Welcome to Laguna Niguel
Fun and friendly community nestled between San Joaquin Hills and the Pacific
Just five miles from the Pacific Coast, Laguna Niguel is nestled within the San Joaquin Hills. Originally named Rancho Laguna, the land was used primarily as a sheep farm. In 1959, the Laguna Niguel Corporation was established, and they hired Victor Gruen and Associates to design the new neighborhood. It was the first master-planned community in California, although Laguna Niguel wouldn't be officially incorporated as a city until 1989.
Housing styles in Laguna Niguel range from classic Spanish and ranch-style homes to large modern states and newer townhomes. There are numerous affluent neighborhoods, including Monarch Point, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and Laguna Niguel South, which is home to the exclusive El Niguel Country Club. A haven for nature lovers, over a third of Laguna Niguel is an open space with hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.
What to Love
- Proximity to beautiful beaches and Dana Point Harbor
- Beautiful homes in quiet and affluent neighborhoods
- A peaceful community close to major cities in Orange County
- An abundance of open space and outdoor recreation
- Breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape
Local Lifestyle
Laguna Niguel is a quiet, clean, and peaceful suburb. Longtime residents know each other, making it a tight-knit community with small-town appeal. Because there are plenty of nature reserves and it's close to the beaches, you'll often find plenty of people spending time outdoors, so it's perfect for those who want an active and healthy lifestyle.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
A market, restaurant, and bar in one, Bottega Angelina specializes in Italian foods and dishes. You can get everything from charcuterie and gelato to fresh bread and Italian wines at the Bottega Angelina Mercato. The restaurant boasts an open kitchen serving authentic Italian cuisine. The menu changes seasonally to highlight the freshest ingredients available. The bar has a curated wine list and puts inventive twists on classic cocktails.
For authentic Mexican cuisine, Caló Kitchen + Tequila serves classic dishes using fresh and organic ingredients. The food highlights traditional favorites, including carnitas and enchiladas made from age-old family recipes. The restaurant has been family-owned and operated since 1962 and remains highly rated for flavorful food and great service.
Another local favorite for Mexican food, Amber's Cantina, is famed for its homemade chips and salsa and handcrafted margaritas. Entrees can be ordered a la carte or as a meal. Menu highlights include carne asada, chicken mole, and lobster tacos.
For a more eclectic menu, The Bistro K serves American favorites, elevated comfort food, and modern Italian dishes. They have a breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. In addition to highly-rated dishes, which include both healthy and hearty options, they serve amazing coffee and espresso.
Things to Do
Laguna Niguel boasts an abundance of wildlife reserves and green spaces. Laguna Niguel Regional Park has a network of hiking and biking trails. There are also picnic shelters, volleyball courts, tennis courts, a fishing lake, and an amphitheater.
A popular gathering place in the community, Crown Valley Park / Laguna Niguel Parks and Recreation hosts the Summer Concerts in the Park at the onsite amphitheater. The park also offers numerous amenities, including athletic fields, an aquatic center, and a playground. The Salt Creek Trail connects the two parks, Dana Point and the beach.
For golf enthusiasts, El Niguel Country Club is a private club with an 18-hole championship golf course. It's known for having some of the best greens in Orange County. PGA-certified instructors provide lessons to players of all skill levels. Membership is limited, but there are several tiers to fit varying interests.
Right next door, Laguna Niguel Racquet Club has 22 tennis courts, a junior Olympic swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and personal trainers. Membership gives you access to the Monarch Bay location as well. To kick off the holidays, the Annual Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade features 100 entries and draws over 10,000 spectators every year.
Schools