of $10-20 is requested. (thegreatloveclub.com)
NEW SWAN SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
JULY 15 - SEPT. 9; UC IRVINE
The UC Irvine Claire Trevor School of the Arts presents a professional Shakespeare festival under the stars, with outdoor performances taking place in a portable, Elizabethan-style space. See two productions based
on the famed writer’s pieces—“As You Like It” and “Julius Caesar”—or attend for “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare,” which presents expedited versions of all 37 plays in just 97 minutes. Tickets are available through the Irvine Barclay Theatre. (New Swan Shakespeare Festival: newswanshake speare.com) (Irvine Barclay Theatre: 949-854-4646; thebarclay.org)
CURATING CREATIVITY CAMP
JULY 17-21; LAGUNA ART MUSEUM
During this special summer camp for kids, the children get a behindthe-scenes look at putting together an art exhibition. With the chance to be artists, curators and art handlers, the kids will get to experience the local museum in a whole new light.
Snacks are provided each day of this weeklong camp, which is available for youth ages 6-12. (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org)
SEACHANGE SUMMER PARTY
JULY 22; WALDORF ASTORIA MONARCH BEACH RESORT & CLUB, DANA POINT
On average, Oceana’s SeaChange Summer Party raises more than $1 million each summer in order to protect the world’s oceans. During the fundraiser, the group will highlight the impact its work has had so far as well as recognize individuals who make a difference environmentally. Actress June Diane Raphael will serve as Master of Ceremonies while Paul Naudé, CEO of surfwear brand Vissla and president of the Surf Industry Members Association, will be recognized as an Ocean Champion and rock band Third Eye Blind will serve as the musical guest as visitors dance under the stars. (949-4156066; seachangesummerparty.org) /
EDITOR’S NOTE: EVENTS MAY CHANGE. CHECK WITH ORGANIZERS FOR UPDATES.
TO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT: editor@lagunabeachmag.com; If you’re on Facebook, make sure to “like” Laguna Beach Magazine, and follow @LagunaBeachMagazine on Instagram.
FIRST THURSDAYS ART WALK: JULY 6; VARIOUS LOCATIONS
First Thursdays Art Walk is a beloved tradition in town that encourages locals and visitors alike to view artwork and mingle at local galleries. (949-415-4652; firstthursdaysartwalk.org)
FREE YOGA IN THE PARK: Monday, Thursday and Saturday, 8 a.m.; Treasure Island Park (949-280-1822; yogainthepark. blogspot.com)
LAGUNA ART MUSEUM:
ONGOING
In addition to art exhibits, check out Laguna Art Museum’s special events, including a lecture on town history in honor of Laguna Beach’s 96th birthday (June 29) and a Live! at the Museum performance inside the museum from Quarteto Nuevo, featuring saxophone, cello, guitar and percussion (July 9). (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org)
LAGUNA BEACH FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon; Forest Avenue and Laguna Canyon Road (ocerac.ocpublicworks.com)
LAGUNA LAUGHERS: (was a formal club through midJanuary; now an informal group) Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.; Main Beach (lyinstitute.org)
NATURE HIKES: Various dates; Laguna Canyon Foundation (949-497-8324; lagunacanyon.org)
SAWDUST STUDIO ART CLASSES:
During the summer Sawdust Art Festival, attend complimentary art classes at all of the demonstration booths. Guests can attempt to master the pottery wheel to create ceramic pieces, try their hand at painting and more during festival hours. (949494-3030; sawdustartfestival.org)
The SeaChange Summer Party in nearby Dana Point
New Swan Shakespeare Festival
CITY OF HOPE ORANGE COUNTY OFFERS THE MOST ADVANCED TREATMENTS FOR PROSTATE AND OTHER CANCERS AFFECTING MEN
Jeffrey S. Yoshida, M.D.
“Cancer doesn’t stand a chance against our level of expertise.”
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States and the most common cancer in men over 50. In fact, one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
“Prostate cancer is highly treatable when caught early and when care is provided by highly trained, specialized experts using the most advanced treatments and technologies available,” said renowned surgeon Jeffrey S. Yoshida, M.D., Medical Director of Urologic Surgery at City of Hope Orange County. “At City of Hope, we treat nearly 6,000 patients annually, with five-year survival rates close to 100 percent.”
This level of expertise results from years of developing one of California’s largest prostate cancer programs, one of the largest databases for prostate cancer research — and the most robotic surgery experience in the Western United States.
Dr. Yoshida is a pioneer in robotic surgery, having performed more than 3,000 surgeries for prostate cancer. He uses the latest advances in robotic surgery and molecular imaging to ensure his patients have the best care possible at City of Hope
Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center — Orange County’s most advanced comprehensive cancer center.
“For many patients, minimally invasive surgery is a common treatment option,” Dr. Yoshida said. “Robotic surgery typically offers patients fewer side effects and faster recovery. City of Hope pioneered these procedures and has performed thousands of robotic surgeries for prostate and other urologic cancers, more than any other hospital in the western United States.”
With June being Men’s Health Month, Dr. Yoshida urges all men to take control of their health by getting screened for prostate cancer. If you or someone you love is diagnosed with prostate cancer, seek care from an expert at City of Hope Orange County.
“Cancer doesn’t stand a chance against our level of expertise,” Dr. Yoshida said.
For more information, visit CityofHope.org/OC. To make an appointment at any of our Orange County locations, call 888-333-HOPE (4673).
Around Town / Creating Access
GIRL POWER
Fewer than 7% of those involved with Scouts BSA, formerly the Boy Scouts, reach the rank of Eagle Scout—the highest designation you can earn. Laguna Beach Scouts BSA Troop 35 G, a girl’s group founded in 2019 when the organization became co-ed, recently recognized three members as Eagle Scouts, joining three who had previously achieved that ranking. New honorees include May Chapman, who created a lesson plan, book and craft pilot program on airplanes, feathers and satellites for Project Scientist, which earned her the ranking last summer. Then, in the fall, Elizabeth Keyser became an Eagle Scout through the construction of a patio for Surf and Turf Therapy’s San Clemente location; the company provides therapy through water sports and horseback riding for youths with disabilities. Most recently, Chloe Duong created a butterfly garden at El Morro Elementary School to earn her Eagle Scout rank in January. (lagunabeach35.mytroop.us) —A.R.
At Laguna Art Museum, education and outreach come together in the Create Access program, which allows students from government-assisted Title 1 schools in Orange County to enjoy free educational tours and interactive classes at the institution. In March, the program received additional support in the form of the California Cultural and Historical Endowment Museum Grant, which awarded $178,288 to the Laguna museum. This grant will assist in developing students’ art skills while also teaching them about history and language arts. Students ranging from kindergarteners to high school seniors may take part in the program, which currently focuses on creativity as well as recovering from learning loss brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2024, Create Access is expected to have served at least 5,000 children. (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org) —Ashley Ryan
From far left: Chloe Duong, Elizabeth Keyser and May Chapman have reached the rank of Eagle Scout.
Students at Laguna Art Museum as part of the Create Access program
Laguna Beach Scouts BSA Troop 35 G, part of the now co-ed Scouts BSA
ARTISTIC EXPANSION
Two prominent faces in the arts are joining the local theater scene this season, with Laguna Playhouse’s board of directors settling on new artistic and managing directors. Both of these leaders come from North Coast Repertory Theatre in San Diego County, where they will continue to work as they also help pilot our local playhouse. Artistic Director David Ellenstein has theater in his blood, having been born into an artistic family and worked on more than 300 productions over the last five decades. He has also acted for theater, film and television over the years. Ellenstein is joined by Bill Kerlin, who serves as managing director. Kerlin has spent the last 12 years at the Solana Beach theater, but has more than 30 years of experience with marketing, sales and finance, having graduated magna cum laude with a degree in business administration from the University of Miami. (949-497-2787; lagunaplayhouse.com) —A.R.
From top: Bill Kerlin; David Ellenstein
Casual Luxury
At La Casa Azul Design, a new interior design showroom that opened in town in mid-June, the focus is on simple, elegant spaces, bringing cool, casual luxury to town. Located at 2094 S. Coast Highway, the award-winning company relocated from Ladera Ranch, bringing with it an array of services for the people of Laguna Beach and beyond. Through careful curation and attention to detail, CEO and principal designer Juaneice Munoz offers bespoke, full-service design with concierge-style service, including construction documents, project management, furniture, decor and more. La Casa Azul also offers large-scale space planning, complete with a color palette and furnishings, as well as architectural plan consulting for those looking for hand-crafted results. Visit the company’s website for additional information on how to make the most out of your home build or renovation as well as a web store offering furniture, lighting, textiles and decor items. (844-328-8188; lacasaazuldesigns.com) —A.R.
Juaneice Munoz (left), CEO and principal designer at La Casa Azul Design, has relocated the company’s studio (above) to Laguna Beach.
Pamela Knudsen (right) released her first children’s book, “Two Cats, a Mermaid and the Disappearing Moon,” in March.
CURIOUS CATS
When it comes to children’s books, animals are the perfect characters and, for Laguna Beach resident Pamela Knudsen, there was one obvious choice. As a longtime volunteer with the Blue Bell Foundation for Cats and a friend to many felines over the years, Knudsen knew she wanted to incorporate curious cats in her first children’s book. “Two Cats, a Mermaid and the Disappearing Moon” was released at the end of March, following the adventures of Topper and Lexington—inspired by pets she had—as they venture out of their yard to try to find the missing moon. It’s been a long time coming, with the book first taking shape back in 2008, but now that it’s here, Knudsen has celebrated with various readings, including one at the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach in the spring. “One little girl hugged me at the end,” Knudsen revealed in a press release. “This is the incidental benefit that I’m loving—engaging with kids and showing them through my book that Mother Nature is magical and animals are something to behold.” The book is available locally at Laguna Beach Books and can also be purchased online through both Amazon and Barnes & Noble. (catladyinthecanyon.com) —Ashley Ryan
ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
Art is a huge part of the fabric of Laguna Beach and, as a longtime resident, artist and former lifeguard, so is sculptor Casey Parlette. So, who better to teach the next generation? In March, Parlette was named Artist in Residence at Anneliese Schools’ Willowbrook campus, one of the organization’s campuses in town that provide private education for young students. Parlette’s multipart sculpture sessions, which he designed for second through fifth graders, started with alabaster stone carving sessions, allowing the children to file the rocks down to reveal a design of their choosing before dunking them in water to reveal their true colors. He also taught a copper repousse class where the kids took thin sheets of copper and used mallets and other tools to hammer or carve a shape into the metal. These sessions helped encourage creative thinking, inquisitiveness and freedom through tactile learning, which are all parts of the school’s core values. “The Anneliese Schools are just so dynamic and they’re so open … [to new ways of learning] that it ended up being really cool to add to their art curriculum,” Parlette says. “… It’s exciting just to think about the ripples of what … [the children] could potentially do with these skills.” The program, which will likely continue next school year, is a partnership with SEEDS Arts and Education, the school’s nonprofit arm that enables students to learn from local experts and share in the creative process. (Anneliese Schools: 949-497-8310; annelieseschools.com) (Casey Parlette: 949-812-2916; caseyparlette.com) —A.R.
Casey Parlette (bottom left), artist in residence at Anneliese Schools, teaches the children stone carving (top and bottom right) and copper repousse techniques (not shown).
“America The Butterfly”
“Amazon Waters” 18” x 26”
“African Fire” 18” x 12”
Miniature Butterfly Cubes
As part of Laguna Beach history, e Butter y Man’s exhibit and sale is not to be missed.
Ken Denton, The Butterfly Man®
Community / Galas & Events
LAGUNA PLAYHOUSE GALA
Theater and music filled the annual Laguna Playhouse Gala, which took place April 1 at the theater and Festival of Arts grounds next door. The event, which raised a gross $275,000 and was attended by about 200 supporters, began at the Playhouse with a sneak peek of the 2023-2024 season including excerpts from “2 Pianos 4 Hands” and “Ain’t Misbehavin’ ” as well as a youth theater performance from “The Lightning Thief” musical. The event moved over to the festival grounds for dinner and a tribute to longtime supporter Ilona Martin, who served on the board for 26 years, helped found the Playhouse Women support group and has co-chaired five galas for the organization, including recognizing actor Harrison Ford as an honorary guest. The evening concluded with music by The Society Band and a live auction for items like floor tickets to Beyonce’s Renaissance World Tour; a Newport Harbor yacht cruise; a vacation in Aspen/Snowmass Village, Colorado; a season subscription at Laguna Playhouse; the chance to name the Playhouse bar for one season and more. (lagunaplayhouse.com) —Sharon Stello
ART STAR AWARDS
Featuring a red carpet reception, art demonstrations and pop-up musical and dance performances, the 15th annual Art Star Awards took place April 28 at the Festival of Arts grounds. Presented by Laguna Beach Art Alliance, the event was attended by 200 supporters. The Laguna JaZz Band, accompanied by vocalist Ginger Hatfield, entertained the crowd with jazz standards throughout the reception. Upon arrival, guests were greeted with a Pageant of the Masters re-creation of Mike Tauber’s “Laguna Beach” from last year’s show as well as other sets. Artist Hugo Rivera painted a portrait on a large canvas and Laguna College of Art & Design students Abigail Shaw, Kayla Janes and Piankhi Robertson showcased their artwork. Dancers from the Laguna Dance Festival performed and plein air painter Anthony Salvo invited guests to add their own brushstrokes to his beachscape. During the evening’s program, the 2023 Art Star Awards were presented, including Artist of the Year to Gerard Stripling; Best Arts Program to Coast Film & Music Festival; Lifetime Achievement to Kathy Jones; Arts Patron of the Year to Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center; and Outstanding Arts Collaboration to Art Inscribed, in which local writers penned pieces inspired by visual artwork, a joint effort by Third Street Writers, The Artists Fund, Festival of Arts and Festival of Arts Foundation. (lagunabeacharts.org) —S.S.
