Laguna Beach is known for gorgeous oceanfront dining, high-end properties, a thriving art scene and the ultimate authentic Southern California experience. It’s also an idyllic place to say “I do.” There are countless vendors in the area to ensure a seamless, stress-free wedding planning adventure.

If you want all of the aforementioned along with a little “cool” thrown in the mix, The Ranch at Laguna Beach more than delivers.

When I visited in September, it was just as peak season was coming to a close, but the weather was perfect and a visit to the area couldn’t have been better timed. The recently revamped and completely renovated property offers a bit of the unexpected. Tucked into Aliso Canyon and away from the hustle of the PCH (yet, still within walking distance to the beach), you’ll find a sprawling property that meanders the canyon floor and takes advantage of the gorgeous views from every vantage point. The rooms and cottages are impressive with a “coastal ranch chic” charm and interesting furniture pieces, which give that “found” feeling – a far cry from the ordinary corporate hotel chain. The bathrooms are so cool they might just make you want to take a sledgehammer to your own when you return home.

The cuisine alone is worth a visit. Executive Chef Charles Imbelli has created a menu that offers extreme indulgence (the bacon bourbon cinnamon roll at breakfast, for example), as well as a modern, healthy spin on classics. All of the menus are seasonal, which reflects the freshness found in every dish.

When it comes to celebrating with your loved ones when you tie the knot, you’ll be well cared for as The Ranch at Laguna Beach can accommodate just about anything. Their expert staff has been around the wedding block more than a few times, so they’ve seen it all. According to Jim Tolbert, Director of Sales and Marketing, they can create magic. “When couples are looking for that ‘Pinterest wedding,’ this is it,” says Jim. And with only one wedding a day, the focus is entirely on you.

For a truly unexpected romantic getaway or destination wedding in the heart of Southern California, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is a sublime marriage between eclectic and classic.

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2017 issue. You can order a copy here.