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The Ultimate Guide to Laguna Beach Vacation Rentals: Florida’s Hidden Gem on the Emerald Coast
Discover everything you need to know about Laguna Beach vacation rentals in this complete guide.
Discover why this laid-back beach town next to Panama City Beach is your perfect Gulf Coast getaway
Picture this: sugar-white quartz sand stretching along turquoise waters, a charming downtown you can explore by golf cart, and Laguna Beach vacation rentals that put you in the heart of it all. Welcome to Laguna Beach, Florida—where Old Florida vibes meet Emerald Coast beauty, and parking your car for a week sounds like the best idea you’ve ever had.
Nestled between Panama City Beach and the exclusive communities of 30A, Laguna Beach offers something increasingly rare along Florida’s Gulf Coast: authentic coastal character that hasn’t been paved over by condos. As the last stretch of Bay County where beachside commercial development is permanently banned, this hidden gem has preserved the laid-back beach town atmosphere that drew visitors to Florida’s shores generations ago—making it the perfect setting for your next vacation rental getaway.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a regular looking to dig deeper into what makes this place special, this guide covers everything you need to know about Laguna Beach—from the best beaches and local eats to hidden springs and family-friendly activities.
Where is Laguna Beach, Florida?
Laguna Beach sits along Northwest Florida’s famous Emerald Coast, positioned perfectly between two of the region’s most popular destinations. Located just west of Panama City Beach along Highway 98 and Scenic 30A, this small beach community offers easy access to everything the area has to offer while maintaining its distinct small-town character.
Getting There:
- From Panama City Beach: 10 minutes west on Highway 98
- From Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP): 20 minutes
- From Destin/Fort Walton Beach: 45 minutes east on Highway 98
- From Tallahassee: 2 hours south via Highway 231
The beauty of Laguna Beach’s location is that you get beach town tranquility with big city convenience just minutes away. Pier Park’s shopping and entertainment, the restaurants and boutiques of 30A, and Frank Brown Park’s sports facilities are all within a 10-minute drive.
Why Laguna Beach is Different
The Last Undeveloped Beachfront in Bay County
Here’s what makes Laguna Beach truly special: it’s the final stretch of Bay County coastline where development restrictions permanently protect the natural beachfront. You won’t find towering condos blocking sunset views or cookie-cutter beach bars blasting the same playlist. Instead, you’ll discover a community that values preservation over profit—and you can feel the difference the moment you arrive.
A Golf Cart Paradise
Laguna Beach operates at a slower pace—literally. This is a golf cart and bicycle community where locals and visitors alike cruise tree-lined streets, wave to neighbors, and pop into local shops without ever cranking a car engine. Many Laguna Beach vacation rentals include golf cart access, and you’ll quickly understand why: everything you need is within a leisurely five-minute ride.
The Old Florida You Remember (or Wish You’d Known)
There’s a term thrown around a lot in Florida tourism: “Old Florida charm.” Laguna Beach isn’t trying to recreate it with themed architecture or manufactured nostalgia—it simply never changed. Family-owned businesses, locals who’ve lived here for decades, morning regulars at the donut shop, and a genuine sense of community create the authentic atmosphere that most beach towns lost years ago.
Laguna Beach’s Stunning Beaches
The Main Beach Access
Laguna Beach’s public beach access delivers exactly what you’re hoping for: powdery white quartz sand that squeaks beneath your feet and Gulf waters in shades of emerald and turquoise that look photoshopped (but aren’t). The gentle slope and typically calm waters make this beach particularly family-friendly, perfect for young kids learning to swim or anyone who prefers floating over fighting waves.
What Makes the Sand Special: Unlike most beach sand, Laguna Beach’s shoreline features pure quartz sand—some of the whitest, finest sand you’ll find anywhere. It stays relatively cool even on hot summer days and doesn’t stick to skin like darker sand varieties. The high quartz content also gives the water that distinctive emerald color when sunlight hits at the right angle.