1. Jefferson McDonald, Matthew McGloin 2. John and Bonnie Livingston, Glenn Gray, Veronica Gray, Kathryn Gray, Robert Gray 3. Heather Chalmers, Annee Della Donna, Lisa Hale, Lin Pfent 4. Lin Pfent, Veltria Roman
1. Hugo Rivera 2. Sharbie Higuchi, Carla Meberg 3. Kathy and Ed Hanke 4. Kathy Jones 5. Pat Kollenda 6. Mackynzie Miller
DINE. RELAX. PLAY.
r e a t e m e m o r i e s w i t h a C a l i f o r n i a g e t a w a y
y o u a n d y o u r l o v e d o n e s w o n ' t f o r g e t .
ART OF GIVING GALA
Celebrating its 70th anniversary, the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach held its Art of Giving Gala Platinum Jubilee on May 13 at Montage Laguna Beach. This 22nd annual event, attended by 200 supporters, raised a net of $450,000 for the organization’s programs for youth in the area. A welcome reception was followed by dinner and live entertainment by Close Harmony, a 10-piece big band. Live and silent auctions also helped to raise money at the gala, which is the club’s largest fundraising event of the year. Auction items ranged from an Alaskan fishing trip to stays at Montage resorts in Laguna, Los Cabos and Montana, and a day trip to Bianchi Winery in Paso Robles complete with a private plane ride. The club has grown from serving over 250 children when it was established in 1952 to now serving more than 3,000 children per day in the Laguna Beach, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo and Mission Viejo areas with after-school programs, summer camps, a teen center and more. Programs range from academic tutoring and college preparation to arts and crafts, sports and leadership opportunities. (bgclagunabeach.org) —S.S.
1. Cocktail hour 2. Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach staff and club members at the event 3. Carrie Click, Jimmy Azadian
4. Pam Estes, Zack Krone 5. Attendees near the fundraising wishboards
FRANK SALAS
BEAUTY IN GRACE LUNCHEON
More than $110,000 was raised at the Beauty in Grace women’s giving circle luncheon, hosted by MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center Foundation, March 14 at Club 19 at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club. During the event, members and other guests enjoyed appetizers, Champagne and mocktails during a reception before a three-course lunch. Attendees also heard from a guest panel that included patient Sally Johnson of Monarch Beach, who shared how her breast cancer was detected by an MRI in January. Dr. Samantha Kubaska, a MemorialCare breast radiologist, and Dr. Amy Bremner, medical director of Breast Surgical Oncology, discussed how MRIs—in addition to a 3D mammogram—help to detect and plan treatment for breast cancer. Funds raised at the event will go toward advanced breast MRI technology and equipment for the Sarah & Taylor Nederlander Breast Center in the medical complex’s new Women’s Health Pavilion. This large gift will be recognized with the naming of Beauty in Grace Women’s Giving Circle MRI Lounge. Setting a record, the giving circle boasted 96 members this year. Membership gifts of $1,000 or more are combined to make a significant financial contribution to women’s health services at the medical center. Since 2015, the group has donated nearly $600,000 to this cause. (memorialcare.org) —S.S. /
1. Nora Evans, Christy Ward, Cathy Han, Candace Haynes, Heidi Stoops, Rhonda Longmore-Grund, Jane Frederick 2. Cathy Han, Jane Frederick, Ann Marie Raffo 3. Michelle Tom, Norene Norris-Walsh, Lily Chen
Available only at Belmont Village, Circle of Friends® was pioneered to curb the effects of cognitive decline through a unique program that builds brain fitness. Developed by a nationally recognized gerontologist, Circle of Friends® is rooted in evidence-based research in collaboration with the nation’s top universities. And it works. Residents enjoy a rich, therapeutic program of physical and mental activities designed to maintain brain function and build self-esteem.
Fabric of the Community / Laguna Ocean Foundation Underwater Wonders
DEDICATED STEWARDS FROM THE LAGUNA OCEAN FOUNDATION HAVE WORKED TO SUSTAIN OCEAN ECOSYSTEMS FOR THE LAST 20 YEARS, AND THEIR WORK ISN’T DONE YET.
By TANYA A. YACINA
Established in 2003 by a small group of Laguna Beach residents, the Laguna Ocean Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to the maintenance and health of Laguna’s marine and coastal environment. Poised to celebrate its 20-year anniversary this fall, the foundation’s mission remains to sustain ocean ecosystems.
“We try to ask basic key questions like, ‘How is climate change going to affect our coasts? How are human activities affecting our beaches, tide pools and wildlife? What ecological and economic benefits do our marine environments provide? What does it mean to have a living ocean?’ ” says Rob Lee, managing director of Laguna Ocean Foundation. “With a better understanding, we’ve been able to put together an integrated program that provides cost-effective, innovative and long-term solutions on education, community leadership building, conservation practices and policies, and public-private partnerships.”
According to Lee, the upcoming anniversary event will recognize the people who have contributed to the foundation’s purpose and success. The event will also highlight the group’s journey from the past and explore what’s needed in the next seven years to achieve the goals in the Vision 2030 report.
“It’s been amazing how the city of Laguna Beach and local businesses such as The Ranch [at Laguna Beach] and Montage Laguna Beach resort have supported us in our growth,” Lee says. “We will continue to find solutions for many of the environmental and social issues that we face here and elsewhere—climate change, sea level rise, ocean acidification, pollution, microplastics, invasive species and the list goes on.”
Clockwise from top left: sea stars in local ocean waters; releasing sea lions back into the wild at Aliso Beach; an underwater view of tide pools at Fisherman’s Cove
SEA SESSIONS
WHILE THE LAGUNA OCEAN FOUNDATION’S WORK IS LOCAL, ITS LESSONS HAVE A WIDER REACH THANKS TO SPECIAL PROGRAMMING.
TIDE POOL TEACHERS
Education reigns supreme with the Tidepool Educator Program, which enlists the expertise of specially trained teachers and volunteers to provide information about local marine life to visitors. Limited only by tide level and weather conditions, visitation sites include Heisler Park, Treasure Island, Crescent Bay, Shaw’s Cove, Wood’s Cove and Goff Island. “Stewardship requires care. The underlying principle is, ‘The more you know, the more you care,’ ” explains Rob Lee, Laguna Ocean Foundation’s managing director. “Visitors of all ages are welcome. … Those with a passion for marine science and protection, … [who are] 18 years old or above, can apply to be an educator … or docent.” Docent volunteers (unpaid) receive free, threeday training to introduce them to intertidal life and California’s Marine Protected Area system. Paid educators provide knowledge and resources at the tide pools year-round.
LEVERAGING LEADERSHIP
New in 2023, the Emerging Leaders program seeks to build a generation of science and
conservation leaders, particularly students from underrepresented and underprivileged areas, through mentorship and financial support. “We realize that not all college students, particularly those that attend community colleges, have the access, resources or encouragement to pursue these professions. We hope to inspire them to follow their passion,” Lee says. “Once trained, the student will be part of a larger mentorship network.” Lee says the foundation wants all hands on deck and are looking for community volunteers to help with its education program: artists and photographers to help the organization provide better education material, people in the hospitality industry to better educate tourists about what to do and what not to do on local beaches, and athletes in the surf and skimboard communities to encourage their friends and families to protect the oceanic environment. “We’re always looking for support to have a greater impact—any financial contributions would be greatly appreciated,” Lee adds. To learn more about these programs, participate in them or make a donation, visit lagunaoceanfoundation.com.
HABITAT RESTORATION
Estuaries are rare ecosystems that provide valuable habitats for native fish and wildlife, filter pollution from water that is entering the ocean, and provide resilience to sea level rise and climate change. “In its present state, the [Aliso Creek] estuary is an unhealthy eyesore. We want to bring the lagoon back to Laguna,” Lee says. “We assembled a team of experts experienced in estuary restoration: scientists, restoration ecologists, site planners, engineers and environmental planners.” Lee says that the goal is to restore the degraded site to a healthy and functional ecosystem that will be a jewel of the Laguna coastline while also providing public amenities that enhance visitor mobility, creating a scenic gateway in south Laguna and proclaiming the community’s ethos of stewardship for the natural coast. g
Laguna Ocean Foundation trains docents to educate visitors on the marine life found in local tide pools.
The Aliso Creek estuary is undergoing a restoration.
Active / Softball
Home Run Hitters
FUN AND FITNESS COME TOGETHER IN THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH’S SUMMER SOFTBALL LEAGUE.
By JESSIE DAX-SETKUS
From running the bases to hitting it out of the park, live out your big league dreams on the field during the summertime, when the city of Laguna Beach hosts its adult softball league. With fitness benefits, fun times and a friendly environment for players, the short season is sure to fly by— but not before you’ve had the chance to make memories with your team.
Garrett Rauch, city recreation coordinator, runs the league, which has Monday and Thursday games with two groups playing on separate nights; the current season launched in mid-June. We caught up with Rauch to learn why the local softball league is a fun way to unwind during the summer and what to expect when taking to the field.
LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE: What is your background with softball/baseball?
GARRETT RAUCH: I grew up playing baseball through my senior year of high school. In my 20s, I joined a softball team and played … for five years until I suffered injuries that would no longer allow me to play.
LBM: Why did the city start the adult softball league?
GR: The city started this league to provide team sports opportunities for adults. Team sports are just as fulfilling to adults as kids, and a softball league is a great way to get people together for a little friendly competition and physical activity.
LBM: What are the fitness and social benefits of playing in this league?
GR: Softball is a fantastic full-body workout, increases flexibility, improves mental health and [also] sharpens leadership skills.
LBM: What should you expect for your first season?
GR: Depending on a team member’s previous experiences, … [the games] can be extremely enjoyable. If you are new to this league or softball in general, it will take time to get used to the larger, 16-inch ball.
LBM: How does it all work?
GR: The season consists of a 10-game season with
playoffs. Teams are seeded in[to] the playoff bracket, determined by how many wins and losses they have at the end of the season.
LBM: Where and when do you play?
GR: The games are held at Riddle Field in north Laguna
on Monday and Thursday nights and the league plays throughout the summer.
LBM: What gear do you need to bring to a game?
GR: Softball does not require a lot of gear. All you need is a softball glove, 16-inch softball, bat and cleats.
COURTESY OF THE CITY OF LAGUNA BEACH
The 2022 winning softball teams include the Monday night champions, the Troy Lee Chupacabras (above), and the Thursday night champions, GTR (below).
SOFTBALL SUPERSTAR
GET READY FOR THE BIG GAME WITH THIS TOP-NOTCH GEAR.
1) Ensure you have just the right amount of power at the plate with the USSSA SLOWPITCH BAT weights and lengths so that you can find the one that best suits your needs, $79.99, at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Laguna Hills. (949-472-8180; dickssportinggoods.com)
2) Get a literal taste of the town when drinking out of the 24-ounce, stainless steel THALIA SURF WATER BOTTLE, which pays homage to Laguna Beach with its whimsical design and keeps your water ice-cold throughout the entire game, $44.95, at Thalia Surf Shop. (949-497-3292; thaliasurf.com)
3) Keep the sun or lights out of your eyes by wearing the A-GAME HYDRO ball cap, which comes in 13 different colors so you can match your hat to pretty much any outfit you can think of while playing on or off the field, $69, at Melin. (949-549-4634; melin.com)
4) Play softball in style with Wilson’s durable A360 14” SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL GLOVE ; the glove, which comes in a chic gray color with black stitching, can be used for any position, from the infield to the outfield, $59.99, at Big 5 Sporting Goods, El Toro. (949-951-6311; big5sportinggoods.com)
5) Hit the field knowing your skin is completely protected from the sun thanks to the waterresistant SPORT LOTION MINERAL SUNSCREEN, $9.99, at Whole Foods Market. (949-376-7888; wholefoodsmarket.com) g
Wine & Dine / Frozen Treats
Frozen Flavors
AS SUMMER HEATS UP, TURN TO THESE COLD TREATS TO COOL YOU DOWN.
By SHARAEL KOLBERG
Summertime in Laguna Beach typically means enjoying a day of fun in the sun—and whether you’re frolicking in the waves, going for a hike or lounging on the sand with a book, one of the best ways to cool off on a hot summer day is to indulge in a frozen treat. Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from in Laguna, from sweet treats like gelato and ice cream (including newcomer South Swell Hand Dipped Ice Cream) to healthy acai bowls. Here are a few local favorites to help you beat the heat.
THE STAND NATURAL FOODS
Serving vegan food in Laguna since 1975, The Stand Natural Foods is the perfect place to take a seat under a shady tree with ocean
views and dine on delicious snacks, like the fresh fruit soft serve. It is made entirely out of frozen fruit, with no sugar added, and comes in a variety of flavors, such as banana, strawberry, blueberry, peach and pineapple; you can even mix two flavors together. Owner Alizabeth Arciniaga says that watermelon is particularly popular during the summer months. “It tastes like you’re eating fresh watermelon,” she says. “Since fruit is the only ingredient, the sweetness depends on how sweet the organic fruit is.” The frozen fruit is run through a special juicer to make a consistency that is similar to soft serve ice cream. To add some crunch, choose from toppings like organic almonds, dates, vegan chocolate chips or shredded coconut. (949-494-8101; thestandnaturalfoods.com)
DOLCE GELATO
For a handcrafted, made-from-scratch frozen treat, Dolce Gelato is the place to go. The shop offers 32 different flavors of traditional gelato as well as almond milk and vegan sorbet varieties, plus house-made fruit cobblers that are best served a la mode. Chef Lindsey Nelsen makes fresh, innovative flavors in the on-property kitchen with a unique theme and new options each month. “We like to make flavors that are fun and excite people,” says owner Safa Alawi. Past themes have included Star Wars, gods and goddesses of love, and “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” with flavors such as Imperial Stormtrooper, Eros and Everlasting Gobstoppers. Made using premium ingredients, including milk, cream and sugar, gelato has less fat than ice cream plus no artificial colors or flavors. Cooked and then slow churned, it is also creamier than ice cream. (949-715-9249; gelatobydolce.com)
From left: fresh fruit soft serve at The Stand Natural Foods; Dolce Gelato has 32 flavors.
