Hotels in Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay: A Sanctuary of Nature's Splendour and Coastal Serenity

Nestled along the stunning coastline of Laguna Beach, California, Emerald Bay is a hidden gem that enchants visitors with its pristine sandy shores and breathtaking natural beauty. This exclusive beach community boasts a private, family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for sun-soaked days and tranquil evenings. Explore the scenic trails of the nearby Crystal Cove State Park, or indulge in water activities ranging from kayaking to paddleboarding. With its picturesque views and vibrant sunsets, Emerald Bay offers a serene escape that captures the heart of every traveller seeking relaxation, adventure, or a romantic getaway. Discover the magic of this coastal paradise! For our best hotel rates in Emerald Bay and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay, Laguna Beach, is a stunning destination known for its breathtaking coastal views and serene atmosphere. Heisler Park offers picturesque walking paths, ocean vistas, and picnic areas, ideal for first-time visitors. Thousand Steps Beach features a beautiful stretch of sand and is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Both locations provide a variety of accommodation options, from luxury oceanfront residences to charming vacation homes, ensuring a comfortable stay with exclusive amenities and proximity to the beach. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Emerald Bay:

1. Near Heisler ParkOpens in a new window: This scenic area is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering beautiful ocean views, walking trails, and access to the beach. If you’re seeking adventure and relaxation, this location is ideal. Consider staying at Laguna Beach HouseOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel that caters to adventure and business travellers, featuring amenities like a Business Center and outdoor activities such as surfing and fishing nearby. Another option is Laguna Cliffs InnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that provides convenient self-parking and a welcoming atmosphere. Lastly, Laguna Shores Studio SuitesOpens in a new window offers free WiFi and self-parking, ensuring a comfortable stay close to the park.
2. Near Thousand Steps BeachOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning coastline and natural beauty, this area is perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers. You can enjoy activities like kayaking and biking while soaking in the sun. Consider Beachfront Inn and Suites at Dana PointOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel that provides direct beach access and focuses on wellness and natural experiences. Another option is Best Western Plus Dana Point Inn-by-the-seaOpens in a new window, also a 2.5-star hotel, which offers business amenities and direct beach access, making it suitable for both fun and work. Lastly, Casablanca InnOpens in a new window, another 2.5-star hotel, welcomes pets and provides various outdoor activities, perfect for adventure-loving travellers.

Things to do in Emerald Bay for first times

Emerald Bay offers a stunning blend of sandy beaches, lush forests, and majestic mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend three days hiking scenic trails, boating on tranquil waters, and enjoying family-friendly activities. With its vibrant beach culture and opportunities for relaxation, this destination is a must-visit for any traveller. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Emerald Bay:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Crystal Cove State Park, where you can enjoy the stunning coastal views and explore the diverse trails. After a refreshing hike, head down to Cameo Cove Beach for some relaxation by the waves or a leisurely swim. Finish your day at Emerald Bay Beach, where you can take in the spectacular sunset and perhaps enjoy a picnic as the day winds down.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Crystal Cove for more exploration, this time focusing on its rich marine life and tide pools. Next, make your way to Crescent Bay Beach, a perfect spot for sunbathing or a casual beach volleyball game. Wrap up your day at Diver's Cove, where you can try your hand at snorkeling or simply enjoy the vibrant marine environment, making it an exciting day by the ocean.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Crystal Cove Beach, where you can admire the scenic beauty and perhaps grab a coffee at a nearby café. Afterward, visit the Sawdust Art Festival Grounds to immerse yourself in local art and crafts, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Conclude your trip with a peaceful stroll through Heisler Park, where the ocean views are breathtaking and the gardens are lovely—a perfect way to reflect on your visit to this beautiful area.

4 tips to find a great Emerald Bay hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Emerald Bay is during January, February, and November when hotel rates are significantly lower. International travellers should aim to book their flights at least 3 months in advance for the best deals, while domestic travellers should consider booking at least 2 months ahead. To truly appreciate the beauty and attractions of Emerald Bay, including its stunning beaches and the national state park, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. This way, you can enjoy a great value for money while exploring this picturesque destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Emerald Bay, consider exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of catching great offers, enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you seize any opportunity to save. Don’t forget, Laguna Beach may have sales that align with your travel plans as well!
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Emerald Bay.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near key attractions or city centres may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. To find more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, balancing cost with the ease of reaching the places you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Emerald Bay

Emerald Bay experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 56.1°F (13.4°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.6°F (22.0°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Emerald Bay are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, January, April, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny conditions.