Less Crowded Than You’d Expect
Even during peak summer months, Laguna Beach’s shores never feel overwhelmingly packed. The lack of high-rise condos and hotels means fewer people competing for the same beach space. You can actually claim a good spot without arriving at sunrise, and finding a stretch of sand that feels practically private isn’t difficult—especially if you’re willing to walk a bit.
Rare Coastal Dune Lakes
Laguna Beach sits near one of the world’s rarest ecosystems: coastal dune lakes. These unique freshwater and brackish water lakes exist in only a handful of locations globally—and Northwest Florida has the highest concentration. These lakes form behind coastal sand dunes and occasionally breach to the Gulf, creating dynamic habitats that support incredible biodiversity.
The most accessible dune lake near Laguna Beach is at Camp Helen State Park (more on that below), but several others dot the coastline between here and Rosemary Beach. These lakes offer kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing opportunities you won’t find at typical beach destinations—another reason why Laguna Beach vacation rentals attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Things to Do in Laguna Beach
Start Your Morning at Thomas’ Donuts
You can’t truly experience Laguna Beach without joining the morning pilgrimage to Thomas’ Donuts. This local institution has been serving fresh-baked donuts and kolaches since 1978, and the line out the door isn’t tourists following Instagram—it’s locals who’ve been coming here for decades. Arrive early (they often sell out by mid-morning), grab a dozen, and understand why people plan beach vacations around these donuts.
Local tip: The glazed are perfect, but the filled donuts (especially apple and cream cheese) are legendary.
The Carousel: Your Beach Town General Store
The Carousel serves as Laguna Beach’s community hub—part grocery store, part package store, part local gathering spot. Stock up on beach essentials, grab fresh produce and meat for grilling, or browse their impressive selection of craft beers and wines. The friendly staff knows everyone by name (or will by your second visit) and can point you toward the best local spots.
Golf Cart Cruising
Rent a golf cart or check if your Laguna Beach vacation rental includes one, then spend an afternoon exploring the area’s quiet streets. Cruise past colorful beach cottages, wave to friendly locals, and discover neighborhood shortcuts that make getting around even easier. Golf cart rentals are available from several local companies, and many visitors find themselves using it as their primary transportation all week.
Bike the Coastal Trail
The Timpoochee Trail runs for 19 miles along Scenic 30A from Inlet Beach eastward, and it’s easily accessible from Laguna Beach. This paved, mostly flat trail is perfect for all skill levels and provides safe, scenic cycling through coastal forests and past beautiful beach communities. Rent bikes locally and spend a morning pedaling toward the upscale towns of Rosemary Beach and Alys Beach.
Nearby Natural Attractions
Camp Helen State Park
Just minutes from Laguna Beach, Camp Helen State Park preserves 183 acres of pristine coastal habitat where Lake Powell—one of Florida’s largest coastal dune lakes—meets the Gulf of Mexico. This underrated state park makes an excellent day trip from your Laguna Beach vacation rental and offers:
- Hiking trails through ancient sand dunes and maritime forests
- Lake Powell access for kayaking and paddleboarding in calm, clear waters
- Beach access to a quiet stretch of Gulf shoreline
- Historic buildings from the park’s days as a company retreat
- Wildlife viewing including gopher tortoises, shore birds, and occasionally dolphins
The park rarely feels crowded, making it perfect for families seeking a more nature-focused beach day. Pack a picnic, bring your paddleboard, and spend a few hours exploring this special ecosystem.
Cypress Springs
About 30 minutes north of Laguna Beach, Cypress Springs offers a refreshing escape from salt water. This 70-degree spring produces 30 million gallons of crystal-clear water daily, feeding Cypress Creek and creating a natural swimming hole surrounded by towering cypress trees.
The spring area includes:
- Swimming platforms and rope swings
- Shallow areas perfect for young children
- Shaded picnic areas
- Kayak and tube rentals for floating downstream
- Clearer water than you’ve probably ever seen
Tip: Arrive on weekdays if possible. Weekends during summer can get busy with locals escaping the heat.
Econfina Creek
For paddling enthusiasts, Econfina Creek ranks among Florida’s most beautiful waterways. This spring-fed creek flows through 10 miles of pristine forest, featuring crystal-clear water, natural springs bubbling up from the creek bed, and opportunities to spot wildlife around every bend.