ACTIVE CULTURE
Just a couple blocks away from the beach, you’ll find Active Culture, a cafe serving up vegetable-forward fare in addition to delicious frozen yogurt. The nutritious eatery typically carries 10 flavors of soft serve “froyo” (including no-sugar-added flavors), ice cream or sorbet. Grab a bowl and help yourself to as big a serving as you’d like. “Our customers love mixing the vegan vanilla coconut and pomegranate raspberry flavors,” says manager Brianna Wilkinson. “And we offer healthy toppings, such as fresh fruit, carob chips and granola.” The frozen yogurt is made by pouring a liquid yogurt mix (which includes guthealthy active cultures, hence the name) into the machines that spin and scrape it off the frozen internal barrel, resulting in soft serve that’s finished in about 20 minutes. (949-7155188; activeculturecafe.com)
BANZAI BOWLS
Named after a popular surfing spot called the Banzai Pipeline on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, Banzai Bowls specializes in acai bowls and smoothies that are high in antioxidants. The owners, who are avid surfers, love having acai for an energy boost before they head out into the ocean. The Maui Sunrise bowl blends together acai, bananas, strawberries and mango along with coconut milk and pineapple juice, which is then topped with lots of fresh fruit—including bananas, strawberries and blueberries— as well as honey, granola and shredded coconut. For an extra boost, request to add ingredients such as bee pollen, dark chocolate, goji berries, hemp protein or maca. Everything is made fresh, so consider ordering ahead to pick up and go. (949715-8989; banzaibowls.com)
ORANGE INN
It’s been nearly a century since Orange Inn opened along the California coastline, presenting an array of fresh-squeezed juices, sandwiches, pastries and more. But the main attraction for many is the Orange Inn Smoothie. This must-try treat has been enticing locals and visitors alike since the 1930s, filled with fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas and blueberries plus dates, bee pollen and juice. Blended together with crushed ice, this smoothie has the perfect consistency and is a great snack for hot days in the sun. Other frozen treats to enjoy here include thick, hand-scooped milkshakes in flavors like date, Oreo, espresso, raspberry or peanut butter; they can also be crafted using fresh guava, peach, apple, orange, mango or grapefruit juices. (949-494-6085; orangeinncafe.com) g
Clockwise from left: Frozen yogurt at Active Culture; the Orange Inn Smoothie; Banzai Bowls’ Maui Sunrise with fresh fruit on top
Q + A
Farm Fresh
THE SALT HORSE HELPS CONNECT THE COMMUNITY TO THE LAND WITH SEASONAL PRODUCE, SPECIALTY GOODS, WORKSHOPS AND MORE.
By SHARON STELLO
Imagine a farmers market inside a store, showcasing the produce of local growers—including Bluebird Canyon Farms—and also offering a curated selection of small-batch goods made with only natural ingredients. That, in a nutshell, is The Salt Horse, a shop opened in early 2022 by Samantha Savage Breit, who previously served as the organic gardening teacher at Anneliese Schools in Laguna Beach.
Savage Breit also co-created and managed the schools’ store for more than six years, which “watered the seed for my appreciation and love for a back-to-the-land lifestyle and nurtured my passion for the food industry,” she says.
“My dream has always been to create a specialty grocery store to bring … community connection to our local farmers and artisan food makers and to inspire people to gather around the table with their family and friends creating food memories. It was how I was raised.”
Located at 1360 S. Coast Highway—inside Business & Pleasure Co.’s flagship store—The Salt Horse carries everything from organic apples and oranges to heirloom eggs from Windrose Farm and gourmet items like Potters Table handrolled, organic flatbreads; Jonboy fleur de sel caramels; Malibu Farm hot sauce and Jilly’s Jerky.
The shop also offers charcuterie boards, custom gift baskets and subscription-based farm boxes, and doubles as an educational space, hosting collaborative workshops, cooking classes, clubs and speakers. Here, Savage Breit offers some insight into the shop’s offerings.
LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE: Why did you want to open The Salt Horse?
SAMANTHA SAVAGE BREIT: I opened The Salt Horse for many important reasons: To provide our community with a local grocery store where the food is grown locally from trusted California family-owned farms, where specialty foods have been carefully researched and
chosen for the integrity of their healthy ingredients—all small-batch [and] made with true intention, as well as to create a space where people feel inspired to gather around the table, telling stories and sharing recipes, with appreciation and knowledge of where their food comes from.
The world is quickly changing and it is going to continue to become more and more absolutely necessary to source your foods from trusted and sustainable sources. The Salt Horse is an innovative grocery store creating a sustainable food delivery system for our local communities.
Samantha Savage Breit, creator of The Salt Horse market
The interior of The Salt Horse, which is located inside Business & Pleasure Co.
LBM: Why is it important to you to carry seasonal produce?
SSB: Seasonal produce … is the most important piece for people to learn [about] so we can all be making the best food choices for our health and the health of our planet. A big change everyone can make is to only eat seasonally. It is how we are all designed to eat, anyhow. We are so lucky to live in California, where we have … [an abundance of] locally grown food all year round. We should all eat locally, support our local farmers, support small specialty grocery stores and all local shops. It truly makes a big difference.
LBM: Can you tell us about some of your favorite specialty foods that the shop carries?
SSB: A question I get asked a lot is how I find and how I choose the specialty
foods and artisanal goods that I carry at The Salt Horse. First, I go down a lot of “rabbit holes.” I love a treasure hunt. I also look for … the story behind it and the story behind the person [or people] … who created it. What’s in it? [I look for] clean ingredients only. And then a few more boxes to be checked. So, because of the integrity and mindfulness of this process, every product is my favorite.
LBM: How do your farm subscription boxes work?
SSB: The Farm Box is a weekly curation of what is seasonally growing the best that week. Filled with the best of the week’s farmers market produce and paired with simple recipes of what to make using all the fruits, vegetables and herbs inside, The Farm Box is truly the best-kept secret. The membership
includes four boxes, but … is totally flexible and [we] understand … travel and busy schedules. If you are not able to receive a farm box one week, you will not be penalized. The Farm Box, as well as everything at The Salt Horse, is available to purchase online—thesalthorse.com—for local delivery as well as shipping nationwide.
LBM: What kinds of special events do you present at the shop?
SSB: Every month, I offer special events and workshops at The Salt Horse. From cooking classes taught by local chefs, flower and art workshops taught by local artists, to Meet the Maker events, The Salt Horse is a collaborative gathering space designed to nourish, connect, educate and inspire. Visit The Salt Horse website for the events calendar and to sign up for our monthly newsletter. g
Art of Anticipation
TAKE A SNEAK PEEK AT EVERYTHING NEW AND EXCITING HAPPENING AT THIS SUMMER’S ART FESTIVALS.
By ASHLEY PROBST
The Laguna Beach art scene comes alive every summer with the openings of its three renowned summer festivals. These creative hubs draw in artists and aesthetes from all over the world to both attend these exhibitions and showcase artworks in them.
This year, Laguna Art-A-Fair and Sawdust Art Festival are set to make their summer 2023 debut June 30 and will both run through Sept. 3.
The Festival of Arts returns from July 5 to Sept. 1 with a special 90th anniversary Pageant of the Masters show featuring an “Art Colony: In the Company of Artists” theme; the presentation of “living pictures” (famous artworks re-created with volunteer models, elaborate sets, costumes and makeup) is nightly from July 7 to Sept. 1.
From new artistic talents and musical acts, refreshed stages and event spaces, an array of workshops to explore and much more, there are plenty of exciting happenings at Laguna’s summer art festivals to discover this season.
Laguna Art-A-Fair
JUNE 30 - SEPT. 3
Laguna Art-A-Fair attracted a recordbreaking 227 applications from artists around the world, 37 of whom were accepted into the festival. New exhibitors will showcase their works alongside returning artists for a total of 115 award-winning creatives across various mediums like oil painting, watercolor, photography, mixed media, glass, jewelry and more.
“During the jury process, I was able to see all the submissions from the extraordinary number of new artists and was
impressed by the diversity of art,” says Laguna Art-A-Fair President Bob Ross. This year will introduce a new layout for the artists’ displays, which is intended to improve the flow of guests and allow for pieces to be seen from fresh perspectives.
Live musical acts will include genres like Motown, surf, country, pop, rock and reggae performed on a new stage with reimagined backdrop; plus there’s a new dance floor. The festival will also host free
Laguna Art-A-Fair will feature the works of 115 artists from around the world this year.
salsa and swing dance lessons throughout the summer.
For a hands-on experience, festivalgoers can choose between 20 different artistic workshops to learn techniques for acrylic paint pouring, basketry, gourd decorating, jewelry making, paper collage, photo editing and more.
“I’ve been in the show [for] 15 years and this year is the first year that I’m signing up for workshops myself,” Ross says.
And, for the first time, festival tickets can be purchased online as well as at the box office.
Local foodies can also rejoice as a pop-up will debut on the festival grounds (at the Seven7Seven wedding and event venue). Laguna Canyon Beer & Wine Garden by chef Roger Barakat features cuisine made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and Mediterranean flair. An expanded wine list has also been curated with well-known wines in addition to offering craft beer and a full bar. Enjoy a drink and some food from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday through Sunday in the Laguna Canyon setting with hillside views, flowers and a cascading waterfall.
Sawdust Art Festival
JUNE 30 - SEPT. 3
The 57th annual Sawdust Art Festival will return with 169 local artists, including 10 new exhibitors and a guest artist—the largest collective of creators at any of this summer’s art shows. This diverse range of art forms includes ceramics, jewelry, glass, photography, woodworking, textiles, painting, sculptures and more, all to be displayed on the refreshed festival grounds.
“We’ve been busy behind the scenes preparing the grounds with new features, mural spaces and a front installation,” says Franky Duschane, director of marketing and public relations.
Murals include “Harmonic,” a 50-footlong art piece by summer exhibitor Tara Luther along the festival’s perimeter, plus a music-inspired backdrop to the Grill Stage by exhibitor Tim Hahne and a selfie wall filled with colorful sea life by new Sawdust artist Lovisa Kjerrgren. “Lovisa’s graphic
mural space is sure to encourage photo opportunities, along with an extra playful installation that is located at the entrance to the show,” Duschane says.
Daily offerings include performances by local musicians and other shows on the event’s three entertainment stages as well as complimentary art classes that will be held across three demo booths.
“Patrons can enjoy hands-on experiences in painting, mixed media, sculpture, crafts and ceramics—the pottery wheel is a fan favorite,” Duschane says, noting that classes are first-come, first-serve and included with admission. “… Visitors can also be wowed by the ongoing educational demonstrations provided by the exhibiting artists. One such favorite can be found at the Glass Demo Booth where master Sawdust glass blowers form and blow molten glass in a fascinating artistic display for visitors.”
Be sure to mark your calendars for special events like the Sawdust Fashion Show
A wide range of mediums will be displayed at Laguna Art-A-Fair.
The Sawdust Art Festival grounds have been refreshed for the summer season.
on Aug. 5 and an Artists’ Benevolence Fund Art Auction on Aug. 13, plus Sip, Talk & Walk, which is a docent-led art tour that takes place every Wednesday at 3 p.m. and includes complimentary wine tastings.
As always, there are plenty of refreshments available at GG’s Mediterranean, Evan’s Gourmet, Tacos Durrell, Espresso on the Go, Fran’s Popcorn, the Sawdust Saloon and Scoops on Tap, a new concession next to the saloon that will offer gourmet beerinfused ice cream, and additional nonalcoholic and vegan varieties.
Laguna Beach residents may want to plan their visit for a Monday or Thursday from 4-8 p.m., as the festival will be offering free entry for locals.
Festival of Arts
JULY 5 - SEPT. 1
Featuring 120 artists, including 17 first-time exhibitors, the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show will showcase mediums like painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography and mixed media.
“If you’re an art aficionado, don’t miss
out on the art tours where you can get an up-close look at the diverse works of our artists,” says Sharbie Higuchi, the festival’s marketing and public relations director.
Notably, Pageant of the Masters will be celebrating its 90th anniversary—a milestone that will be honored with a celebration July 22 with special exhibits, live performances and interactive activities.
Other special events include the debut of a soulful Gospel Brunch (it’s BYOB, or bring your own brunch) on July 23 and Aug. 13, and the Runway Fashion Show, which will highlight upcycled couture designs Aug. 20.
Weekly performances include a lineup of musicians, such as those participating in the new Americana series featuring different folk, blues and bluegrass artists every Friday night. Returning music series will include Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate on Thursday evenings; Concerts on the Green on Saturday afternoons; and Tremendous Tributes on Sunday nights.
On-site dining options include sit-down restaurant Terra Laguna Beach, which
offers a menu of California cuisine, as well as Intermission by Terra, where several grab-and-go options can be ordered at a window. Or bring your own picnic to enjoy at the festival.
Those 21 and over can enjoy libations while creating art during Wine and Painting as well as Pints, Pinots and Prints. Other all-ages workshops include drawing, painting, sculpture and ceramics as well as kidfriendly offerings on the weekends.
Young artists in prekindergarten through 12th grade will also be featured in the Festival of Arts Junior Art Exhibit. Additionally, a new program called Emerging Artists will give a platform for college-level art programs in Orange County—including Laguna College of Art & Design—to exhibit their students’ works while also giving them experience at a juried art festival.
