If you’re a homebuyer comparing Newport Beach vs Laguna Beach vs Corona del Mar, the truth is all of these picturesque Orange County beach communities offer some of the most sought-after real estate in Southern California. But each has its own unique vibe and amenities that will appeal to different types of homebuyers. As a top luxury real estate agent serving buyers and sellers in these coastal cities, I’m here to give you an insider’s comparison to help you decide which town to focus your home search on.
While Newport Beach and Newport Coast are now technically one city after merging in 2002, the two areas still maintain somewhat distinct identities. Newport Beach proper has the feel of a charming, upscale suburban beach town. It offers a variety of housing, from cozy cottages to lavish waterfront mansions, with plenty of public amenities like beaches, piers, and a bustling harbor.
In contrast, Newport Coast has a more exclusive, resort-style atmosphere. Perched in the hills above the coast, many homes here boast panoramic ocean views. You’ll find mostly large luxury properties in gated communities. While farther from the sand, Newport Coast offers the utmost in privacy and prestige.
Both Newport Beach and Newport Coast are known for their highly-rated schools, making them popular with families. And with great access to major freeways, shopping at Fashion Island, and John Wayne Airport, these communities offer unparalleled convenience in addition to coastal beauty.
Drive down the coast and you’ll arrive in Laguna Beach, an enchanting seaside village with a bohemian spirit. Long an artists’ colony, Laguna’s creative roots show in its many art galleries, festivals, and the famous Pageant of the Masters. The terrain is more dramatic here, with homes clinging to cliffs above secluded coves and beaches.
Laguna Beach has a more relaxed, eclectic vibe than its northern neighbors. You’re more likely to see surfboards than supercars. The community is tight-knit and engaged, with a focus on the arts and the environment. Tourists flock here in the summer, but off-season the town is quiet and moves at a slower pace.
While Laguna is a bit less conveniently located than Newport, many residents are willing to deal with a slightly longer commute to enjoy the incredible natural beauty and unique character of this special place. From cottages to contemporary showplaces, Laguna offers a variety of gorgeous homes with stunning views.
Nestled between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, Corona del Mar (Spanish for “Crown of the Sea”) is a quaint seaside village with a tight-knit, friendly feel. It has a small-town ambiance, with a main street lined with boutiques and cafes, and beautiful beaches below the coastal bluffs.
Homes in Corona del Mar range from original beach cottages to newly-built luxury residences. Many streets are named after flowers, adding to the charm. CDM (as locals call it) offers a slightly more low-key and less touristy environment compared to nearby Newport and Laguna.
With top-rated schools, nearby shopping and dining, and easy access to the rest of Orange County, Corona del Mar is a great choice for anyone looking for a tight-knit coastal community with all the conveniences of suburban living. Its central location between Newport and Laguna is perfect for exploring all the area has to offer.
As a real estate agent in Laguna Beach, Newport Beach and Corona del Mar, I know all three of these incredible coastal communities have so much to offer homebuyers. It really comes down to your personal preferences, budget and lifestyle. Are you drawn to the prestige and resort-style luxuries of Newport Coast? The natural beauty and artistic spirit of Laguna Beach? Or the charming seaside ambiance of Corona del Mar?
Whichever town you choose, you really can’t go wrong. They all boast gorgeous homes, stunning beaches, top-notch schools and amazing quality of life. I hope this comparison guide has given you helpful insights into what distinguishes each community.
As a top luxury realtor, my team and I have an organized process and a proven track record. We’re happy to show you around and answer any questions. When you’re ready to dig deeper and find your dream home in coastal Orange County, get in touch!
Emerald Bay stands out as one of the most prestigious Laguna Beach neighborhoods, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury and natural beauty. This gated community is home to some of the area’s most opulent residences, many with breathtaking ocean views.
Key features of Emerald Bay include:
As a luxury real estate agent in Laguna Beach, I’ve helped numerous clients find their dream homes in this exclusive enclave. The combination of privacy, stunning vistas, and world-class amenities makes Emerald Bay a top choice for those seeking the ultimate in coastal living.
