10 Reasons The Ranch at Laguna Beach Is a Perfect SoCal Weekend Getaway

Getting out of town to the right place is worth the effort when you head to the right place. The recently-opened Ranch at Laguna Beach is a boutique ranch hotel that is perfect for a Southern California road trip. Here are ten of the many reasons why.

1. It’s Not That Far Away

Without traffic, it would take me about an hour and fifteen minutes to get there. That’s not far. Sure, it could be challenging on a Friday during rush hour but my strategy is to leave as early in the day as possible or wait until 7:00 p.m. or later. The drive is well worth it anyway.

2. Peaceful Inland Location

This is the part of Laguna Beach that you may not have been to just yet. The Ranch at Laguna Beach is tucked away in gorgeous hillsides for a perfect blend of land and sea yet close enough to the beach to soak up rays.

3. You Don’t Have to Leave the Resort

Between the wellness offerings, golf, kids’ programming, and delicious menu, if a weekend is all you have to spare, it’s entirely possible to stay put on the resort to relax without running out of things to do. Sit under a tree and read a book or take advantage of the many onsite activities.

4. A Weekend Kids’ Club

Yes, book into the spa while kids are at Junior Ranger Camp exploring nature and wildlife around the resort. They’ll search for insects, make salsa, study bees, and immerse in other forms of edutainment… the best kind of entertainment.

5. Golf and Twilight Golf

The 9-hole Ben Brown’s Golf Course onsite rests in what the resort considers the most serene and natural setting in Orange County. It’s a very novice and family-friendly course, with junior golf clinics and even three-club barefoot tournaments for novices. You don’t even have to bring your own clubs as they rent TaylorMade clubs. Play at twilight for $22 – $26 and enjoy sunset on the course.

6. Explore by Bike

A very popular activity at home and away for my 9-year-old involves riding a bike. I can sell her on a destination if I tell her we’re going to explore trails, mountains and or beaches on two wheels. The Ranch at Laguna Beach has bike rentals and helmets from Laguna Beach Cyclery.

7. A Full-Service Spa and Wellness Programming

Decompress in the glorious 3000-square-foot indoor-outdoor spa that incorporates the resort’s peaceful surroundings. Treatments are based on the Earth’s healing properties that are designed to rejuvenate you on the inside and out. Poolside yoga? Check. How about morning meditation? They have that, too. Not to mention the canyon location opens up a world of hiking, running and biking opportunities.

8. Fantastic Food

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Thoughtfully-sourced, seasonal cuisine graces the menus at The Ranch at Laguna Beach. Many of the ingredients are even grown on-property. You’ll eat food steeped in California tradition between the Harvest Restaurant, the grab-and-go Ben’s Pantry and In-Room Dining.

9. A 1600-Square-Foot Treehouse

If you really want to get away from it all or vacation in the ultimate comfort, reserve the Treehouse with its floor-to-ceiling windows, fully-equipped kitchen, two bedrooms, wrap-around patio and personal golf cart.

10. Lots to Do in Laguna Beach

The list of things to do in Laguna Beach is a long one from its art galleries to eight miles of beaches (including some of my favorite tide pools). There is also whale watching—we’ve been on Captain Dave’s tour and highly recommend it—jet ski rentals, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and, of course, more nearby shopping than you can handle.

The Ranch at Laguna Beach Reservations

Book through Mr. and Mrs. Smith to receive a low price guarantee and a welcome drink (wine or cocktail) per person.

Are you ready for a Ranch holiday?