LAGUNA BEACH

I have played on this beach since I first started walking and spent many an hour at Carousel, Thomas Doughnuts and walking the sea oat lined trails to the water.  This area was developed by Charlie Lahan's daddy and to this day the Lahan family still runs the Carousel Grocery. 

The Carousel Grocery is a Landmark right across from the reserved beach that is protected from hotels and high rises.  The Carousel is still the friendly neighborhood grocery store with great meats, fresh produce and some specialty items that are only to be found there. The family has a lot of pride in the store and several family members still own and run it today. The wine selection is the best anywhere on the beach and the gift shop has beautiful gifts and jewelry.  Ann Lahan owner of the gift shop has impeccable taste and keeps it stocked with one of of a kind jewelry, many of the items hand made by artist in the area.  There is also a selection of cards and artwork and accessories for you beach house.  I have bought many a gift through the years and have never been disappointed.  The friendly staff always sends you out with a beautifully wrapped presentation.

Laguna Beach was started in 1936 when J.B. Lahan decided to relocate from Birmingham Alabama and build a little beach home.  Thankfully he shared the adventure with others by selling off lots. The price of lots then would not buy you an i-pod now!  Across from the community is a long expanse of beautiful unmarked beach with no hint of hotels only beautiful sea oats and sand laced trails.

Laguna Beach was a quiet beachy community and it remains so to this day.  You will know that you are there by the smell of donuts coming from Thomas Donuts and the Carousel that still has everything you need from suntan oil to a cold beverage.  Make sure that you pull over in front of the Carousel and take a picture of the pristine beach that is very quiet and peaceful and amazingly beautiful.