949.295.5676
Robyn(at)RobynRobinson(dotted)com

Main Content

Things to Do in Laguna Beach for a Refined Summer Weekend

Diverse painters applying watercolor paint with brushstrokes for a certain technique, working together on colorful artwork creation for the gallery. Man and woman enjoying artistic hobby.

Laguna Beach’s summer art festivals showcase local artists, live demonstrations, and one of the city’s defining seasonal traditions.



Summer brings Laguna Beach’s arts scene into full view. Festival grounds along Laguna Canyon Road are open, galleries welcome weekend visitors, and evenings revolve around open-air dining and live performances.

For a refined two-day escape, planning a visit during mid-to-late summer ensures all three major art festivals and the Pageant of the Masters are active. Here is how to experience the top things to do in Laguna Beach without rushing the weekend.

Saturday: Local Art, Coastal Access, and the Pageant

Start at the Sawdust Art Festival

Begin Saturday at the 60th annual Sawdust Art Festival, running from June 26 through September 6, 2026. More than 180 Laguna Beach artists exhibit handcrafted ceramics, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, and woodwork throughout the shaded grounds. Live music, artist demonstrations, and open workshops make it easy to spend a few hours exploring local craftsmanship.

The festival opens daily at 11 a.m. and remains open until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, so you can also fit later in the day.

Spend the afternoon near the water

After the festival, head downtown for lunch, then walk through Heisler Park along the oceanfront overlooks. Leave time to explore the independent boutiques and galleries along Forest Avenue. This mix of fine art, walkable streets, and coastal views is central to the Laguna Beach lifestyle, particularly if you live close to the village.

End with the Pageant of the Masters

Reserve Saturday evening for the Pageant of the Masters. Running nightly from July 9 through September 4, 2026, the production The Greatest of All Time recreates famous works of art using live models, theatrical sets, lighting, and a full orchestra in an outdoor amphitheater. Shows begin at 8:30 p.m.

Sunday: Fine Art and a Relaxed Afternoon

Visit the Festival of Arts

The Festival of Arts Fine Art Show, open July 7 through September 3, 2026, features juried work from more than 100 Orange County artists. Sunday hours start at 11 a.m., offering a quiet window to view paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and fine jewelry before lunch.

Continue to Laguna Art-A-Fair

Finish the weekend circuit at Laguna Art-A-Fair at 777 Laguna Canyon Road. Running from June 26 through September 6, 2026, the festival presents work from regional, national, and international artists, with original pieces available for purchase. Sunday hours run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Robyn’s tip: The $29 Passport to the Arts includes one-time admission to Sawdust, Laguna Art-A-Fair, and the Festival of Arts, along with shuttle service and Act V parking. Pageant tickets are sold separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do Laguna Beach summer art festivals require advance tickets?
    Not always. Advance tickets are strongly recommended for the Pageant of the Masters, while summer festival admissions can be purchased individually at the entrance or combined through the Passport to the Arts.

  • What is the best way to handle parking during the summer festival season?
    Park at the Act V lot (Lot 16) on Laguna Canyon Road and ride the free Laguna Beach Trolley directly to the festival grounds. This will help you avoid downtown traffic and metered parking.

Make Laguna Beach Part of Your Plans

Laguna beach’s arts, beaches, and walkable village offer plenty to enjoy beyond a summer weekend. If you are considering buying or selling a home in the area, call Robyn Robinson at 949.295.5676, or send a message to explore your options.

Skip to content