“At the Festival of Arts, we’re committed to creating space for emerging artists to learn, grow and develop their careers,” Higuchi says, “as well as build relationships with seasoned artists and art organizations in Orange County.” g
At Sawdust Art Festival, Bruce Freund demonstrates glass blowing (top) and visitors peruse the booths (bottom).
Festival of Arts (top) features a wide array of artwork including ceramics by Fred Stodder (bottom left) and photography by Christopher Bliss (bottom right).
MilestoneMoments
PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS SHARES HISTORIC PHOTOS AND MEMORIES TO CELEBRATE THE ICONIC SHOW’S 90TH ANNIVERSARY.
By SHARON STELLO | PHOTOS COURTESY OF FESTIVAL OF ARTS
In honor of the 90th anniversary of Pageant of the Masters—the beloved “tableaux vivants,” or living pictures show that’s presented each summer at Festival of Arts—organizers have cracked open the vault to share archived photos and stories from years gone by. Here are just a few of the gems from the past to enjoy leading up to this summer’s rendition, which runs from July 7 to Sept. 1 with the theme “Art Colony: In the Company of Artists.”
In nine decades, the Pageant has only missed five years of shows—from 1942 to 1945, due to World War II, and in 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the general idea has remained the same over the years, the show has evolved to feature not only re-creations of paintings and sculptures, but also posters, jewelry, perfume bottles, furniture, porcelain figurines and more.
A program from the Festival of Arts in 1935, when the living pictures show was renamed Pageant of the Masters
The “Sistine Madonna” re-creation in 1933, then called Spirit of the Masters Pageant
1933: Then called Spirit of the Masters Pageant, the first living pictures show took place in 1933 as a way to attract visitors to the second annual Festival of Arts, which charged a 10-cent admission fee. The Pageant kicked off with a parade of costumed characters—“Whistler’s Mother,” “The Blue Boy,” “Mona Lisa,” “Sistine Madonna” and Atlas—filing their way down Coast Highway from the Laguna Beach Art Association’s art gallery (the predecessor to Laguna Art Museum) to El Paseo Street, where the festival tent was located near Hotel Laguna.
At 6:30 p.m. each night, from Aug. 28 to Sept. 4, 1933, the pageant was presented (without painted backdrops or lighting) inside a rolling wagon stage that was about the size of two phone booths. The first tableau was a re-creation of Louis Betts’ “The Girl of the Golden West,” portrayed by Josie Derkum Rice, who had been the original model for Betts’ painting 18 years earlier.
1935: It wasn’t until this year that Roy Ropp— who would become known as the Father of the Pageant—stepped in as director and renamed the show Pageant of the Masters. With the help of his wife, Marie, he added painted backdrops, music and narration as well as a bigger stage at the new location at Heisler Point next to the LBAA art gallery. Roy constructed and painted the backdrops on the couple’s patio while Marie organized the costumes, selected music—performed by a local group called the Beaux Arts Trio—to accompany each piece, researched the artwork and wrote a script to be read during the show, which lasted 45 minutes.
1935: Back in the day, the Pageant was a full celebration of the arts complete with activities throughout the city including studio tours, tea with artists and, in 1935, a pirate show to entertain the kids. Over the years, the Pageant show itself has featured a variety of additions beyond re-creations of paintings and sculptures, from a live horse to a working automobile, dance troupes and more.
1936: The second year under Roy Ropp’s direction, “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci premiered at the Pageant. This piece de resistance has become a tradition—ending every show since then, except for two years when other artists’ renditions of the scene were re-created instead. But that first year’s triumph came with plenty of challenges along the way. More than twice the size of the other presentations, with 13 cast members seated behind a table, the stage had to be expanded. And finding the right person to portray Jesus proved difficult. Finally, a woman— Jackie Martin, a Festival of Arts board member—took the role, but it was kept a tightly guarded secret. As Ropp reportedly said later, “Mrs. Martin had been blessed with a strong, noble face, excellent forehead, nose and eyes. Like a flash, I had seen the qualities I had been seeking.”
1936: Ropp took another risk this year by introducing the Pageant’s first nude, a sculpture of Biblical figure Salome, who performed the Dance of the Seven Veils for her stepfather,
King Herod Antipas. Salome was portrayed by Margo Sangster Goddard, who later recalled the uncomfortable experience. She disrobed next to the stage behind a makeshift screen, then white makeup was slathered all over her body to make her appear like a statue. Since there wasn’t much space between the stage and the audience back then, she later recalled that a group of kids squatted right in front of her and “guffawed noisily.” After that one performance, Goddard didn’t return to pose in the show until years later when production conditions improved.
“The Last Supper” presentation in 1936
Later, in 1955, nudity proved controversial when the Pageant’s 1954 rendition of the ancient Greek sculpture Venus de Milo appeared on the cover of a California visitors guide. The photo was deemed “lewd and lascivious” by a Pan American Airways representative, who condemned the guide from being handed out to passengers on their flights. However, the Pageant has continued a longstanding tradition of presenting re-created paintings, sculptures and the like with nude subjects. Previously the only paid position, those portraying a nude subject now are volunteers who wear a skintight bodysuit that’s painted to show the brush strokes.
1939: Pageant of the Masters was featured in the Tournament of Roses Parade that winds through Pasadena. That particular parade—the 50th annual edition, in fact—took place Jan. 2, as is the practice when New Year’s Day falls on a Sunday. The Pageant float was a depiction of “The Last Supper” created out of flowers and other plant material.
1941: Pageant of the Masters dedicated its permanent new home on nearly 6 acres in the Irvine Bowl. The land was partly owned by the Irvine family with the rest serving as a dairy farm before the Pageant took over. The stage constructed there was later torn down in 1956 and a new cement block stage (still used today) was built in its place at a cost of $110,000.
1941: Famous painter Norman Rockwell was among those in the crowd to see a portrayal of his painting “Hollywood Dreams.” In meeting the cast afterward, Rockwell reportedly said it was the “best I have ever seen—better than the photo engravings.” Over the years, several artists have attended the Pageant to see their artworks recreated on stage. This year, Wayne Alaniz Healy of Los Angeles is expected to attend as his 2001 oil painting “Pre-Game Warm Up” is slated for the show’s second half.
1957: Actress Bette Davis, who owned a home in Laguna and often attended the Pageant, helped out from time to time. In 1957, at the request of then-Director Howard “Hap” Graham and armed with a cup of white paint and a brush, Davis repainted the numbers on the venue’s seats. She was also supposed to appear on stage in “The Tragic Muse” by Sir Joshua Reynolds, but ended up taking a bad fall and broke a vertebra so she never actually took to the stage to play the role—although many likely thought she did as Davis graced that year’s souvenir program in a photo of the piece’s dress rehearsal.
1993: ALONG WITH MUCH OF LAGUNA CANYON, THE PAGEANT’S HOME AT IRVINE BOWL AND THE FESTIVAL OF ARTS GROUNDS SUFFERED $500,000 IN DAMAGE FROM THE INFAMOUS FIRE AND FLOODING THAT YEAR. VOLUNTEERS WORKED HARD TO SAVE THE PROPERTY AS FLAMES CRESTED OVER THE SURROUNDING HILLS IN LATE OCTOBER AND THEN, TWO WEEKS LATER, FROM FLOODING AS A RAINSTORM CAUSED MUDSLIDES WHERE THE HILLS HAD SO RECENTLY BEEN SCORCHED OF THEIR VEGETATION.
1969: Although a photo could not be found of this memorable moment, many recall the show when a pigeon landed on one of the living statues. It all started on the roof of the stage house, where bronze bell ringers banged their mallets against a bell (made to look like the one atop St. Mark’s Basilica Clock Tower in Venice, Italy). At the same time, trained homing pigeons were released into the air. They would typically circle a few times then return home to perform again the next night. But this time, one of the birds became disoriented and continued to circle as the show went on. The fourth presentation was a white earthenware sculpture of Pygmalion and Galatea by EtienneMaurice Falconet. It was during this scene that the pigeon decided to land on the shoulder of Galatea, portrayed by Cathe Mennen, who was covered in sticky white makeup for the role. The pigeon couldn’t hold on and started sliding down Mennen’s chest, all the way to her thigh, then reportedåly pecked and clawed its way back up, leaving her scratched and bleeding. But, Mennen didn’t move a muscle, holding her pose for the duration of the scene—and receiving a standing ovation for the feat.
1973: Another celebrity took part in the Pageant this year. Actor Vincent Price, known for his roles in horror films like “The Fly,” “The Last Man on Earth” and “The Masque of the Red Death,” was cast in a re-creation of “The Cardinal’s Portrait” painting by Toby Rosenthal, a fact that he later revealed before a national audience on the TV show “I’ve Got a Secret.”
1974: The Pageant used to host a VIP night for celebrities with dinner and a reception at Hotel Laguna ahead of the show. In 1974, actress Betty White and her husband, TV personality Allen Ludden, were in attendance. Over the years, celebrities from actor Steve Martin to the late Lakers star Kobe Bryant have graced the Pageant’s audience. In 1999, the Pageant began presenting an annual benefit gala with celebrity hosts through the years ranging from Priscilla Presley, former wife of iconic signer Elvis Presley, to actresses Shirley Jones, Teri Hatcher and Jane Lynch, actors Neil Patrick Harris and Bryan Cranston, singer Paula Abdul, and Joe Mantegna of TV show “Criminal Minds.”
1974-1993: Dubbed “The Voice of the Pageant,” Hollywood veteran Thurl Ravenscroft served as the show’s narrator for nearly two decades, from 1974 to 1993. Ravenscroft, who later passed away in 2005, had an unmistakable voice. Perhaps best known for voicing Tony the Tiger, the Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes cereal mascot—remembered for saying “They’re grrreat!”—he also lent his booming, bass voice to Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion ride and he sang “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” in the TV special “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” which first aired in 1966 on CBS.
1980s: Since the Pageant is set in an outdoor amphitheater nestled in Laguna Canyon, there are sure to be visitors of the wildlife persuasion. Bats can sometimes be seen flying overhead. No doubt squirrels have joined the audience from time to time. However, on one particularly memorable night in the 1980s, a skunk showed up on the conductor’s podium as then-Musical Director Richard Henn came out to begin the second act. Luckily, the animal didn’t spray, but scampered into a niche nearby. Of course, the show must go on, so Henn gave the downbeat to start the overture then alerted the director over his headphones. The skunk became increasingly agitated and, by the end of the overture, it had started hissing. So, they had to stop the show, with narrator Thurl Ravenscroft ad-libbing an announcement about this unexpected visitor—”a little gentleman in
black in white”—who had taken up residence in the orchestra pit. Security helped to coax and nudge the skunk out of the pit and Henn later recalled seeing the creature “hightailing it out of the canyon.” Luckily, the animal never sprayed and the crowd avoided what could have been a stinky situation.
2003: On the occasion of the Pageant’s 70th anniversary, a time capsule was ceremonially “buried” at the Festival of Arts grounds—although the contents were later secured and safely stored off-site—to be opened Sept. 20, 2041 (based on the date that a long-term lease with the city for use of the property would expire). The time capsule included an archive of recorded interviews with longtime Pageant contributors and participants. Not only were DVDs filled with these interviews and full-color images of past souvenir programs among the buried treasure, but also paper transcripts and other historic materials as Director Diane Challis Davy realized even back then that DVDs would be antiquated and perhaps even unplayable by 2041. g
SHAPER
THE RANCH AT LAGUNA BEACH ADDS TWO NEW EXCLUSIVE CULTURAL EXPERIENCES TO THE MIX.
By JENNIFER PAPPAS YENNIE
PAINTER & the the
Tucked away in a pocket of Aliso and Wood canyons, across Coast Highway from the Pacific Ocean, The Ranch at Laguna Beach offers a unique retreat for locals and visitors—whether they’re staying for the weekend or dropping by for dinner or game on the expansive golf course. In addition to the many existing amenities, the boutique resort recently launched two new exclusive experiences for overnight guests. Unique to Laguna, The Shaper and The Painter (aka: Gary Larson and John Cosby, respectively) offer guests an immersive cultural experience related to what are, arguably, the city’s most quintessential activities: surfing and plein air painting.
THE SHAPER
Larson spent his childhood about a mile up the road from Doheny Beach. With the ocean as his backyard, he spent much of his time either fishing or surfing, landing a job at Infinity Surfboard shop in Dana Point when he was only 15. Observing the ins and outs of surfboard shaping during his shifts at the shop, he fell in love with the craft and, after paying his dues “sweeping up foam dust and wood shavings,” he started working as a surfboard shaper himself. He was 16. In 2005, he was asked to work for Hobie alongside the iconic Terry Martin—every shaper’s dream. He took the job and hasn’t looked back. Larson’s passion for surfing and the
physical world (in addition to shaping, he is also a part-time college professor of geography), coupled with his 20-plus years of experience, make him the ideal collaborator for The Shaper experience.
The process begins with a phone call. Once the basic details of board size and style are worked out, the real experience begins. Clients will meet Larson for lunch at a brewpub across the street from Hobie Surf Shop
TOP:
JOSH
PHILLIPS;
BOTTOM: ASHLEY RYAN
Surfboard shaper Gary Larson (above) and some of the boards he has made (right)
in Dana Point. The hands-on shaping process (which includes outlining and cutting out their board, using the planer to adjust thickness and rails, and final sanding and screening touches) is easily the most engaging part of the entire experience. “Surfers view their surfboard as their connection to the wave,” Larson explains. “Clients will be able to fully immerse themselves in the shaping world through learning about board design and how intricacies like rocker, foil and concave affect the performance of the board sliding over the water.”
