Gay Bars, Hotels & Venues in Laguna Beach, CA — 28 LGBTQ+ Spots

A mixed crowd of locals and visitors gathers here for pool, cocktails, and a no-frills vibe. Tin Lizzie Saloon is a Costa Mesa gay bar with a pool table and occasional snacks, part dive bar and part cocktail lounge. Hours run late every night, with Sat and Sun opening at 3pm and weekdays at 4pm. Some recent reviews mention pushy patrons and rude service, so keep expectations grounded.

South Coast Plaza is one of the largest shopping malls in the country, with over 250 stores spanning luxury fashion, accessories, and sundries near the I-405 in Costa Mesa. Its scale and mix of high-end and mainstream retailers draw travelers and locals alike, though its Yelp listing currently indicates the venue may be permanently closed, so it's best to verify before heading out. The mall is open daily with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 9pm, closing earlier on Sundays at 7pm. If you're in the area and it's still operating, you can easily spend a full afternoon browsing; for a change of pace, nearby Soulshine Laguna offers a contrasting boutique experience.

Best suited for a low-key date or catching up with friends over lunch, Zinc Cafe & Market in Laguna Beach offers counter-service dining with gourmet dishes and coffee drinks. It doubles as a gourmet take-out market and gift shop, with a laid-back vibe that attracts a mixed gay-straight crowd. The food gets consistent praise, and the atmosphere is casual enough for lingering. Open daily from 7am to 4pm, it's a popular stop for breakfast or lunch. Regulars know that weekend brunch can get busy, but the turnover is steady. If you're in the mood for margaritas and a different setting, check out nearby Avila's El Ranchito.

Dizz's As Is stands out among Laguna Beach restaurants as a beach-side grill with waterfront views, offering seafood and steak in a romantic setting. It's tagged outdoor seating and good for groups, with reviewers noting creative cuisine and friendly service. The vibe is trendy yet relaxed, ideal for a date night or a stroll on the sand after your meal. Note that Yelp indicates this venue may be permanently closed, so verify current hours before visiting. If you're looking for alternatives, nearby Zinc Cafe & Market offers a different but equally charming dining experience.

Upland Road just south of downtown Laguna Beach is home to Casa Laguna Inn & Spa, a high-end boutique hotel that blends bed-and-breakfast charm with a full spa and pool. Guests consistently praise the impeccable rooms, which are small but richly detailed with historic character. The complimentary courtyard breakfast and evening wine are particular highlights, adding to the romantic, relaxing vibe. You'll find attentive staff and a location that puts you steps from Laguna's shops and art galleries. The atmosphere skews quiet and refined, better suited for couples or solo travelers seeking calm than for a party crowd. Many return guests consider it a must-stay when visiting Laguna.

The crowd here is a mix of locals and visitors seeking a relaxed beachside meal. Nirvana Grille serves upscale seafood and Sunday brunch just blocks from the sand. Dinner is available nightly, with brunch on weekends. The food gets high marks for quality, though service can sometimes feel brisk.

This spot works best for a casual Mexican lunch or dinner near the Mercantile complex in Newport Beach. The menu offers familiar Mexican dishes at moderate prices, served in a straightforward setting. Yelp reviews give it a 3.3 average, and some suggest the location may be permanently closed, so call ahead before heading out. The hours vary slightly by day, with Fridays and Saturdays open until 10pm and other nights closing between 9pm and 9:30pm. If you're in the area and craving Mexican, consider nearby Avila's El Ranchito as an alternative.

What sets Okura Robata Grill & Sushi Bar apart in Laguna Beach is its focus on robata-grilled items alongside traditional sushi. This dinner-only spot operates from 4 pm to 9:30 pm most nights, with later hours Thursday through Saturday. With 27 photos and a handful of reviews, it's a quiet option for sushi lovers.

This place is best suited for couples seeking an intimate luxury beach escape in Laguna Beach. With only 12 rooms, you get personalized attention and a stylish South Beach vibe. The Sand Valet service sets you up at the beach with towels, chairs, and water at no extra cost.