Nestled in South Laguna, Three Arch Bay is another highly sought-after neighborhood for luxury real estate in Laguna Beach. This gated community offers a perfect balance of seclusion and natural beauty, making it one of the best parts of Laguna Beach for discerning homebuyers.
Highlights of Three Arch Bay include:
As one of the top realtors in Laguna Beach, I’ve seen firsthand how Three Arch Bay captivates buyers with its unique charm and exclusive amenities. The neighborhood’s limited inventory and desirable location make it a smart investment for those looking to own a piece of Laguna Beach paradise.
For those who prefer to be in the center of Laguna Beach’s bustling art scene and beachside attractions, The Village offers an ideal location. This walkable neighborhood is perfect for buyers who want to immerse themselves in the town’s unique culture while still enjoying luxurious coastal living.
The Village boasts:
As a top realtor in Laguna Beach, I often recommend The Village to clients who want to experience the full spectrum of what makes our town so special. The combination of luxury real estate options and a vibrant local scene makes The Village one of the most dynamic Laguna Beach neighborhoods.
Laguna Beach neighborhoods offer an incredible variety of luxury real estate options, each with its own unique character and appeal. Whether you’re drawn to the exclusivity of Emerald Bay, the secluded beauty of Three Arch Bay, or the vibrant energy of The Village, there’s a perfect home waiting for you in this coastal paradise.
As a top Laguna Beach real estate agent specializing in luxury properties, I’m committed to helping you navigate the diverse communities and find the ideal home that matches your lifestyle and preferences. With my extensive knowledge of Laguna Beach real estate and dedication to client satisfaction, I’m here to guide you through every step of your home-buying journey in this stunning Orange County destination.
Ready to explore the best areas to buy a home in Laguna Beach? Contact me today to begin your search for the perfect luxury property in one of Southern California’s most desirable coastal communities.
Laguna Beach is a small artist colony with a wide variety of interesting architectural styles. From beach cottages to castles, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for traditional Craftsman motifs or modern Machine Age imagery and materials, Laguna Beach is sure to have something that catches your eye.
The traditional Craftsman motifs found in Laguna Beach are characterized by bold lines and intricate details. These designs often feature natural elements such as wood and stone, making them perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of nature. One example of this style can be seen in the Water District building and City Hall designed by Aubrey St. Clair.
Modern Machine Age imagery and materials are also popular in Laguna Beach architecture. This style combines traditional Craftsman motifs with modern elements such as metal, glass, and concrete to create a unique look that stands out from the crowd. An example of this style can be seen in the home designed by Grant Camden Kirkpatrick of KAA Design, which features flowing lines that guide visitors through the trapezoidal lot.
Organic architecture is another popular style found in Laguna Beach. Taking inspiration from both the ocean and Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, these designs feature flowing lines and natural elements that create an organic feel throughout the property. One example of this style can be seen at one of the most iconic properties in Laguna Beach, where Rost Architects started design on a ground up modern home in August 2020.
Laguna Beach is a unique destination for all who appreciate interesting architecture and design. From traditional Craftsman motifs to modern Machine Age imagery and materials, there is something for everyone. If you’re looking for organic architecture inspired by the ocean, Laguna Beach won’t disappoint. No matter what type of architectural style you prefer, the city is sure to have something that catches your eye. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about architectural styles or real estate in general in Laguna Beach. We’re here to help!
If you’re looking to sell your Newport Beach luxury home, you need to make sure you have a qualified real estate expert on your side. Selling a luxury property is very different from selling a regular home, and there are a lot of unique challenges that come with it. From marketing the property appropriately to negotiating with high-end buyers, having someone who knows the ins and outs of the luxury real estate market is essential. Here’s why you need a luxury real estate expert to help you sell your home.
When luxury real estate is involved, you need someone who not just knows the industry but can assess the intricate details of luxury dwellings. Home buying and selling is a complex process that requires an astute awareness and knowledge of the current luxury market in order to price your home. It’s important to find an experienced luxury real estate agent who understands how to assess luxury properties and ultimately show it off in a portfolio. With their experienced eye, they can effectively create strategies and strategies that not only capture the best aspects of luxury homes but also produce accurate evaluations that will yield a top sale price.
