Sun, Surf & Soil: Joy of Gardening in Laguna Beach
As a longtime resident and business owner in Laguna Beach, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the natural beauty of this seaside community firsthand. From the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean to the rugged canyons and hills, there’s no shortage of stunning scenery to take in. However, one aspect of Laguna Beach’s natural beauty that often goes overlooked is the abundance of gorgeous gardens that dot the landscape. There are many “Secret Gardens” to discover in this Coastal Village as well. Come along with me to explore the Joy of Gardening in Laguna Beach. My favorite community along the Southern California Coast!
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb, as I like to think I am (with lots of learning and bumps along the way), or you just appreciate the beauty of a well-tended garden, Laguna Beach is a haven for plant lovers. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite local gardens. I’ll also share some gardening tips for making the most of this stunning coastal town.
This is the first in a series of Gardening Laguna-style blogs that I will be posting this month. Keep an eye out for the rest of the series (linked below):
“Garden Therapy: Stress-Relieving Tips for Laguna Beach Gardening”
The Laguna Beach Garden Party: Tips for Entertaining in your outdoor oasis
Happy Hour in the Garden: Cocktail Recipes for Your Laguna Beach Party
The Hortense Miller Garden: A Hidden Gem
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Laguna Beach is the Hortense Miller Garden, a hidden gem that’s well worth seeking out. This charming garden is nestled in a secluded canyon and features a diverse array of plants and flowers. From towering eucalyptus trees and romantic wisteria to delicate orchids. But what really sets the Hortense Miller Garden apart is its unique history. Hortense Miller was a renowned artist and gardener who created this beautiful oasis over the course of several decades. Today, visitors can wander through the garden’s winding paths and admire the same flowers and plants that Miller carefully tended to for years.
The Heisler Park Gardens: A Stunning Coastal Display
For those looking for a more public display of garden beauty, the Heisler Park Gardens are a must-see. Located right on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, these gardens offer sweeping views of the coastline and some of the most stunning floral displays in Laguna Beach. With a variety of plants and flowers that thrive in the coastal climate, the Heisler Park Gardens are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of local gardeners. From vibrant succulents to delicate rose bushes, these gardens are a true feast for the senses.
Stroll along the pathways that wind along the bluff to truly appreciate the lush landscaping of this seaside park. In addition, there are Art Installations and whimsical benches placed among the gardens to enjoy. Once in a while, it’s nice to bring a blanket and a picnic basket full of delectables to sit back and relax in this idyllic setting. Unquestionably, these are some of the best views you will see along the coast, so bring your camera!
Treasure Island at The Montage Resort
Likewise, the incredible Ocean Views framed beautifully with lush native landscaping is another “not to be missed” garden along the Laguna Coast. Situated along the bluff immediately below The Montage Resort, the pathways wind along seaside gardens that are always in bloom. Here, elegant benches are placed along scenic lookouts to rest and take in some of the most spectacular coastline views in Southern California. Additionally, you’ll find picnic tables placed throughout Treasure Island Park to enjoy a scenic lunch or light dinner overlooking Catalina Island. In a word, fabulous!
Tips for Doing Your Own Gardening in Laguna Beach:
If you’re lucky enough to call Laguna Beach home, you know that the weather here is perfect for creating your own garden. With mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get your hands in the dirt and create a beautiful outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a small balcony, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your space and create a garden that’s both functional and beautiful. With that in mind, here are a few pointers on creating an inspiring retreat:
Tip 1: Choose the Right Plants
When it comes to gardening in Laguna Beach, it’s important to choose plants that are well-suited to the local climate. Some good options include succulents, citrus trees, and native plants like California poppies and sagebrush. These plants are able to withstand the hot, dry summers and mild winters that are common in Laguna Beach. One of my favorites is Osteospermum (or African Daisies) because they come in a variety of vibrant colors, return year after year, and bloom all year long!
Tip 2: Maximize Your Space
Even if you don’t have a lot of outdoor space, there are plenty of ways to create a garden that feels lush and inviting. One great option is to use vertical space by installing hanging baskets, trellises, or wall-mounted planters. Moreover, you can create a container garden by using pots or planters of different sizes and shapes. This allows you to grow a variety of plants in a small space while adding visual interest to your outdoor area.
Tip 3: Focus on Functionality
When planning your garden, it’s important to consider how you’ll use the space. Do you want a spot to relax and read a book, or are you looking to grow herbs and vegetables for cooking? By thinking about the functionality of your garden, you can create a space that meets your needs and enhances your outdoor living experience. For example, if you want to grow herbs, consider creating a small raised bed or using pots that can be moved around as needed. All things considered, there is usually a solution to small spaces or shaded areas. If your garden ultimately is not working for you, feel free to contact me for some inspiring alternatives – Tap here
Tip 4: Get Creative with Design
On the whole, gardening is not only about growing plants but also about creating a beautiful and inviting outdoor space. You can get creative with design by incorporating elements like water features, outdoor lighting, or garden sculptures. These elements can add visual interest and create a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing and unwinding.
Tip 5: Maintain Your Garden
Once you’ve created your garden, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure that it stays healthy and beautiful. This includes watering your plants regularly, fertilizing as needed, and pruning to promote growth and shape your plants. In time, and by taking care of your garden, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor and will have created a space that’s both functional and beautiful.
Laguna Beach Gate & Garden Tour
The Laguna Beach Garden Club coordinates a “Coastal Garden Tour” annually in May. This is a unique opportunity to visit Laguna’s charming neighborhoods and get an insider’s peek at lovely coastal gardens. Tour the cottage and bungalow beach cottages that have inspired Plein Air Painters for decades. In addition to enjoying beautiful Secret Gardens along the Laguna Coast, proceeds help provide financial support for educational gardens at local schools and environmental as well as civic beautification projects in the community. For more information about Laguna Beach Garden Tours view Laguna Beach Garden Club Linked Here
The Joy of Community Gardening: Getting Involved
Another wonderful option for gardening hands-on is to experience the joy of gardening in Laguna Beach by getting involved in the community. There are several community gardens throughout the town, where residents can come together to tend to their plants
and share their knowledge and resources.
Ultimately, community gardening provides a sense of camaraderie and connection with your fellow residents. It can also be a great way to learn new skills and techniques for gardening in this unique environment. Additionally, the produce and flowers you grow can be shared with your neighbors and donated to local charities. Consequently making a positive impact on the community as a whole.
Laguna Beach is a gardener’s paradise, with an abundance of beautiful gardens and a supportive community of like-minded individuals. So why not grab a trowel and get started on creating your own little piece of paradise? How Blissfully Fun to Garden at the Beach!
Happy Planting!
Until Next Time,
~ Cynthia Ayers
See more Blogs about Laguna Coast Living here
