6 Must Shop Boutiques in Laguna Beach

It goes without saying that Laguna Beach has some of the best shopping opportunities in Southern California. Whether you're shopping for your significant other, best friend, children, mother-in-law, co-worker... the stores here have IT ALL. 

From unique, handmade offerings to the softest cashmere sweater you've ever seen, Laguna Beach is riddled with the creme de la creme of small shops and boutiques. 

It's become our annual tradition to make a day out of holiday shopping in Laguna - grabbing BLK DOT coffee, hitting up our favorite stores, then grabbing dinner somewhere fun and festive (maybe Salerno's this year?). 

Not only are we finding unique gifts that no one else will have, we're supporting the local shop owners and artists that we've come to love so much. And in a season when the mall is stressful and chaotic, it's a refreshing change of pace and scenery compared to the typical holiday shopping experience. It's truly a win for everyone! 

Here are the shops and boutiques we'll be hitting up this season:

1. AMENAH

Founded by two former clothing buyers and designers, Amenah is anything but your traditional boutique. Not only do they carry their own chic clothing line (that's size-inclusive!), they partner with local female artists and artisans that create unique and affordable accessories and homegoods. It's the perfect place to shop for thoughtful gifts and stocking stuffers!

2. SIMPLE LAGUNA

Just next door to Amenah is Simple Laguna, a favorite among locals and visitors alike for their unique and high-end clothing for men and women. They specialize in Italian and German brands that you won't be able to find in big chain stores - so if you're having a hard time finding dad a new shirt for Christmas, this is your spot!

3. THALIA SURF

We've been regulars at Thalia Surf for awhile now, and it just keeps getting better! Their retro surf clothing is not only durable and hip, it's SO soft. From handcrafted surfboards to sunglasses, swimwear, and kids clothes, you're sure to find something for almost everyone on your list! And if you're anything like us, you'll probably leave with a few things for yourself, too! 

4. VERTIGO HOME

While Vertigo Home has been in Laguna Beach for over ten years, we just recently discovered it - and we are hooked. One step inside this curated design and Scandinavian home store, and you're transported into a whimsical and modern designer's dream. Founders Chris Oswalt and Martin Ulrich combined their love for travel, art and design with perfectly curated furniture, accessories, and "uncommon" gifts. From their candles to their Danish children's toys, Vertigo Home is a one-stop shop for holiday gifts and stocking stuffers.

5. PEARL STREET GENERAL

This family-owned shop is so much more than a traditional "General Store". Everything that they carry has been hand-selected by their knowledgeable and friendly team - so you can be confident that they have the best wine, craft beer, gourmet food, home decor and more. It's the perfect spot to shop for those relatives that "have everything", as chances are they've never tried the famous Pearl Street General "Spicy Mole Cooking Sauce"! (Oh, make sure you stop at their hidden neighborhood beer and wine bar "The Seahorse" inside!)

6. SOURCED

While Sourced acts as a collaborative space for creatives by day, they also host some of the best pop-up shopping opportunities in town! Their monthly "Pop Up Markets" highlight local artists and designers , where vendors showcase a curated mix of clothing, homegoods, jewelry and SO much more. The next Pop Up Market is Saturday, December 15th from 11-4pm and is free to attend. We'll see you there!

We're barely scratching the surface when it comes to how many spektacular small shops, boutiques and galleries there are in Laguna Beach. We wish we could spend the day browsing through town with you, popping in and out of each festive storefront, grabbing snacks and drinks along the way. But since we can't do that, here's a fun little shopping tip: