5 Reasons To Visit Laguna Beach in Shoulder Season

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Residents know that it's always a good time to be in Laguna Beach. Perfect climate, when the sun strikes the green hillsides, the windswept waves, Laguna is a bit of heaven on earth.

Photographer Melinda Brower knows all about Shoulder Season, taking this photograph of Laguna Beach's iconic lifeguard tower on Main Street Beach in January, following a rain storm.

"It was around 5 p.m. after the rain, and no one was around," she said. "It was so peaceful and a perfect photo opportunity."

That feeling of no one being around is one of the things that makes visiting Laguna Beach in the off season such a treat.

A recent post by travel writer and Laguna Beach ambassador Steve Bramucci, touches on five reasons why the jewel of the California coast is still one of the most memorable locations in all of the Golden State.

Empty Beaches...

In Laguna, the crowds have thinned out in October. The climate is still a temperate mid-70s and even those marine layer washed mornings are ideal for strolling the sand and shell seeking. Visit the gorgeous Heisler Park to stroll along the cliffs above the shore, and watch the waves. Brave the 1,000 Steps Beach stairs to visit the prettiest go-to beach in Orange County." Crystal Cove is another lovely jaunt. Take your shoes off, dig your toes in the cool October sand and inhale that wild salty air.

Crystal Clear Canyons...

Have you been by Laguna Coast Wilderness Park lately? Visitors have remarked the easy access and amazing views of this coastal mountain park. Strenuous hikes and amazing views to the ocean. One TripAdvisor user cited Laurel Canyon trail as a shaded "nice break from exposed ridges." Talk to the guides and volunteers for the best hike for your capability. Remember, all hikers should bring ample water.

Off Season Events and Festivals...

October shines with the Plein Air Painting Invitational. November will bring in the Sawdust Winter Fantasy. The city of Laguna Beach also hosts Hospitality Night and the Montage Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is not to be missed for those who know.

Room to Move...

Between being able to rent your own trolley to enjoying the ability to park at area restaurants or near the Main Street Boardwalk, the off season is definitely the time to really explore Laguna Beach.

Life as a Local...

Laguna Beach is a famously friendly city. From the famed statue of Eiler Larsen, a Denmark citizen who emigrated to California welcomed travelers with his memorable wave. He was dubbed "Official Greeter" in 1963 and a statue still remains in downtown Laguna Beach. That friendliness remains, in everything from walking the sidewalks and getting a recommendation on where to eat dinner or pause to watch the legendary sunsets, whenever you visit Laguna Beach in the Shoulder Season, it's easy to live like a local.

For more information,stop by Visit Laguna Beach...

Photo by Laguna Beach resident, Melinda Brower