Laguna Beach is a well-known surf spot located in Southern California. It's famous for its scenic views and a range of surf options that can cater to different skill levels. The area is marked by its residential streets, making parking a bit of a challenge, but it’s generally free in the nearby areas. This spot can get quite crowded when the waves are good, so be prepared for company in the water.

The surf here mostly breaks over rock ledges and sandy bottoms. It works best with medium-sized winter swells and can handle swell sizes starting at 2ft (about 0.6 meters). The optimal swell direction is from the southwest, but it can also take southern and northwestern swells. You can find both left and right waves here, with Brooks Street usually offering a great left. It's a solid choice for intermediate surfers, especially when the wind is coming from the east and the tide is low, mid, or high.

Consistency can be a bit tricky, as it needs a decent size to really start breaking, so you might find it rates as medium overall. When it’s on, however, Laguna Beach delivers high-quality waves, making it worth your while, even if it’s sometimes just average. If you’re hitting this spot, keep your eyes peeled for peak times and try to catch the good conditions!