CHRIS GUZIAK 

ABOUT SOUTH LAGUNA

South Laguna is situated between Treasure Island Park to the north and Three Arch Bay to the south, and includes several of Laguna's most picturesque beaches and coves. One of the more "laid back" areas in town, it has a history dating back to the very early 1900s and has been more resistant to change, giving South Laguna a vibe that many consider to be the old, true soul of Laguna Beach. South Laguna neighborhoods include Coast Royal, a non-gated community with homes terracing up the hill offering panoramic views; the South Laguna Village, a smaller version of the central Laguna Village to the north known for walkability and proximity to South Laguna's commercial area, restaurants and shops; and South Laguna Bluffs, a section of the village on the ocean side of Coast Highway. There are also several oceanfront condominium complexes, including the Laguna Lido, Laguna Royale, Table Rock Condos, Ocean Vista condos and Blue Lagoon. South Laguna's amenities include Treasure Island Park, a picturesque bluff-top park with gardens and picnic areas, beach access and \walking paths located near the Montage Resort; The Ranch at Laguna Beach, a public golf resort hidden in a canyon along Aliso Creek with open air dining and entertainment; and the Montage Laguna, one of California's finest five-star resorts. South Laguna is also home to the city's only hospital. Beaches include Aliso Beach, West Street Beach, Table Rock Beach, Tortuava, and Thousand Steps Beach. The Valido Trail is a short hike with sweeping ocean and canyon views at the end. The South Laguna Beaches are are wider than other beaches in town, and are generally at the base of considerably taller cliffs, meaning there are more steps to access them, and they are more secluded. Tortuava is only accessible by private access. Aliso Beach is a state park and is the only beach with a public restaurant, and also the only beach with fire pits or where fires are even permitted.