Several outfitters offer kayak and canoe rentals with shuttle service. The most popular route takes 3-4 hours and passes multiple springs where you can stop for a swim. The water stays a comfortable 68-72 degrees year-round, making this a perfect summer activity when Gulf waters feel like bathwater.
Day Trips from Laguna Beach
Pier Park (5 minutes)
Panama City Beach’s premier outdoor shopping and entertainment complex sits just five minutes from Laguna Beach. Pier Park offers:
- Shopping: Major retailers like Ron Jon Surf Shop, Margaritaville, and dozens of specialty stores
- Dining: From casual beach eats to upscale restaurants
- Entertainment: Movie theater, arcade, live music venues
- The Russell-Fields Pier: Walk 1,500 feet over the Gulf of Mexico (don’t miss sunset)
Pier Park provides the perfect rainy day backup plan or evening entertainment option without sacrificing Laguna Beach’s peaceful atmosphere the rest of the time.
30A Beaches (10-20 minutes)
Head east on Scenic 30A to explore Northwest Florida’s most exclusive beach communities on 30A:
- Rosemary Beach: European-inspired architecture, upscale boutiques, and fantastic restaurants
- Alys Beach: Striking white buildings, high-end shopping, and the beautiful Caliza Pool
- Seaside: The pastel-colored town that inspired The Truman Show, now filled with shops and eateries
- Grayton Beach: Bohemian vibe, the famous Red Bar, and Grayton Beach State Park
Each community along 30A offers its own distinct character. Spend a day beach-hopping, grab lunch at a different spot, and understand why this stretch of coastline attracts visitors from around the world.
St. Andrews State Park (15 minutes)
One of Florida’s most beautiful state parks sits just across the bay from Laguna Beach. St. Andrews offers:
- Two miles of pristine Gulf beaches consistently ranked among America’s best
- The jetties, one of the area’s top snorkeling and fishing spots
- Shell Island shuttle access for even more secluded beach time
- Nature trails, camping, and wildlife viewing
- Clearer water than most Panama City Beach locations
This park gets busy during peak season, but it’s worth the $8 entrance fee for access to some of the region’s best beaches.
Shell Island (20 minutes by boat)
This 7-mile undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat feels like your own private paradise. Shell Island’s Gulf-side beaches offer incredible shelling, its bay-side waters provide calm swimming for kids, and the lack of development means you might spot dolphins, sea turtles, and shore birds without crowds. Several tour companies run shuttles from nearby marinas, or rent a pontoon boat and explore at your own pace.
Where to Eat in and Around Laguna Beach
In Laguna Beach:
Thomas’ Donuts The breakfast institution. Arrive early, expect a line, leave happy.
The Carousel Stock up on groceries for cooking at your rental—the fresh seafood selection is excellent, and you’ll save money versus eating out every meal.
Nearby Favorites:
Schooners (20 minutes) Legendary beach bar right on the sand with live music, cold beer, and the “Last Local Beach Club” atmosphere. Known for their grouper sandwiches and being the only place where burying your feet in the sand while eating is encouraged.
Dusty’s Oyster Bar Fresh Gulf oysters and laid-back waterfront dining. The raw bar is outstanding, and the sunset views over the bay are unbeatable.
Borago Upscale Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a beautiful setting. Perfect for a special occasion with creative dishes and an impressive wine list.
McGuire’s Irish Pub An absolute must-visit. This legendary Irish pub serves incredible steaks, fresh seafood, and their famous Senate Bean Soup in an atmosphere covered floor-to-ceiling with signed dollar bills. The hand-crafted ales brewed on-site are worth the trip alone.
Best Time to Visit Laguna Beach
Peak Season: June-August
Summer brings the warmest water, longest days, and most crowded beaches. Expect:
- Water temperatures in the mid-80s
- Daily highs in the low 90s
- Higher vacation rental rates
- Busiest beaches and restaurants
- Afternoon thunderstorms (usually brief)
Summer is ideal if: You want guaranteed swimming weather, don’t mind heat and humidity, and are traveling with school-age kids.