By the end of the day, the board should be ready for colors, graphics and glassing, which Larson will finalize in the shop. A few months later, the finished one-of-a-kind beauty arrives at your door (anywhere in the continental United States).
When asked what excites him most about this collaboration with The Ranch, he says, “Ultimately, I would like to leave clients with some knowledge and material for their stories of The Ranch to tell for years to come.”
THE PAINTER
John Cosby hails from Hollywood, and found inspiration in the oil paintings of his grandmother at a very young age. He’s run the gamut of life experiences: working a government job as an advance man in the executive branch before rebuilding and then sailing a classic sloop up and down the Eastern Seaboard for three years, returning to Southern California in order to launch his painting career.
The longtime south Orange County native is a founding board member of the Laguna Plein Air Painters Association, has held signature memberships in both the Plein Air Painters of America and the California Art Club, and is represented by galleries around the world.
Given this world renown and spirit of adventure, clients of the Painter Experience would be hard-pressed to find a more qualified guide to plein air painting than Cosby.
As with The Shaper, the experience starts with a private phone (or Zoom) conversation with Cosby to discuss goals for the day. Then, on the selected date, clients will start at Cosby’s San Clemente studio with coffee and more conversation, what he calls “just like any other day in the life of a professional artist.” In the studio, clients will be guided
through the process of creating a completed painting from beginning to end. “And not to worry,” Cosby clarifies, “we’ll tailor the subject to the guest’s area of interest, so they’ll be able to capture the essence of an image that speaks to them.”
Next, guests will hit the beach—most likely in the form of an awe-inspiring coastal bluff— to plan, sketch and paint. When the day’s work is done, guests will take home one of the sketches created together with Cosby. The final painting will follow two to three weeks later, once it’s had a chance to properly dry in Cosby’s studio, along with a note from Cosby and some photos from your time together. Lunch is also included in the experience.
“This promises to be a very unique experience for … [anyone who] decides to invest their time and energy into this opportunity,” Cosby says. “Typically, I reserve this kind of knowledge sharing for my fellow artists and peers, so this is a rare chance for someone to gain some insight into the inner workings of a professional painter. So come ready to paint, explore and create something truly beautiful.”
“The Shaper” and “The Painter” packages each start at $2,500 plus applicable taxes, and include a pre-arrival call, lunch with the creator, transportation to and from the studio, the crafting and the final product delivery anywhere in the continental U.S. Available exclusively to resort guests; must be booked at least three weeks in advance. g
Plein air painter John Cosby (top and above, at right) will work with guests of The Ranch at Laguna Beach who sign up for The Painter experience to create their own pieces of art.
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A Slice of SUMMER
EXPLORE THESE POPULAR SPOTS TO CREATE THE SEASON OF YOUR DREAMS.
By LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE STAFF
Laguna Beach is full of magic— especially in the summertime. From sipping cocktails on rooftops and watching the sunset to exploring the great outdoors, lounging on the sand or shopping for swimwear, our sleepy beach town comes alive when the weather heats up. Here, check out staff and locals’ picks for favorite places to dine, recreate and relax this season, ensuring that residents and visitors alike are able to enjoy everything Laguna has to offer.
Favorite Places for Feel-Good Fare
WHETHER YOU HEAD UP TO A rooftop or down on the sand, dining outdoors in Laguna Beach is unrivaled. Sip cocktails in the sunshine, stop by in time to catch the sunset or dine under the stars—no matter what you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable experience with good vibes all around.
RELAXING ON ROOFTOPS
If you’re going to dine out in Laguna, consider visiting one of three local rooftops. Kurt Bjorkman, general manager at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, recommends that those staying at his resort stop by The Rooftop Lounge. Housed atop the historic La Casa del Camino hotel, Bjorkman says it
being part of a hotel experience sets it apart from the other sky-high eateries in town.
“As awesome as those are, I have an affinity for any elevated hotel-related bar experience,” he explains. Grab a fruity cocktail or a cold glass of wine to sip in the sunshine, paired with shared plates that your whole group can enjoy together.
Downtown, Skyloft offers sprawling views of Main Beach from above, along with fresh salads, barbecue plates and an array of beverages. An additional happy hour menu offers deals on house wines, draft beers and well cocktails in addition to appetizers like pulled pork sliders, smoked wings, a cheeseburger and grilled salmon.
Over at Mozambique, an Africaninspired eatery offering wood-fired steaks and seafood—plus happy hour every day of the week—the Pacific rests along the horizon line. With live music four nights a week, this is a lively spot with something to offer those from all walks of life.
VIBRANT VIEWS
Patios with a view are abundant in Laguna, and they never disappoint. Las Brisas near Heisler Park has an alfresco dining area that overlooks the blue waters of the Pacific, sprawling Main Beach and the park itself— a gorgeous spot, and a favorite for those that live in town as well as those visiting from elsewhere. The Mexican-inspired fare and seafood delights are delicious and just enhance the views.
Skyloft’s rooftop (above) and drinks (left); right: Mozambique’s fire pit; below: the patio at The Cliff
An ocean-view breakfast at The Cliff, including one of the eatery’s over-the-top bloody marys
Another spot with stunning views is Splashes Restaurant at Surf & Sand Resort, which Jess Watson, owner of The Shop. Laguna Beach, says is a great place to grab a drink and a snack. “I would get an Aperol spritz and the charcuterie, with a side of ocean and water right in front,” she says.
At The Cliff restaurant, an expansive, multilevel patio ensures that there is plenty of room for everyone—and the views of the endless ocean are unrivaled. Whether visiting for breakfast, lunch or dinner, edible flowers added to the plates make the meals just as picturesque as the views.
At Montage Laguna Beach, there are patios galore to enjoy. The highlight, of course, is the open-air dining area at The Loft, an elevated space at the resort where it feels like you can see for miles. Aside from panoramic views, guests can sip wine or cocktails while dining on creative American cuisine with a coastal California twist. The Lobby Lounge is an open-air spot that extends into the
outdoors, where diners can enjoy light bites, desserts and a glass of wine. Or visit Mosaic Bar & Grille for poolside dining under the sun, where dishes like crudite, nachos, shrimp cocktail, ceviche, chopped lobster salad, chilled tomato gazpacho, burgers, sandwiches and tacos all populate the menu.
Those who want to get up close and personal with the beach should head to Lost Pier Cafe, owned by The Ranch. “The best patio experience in Laguna, hands down, is the patio at Lost Pier Cafe,” Bjorkman says. “Virtually on the sand, there is nothing else that can compare.” Stop by to listen to the waves as you enjoy a breakfast burrito or come for a lunch of tuna poke, fish tacos, a chicken quesadilla, soup and salad, or a lobster roll.
Also on the sand is The Deck on Laguna Beach, the more casual counterpart to sister restaurant Driftwood Kitchen. With a cozy deck set next to rolling waves, it’s a wonderful spot for fresh air and fresh fare. “When friends come to visit from out of town, we always take them to The Deck for brunch or lunch,” says Cindy Byrne, co-owner of Roux Creole Cuisine restaurant. “It’s like being right on the water and gives them a sense of beach life without the sand in their shoes.”
Sample shrimp tacos, a beach burger, tomato bisque, a mahi mahi sandwich and more along with delicious cocktails.
Another comfortable patio with a view can be found at Sapphire, Cellar-CraftCook, which sits just across Coast Highway
from the surf paradise that is Brooks Street Beach. Keep your eyes on the horizon by day for views of the ocean or cuddle up by the fire pit at night while dining on dishes like house-made duck meatballs, Hawaiian albacore tartare, wild-caught halibut, short rib Bolognese, a wagyu burger and—for dessert—guava creme brulee.
Adolfo’s also offers glimpses of the ocean from its small patio area, and remains a favorite for Ryan Hitzel, owner of Roark clothing company (which is based in town). “Walk in sandy and out of sorts, by yourself or with the family—Adolfo and Connie won’t turn you away,” he notes. “[It’s] simple Mexican food that comes out fast, from the cheese enchiladas and ‘surfer’s special’—side of rice, beans and tortillas—to the sneaky good burger cooked in carne grease. Adolfo’s isn’t Michelin-rated, but is a lifelong vice. [And the] patio is top notch for people-watching and tossing down your beach gear on a hot summer day.”
COMFY & COZY
For a spot to sit and soak up the sun, visit Zinc Cafe & Market, where fresh greenery and shady umbrellas create the perfect atmosphere for daytime dining. Enjoy soup and quiche specials that change daily or opt for other dishes on this meat-free menu, such as citrus-drenched vegetables with hummus, avocado toasts, pizzas, sandwiches, veggie burgers and drinks like coffees, juices and smoothies.
Hitzel says that his favorite spot for outdoor dining is the comfy, cozy Ahba restaurant. “[It] transports me to New York or Havana—it’s communal and loud with great music and youthful energy,” he explains. “One could live off an alternating diet of branzino and cheeseburgers, [plus the] open-air patio
Patios at Las Brisas (above), The Deck on Laguna Beach (above right) and Sapphire, Cellar-Craft-Cook (left)
and side pocket alley are magical.”
Beer lovers will rejoice in a visit to Laguna Beach Beer Co. in Laguna Canyon. The patio here is a refreshing place to enjoy a few brews, like Thousand Steps IPA, the Greeter’s Ale or the Tuava Guava, paired with dishes such as a soft pretzel, pizzas and sandwiches from the brewery’s kitchen.
For summer nights, you can’t beat a visit to The Porch at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, where verdant canyon landscapes create a rustic feel—especially as you sip cocktails around the fire pits. Enjoy live music as you sample California-inspired fare, including a caprese sandwich, wagyu hot dog, carnitas nachos, a cheese and charcuterie board or garden salad.
DINING DECKS
When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down indoor dining at local restaurants, no one could have dreamed how The Promenade on Forest would transform the downtown landscape. Decks on which to dine, called parklets, are set to become permanent here, ensuring that locals and visitors can continue to unwind at the promenade while enjoying fare from neighboring eateries. Plus, diners can listen to live music or view public art installations during their visit, too.
At 230 Forest Avenue, you can find everything from oysters, beetroot salmon crudo, and shrimp and scallop ceviche to pork chops, lush salads and skirt steak. The eatery also serves handcrafted cocktails, which can also be enjoyed out on the parklets, with unique drinks like a fig margarita, blood orange paloma and Oaxacan wildflower martini.
Still other spots at the promenade allow for a sampling of cultural fare. Enjoy French dishes at Moulin, where you’ll find sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, crepes, charcuterie boards, pastries and more. Nearby Brussels Bistro, on the other hand, offers Belgian cuisine like cheese croquettes, beef bourguignon, mussels, Belgian fries, escargot and imported beers. And we’d be remiss not to mention Alessa by Chef Pirozzi, an eatery serving up traditional Italian food with locally sourced ingredients. Pair fine wines with antipasti, carpaccio, salad, pizza, risotto, gnocchi or specialty house-made pastas like ink-infused linguine, baked ziti or lamb pappardelle. Mike Thomas, a teacher at Anneliese Schools, and his wife, Allison Corradini, love visiting for the cacio y pepe.
The Porch (left) at The Ranch at Laguna Beach and some of the eatery’s fire pits where appetizers, wine, cocktails and more are served (below)
Laguna Beach Beer Co.’s patio and some of its pizza and beer (inset)
Favorite Spots for a Secluded Beach Day
RELAXING AT THE BEACH IS A quintessential summertime activity. Whether you opt to go for a walk on the sand, swim in the waves or unwind with your favorite playlist or a good book as the sun kisses your skin, there’s no doubt that the day is made better without crowds of people around every turn.
So skip Main Beach this summer and head to a more secluded spot instead. With at least 30 coves and beaches, there are so many places to explore, and they all have something special to offer.
Crescent Bay Beach is a standout in north Laguna. “Get there early to grab a street parking spot near the stairs,” says Kurt Bjorkman, general manager at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, adding that resort guests will enjoy getting in the water at this large cove. “On a calm day, this is an amazing beach for snorkeling—super clear waters with some amazing tide pools, kelp forests and local sea lions.”
Also tucked away in the north are Shaw’s Cove and Fisherman’s Cove, two more great snorkeling spots; Shaw’s Cove is also home to tide pools so visitors can view urchins, crabs, sea stars, garibaldi fish, snails, lobsters, octopuses and more.
As its name may suggest, scuba divers take to Divers Cove to get a more in-depth look at the underwater world. But it’s also a picturesque beach even if you don’t plan to hit the water. “It’s got a different vibe, with
palm trees that hug the shore,” adds Jess Watson, owner of The Shop. Laguna Beach. Or, for a secluded spot closer to downtown, try Sleepy Hollow Beach, a favorite of Mike Thomas, a teacher with Anneliese Schools, and his wife, Allison Corradini. “We usually go to Sleepy Hollow because it’s far enough away from Thalia and all the crazy surfers and stuff,” Corradini says.
Farther south, a whole different set of beaches offers more natural beauty to explore under the summer sun. The community vibes are strong at Wood’s Cove, which is popular amongst local Lagunans. Venture slightly north and you’ll find the only blowhole in Orange County, but the waves on the south end of the beach are ideal for another popular Laguna activity: skimboarding.
Moss Point Beach may be small, but that makes it even more perfect for a secluded beach day. The currents can get rough here so it’s not the best for swimming, but scuba diving and tide pool exploration are prevalent. If you’re lucky to catch it when it’s secluded, Victoria Beach can’t be beat. With the iconic “pirate tower” and a human-made swimming area in the surf, it’s probably the most unique spot in town. “The waves are usually pretty swimmable, the beach is wide and there is always a great volleyball game to watch,” notes Gorjana Reidel, a Laguna resident and founder of the gorjana jewelry brand. “I also love the tower and pool—I call it a pool. So great for young kiddos.”