When attempting to acquire a high-end buyer, it is critical to have access to an expansive and reliable network. With the right network in place, success is measured not only in terms of buying a property but also how quickly it can be done. Regardless of the size or type of property you are looking for, having the help of such a network will make all the difference. By connecting you with potential buyers from around the globe, you can boost your ability to gain multiple offers and land on the one that is most advantageous for your goals. With this kind of support, acquiring a suitable buyer has never been easier.
When it comes to selling your home, you need the best of the best. From a talented photographer who will showcase your property in its best light, to an extensive online listing that provides potential buyers with all the information they need at their fingertips, it’s essential to find someone who will go above and beyond when it comes to marketing your home. Doing so ensures that you maximize your chances of securing the perfect buyer for your most precious asset!
Securing favorable results in negotiations requires experience and skill. An experienced negotiator knows how to assess the motives of each party and confidently pursue mutually beneficial outcomes while preserving relationships. Therefore, if you need a negotiator who can deliver results on behalf of their clients, make sure to choose someone with a long track record of successful negotiations. This way, you can be sure that your needs will be taken into consideration and the best interests of all parties involved will be respected. Don’t settle for a novice – make sure that whoever is responsible for negotiating on your behalf has a history of success!
Newport Beach is the perfect place for finding luxury real estate, but it can be a confusing and overwhelming process. That’s why we are dedicated to providing top-level service and being there for you every step of the way. From start to finish, our team will guide you through the process, answer all your questions, and make sure you get the best outcome possible when searching for property in Newport Beach.
When you are ready to sell your home in Newport Beach, it is important to choose the right real estate agent who will be able to help you through the process and get you the best possible outcome. The agent you choose should have an understanding of the market, a network of high-end buyers, and experience in negotiating on behalf of their clients. They should also be willing to go above and beyond in marketing your home, including hiring a professional photographer and creating an extensive online listing. Finally, they should be available to answer any questions you have throughout the process. We are here to help with any questions you have about real estate in Newport Beach. Contact us today for more information.
There is a lot of beauty that Laguna Beach has to offer. From the coastal views to the hills that illuminate gold when the sun sets. In this blog we want to focus on the hills and the amazing trails that lie within.
At Bommer Ridge & Emerald Canyon you’ll enjoy a 8.9-mile loop trail near Laguna Beach, California. This is generally considered a challenging route, and it takes an average of 4 hours and 56 minutes to complete. This trail is popular and known for bird watching, hiking, and running. You can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day but you’ll need to leave your dogs at home because they aren’t allowed on this trail.
Get to know Boat Road & Laguna Ridge, an 8.2-mile loop trail near Laguna Beach, California. This is a moderately challenging route that takes about 4 hours to complete. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Be prepared to see beautiful birds and to share the trail with mountain bikes and hikers. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Water Tank Trail is near Laguna Beach and is a 3.9-mile loop trail that is a moderately challenging route. This 2 hour trail is popular for hiking, running, and walking.
Crystal Cove Perimeter Loop is a 9.4-mile loop trail near Laguna Beach that is a very popular area for camping, hiking, and running. You’ll likely encounter other people while exploring this moderately challenging route. This beautiful 4 hour trail is open year-round.
Hidden in the hills far above Laguna Beach, far away from any and every road is the fabled “car wreck,” 1946 Dodge 5-passenger coupe. It became so popular to visit the car wreck that Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park officially made a trail to it in 2013. It’s a fun hike that offers a cool vintage car wreck and an expansive view from Catalina to Mt Baldy. There is a 3.8 mile loop that makes the climbing a little easier, or you can do a shorter hike to the car wreck and back.
There are a lot of fun trails to hike, bike or even camp at in Laguna Beach. We hope you have your hiking shoes ready and plenty of water to accompany you on these trails as you go outside and find ways to stay active in the sun. Don’t hesitate to contact us regarding any questions you might have about the Laguna Beach area in California. We would love to field your questions about food, activities and real estate. We look forward to hearing from you.
One of the biggest perks of living in Laguna Beach is being surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Many restaurants take full advantage of the picturesque setting with prime oceanfront locations. For a memorable meal with a view, head to these spots:
Owning Laguna Beach property means you can savor ocean vistas like this anytime. Browse our listings of luxury homes in Laguna Beach to find your own slice of paradise.
