I hope you’re enjoying my latest beach aerials of Orange County! Today, I’m taking it one step further and sharing a Laguna Beach travel guide by none other than the ULTIMATE local herself, Lauren Conrad. It’s especially sweet to share her tips with you all today as Lauren actually joined me on the helicopter flight last August when I took to the skies to create the photography series.
Ready? I’ll let Lauren take it away with her local guide to Laguna Beach….## Where to Eat: Zinc
> Located in the middle of Downtown Laguna, this has always been one of my favorite places to eat. With outdoor seating, plenty of beautiful vegetarian options and a charming cafe, this is my go-to spot for a lunch date. If you're in a rush and taking your lunch to-go their pre-made vegetable sandwich is my favorite. The best part? Main Beach is just a few blocks away, so you can take your lunch with you and enjoy it oceanside.
## Where to Stay: The Ranch
> This recently renovated hotel is tucked away in a small canyon and includes a beautiful golf course and a wonderful new restaurant. If visiting during the warmer months you can enjoy live music over a glass of wine and appetizers in their outdoor seating area. Some nights they even put out lawn games for the kids.
## Where to Visit: Victoria Beach
> If you are looking to spend a day at the beach, Victoria Beach is a nice option. This beach has two interesting features; aman-made circular pool as well as Laguna's legendary 'Pirate Tower'. (Just be sure to check the tide chart for the day because the tower is most safely accessed at low tide.) As a kid, I used to visit the tower in search of treasure because we were always told that gold coins had been hidden between the stones.
## Where to Dine: Mosaic
> If you are spending your day at Treasure Island Beach I recommend popping into Mosaic at the Montage Laguna Beach for a lunch or even just a cocktail. I love meeting a girlfriend here on a sunny day or enjoying dinner at sunset. Withboth a stunning pool and the beach within eyesight, I truly feel like I am on vacation while dining here.
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**## Where to Shop: Laguna Supply
> This upscale boutique is located on Beach Street in the heart of downtown Laguna. Both the store itself and its merchandise are beautifully modern and beachy. I've picked up a couple of pieces here for special events, but they have options for any occasion.
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**## Where to Adventure: Rent a Duffy at the Harbor
> Just up the coast, in Newport Beach, you can rent a Duffy boat for a couple of hours and cruise through the harbor. It's a great way to spend a relaxing afternoon with friends. Just pack a picnic and take one of these charming (and easy to maneuver) boats for a tour around the harbor.
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**UM, can we go right now? Thank you, Lauren! It was so much fun having you along for the ride while I captured all of the Orange County beach aerials, and now it just got that much better with your insider guide to Laguna Beach.
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**Last but not least, thank you for joining me this week to celebrate the launch of these new Orange County beach aerials! I love how it all came full circle with you.**
**Cheers,
xx GM
Photos: Zinc Café, The Ranch, Laguna Supply, Gray Malin
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