Those looking for stunning scenery can find it at Treasure Island Beach. “Laguna is home to some of the prettiest beaches, but I would probably say Treasure Island [is my favorite in the south],” Watson says. “… [It] has some of the most beautiful water and it’s a small cove.” This pristine space sits adjacent to Montage Laguna Beach so it can get crowded, but head further away from the main access point to find peace. As you explore, you just might stumble across Middle Man Cove, a hidden beach tucked away to the north. Another somewhat hidden spot, Table Rock Beach, is great for exploring rock outcroppings—if you can make it there. Another local’s spot, this stretch of sand is for adventurous types, with wooden stairs and rocks to traverse to get there. Active visitors will also enjoy Thousand Steps Beach, which actually requires about 200 steps to get down on the sand—and then 200 to get back up after some fun in the sun. Cindy Byrne, co-owner of Roux Creole Cuisine restaurant, adds, “If we’re [with] friends or family that don’t mind a workout, we go to Thousand Steps.”
No matter which cove or beach you select, you’re sure to enjoy any spot in a town as beautiful as Laguna.
Victoria Beach and the iconic “pirate tower”
Shaw’s Cove
Watch Art Come to Life in
Laguna Beach.
This iconic, long-running Orange County tradition combines artfully costumed people, extravagant sets and theatrical illusion to re-create famous works of art on stage. Prepare yourselves for an inspirational adventure that acknowledges the deep connections and memorable stories of artists assisting one another throughout the world and throughout history in this summer’s production, “Art Colony: In the Company of Artist.”
Favorite Places to Shop for Swimwear
WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR THE latest bikini styles or new board shorts for hitting the waves, Laguna has you covered with plenty of shops for swimsuits and other beach attire.
Head to The Shop. Laguna Beach for a mix of one- and two-piece women’s swimsuits in conservative and bold cuts, neutrals and vibrant hues from brands like L Space, Vitamin A and more. The boutique is also stocked with cute beach towels, sunglasses, sandals, sarongs and other cover-ups. “We cater to a variety of different customers and carry the best of the best,” says owner Jess Watson.
Laguna also boasts stores for national surf brands from Billabong and Rip Curl to Quiksilver. Pick up their latest styles for men and women. Billabong and Quiksilver also carry some swimwear for kids while Billabong and Rip Curl carry wetsuits for hanging 10 when the water’s chilly. Other beach necessities like flip-flops and sunglasses can be purchased at these locations, too.
When it comes to local surf shops, there are a few to choose from as well, whether it’s Hobie Surf Shop, Laguna Surf & Sport or Thalia Surf Shop.
From left: Swimsuit styles from Mare Blu and Rip Curl
“Hobie is my favorite surf shop because, for one, they are the OG surf brand in town. And two, they curate the best products out there—I can always count on the fact that they carry the most upto-date and function-forward gear around,” says Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of The Ranch at Laguna Beach.
Ryan Hitzel, founder of Laguna-based Roark clothing and lifestyle brand, is also partial to the Hobie store because of its local roots (as Hobie Alter started shaping surfboards in his dad’s Oak Street garage). But Hitzel is also quick to mention Laguna Surf & Sport, admitting he’s a little biased because he worked there in his youth—and his best friends own it. “But rest assured, LSS is your destination for all things surf. It smells of wax and, if you play your cards right, you can get an accurate surf forecast and the set list of who’s playing at The Sandpiper for the next month. They carry all the best brands in the surf industry, rent surfboards and provide lessons if you want to learn how to shred,” Hitzel says.
Thalia Surf Shop also comes in strong with its own brand of boardshorts and bikinis as well as T-shirts, not to mention Vans shoes and sandals. And Toes on the Nose, which has its flagship locations only in Laguna and Huntington Beach, carries its own brand of men’s boardshorts as well as a selection of women’s swimwear, T-shirts, hoodies and other accessories. Meanwhile, local swimwear brands Sportkini, Swiminista and Vitamin A offer unique options.
Sportkini, sold online and developed by local open-water swimmer Stephanie Havelka, has styles with the athlete in mind: Think durable swimwear that looks good and stays put. Swiminista, founded by part-time Laguna resident Andréa Bernholtz, also focuses on the perfect fit to help women feel confident—and utilizes luxury recycled fabrics for less impact on the planet; Swiminista is sold locally at Attu in Laguna and at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club in Dana Point. Laguna-based Vitamin A is also dedicated to fit and sustainability by designing collections with plant-based and recycled materials and donates a portion of sales to nonprofits that protect the ocean. Vitamin A is sold by Las Olas and The Shop. Laguna Beach.
And Merilee’s Swimwear, a familyowned fixture in the region since the first shop opened in Huntington Beach in 1977, allows shoppers to mix and match a variety of bikini tops and bottoms for the perfect fit and to reflect your personal style. Choose from an array of bright hues and designs from florals to animal prints. One-pieces are also available in flattering silhouettes from plunging necklines to French-cut bottoms.
Mike Thomas, a teacher at Anneliese Schools, and his wife, Allison Corradini, say they shop at Merilee’s and Hobie, but also like Tidepools Swimwear—made with UPF 50+ sun protection fabric—by
Brett Keast, a local exhibitor at Sawdust Art Festival who also has a shop open by appointment in front of his warehouse in San Juan Capistrano. “We don’t normally buy our bathing suits at the Sawdust festival, but before summer, we do purchase a lot of swimsuits for my two nieces and our daughters from Brett Keast [at the warehouse].”
Meanwhile, with only a handful of boutiques in Florida and Orange County, California, Mare Blu can be found in Laguna Beach with its durable, shaping swimwear that hugs your curves with a lightweight luxury Italian fabric that boasts just the right elasticity to stay in place without bulging or digging in. Details from ruffles to fabric twists lend interest in addition to vibrant colors, stripes and other print options.
Las Olas is also an East Coast-West Coast brand, with most of its shops in North and South Carolina in addition to stores in Newport and Laguna Beach. Find men’s swim trunks and boardshorts in fun prints like Hawaiian florals, flamingoes and animal print, as well as women’s swimwear in traditional styles and textured fabrics or pieces that are reversible for two looks in one. The curated list of brands range from L Space to Mikoh, Beach Riot, Bond Eye and more; some are made with recycled nylon. Pieces are meant to look effortlessly elegant while being worn everyday, whether lounging at the pool or hiking to waterfalls.
Favorite Places to Watch the Sunset
IN A BEACH TOWN LIKE LAGUNA, striking sunsets come with the territory. And part of the fun is finding the best spots to watch nature’s show unfold. Here are a few of our go-to options and some recommendations from longtime locals.
From the clifftops of Heisler Park dotted with palm trees and colorful flowers, looking out across the blue water, it’s easy to imagine you’re in Hawaii or maybe somewhere in the Mediterranean. There’s nothing quite as romantic as strolling hand-in-hand along the path through Heisler Park at sunset, past the art sculptures and gazing out on the Pacific together from the gazebo or a bench along the way. And those streaks of pink and purple make for amazing photos as the sun sinks below the horizon.
Another amazing lookout point is Top of the World—a short walk up from Alta Laguna Park—which offers stunning views in every direction, with Catalina Island silhouetted against the sunset sky in front of you and scenic hills behind you. And the vistas only get better during that golden hour as the sun starts to go down.
“The sunsets here in Laguna are pretty magical. My two favorite spots to end the day and watch the sunset [are] either at the beach or at Alta Laguna trail. The panoramic ocean views from the top of the trail are amazing,” says Gorjana Reidel, a Laguna resident and
Las Olas offers swimwear and accessories.
Sportkini, created by a Laguna local
Watch the sun set at The Rooftop Lounge.
founder of the gorjana jewelry brand.
For longtime locals Michael and Cindy Byrne, co-owners of Roux Creole Cuisine restaurant, there are a few favorite spots for taking in the sunset. “Michael loves Main Beach or Top of the World. I love Crescent [Bay Point Park] … or Cleo Street Beach,” Cindy Byrne says.
A few restaurants also made the list. The waves roll right up on the sand mere steps from the Surf & Sand Resort, right below the windows of Splashes Restaurant, making this a dreamy place for dinner at sunset. Perfect for a birthday or anniversary celebration—or any night, really—Splashes serves up picturesque views along with standout dishes from lobster bisque to fresh oysters, seared scallops, filet mignon and rack of lamb.
And from the elevated perch of The Rooftop Lounge, atop La Casa del Camino hotel, the ocean unfolds as a seemingly endless panorama. And, with mojito in hand, no doubt, and surrounded by good friends, this is a go-to place for watching the sun melt into the water as shades of pink and orange fill the sky.
For those who prefer to be close to the sand, Lost Pier Cafe is the choice of Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of The Ranch at Laguna Beach, who is always ready—along with his staff—to provide recommendations for visitors looking to experience the best of this town. “You can sit with a glass of wine and watch the sun set behind Catalina Island,” he says of the cafe, which offers a patio as well as portable fire pits that can be rented to roast marshmallows on the beach. “Another surreal spot for a sunset takes a bit of energy, but the payoff is huge: Try the Valido Trail, part of OC Parks’ trail system [in Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park] that ends up 600-plus feet above our south Laguna beaches. Watching the sunset from here is beyond incredible. Make your way back down the trail before it gets too dark.”
Of course, many in town have a great view from their own home. Mike Thomas, a teacher at Anneliese Schools, and his wife, Allison Corradini, watch the sunset from the roof of their abode off of Coast Highway. “We’re actually very lucky. … We’ve got a wonderful 180[-degree] ocean view. … We’ve got two chairs out on our roof and we just sit and look at the sunset right out front.” But if they’re with a group, Corradini says, they sometimes go to a lookout just north of The Cliff restaurant or to Sleepy Hollow Beach
From top: roasting marshmallows with portable fire pits that can be rented at Lost Pier Cafe; stunning sunset views from Splashes Restaurant at Surf & Sand Resort
Favorite Places for Outdoor Activities
WITH HIKING TRAILS THAT WIND through the hills and 7 miles of coastline, Laguna Beach offers plenty of ways to spend time outside. “I am so grateful for all the amazing hiking we have here in Laguna. The trails all have amazing views of either the water or the hills,” says Gorjana Reidel, a Laguna Beach resident and founder of the gorjana jewelry brand. Among her go-to trails are those up at Top of the World as well as the Water Tank and Big Bend trails, both in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. “There are a million different trails to walk,” adds Jess Watson, owner of The Shop. Laguna Beach, “but I love the one that connects to Dartmoor [Street—Spur Ridge to Boat Road]. Lots of uphill and a beautiful stunning view at the top. Morning is best.”
Top of the World boasts many trails from this scenic lookout point. “One of our favorite family hikes starts at Top of the World [and] heads down Car [Wreck] … Trail to the bottom of the ravine,” sayd Cindy Byrne, a longtime Laguna resident and co-owner of Roux Creole Cuisine restaurant. “We take the ravine hike west to where the trail comes to The Ranch [at Laguna Beach]. We have a cold beer and snacks at The Ranch patio, watch the golfers and then head to Aliso Beach to catch the trolley back to Cleo Street.”
Navigating the criss-crossed network of paths, either on two feet or two wheels, has also been a treasured pastime of Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of The Ranch at Laguna Beach. “Some of my favorite memories are hiking and biking the trails of Aliso and Wood Canyons with my sons over the past 12 years,” he says. “… My two boys basically grew up in this area. We spent a lot of time exploring Aliso and Wood Canyons [Wilderness] Park—biking the trails, exploring places like Dripping Cave and finding the car wreck on, well, Car Wreck Trail. Making the connection from, for instance, Top of the World to Laguna Coast Wilderness Park [and] finding your way to Crystal Cove State Park via the El Morro trails—finishing with a date shake at the Crystal Cove Shake Shack is not a bad way to spend an afternoon.”
Outdoor options abound at Moulton Meadows Park, which features a fitness circuit, soccer field, two tennis courts and two half basketball courts in addition to a hiking trailhead—with access to a fire road connecting the Top of the World and Arch Beach Heights neighborhoods— so visitors can take their pick of activities to get some fitness in their day.
For those who want to be closer to the coast, shooting some hoops on the half
basketball courts or gathering with friends to spike the ball on the sand volleyball courts, all while enjoying the ocean view, Main Beach is the place to be. Of course, with the water right there, you can also take a dip after your game to cool off—or go swimming or bodyboarding. And the boardwalk offers a walking path that connects (up some stairs) with the path at Heisler Park on the cliffs above.
To get a more intense workout, some enjoy running the stairs at Thousand Steps Beach. The staircase begins at Coast Highway and Ninth Avenue and, while it’s only a couple hundred steps, it can feel like a thousand—but the view at the end is your reward. If you go in the water here, beware of hazardous rip currents and submerged rocks when the swell is up, but skimboarding, bodyboarding and bodysurfing are popular at this beach.
Another great place to get out on the water, by kayak or stand-up paddleboard for a chance to see marine wildlife up close, are the protected coves in north Laguna. One of Bjorkman’s go-to spots is “launching a kayak from Divers Cove—exploring the kelp forest, maybe even spotting a few whales off our protected shorelines.”
For Mike Thomas, a teacher at Anneliese Schools, and his wife, Allison Corradini, a favorite outdoor activity is a simple stroll through Heisler Park or on the beach. “We’ll usually just walk along, from The Cliff [restaurant] or from Legion [Street] down to Crescent Bay, or we’ll drive down to Victoria [Beach] and walk along Victoria and, … if the tide’s low enough, down past the Montage and along there.” g
Kayaking with La Vida Laguna, which offers tours TOP:
Hike at Top of the World for impressive views of the rolling hills.
