LAGUNA BEACH

10. Montage Laguna Beach
Laguna's most exclusive resort hotel, featuring the region's only 5-star spa and two world class restaurants, perched atop a picturesque bluff top with a secluded beach. Understated but highly elegant, this is a favorite spot for celebrities and captains of industry alike.

Website: www.montagelagunabeach.com

Website: www.peterblakegallery.com

8. Seven4one
The newest contemporary boutique hotel in town, Seven4One stands out as a modern icon in the middle of Laguna's central village strip, a short walk to several pristine beaches, shopping, galleries and everything Laguna. Tapas are served in the intimate lounge, but there are only a small number of rooms, so book now if you plan to stay over.

Website: www.seven4one.com

7. Thalia Street
Whether you prefer surfing, kayaking, or mountain biking on the miles of trails above the beach, you'll find what you need at Thalia Street in the middle of town. Rentals, lessons and trail maps are available from Laguna Beach Cyclery.

Website: www.lagunabeachcyclery.com

6. Brussels Bistro
Just off Main Beach is this unexpected spot where one can dine on authentic Belgian cuisine, listen to live Jazz, and then dance into the night after the bistro unexpectedly transforms itself into a bona-fide Euro-disco club after the dinner rush is over. www.brusselsbistro.com

Website: www.brusselsbistro.com

5. Aquaterra Spa
There are several excellent spas in Laguna, but one of my favorites is Aquaterra at the Surf & Sand, another fine Laguna resort. With a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere, this spa is off the beaten path and makes one feel like they are in a tropical paradise.

Website: www.surfandsandresort.com

4. Anastasia
Half ultra-chic boutique and half upscale bistro, Anastasia is one of the few places in town where one can sip fine champagne while browsing the very latest in ladies fashion from famous designers all over the world. Located a short distance from the famous Pageant of the Masters and Laguna Playhouse theaters and the Sawdust Festival.

Website: www.anastasiausa.com

3. Laguna Coffee Company
Live Jazz on a Saturday morning? Why not? Not only does this cozy coffee house import and roast its own blends of beans, but wakes up the neighbourhood with smooth melodies on the weekends.

Website: www.lagunacoffeeco.com

2. Sapphire
Sapphire. Since Laguna has one of the most ideal climates in the world, Sapphire offers year round outdoor as well as indoor fine dining, one block from the blue Pacific.

1. The Rooftop at Casa del Camino
The perfect place to quaff a sunset cocktail or two, famous for several variations of the ever- popular mohito and an exotic wine list. The outdoor Rooftop bar is on top of the hotel and enjoys some of the most panoramic views of the coastline and city lights imaginable, but you won't know whether to stare at the scenery or at the people who congregate.

Website: www.casacamino.com