Crowds here lean affluent and inclusive, drawing a mixed gay-straight clientele who treat this resort like a second home. Montage is an ocean front luxury resort perched above the Pacific, with grounds that evoke Hawaii more than Southern California. The men's spa consistently earns top marks from regulars, and the outdoor spaces, pool, and family-friendly vibe make it a versatile escape. You do not need a room to enjoy Montage. Locals and visitors alike come to walk the grounds at dusk for the sunset, then stay for drinks and dinner at the restaurant. Service is strong whether you are a guest or just stopping by. For a genuine nearby alternative, the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offers similar coastal luxury just a short drive south.

VLVT is a gay-owned nightclub and restaurant in downtown Santa Ana's Arts District. The venue runs drag shows and a popular happy hour, with daily hours from 10:30 am to 2 am (unconfirmed). The venue is temporarily closed, so check their socials before heading out. When open, it's a go-to for locals looking for evening entertainment.

Yelp data suggests The Laguna Beach Inn may be permanently closed. The modest two-story hotel offered outdoor seating and consistent daily hours from 7am to 11:30pm. Its Yelp rating of 3/5 from 179 reviews reflects a mixed reputation among guests. If you're planning a stay in Laguna Beach, you might want to check current operation status before booking. Nearby alternatives like Capri Laguna offer similar price points with more established reviews. Get directions and hours.

Aliso Creek Inn in Laguna Beach offers outdoor seating areas in a family-friendly setting. It's a standard-priced hotel with a quiet, unpretentious vibe, perfect for travelers who want a relaxing base without the resort markup. The hotel has only a handful of reviews, so it feels like a local discovery rather than a tourist hotspot. You'll find it tucked away from the main drag, making it a good pick if you prefer calm over crowds.

Right on the sand in Laguna Beach, this family-friendly hotel offers a rare chance to sleep with your door open and listen to the waves crash. The Ocean View rooms have private decks with some of the best coastal views in town. You'll also find two pools and a hot tub, plus the village is within walking distance.

The sound of waves is a constant companion at The Surf & Sand Hotel in Laguna Beach, where outdoor seating lets you soak in the ocean breeze. This oceanfront property at Calliope St. offers a serene escape with $$$ pricing and a coastal vibe. The hotel is a short stroll from the main beach and village shops. While it has only one rating so far, the 51 photos hint at stunning views and comfortable rooms. For more nightlife and dining options, head to nearby downtown Laguna.

This hotel is best suited for active travelers who want a full fitness and spa resort experience right at their hotel. The Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Hotel combines upscale lodging with a massive ClubSport facility featuring basketball, racquetball, squash, a huge pool with bar and food service, and an outdoor patio with fire pits that stays lively most nights. Guest rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is consistently courteous and respectful. It's gay-friendly and conveniently located for exploring Orange County. The gym is open 24 hours, so you can work out whenever you want. The hotel's casual bar and restaurant also has an outdoor patio that's fairly active on most evenings. For a more upscale coastal stay, you might consider The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel nearby, but this Renaissance offers a more active, resort-style vibe.

This hotel sits right on the oceanfront overlooking main Laguna Beach. Go down the stairs, make a left and you're in the bustle of the beach; go right and you'll find a quiet stretch. The pool is good for families, though it has no drink service. A standout perk is the 5pm happy hour on the roof deck with free wine. Rooms are spacious and clean. It's open 24 hours daily, so you can come and go as you please. The rooftop happy hour is a regular favorite among guests. If you want a more luxe stay nearby, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is a short drive south.

Most people picture a stuffy, formal hotel when they hear 'luxury resort.' The St. Regis Monarch Beach in Dana Point breaks that expectation with its relaxed coastal setting. Perched above the Pacific, this hotel offers outdoor seating where you can take in ocean breezes. It's a gay-friendly spot that combines St. Regis' signature butler service with California casual elegance. The vibe is upscale but unpretentious, ideal for a getaway that feels both indulgent and laid-back.

Capri Laguna is ideal for queer travelers who want a convenient, well-reviewed hotel in Laguna Beach with the flexibility of 24-hour access. This place offers outdoor seating and a laid-back coastal vibe, making it easy to relax after a day exploring town. Its 4.3-star Yelp rating from over 750 reviews points to consistent guest satisfaction. The hotel runs 24/7, so you can check in whenever your travels land you. You'll find it in a prime spot for hitting nearby beaches and local nightlife. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is a short drive away if you want a different luxury experience.