JUNE 30-SEPT 3
OPEN DAILY: FRI/SAT 11AM-10PM | SUN-THURS 11AM-8PM
Beach READS
CHECK OUT THESE BOOKS THAT LOCAL EXPERTS SAY ARE TRENDING THIS SUMMER.
By ASHLEY RYAN
FEW THINGS SCREAM SUMMERTIME QUITE LIKE SUNSCREEN,
a cute bikini and chic sunglasses. But don’t forget to toss a book in your beach bag, too. Whether lounging on the sand or relaxing on a nearby patio, you can enjoy these recommendations for this summer’s perfect page-turners.
CURRENTLY POPULAR
“SOMEONE ELSE’S SHOES” BY JOJO MOYES:
Storytelling at its finest is displayed in Moyes’ latest novel, which sees characters make mistakes and find promise in second chances. “Many readers will resonate with the characters of ‘Someone Else’s Shoes,’ … [which] explores female friendships,” says Jane Hanauer, owner of Laguna Beach Books.
“PINEAPPLE STREET” BY JENNY JACKSON:
Following the story of a wealthy family, as well as someone who married into it, Hanauer says this novel is a fun, wellwritten book that offers plenty more than your typical beach read.
SET IN TOWN
“ORANGE SUNSHINE: THE BROTHERHOOD OF ETERNAL LOVE AND ITS QUEST TO SPREAD PEACE, LOVE, AND ACID TO THE WORLD” BY NICHOLAS SCHOU: This nonfiction tale takes readers behind the scenes of the Brotherhood of Eternal Love, with stories from former members as well as the police who chased the drug ring. “Books about the 1960s in Laguna are always popular since it was a very colorful time,” says Nadya Hickam, librarian and branch manager at Laguna Beach Library. “Although this book is somewhat older, it continues
to be checked out regularly.”
“A THOUSAND STEPS” BY T. JEFFERSON PARKER: One part thriller, one part coming-of-age story, this book—by a New York Time bestselling author—is set in the 1960s amidst the hippies, artists and surfers in small-town Laguna Beach, as the main character grows into adulthood while searching for his missing sister. “Locals and visitors alike will enjoy the mysteries in this locally themed book,” Hanauer says.
“HOTEL LAGUNA” BY NICOLA HARRISON: A piece of historical fiction set here in town, this book follows a girl who leaves Kansas to head west to California and helps construct bomber planes for the military until the war is over.
Then, she decides to stay and discovers the charm of Laguna Beach.
“A LAGUNA KID” BY RICK BALZER: More about the author than the town itself, this autobiography offers personal insight into Balzer’s life, from growing up in Laguna to building his career as a broker associate, raising children and transitioning to his later years. This title, sold in limited places, is available at Laguna Beach Books.
HIGHLYANTICIPATED TITLES
“THE PARIS DAUGHTER” BY KRISTIN HARMEL: Ideal for those who love historical fiction, this new novel tells the story of two friends, Elise and Juliette, who are in Paris in 1939 as the world is on the brink of World War II. “As the friends’ tragic story unfolds, readers will appreciate Harmel’s emotional acuity in this vivid and deeply researched novel,” Hickam says.
“THE WAGER: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder” by David Grann: This highly awaited nonfiction title is the fifth by Grann, a journalist and staff writer for The New Yorker. It tells the story of those aboard a British warship that mutinied after the ship wrecked on the coast of Chile. “[This book] is getting national attention, and [is] perfect for Father’s Day or anyone who loves history and exploration in an intense and thrilling way,” Hanauer notes.
“ZERO DAYS” BY RUTH WARE: “Ruth Ware returns with her highly anticipated new release, … an action-packed thriller, which amps up the adrenaline of the author’s previous mysteries, keeping readers on their toes until the very last page,” Hickam reveals. “Zero Days” tells the story of a woman who must clear her name following her husband’s murder.
“PALAZZO” BY DANIELLE STEEL: After her parents pass away, protagonist Cosima Saverio must take care of her siblings, their Italian palazzo and her family’s leather brand. Set to release June 27, the story accents the importance of familial legacy. “Readers will cheer Cosima on as she navigates her new life, finds her footing and almost loses everything all over again, due to the complexities of family relationships,” Hickam says.
“THE COLLECTOR” BY DANIEL SILVA: Due out July 18, fans of this are sure to be eagerly awaiting the 23rd title in a series about master spy Gabriel Allon, combining international mystery with the world of luxury art collecting. “Readers can look forward to a fast-paced plot, which incorporates the contemporary geopolitical landscape,” Hickam notes.
BOOKS BY LAGUNA AUTHORS
“DON’T TELL ME WHAT TO DO: The Secret Guide to Unlocking Your Power, Potential, and Purpose” by Jennifer Dunphy: A self-help book written by a local, this title offers tips on how to tap into your potential and realize a higher purpose. “This book explores how to create a life full of purpose and meaning,” Hickam says. “The book will take you on a journey of self-discovery, allowing you to explore hidden truths about yourself and craft an inspiring vision for your future.”
“GIRL STUFF.” BY LISI HARRISON: This series, which contains three books so far, is great for young girls who want to be inspired to stay true to themselves. It follows three best friends navigating the trials and tribulations of middle school. Written by the author of the popular series “The Clique,” it’s ideal for those who enjoy books like classic “The Baby-Sitters Club” series.
“BEST DAY EVER” BY KAIRA ROUDA: Themes of deception and betrayal run deep in this suspense novel, which may make readers question how well they know those closest to them. “ ‘Best Day Ever’ is fantastic, by Laguna local Kaira Rouda, who specializes in diabolical main characters,” Hanauer notes.
“LOVING LAGUNA” BY ROBERT SKIP HELLEWELL: Written by a Californian who first came to Laguna Beach in the 1950s to surf, this guide, which is popular amongst locals, delves into area beaches, art galleries, historic sites, restaurants and must-try activities. “ ‘Loving Laguna’ will give any visitor a great understanding of our town, along with local recommendations on everything our town offers,” Hanauer says. g
In the BAG
FOUR PROMINENT LAGUNA BEACH LADIES OFFER A GLIMPSE AT THEIR GO-TO PRODUCTS FOR SUMMER DAYS FILLED WITH SURF AND SAND.
By ASHLEY PROBST
CURATING THE PERFECT BEACH DAY—AND CORRESPONDING BEACH BAG—DEPENDS ON ONE’S LIFESTYLE.
Some beachgoers are like fashionista Andréa Bernholtz and clean beauty aficionado Laura Linsenmayer, and may prefer to lounge on the sand for a relaxing experience. On the other hand, those who are more athletic would likely follow suit with the adventurous spirits of openwater swimmer Stephanie Havelka and stand-up paddleboarder Erin O’Malley. These four prominent Laguna Beach ladies offer an inside look at all of the favorite products in their bags for long summer days spent on sunny Southern California beaches.
Clockwise from above: Bernholtz’s go-to Superb Sarong by Swiminista, Palma hat by Lack of Color and custom-made straw beach bag
SWIMINISTA SUNSHINE
Andréa Bernholtz, founder and CEO of Swiminista swimwear, loves taking her 12-year-old daughter to Moss Point, which is near their Laguna Beach home.
Beachgoers will likely see this iconic mother-daughter duo in matching Swiminista one-pieces: the women’s Strong and girl’s Sunshine swimsuits, both of which feature long sleeves and a zip-up front for adjustable sun protection. If they aren’t already wearing these swimsuits, they’re the first thing that Bernholtz will throw into her custom-made floppy straw beach bag with lime green details.
She usually pairs her swimwear with the Superb Sarong, which is made of recycled micro-mesh, and a wide-brimmed Palma hat by Lack of Color that she got from
Attu clothing shop in downtown Laguna. Turkish towels (that she bought in Paris) are also a must because they’re lightweight and dry fast. She also brings a water bottle— a former Swiminista collaboration with Bindle bottles—featuring a secret stash for cash built in.
When it comes to suncare products, Bernholtz swears by Newport Beach-based LĀ SOL Collective, which makes clear zinc mineral sunscreen and an obsession-worthy vanilla lip balm.
One especially admirable item in Bernholtz’s tote is a small recycled bag that she uses to pick up trash, including her own and that of other beachgoers who don’t follow the “pack it in, pack it out” rule. And, of course, hand sanitizer to clean her hands afterward.
Andréa Bernholtz, founder and CEO of Swiminista
GEARED UP, GONE PADDLING
Sunset Stand Up Paddle owner Erin O’Malley practically lives at the beach, where she offers SUP rentals, lessons and excursions to her adventurous clients.
When she heads to the beach, O’Malley opts for the Highwater Backpack, a dry bag by paddleboard company Bote.
No matter what, she always packs her favorite products for sun protection: “The OG” SurfDurt tinted zinc face sunscreen that comes in a reusable bamboo container, a hooded rash guard from REI and Blenders sunglasses.
She also always carries water in a Bote bottle, which features double wall vacuum insulation to keep her drink cold. “When you’re on the water and on the sand for as long as I am, you definitely want something
that has thermal capacity,” she explains, adding that this bottle also has a magnet on the bottom that attaches to the top of her inflatables so it doesn’t float away.
A couple other staples are her DaFin bodysurf fins as well as her GoPro camera. Though they may not fit in her beach bag, she also brings Beach Brella umbrellas from The Shop Laguna Beach and inflatable Aero Chairs, which are also made by Bote.
Finally, after a long day on the water, a change of clothes makes all the difference. “It feels so nice to get out of my wet suit and put on some cozy shorts and a T-shirt,” O’Malley says, noting that her favorite companies for post-ocean attire are prana and Patagonia as well as REI Co-Op’s Sahara Shade Hoodie with UPF 50+ fabric for added sun protection.
ROOTED IN BEAUTY
Clean beauty is always at the forefront for Laura Linsenmayer, founder of Roots the Beauty Underground, a local hub for nontoxic cosmetics, skin care and hair care. When packing her late-2000s Fendi beach bag, the first thing Linsenmayer grabs is her Surf Mud Body Oil by Eir NYC, which incorporates zinc oxide, cocoa powder and a variety of oils from coconut to almond, olive and chamomile.
Laura Linsenmayer (top), founder of Roots the Beauty Underground, and her late-2000s Fendi beach bag (above)
Erin O’Malley (above), owner of Sunset Stand Up Paddle, plus her beach setup (top) and DaFin bodysurf fins (right)
Her other go-to product is an eye care item by H. Hazel; the company is no longer in business. “I keep these gel cactus collagen eye patches in my bag and, when I’m at the beach, I’m straight up treating my eyes,” she says.
In fact, Linsenmayer often turns beach days into mini spa retreats. “I take my glass nail file [and] I always have a … tweezer and a little mirror—all in my little beach cosmetic case,” she says. “While I’m lounging and absorbing sunshine, I can also groom.”
Additionally, she brings a leave-in hair spray from Rahua for hydration and UV protection that also helps keep her organic hair color vibrant.
This focus on wellness also extends to Linsenmayer’s mind. “I found that, instead of reading, [I] like absorbing more content from the earth,” she says. “I bring my journal and I find that it’s so much more effective … [for] my relaxation to write.”
SWIMMING WITH SPORTKINI
Open-water swimmer and coach, Sportkini founder and swimsuit engineer Stephanie Havelka knows the importance of good gear—that’s why she created her bikini line with athletes in mind.
In addition to proper swimwear, Havelka packs her polka-dotted beach bag with equipment like a fluorescent Sportkini swim cap (complete with motivational saying printed on it) and Roka swim goggles. “I like the big lenses and they also have really good optics,” she says. “… In these goggles, you get a crystal clear view of the beauty of land, the sky [and] the water below you.”
She also brings Ethical Zinc mineral sunscreen, a ChafeZone anti-chafing stick, Teleties hair ties, shampoo and conditioner from TriSwim, California Mango lotion, and baby shampoo to keep her goggles clean. “That’s a swimmer’s tip,” she notes. When rinsing off after one of her favorite swims from Woods Cove to Montage Laguna Beach or Crystal Cove to Shaw’s Cove, Havelka utilizes a DIY shower made from a repurposed laundry detergent bottle and a Sportkini tech towel. “I have an entire regime,” she says.
She then slips on a T-shirt dress, custommade flip-flops from the Sandalman in Newport Beach, the now-discontinued Leila polarized lens sunglasses by Kaenon, and a mermaid hat.
If she spends time relaxing on the sand, she’ll typically dive into a book about fitness and nutrition, another self-help topic or an inspiring story about an elite athlete or underdog business—kind of like her own. g
Left: eye gels by H. Hazel, a favorite of Laura Linsenmayer
Clockwise from middle: Sportkini founder Stephanie Havelka in her mermaid hat, and some of her favorite things: Roka swim goggles, California Mango lotion and sunscreen by Ethical Zinc
Congratulations graduates! You have grown and excelled in the classroom, in the arts, on the athletic field, in leadership roles and in service to your community. You have demonstrated incredible perseverance and grace in these unprecedented times. You are an extraordinary group of young adults headed to colleges and universities across the nation and the world, incredibly well prepared for the remarkable journey ahead. We are very proud of you, and have great faith in you. Remain true to yourselves and your Tartan values. We look forward to seeing your lives unfold with meaning and purpose.
Godspeed Tartans! Tartans Forever!
Real Estate / Showcase
TOUR LAGUNA’S TOP HOMES
From quaint beach cottages to luxury hilltop estates, the Laguna Beach area offers some of the best homes and views in Orange County. On the following pages, we bring you a special section dedicated to highlighting top properties on the market today. These outstanding homes are represented by Laguna Beach’s expert Realtors and real estate agents—individuals with superior knowledge of the local area and the OC market, all dedicated to providing the best customer service.
