After Labor Day, the maddening summer crowds clear out of this coastal town 50 miles south of L.A. Laguna has always drawn creatives lured by its rugged cliffs, verdant hills, and sweeping canyons. It's so beautiful, the entire town was designated a Historic American Landscape in 2016. Even as it's grown to include some of the most luxe resorts and restaurants around, Laguna hasn't lost its artsy soul. Strict buildings codes and the Laguna Beach Art Association help keep commercialism at bay. Stay at the
Hotel Joaquin, which is barely a year old and harkens the boho-cool days when stars like Bette Davis and Bing Cosby would frequent the area. Live it up at the recently renovated
Montage Laguna Beach—many argue the blufftop resort is the most stunning one on the coast. Other heavy-hitter spots to rest your head include the 167-room
Surf & Sand Resort and
The Ranch, a 19th-century homestead-turned sprawling hideaway. No need to plan out much of your day. You'll have plenty with which to keep entertained among the locally owned boutiques, galleries, and cafés. Or just hang around any of the 20 beaches that lie along this eight-mile stretch of SoCal.