Shoulder Season: April-May & September-October
These months offer Laguna Beach’s best overall value:
- Comfortable temperatures (70s-80s)
- Warm enough water for swimming
- Significantly fewer crowds
- Lower vacation rental rates
- Beautiful weather with less humidity
Shoulder season is ideal if: You have flexible travel dates, want to avoid crowds, and appreciate comfortable beach weather without extreme heat.
Off-Season: November-March
Winter along the Gulf Coast means:
- Mild days (60s-70s) with cool nights
- Too cold for comfortable swimming (water temps in 60s)
- Lowest vacation rental rates
- Nearly empty beaches
- Perfect for fishing, kayaking, and beach walks
Off-season is ideal if: You’re primarily interested in nature activities, prefer cooler weather, or want to experience Laguna Beach at its most peaceful (and affordable).
Family-Friendly Activities
Beach Days Made Easy
Laguna Beach’s calm waters and gentle slope make it particularly safe for young children. The lack of strong currents common at other Gulf beaches means parents can relax a bit more while kids play in the shallows. Most Laguna Beach vacation rentals come equipped with beach gear, so you can pack sand toys, arrive mid-morning after the beach rakes have smoothed the sand, and settle in for hours of simple beach fun.
Splash Pad at Frank Brown Park
When kids need a break from salt water, Frank Brown Park’s splash pad offers free water play in a shaded area. The park also features playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields—plus it’s where many regional youth tournaments take place, so your young athletes might catch high-level games.
ZooWorld Zoological Park
About 15 minutes away, ZooWorld offers up-close animal encounters including feeding giraffes, meeting baby animals, and educational shows. It’s a solid half-day activity for families with younger kids.
Topgolf Panama City Beach
For families with older kids or teens, Topgolf offers climate-controlled hitting bays with games, food, and fun for all skill levels. It’s a perfect activity for a hot afternoon or rainy day.
Rainy Day Options
- WonderWorks: Interactive science museum with dozens of hands-on exhibits
- Pier Park’s movie theater: Catch the latest family films
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Odd artifacts and interactive experiences
- Local ice cream shops: A simple afternoon treat adventure
Outdoor Adventures
Fishing
Laguna Beach offers multiple fishing opportunities:
Surf Fishing: Walk the beach early morning or late evening targeting redfish, pompano, and whiting. No boat required—just a rod, tackle, and a Florida fishing license.
The Russell-Fields Pier: This Panama City Beach icon extends 1,500 feet into the Gulf, providing access to deeper water and species like Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and cobia.
Kayak Fishing: Launch from Camp Helen State Park and fish Lake Powell’s grass flats for redfish and trout, or paddle the coastal shallows for similar species.
Charter Fishing: Book a half-day or full-day charter from nearby marinas targeting grouper, snapper, amberjack, and other bottom species, or troll for pelagic fish like kingfish and wahoo.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Beyond the coastal dune lakes at Camp Helen, several outfitters offer kayak and paddleboard rentals for exploring:
- Calm Gulf days: Paddle along the shoreline spotting dolphins and sea turtles
- Lake Powell: Explore the unique dune lake ecosystem
- Econfina Creek: Spring-fed paddling through pristine forest
- Phillips Inlet: Protected bay waters perfect for beginners
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
The jetties at St. Andrews State Park create artificial reefs attracting tropical fish, rays, and occasional sea turtles. Several dive shops offer guided snorkel trips, and experienced divers can explore numerous wrecks and artificial reefs offshore.
Local Events and Festivals
Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally (Spring & Fall)
Twice yearly, Panama City Beach hosts one of the Southeast’s largest motorcycle rallies. Expect live music, bike shows, and a party atmosphere throughout the area. Laguna Beach itself stays relatively quiet, but you’ll see (and hear) plenty of bikes cruising through.
Seabreeze Jazz Festival (April)
This popular jazz festival brings national acts to the Panama City Beach area for a weekend of concerts, beach parties, and smooth grooves.