ADDRESS:
785 SUMMIT DRIVE, LAGUNA BEACH
OFFERING PRICE:
$4,400,000
AGENT: THE HORTON TEAM
SURTERRE PROPERTIES
949-422-6122
AMANDA@AMANDAHORTON.COM
HORTONSINLAGUNA.COM
CLOSED VOLUME 2022 OVER $782 MILLION
Commanding unobstructed front-row views, this exceptionally rare approximately 31,188 square foot double homesite offers extensive possibilities include enjoying the coveted property as it is; replacing one or both homes with new ones; or clearing the existing residences and creating an uncompromising custom showplace directly above the ocean.
Traditional Chinese food isn’t easy to find. But with the addition of Red Dragon to Laguna Beach’s restaurant lineup, those looking for cultural cuisine can delve into highquality dishes dreamed up on the other side of the world.
With a focus on Cantonese creations from the southern part of China—and a few dishes from northern regions as well—the eatery offers classic plates with modern touches, creative plating and truly wonderful service. That’s no surprise though, considering how long the
project has been in the works: Owner Enshan Zhao bought the building way back in 2013 before facing a plethora of roadblocks, from permitting and building obstacles to the COVID-19 pandemic. But, with a lengthy soft launch planned, Red Dragon opened its doors in March; a grand opening is slated for July.
Zhao and his team started developing the menu last year, though it is often rotating with both new dishes and fresh ingredients. To start, try a cocktail like the Shanghai mule or the lychee martini, which both have a slight fruitiness but are
still neutral enough to pair with anything on the menu.
Simple appetizers like the cucumber salad, with slices of vegetables that are curled into circles and served with a sauce that brings a little heat, or the black wood ear mushroom salad featuring the chewy fungi that are popular in Chinese cuisine, are a perfect introduction to the meal.
As you dive deeper into the menu, you’ll find another variety in the maitake mushroom lobster, where the sauteed crustacean is cooked to perfection, flavored with garlic and ginger, and mixed with bell peppers, asparagus and—of course—maitake mushrooms before being served on the vibrant shell. Another flavorful option is the honey-glazed barbecue pork, where slices of the sweet and savory meat are accompanied by pickled radish and edible flowers.
But the dishes that really shine are those with stunning presentation, like the golddusted Cantonese shrimp, complete with edible gold flakes, or the grilled Angus beef rib over hot stones. The latter is truly an experience to remember, with slices of tender meat layered atop heated stones that help keep your meal warm no matter how long you spend enjoying it. This dish is also served with a house-made beef gravy that is poured tableside.
We’d be remiss not to mention the delicacies that rotate through the menu as well, like roasted pigeon, abalone and braised fish maw, made of the animal’s swim bladder that’s eaten in Asian cultures for the health benefits: It’s rich in antioxidants that boost immunity and contains collagen to keep skin looking young.
Although it was a long time coming, Red Dragon is impressive in taste, presentation and style, with an elegant dining room placed behind a sleek bar and hanging lamps inspired by Chinese lanterns overhead. More seating is located on the second floor, which is also used for special events, and the third floor will be an alfresco rooftop with an additional bar and views of the Pacific when it launches later this summer. g
DRAGON: 680 S. Coast Highway 949-769-9928; reddragonca.com
RED
Clockwise from top left: the maitake mushroom lobster, mixed with asparagus and bell pepper; the Red Dragon dining room and bar; the grilled Angus beef rib over hot stones with housemade gravy being poured tableside; the black wood ear mushroom salad (front) and the cucumber salad
ASHLEY RYAN
Maximum Luxury. Minimal Impact.
Here at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, we know we’re lucky to be tucked along the California coast, just steps from the ocean. That’s why we make the conscious choice to minimize our impact on the environment through a variety of sustainability practices– like eliminating single-use plastics along with a myriad other options we are proud of!
Dine at our Surfrider Ocean-Friendly restaurant with fresh, local seafood. Pamper yourself with in-room amenities, made and packaged with natural ingredients. Speak with our staff about their volunteering efforts to keep the land & sea pristine. Experience luxury by the sea, knowing you, and the planet will be cared for.
To make a reservation, visit RanchLB.com or call (866) 655-9392
Taste of the Town / Dining News
A RETURN TO THE PAST
Royal Hawaiian has long been a prominent part of the culinary history of Laguna Beach, first opening its doors in the 1940s. After reopening as Royal Hawaiian Fire Grill in 2019 under the Molteni brothers— one of which started Maro Wood Grill farther south—the eatery has since reopened once more, restored to its original, vintage Hawaiian-inspired splendor. In early June, the iconic north Laguna restaurant revealed its revival by Los Angeles-based Boulevard Hospitality Group, complete with a renovation to return the space to its former glory. Original lamps, mugs and decor have also been procured to enhance the space, which features jade
tiles, a 45-foot bar and new Tiki statues out front. Tropical cocktails, like the famed Lapu Lapu, are also making a comeback while the food menu includes island cuisines from Hawaii, but also from Korea, Japan, the Philippines and more. Due to the restaurant’s popularity, reservations are recommended. (949-549-4354; royalhawaiianoc.com) Ashley Ryan
A PIECE OF THE PIE
Find classic Neapolitan-style pizza at the new Grazie Grazie! Pizzeria, which popped up in north Laguna at the Boat Canyon Shopping Center in March. The counter service pizza parlor, which took over the
former Gina’s Pizza space, has a short menu, serving up a number of signature pies. Those looking for uncomplicated options will enjoy the marinara pizza, crafted simply with cheese and spices, or the margherita, which features mozzarella, basil and olive oil atop tomato sauce. For more intricate options, try the Burrata & Truffles, which features cherry tomatoes, basil, arugula, burrata and black truffles, or the Bianco Verde, complete with mozzarella and ricotta cheeses beneath pistachio pesto and honey. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available while diners can also opt to add ingredients. The menu also includes sides like a house or Caesar salad as well as the Prosciutto & Grana appetizer served with pickles. And for dessert, sample tiramisu, a cookie with dark chocolate or various flavors of gelato. (949-7150213; graziegraziepizzeria.com) —A.R.
CREATIVE COCKTAILS
Broadway by Amar Santana is already known for its creative culinary offerings, but the inspiration doesn’t stop there. A couple of months ago, bartenders Jade Bustamante and Sam Van Patten launched Off Broadway Productions, an exclusive cocktail experience offered on Thursday nights at the bar top. After a visit to the Japanese Garden at The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in the Pasadena area for inspiration, they offered a unique cocktail called Yokai Koen throughout the month of May. Featuring unfiltered sake and Japanese whisky as the
Royal Hawaiian has reopened in town with vintage island style and tropical fare.
Grazie Grazie! Pizzeria in north Laguna
base spirits, the drink also included a green tea blend and fresh citrus, served with a one-of-a-kind display: Using live greenery, they created a miniature planter box with an elevated platform to hold the drink and dry ice hidden in the plants. A yokai, or mischievous Japanese spirit, was said to haunt the small garden. “We would pour green tea over the garden—over the dry ice—as an offering to the spirit living within the garden,” Bustamante notes. “The fog would slowly emerge from the garden, hug the plants and spill out over the sides, casting a beautiful green tea aromatic.” The cocktail itself was served in a traditional Japanese tea cup. After taking a month off, the experience returns July 6 with a cocktail inspired by cleansing rituals. (949-715-8234; broadwaybyamarsantana.com) —A.R.
DINING POP-UPS
Montage Laguna Beach is bringing back its Taste of Talay pop-up this summer, along with a few other specialty dining options for resort guests and locals to enjoy. Talay is a signature Thai street food experience at Montage Los Cabos. But for a limited time, from June 27 to Sept. 6 (every day except Mondays), dishes liked charcoalgrilled satay chicken, Thai ceviche and “gaeng kua” lobster curry will be available at the Laguna property, along with cocktails infused with Southeast Asian flavors; make a reservation through OpenTable or call
855-493-2480. Also at Montage, another pop-up called Cal-Zone will bring Italian flavors to the Life Force Lawn from July 1 to Sept. 4 (Thursdays through Mondays). Diners will feel transported to the Amalfi Coast as they sit at picnic tables under white-and-yellow umbrellas in a space accented with lemon trees. Dishes include handmade pizzas like Funghi Misti Bianca and a margherita calzone, all baked in an outdoor pizza oven, plus other items like a seasonal salad and panini; seatings are on a first-come, first-served basis. And, at Mosaic Bar & Grille, Montage is offering s’mores tableside, complete with a mini roaster, daily from 5-9 p.m. (949-715-6000; montagehotels.com) Sharon Stello
A REIMAGINED RUMARI
Ristorante Rumari, which closed several months ago, reopened in May as Rumari under the new ownership of Ivan Spiers, who also owns Mozambique, Skyloft and Laguna Fish Co. in town. Now serving both Italian and Greek-inspired dishes in this romantic setting with new decor, Rumari embraces the flavors of the Mediterranean. Choose from Greek lamb chops, souvlaki and moussaka as well as chicken Parmesan, spaghetti lobster carbonara, filet mignon with green peppercorn sauce, halibut piccata, and linguine with clams, mussels, shrimp and lobster in a marinara or white wine sauce. A full bar is also offered with craft cocktails and specialty mocktails plus a curated list of beer and wine in Italian, Greek and California varieties. Open for dinner on Wednesday through Sunday starting at 5 p.m., a happy hour with discounts on certain dishes and drinks also runs from 3-5 p.m. on those days. (949-4940400; rumarioc.com) —S.S. /
RESTAURANT LISTINGS
Scan the QR code below to visit our dining resource online.
The Taste of Talay pop-up
Bartenders Jade Bustamante and Sam Van Patten with the Yokai Koen cocktail at Broadway by Amar Santana
Dishes and wine at the reimagined Rumari
Last Impressions / Craig Cooley
Craig Cooley 10
MINUTES WITH
Craig Cooley, president of nonprofit Laguna Beach Pride 365 for the past five years, has committed himself to supporting the local LGBTQ+ community and, most recently, advocated for a rainbow lifeguard tower to be added at West Street Beach; the colorful tower is expected to be installed in early summer.
“About a year ago, Laguna Beach Pride was approached and was asked for help in obtaining permission and funding for a plaque for West Street Beach commemorating it as a fun oasis for the LGBTQ+ community as it had been for decades,” Cooley says. “We came upon the idea of a rainbow lifeguard tower to have somewhere to place the plaque for everyone to see. For more than a year, we have been working hard to make this happen and, with the recent approval by the Laguna Beach City Council, it is happening.”
love of Laguna bug.” He didn’t get back until 2006, living in town for a few years. Although he now resides in San Juan Capistrano, Cooley says, “my heart remains with Laguna.”
Reflecting on Laguna’s response to the gay community, Cooley says he feels “there was a tide of less than friendly acceptance for a period of years” at the end of the AIDS epidemic, but believes that “once again, the ‘gay’ community is welcomed with open arms.”
LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE: What do you like about Laguna Beach?
CRAIG COOLEY: The “freedom culture” that pervades everything, and the love and support of diversity. The freedom to be your true self and the acceptance of all.
THE PRESIDENT OF LAGUNA BEACH PRIDE 365 TALKS ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION’S EFFORTS TO SUPPORT THE LOCAL GAY COMMUNITY, THE RAINBOW LIFEGUARD TOWER COMING TO WEST STREET BEACH AND MORE.
By SHARON STELLO
A $10,000 donation from longtime locals Steve Chadima and Mark Porterfield helped to fund the project. Despite some concerns voiced by residents that the tower could be a target for vandalism or arson, the rainbow lifeguard tower was approved.
Before becoming a nonprofit in 2018, Laguna Beach Pride 365 was an independent group of likeminded individuals creating Pride events whenever possible, Cooley explains. The organization’s mantra is “building unity and commerce through the power of diversity.” “As a nonprofit, we cannot endorse candidates, but we can bring everyone together on important issues to discuss and exchange ideas for the betterment of all parties,” he says.
In addition to organizing the annual Laguna Beach Pride Festival (coming up Aug. 12), the year-round service organization puts on plenty of other events, from fundraisers for nonprofits like the Friendship Shelter to Beach Bonfire Sunset social gatherings, hikes, drag bingo, and health and awareness events. Cooley worked in hospitality for 30 years in the corporate management and marketing realm, still taking contract work on occasion in this industry. He also hosts a weekly show, “Rainbow Radio,” on Laguna radio station KX FM at 9 a.m. Saturdays. “This is something I love and am passionate about,” Cooley says. “Often, I have guests in the studio or online for interesting and often provocative interviews, along with the latest news and happenings in the LGBTQ-oriented culture …[on] topics from suicide prevention [to] transitioning, hate crimes [and] legislative issues.”
Originally from Yreka in Northern California, Cooley first visited Laguna in 1978 “and caught the
LBM: Why do you think, historically, this town has been such an enclave for the gay community?
CC: I think Laguna became an escape from harsh judgment, hate and punitive aggression—somewhere you could express yourself without fear of retribution. Early on, the gay culture was immersed in the art[s] culture, a powerful alliance as both were often marginalized. From there, it became a growing bastion of freedom, a safe haven and home for the LGBTQ+ community.
LBM: Last fall, the Anchor Line Bar—Laguna’s last gay bar—closed after the owner died. How did you feel about this end of an era?
CC: It was sad to see the last gay bar close its doors. But there is a new gay culture that is more accepting, more visible and looking for a better quality establishment than the … backdoor hideaway establishments of the past.
LBM: Do you think any changes are needed in Laguna to make it more equitable and welcoming for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors?
CC: Certainly an entertainment dance bar would be an excellent first step. Follow that with getting the word out to the feeder markets as part of a comprehensive marketing plan. … The city is very open and accepting. I feel it is a safe culture where you can be open and true to yourself without fear of threats and conflict. That is huge in my book. That is what makes Laguna Beach what it is and [what it] is famous for. g
Craig Cooley, president of Laguna Beach Pride 365
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