Families and budget-conscious travelers make up the crowd at Best Western Laguna Brisas Spa Hotel, a moderately priced hotel with a family-friendly vibe in Laguna Beach. Note that Yelp data suggests this hotel may be permanently closed, so call ahead before visiting. The hotel offers standard amenities for a Best Western. With 24-hour access, you can check in anytime. For current availability and hours, check the hotel's official listing.

Best suited for travelers wanting a straightforward, mid-range stay in Orange County. The Hills Hotel is in Laguna Hills, a suburban base near beaches, shopping, and Anaheim's theme parks. With 51 photos online, you can preview the rooms and common areas before booking. This hotel keeps things simple: no themed decor or buzzy extras, just standard comfort at a standard price point.

Guests describe Laguna Beach House as a "chic coastal décor" retreat with vintage furniture that feels like an open, airy beach cottage. The hotel is just a short walk from Main Beach and downtown Laguna Beach. You'll also enjoy a complimentary nightly wine hour at sunset, plus cookies and milk before bedtime. The hotel has a swimming pool and outdoor seating areas. It's open 24 hours a day, every day, so you can come and go as you please. For a more upscale stay, nearby The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offers another option in the area.

Unlike other luxury hotels in Dana Point, this Ritz-Carlton sits directly on a 150-foot ocean bluff, giving every room a full Pacific view. You get five-star service, high thread-count sheets, and the same surf break the wetsuit crowd rides. It's a beachside retreat with a polished, grown-up feel.

One reviewer described the scene as 'a parade of surfers in wetsuits,' and that image captures the relaxed elegance of The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point. This five-star hotel offers high thread-count sheets, outdoor seating, a swimming pool, and a spa. It's pet-friendly and family-friendly, with an upscale, romantic vibe. Operations run 24 hours, confirmed on Yelp. For a quieter experience, consider a weekday stay. The hotel's outdoor areas are popular for watching surfers. If you're exploring further, the Inn at Laguna Beach is a nearby alternative. Given its 4/5 Yelp rating from over a thousand reviews, it's a solid choice for luxury in Dana Point.

The Seahorse Bar at Pearl Street General has been serving the local gay community since 1940. This historic speakeasy offers craft beers, wines by the glass, and elevated bar food with Mediterranean and seafood options. The crowd is predominantly locals in their 30s and 40s, making it a relaxed after-work spot. Open daily from 7am to 8pm, it's an early-evening destination. Note that Yelp lists this venue as potentially permanently closed — confirm before heading out. If you're making a night of it, Tin Lizzie Saloon is another longtime gay bar nearby.

Avila's El Ranchito might seem like just another beachside Mexican spot, but it's a go-to for Laguna's gay crowd thanks to its location near Main Beach and the popular gay beach. The outdoor patio serves heaping plates of Mexican fare at budget-friendly prices, perfect for refueling after a day in the sun. Grab an afternoon marg and watch the boardwalk buzz. The vibe is mixed gay-straight and good for groups, making it an easy spot to meet friends after the beach. Open daily from 11am to 8pm, it's a solid bet for a casual late lunch or early dinner. If you're up for a walk after, Zinc Cafe & Market is a few blocks away for coffee or pastries.

Soulshine Laguna is best for anyone seeking sun-kissed souvenirs and locally crafted gifts in a mixed gay-straight casual setting. You'll find clothing, accessories, books, art, and jewelry—all with a vintage feel that captures the Laguna Beach spirit. It's a laid-back spot perfect for browsing without any rush. Open daily from 11am to 5pm, this shop offers a curated selection of treasures that make for easy, thoughtful gifts. If you're exploring the area, nearby South Coast Plaza offers more shopping variety. The friendly vibe keeps locals and tourists coming back.

A mature mixed LGBTQ+ crowd gathers here for handcrafted cocktails and ocean views. The Stateroom Bar shares space with Driftwood Kitchen, an elegant cocktail lounge perched above the Laguna Beach shoreline. It draws a 30s-40s after-work crowd, with the same hours daily from 5pm to 11pm. The adjacent restaurant serves steak, so you can make a full evening of it. If you're exploring Laguna Beach's gay bars, Tin Lizzie Saloon is another local option nearby.