As autumn settles in and the air turns crisp, Thanksgiving invites families and friends to celebrate gratitude. Laguna Beach, with its stunning ocean views and vibrant community, becomes the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday.
From fine dining to community festivities, this coastal haven offers a variety of options for every Thanksgiving celebration. Whether you prefer luxurious dining or outdoor adventures, Laguna Beach has something for everyone to make this holiday truly special.
Upscale Thanksgiving Dining Options in Laguna Beach
The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel: A Luxurious Thanksgiving Buffet
Experience the ultimate Thanksgiving feast at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. The Thanksgiving Brunch Buffet starts at $250 per person and runs from 11:30 AM to 3 PM. Enjoy traditional holiday dishes like turkey and prime rib, paired with upscale selections like a caviar bar and a dim sum station. Reservations are essential.
- Location: 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, CA
- Reservations: Highly recommended.
Splashes Restaurant: Oceanfront Dining
At Splashes Restaurant in the Surf & Sand Resort, guests can indulge in a four-course prix fixe Thanksgiving menu for $125 per adult and $35 per child. Available from noon to 8 PM, this oceanfront restaurant offers a serene setting for a memorable Thanksgiving meal.
- Location: 1555 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA
- Reservations: Required.
Las Brisas: A Cliffside Feast
For a Thanksgiving meal with Mexican-inspired flavors, Las Brisas offers a special holiday menu overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This Laguna Beach staple is known for its fresh coastal cuisine, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a unique Thanksgiving experience.
- Location: 361 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, CA
- Reservations: Recommended.
The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach: Coastal Elegance
Enjoy a refined Thanksgiving dinner at The Loft in Montage Laguna Beach, offering a multi-course meal using the finest seasonal ingredients. With spectacular ocean views, this venue provides a truly upscale dining experience.
- Location: 30801 South Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA
- Reservations: Required.
Community Festivities and Active Traditions
46th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot
Kickstart your Thanksgiving morning with the Dana Point Turkey Trot, a local tradition that offers 5K, 10K, and 15K combo races. Enjoy scenic views along the Dana Point Harbor while participating in one of Orange County’s largest running events.
- Time: 6 AM – 11 AM
- Perks: Registration includes a shirt, medal, and bib with timed results.
- Family Event: A 1-mile Gobble Wobble and costume contest are perfect for kids.
Thanksgiving Dinner Takeout Options
If you prefer a Thanksgiving feast at home, several local restaurants offer convenient takeout options:
- Popeye’s Cajun-Style Turkey: Serves 8-12 people, priced at $99.
- Black Angus Turkey Feasts: Starting at $107, serving 4 to 12 people.
- Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant: Details on their turkey or ham take-home dinners are available closer to Thanksgiving.
- Whole Foods Market: Curated holiday meal options for pickup.
These options allow for a stress-free holiday dinner, whether for intimate gatherings or large celebrations.
Thanksgiving Buffets near Laguna Beach
For those looking to enjoy a buffet, several local venues offer unique Thanksgiving options:
Driftwood Kitchen, $125, Gourmet buffet
El Torito, $38/$12, Taco station, pumpkin pie, dessert bar
Orange Hill Restaurant, $75/$35, Prime rib, turkey, crab legs
Each location offers a festive and flavorful spread for a memorable Thanksgiving dining experience.
Outdoor Activities in Laguna Beach
Explore Laguna Beach’s natural beauty this Thanksgiving by visiting Wood’s Cove for body surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or snorkeling. For a more leisurely activity, stroll along Heisler Park and take in the breathtaking ocean views.
- Tip: Rent a wetsuit from local shops to stay warm while enjoying the water in cooler weather.
Thanksgiving Events for Families
Thanksgiving in Laguna Beach is filled with family-friendly activities. Several restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus, while events like live music and children’s crafts add to the festive atmosphere. Nearby areas such as Costa Mesa and Laguna Niguel also host Thanksgiving events that cater to families.
Exploring Laguna Beach During Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to explore Laguna Beach’s top attractions. Don’t miss the 33rd Annual Sawdust Art Festival’s Winter Fantasy, which transforms the town into a holiday wonderland with local art and holiday-themed events.
For a more communal experience, the Laguna Beach Community Thanksgiving Potluck serves 600 to 700 meals, allowing locals and visitors alike to come together for a shared holiday meal.
Thanksgiving Desserts: Sweet Treats to Complete Your Meal
After your Thanksgiving feast, treat yourself to delicious desserts from Laguna Beach’s local bakeries. Options like Schwan’s apple pie or Las Brisas’ desserts add a sweet note to the holiday celebration. For those attending the Laguna Beach Community Potluck, a wide variety of homemade desserts are provided by attendees.
Giving Back: Laguna Beach’s Community Spirit
Laguna Beach embodies the spirit of giving during Thanksgiving. The Laguna Beach Community Thanksgiving Potluck, hosted at Neighborhood Congregational Church, serves meals to hundreds of locals and visitors. Donations of cooked turkeys and other dishes are welcome on Thanksgiving Day to ensure everyone enjoys a festive meal.
Additionally, the Sawdust Art Festival’s Winter Fantasy provides a unique way for the community to support local artists and embrace the holiday season.
Conclusion: A Memorable Thanksgiving in Laguna Beach
Whether you’re enjoying an elegant meal at The Ritz-Carlton, exploring the scenic beauty of Heisler Park, or giving back to the community at the Thanksgiving Potluck, Laguna Beach offers a variety of ways to make Thanksgiving 2024 unforgettable. From gourmet dining to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this coastal paradise.
