Laguna Beach is undergoing a culinary and business transformation. Even before COVID-19, the city was embarking on ambitious plans to give the downtown a much-needed boost. Now, with the partial closure of Forest Avenue to cars, there is a welcome renaissance emerging. The downtown is looking more like a European village, complete with outside dining, music and goodwill. The city’s charm is evolving — in a good way. There are still challenges (yes, parking and tourist management), but the city is finally trying harder to improve with bold, new ideas. As a result, life is awakening in Laguna Beach.
