Hotel Joaquin, Laguna Beach
The seaside town of Laguna Beach might be as famously known for its quality surfing as its privileged residents, but at Hotel Joaquin, it’s thankfully all about the former. Situated along a pristine piece of the beachfront, Hotel Joaquin uniquely combines relaxation with adventure in a stylishly homey setting that you’ll find hard to pry yourself away from.
Starting from the light-filled living room space, eclectically filled with artwork, record players and mid-century lighting, that opens on to an al fresco terrace that’s casually strewn with glass tables and rattan dining chairs, every aspect of Hotel Joaquin has been assembled just so. Designer Robert McKinley, who also crafted the enviable environs of The Surf Lodge and Ruschmeyer’s in Montauk, has refreshingly reinterpreted the concept of ‘seaside chic’ into a minimal palette of bleached wood, white natural fabrics and hits of brass hardware, that also carries over into each of the hotel’s 22 rooms. Many of the rooms also come with expansive portrait windows or French doors that make the most of the salty sea air and the ocean views. Rooms are intentionally television-free, and fitted with a curated collection of music records, tailored to meet the intentions of each guest. Finished with gauzy curtains and equally inviting tiled bathrooms with soaking bathtubs and linen robes, the hotel’s thoughtful yet understated ethos will instantly have you breathing a sigh of relief.
The hotel’s restorative features are balanced by its energizing ones as well. Whether its peaceful walks to the nearby Shaw’s Cove, or access to an ‘adventure garage’, where complimentary surfboards, diving gear, hiking equipment and bicycles are available for use, the hotel has taken a range of interests into consideration. There’s even an on-site adventure director who can offer advice and direction for whatever you may feel up for that day.
On the food front, its restaurant La Saline, takes inspiration from the ocean in its backyard for the focus of the menu. Coastal, French-Mediterranean dishes are complimented by cocktails that incorporate Middle Eastern spices and flavours for a truly memorable experience of its own.
Words: Pei-Ru Keh
Photography: Jennifer Hueston
HOTEL JOAQUIN
985 N COAST HWY, LAGUNA BEACH, CA949.494.5294INFO@HOTELJOAQUIN.COM
hoteljoaquin.com
