Art in the OC - Laguna Beach - Festival of Arts & Pageant of the Masters July 5 - August 31

Known for its miles of clean sandy beaches, working artists and annual festivals, Laguna Beach is the perfect California small town getaway for visitors near and far.

It has been a small gay enclave for decades. In the summer, downtown Laguna is simply mobbed, yet still retains its small-town feel, with sidewalk bistros and artsy shopping.

Framed by the San Joaquin hills, the coves and bluffs have a decidedly Mediterranean feel. Here you will find a small gay paradise with some very nice restaurants, gay beaches, small hotels and nightlife. Laguna Beach is a popular getaway for L.A. gays.

Located mid-way between Los Angeles and San Diego, and just a stone's throw from Anaheim, the city of Laguna Beach is a seaside village of 25,000-plus residents that includes hundreds of local working artists and unique gift shops.

It is home for people who seek the tranquility of beach accommodations as well as endless cultural opportunities. These include dozens of art and music events throughout the year, as well as an art museum and a live stage theater. While there is not a gay-borhood per se', there are gays everywhere!

Four of the well-known festivals include the

Sawdust Art Festival, (June 26-Aug.30))

Festival of Arts / Pageant of the Masters
(in July 5 - August 31)

and Art-A-Fair. (in July 26 - August 30)

California’s finest Summer art event , Festival of Arts, is staged in a six-acre canyon park near the ocean in Laguna Beach. The stars of this summertime tradition, which began here in 1932, are over 140 of the Southland’s most accomplished artists.

Each night during the summer season at 8:30 the Festival of Arts presents its most famous attraction, the Pageant of the Masters. It is like nothing you have ever seen!

Pageant of the Masters ...What is it?

Ninety minutes of "living pictures" - incredibly faithful art re-creations of classical and contemporary works with real people posing to look exactly like their counterparts in the original pieces. An outdoor amphitheater, professional orchestra, original score, live narration, intricate sets, sophisticated lighting, expert staff, and hundreds of dedicated volunteers have won recognition for the Pageant as the best presentation of its kind.


These annual festivals together attract hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world who experience original artwork in many different forms. Scheduled throughout the summer and early fall, unique paintings, sculpture, photography and ceramics are just a few forms of art that visitors can enjoy.


More than two dozen hotels, B & B’s, seaside villas and full-service resorts dot the coastline throughout the city. There are accommodations for every taste and style. Many of these properties have been featured in media publications throughout the United States and many have breathtaking views.

When it comes to dining, Laguna Beach has many favorite, long-established restaurants as well as extraordinary choices in many ethnic cuisines. For the trendy or traditional experience, the area has become known as one of the best dining destinations in Southern California with many culinary delights.

Laguna Beach is Southern California’s premier seaside destination located just 75 minutes south of Los Angeles and along the central coast of Orange County. Known as home to hundreds of local artists, it is just one of Southern California's amazing gems!

Laguna Beach is primarily served by John Wayne/Orange County Airport located 20 minutes away.