Rosemary Beach Uncorked (April)
One of the region’s top wine and food festivals takes place in nearby Rosemary Beach. Sample wines from around the world, enjoy chef demonstrations, and attend exclusive dinners in this beautiful 30A community.
30A Songwriter Festival (January)
Intimate acoustic performances from hit songwriters take place in venues throughout the 30A communities. This unique event draws music lovers from across the country.
Practical Information
Vacation Rental Tips
Most visitors to Laguna Beach book vacation rentals rather than hotels—and for good reason. Laguna Beach vacation rentals offer:
- More space: Full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, outdoor areas
- Better value: Especially for families and groups
- Local experience: Stay in actual neighborhoods
- Amenities: Many include golf carts, beach gear, and grills
What to look for:
- Golf cart included or available
- Walking distance to beach (one block or less is ideal)
- Outdoor space for morning coffee and evening relaxation
- Full kitchen to save money on meals
- Beach equipment provided (chairs, umbrellas, toys)
What to Pack
Beach essentials:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen harms marine life)
- Beach chairs and umbrella (unless provided by rental)
- Cooler for drinks and snacks
- Beach toys for kids
- Snorkel gear if you plan to explore the jetties
Beyond the beach:
- Comfortable walking shoes for evening strolls
- Light layers for air-conditioned restaurants
- Rain jacket for summer thunderstorms
- Bug spray for outdoor dining
- Reusable water bottles
Getting Around
You’ll need a car for:
- Airport transportation
- Grocery shopping
- Day trips to nearby attractions
- Restaurant hopping outside Laguna Beach
You won’t need a car for:
- Beach access
- Local shops and eateries
- Exploring Laguna Beach itself (use golf cart or bike)
Pet-Friendly Options
Many Laguna Beach vacation rentals welcome pets, and the laid-back atmosphere makes it a great dog-friendly destination. Dogs are allowed on beaches during certain hours (typically before 9 AM and after 5 PM from May through September), and several local restaurants have pet-friendly patios.
Why Choose Laguna Beach Over Other Gulf Coast Destinations
You’ll Love Laguna Beach If:
- You prefer authentic beach towns over resort developments
- Golf cart cruising sounds more appealing than fighting traffic
- You want easy access to both nature and entertainment
- You appreciate local businesses over chain restaurants
- You’re seeking a family-friendly atmosphere without spring break chaos
- You value preserved natural beauty and environmental protection
- You want a vacation rental experience that feels like a home away from home
Consider Elsewhere If:
- You need a resort with all-inclusive amenities and activities
- You prefer high-rise condos with Gulf-front balconies
- You want extensive nightlife and club scenes
- You need immediate access to major shopping
- You prefer walking to dozens of restaurants
- You want a beach town that’s completely self-contained
Book Your Laguna Beach Escape
Laguna Beach offers something increasingly rare along Florida’s developed coastline: authentic coastal character that hasn’t been sacrificed to tourism. Here, you can park your car, hop on a golf cart, and spend a week experiencing Old Florida vibes with Emerald Coast beauty—all while modern conveniences remain just minutes away.
Whether you’re seeking sugar-white beaches, freshwater springs, world-class fishing, or simply a place to slow down and reconnect with family, our Laguna Beach vacation rentals deliver. The protected beachfront ensures this hidden gem will remain authentic for generations, and the locals’ commitment to preserving their community’s character means your visit supports something special worth protecting.
Ready to experience this unique slice of Florida’s Gulf Coast?
Browse our Laguna Beach vacation rentals and find your perfect beach escape. From cozy cottages steps from the sand to spacious family homes with golf cart access, we’ve curated a collection of Laguna Beach vacation rentals that let you experience this authentic beach community like a local—with the outstanding service and attention to detail that comes from a family-owned company that truly knows this area.
Have questions about which property fits your family best, or want insider tips on making the most of your Laguna Beach vacation? Follow @gulfcoastgetaways850 on Facebook for local favorites, seasonal updates, and recommendations from experts who call the Gulf Coast home.
Wherever the tide takes you, we’re there!