Planning a romantic evening out? These Laguna Beach restaurants provide the perfect ambiance for connecting with that special someone:
Living in Laguna Beach means date night is always just minutes away. Contact our team of top Laguna Beach real estate agents to find the perfect property close to these romantic hot spots.
Laguna Beach offers plenty of dining options that will satisfy the whole family. For a casual meal out with the kids, check out these local favorites:
Laguna Beach is an idyllic place to raise a family, with excellent schools, beautiful beaches, and a tight-knit community feel. If you’re considering buying a home here, our experienced real estate agents can help you find the perfect property for your family’s needs.
From upscale oceanfront restaurants to cozy neighborhood spots, Laguna Beach boasts an incredible variety of places to eat. Owning a home in this luxury community means you’ll have easy access to some of Orange County’s best dining destinations. Whether you’re seeking a stunning view, a romantic ambiance, or a family-friendly meal, you’ll find it all just minutes from your Laguna Beach property.
If you’re ready to make this coastal paradise your home, our team is here to help. As a top Laguna Beach real estate agency, we have the local knowledge and expertise to guide you through the home buying process. Contact us today to start your search for the perfect Laguna Beach property for sale. Your dream home – and your new favorite restaurant – are waiting.
Andy Stavros
DRE #: 01408840
Phone: 949.290.0139
Email: andy.stavros@elliman.com
12 Corporate Plaza #250, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Newport Beach, the crown jewel of Orange County, is renowned for its luxurious waterfront estates, world-class amenities, and vibrant coastal culture. This idyllic city boasts miles of pristine beaches, a picturesque harbor, and a variety of high-end shopping and dining options. Luxury homes in Newport Beach showcase stunning architecture, expansive living spaces, and unobstructed ocean views.
For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, Newport Coast, a master-planned community adjacent to Newport Beach, offers gated enclaves with custom-built mansions, resort-style amenities, and access to the prestigious Pelican Hill Golf Club. With its unmatched beauty and refined lifestyle, it’s no wonder Newport Beach luxury real estate is highly sought-after by affluent buyers from around the globe.
Nestled within the greater Newport Beach area, Corona del Mar is a picturesque seaside village known for its quaint shops, excellent schools, and beautiful beaches. Luxury homes in Corona del Mar range from charming cottages to grand estates, many with panoramic ocean views.
The village’s main street, Pacific Coast Highway, is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, creating a vibrant and sophisticated atmosphere. With its strong sense of community and proximity to Newport Beach’s amenities, Corona del Mar is a perfect choice for those seeking a more intimate coastal living experience.
South of Newport Beach lies Laguna Beach, a historic artist colony famous for its dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and vibrant art scene. Luxury real estate in Laguna Beach is characterized by architecturally diverse homes, from cozy beach bungalows to modern masterpieces perched on the hillsides.
South Laguna, located in the southern part of Laguna Beach, offers a serene and relaxing lifestyle with beautiful beachside and hilltop communities. Residents can choose from homes closer to the ocean or estates high up on the cliffs with panoramic views. South Laguna is home to exclusive communities such as South Laguna Village and the beachfront enclave of Three Arch Bay. Single-family homes ranging from charming cottages to luxury estates are plentiful in this area.
Laguna Beach’s downtown area is a hub of creativity, with numerous art galleries, museums, and the renowned Pageant of the Masters, a unique live performance showcasing recreations of classical and contemporary artworks. With its laid-back vibe and stunning natural beauty, Laguna Beach offers a one-of-a-kind lifestyle for those who appreciate the arts and cherish privacy.
Let’s find your perfect luxury home in Orange County’s desirable coastal communities. The Stavros Group, led by top-ranked Newport Beach luxury real estate agent Andy Stavros, is your trusted advisor in navigating the prestigious real estate markets of Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, and Laguna Beach.
With an unwavering commitment and a proven track record of success, Andy and his team are well-equipped to guide you through the process of buying or selling a premier coastal property. Contact the Stavros Group today to discuss your personal real estate goals.
Andy Stavros
DRE #: 01408840
Phone: 949.290.0139
Email: andy.stavros@elliman.com
12 Corporate Plaza #250, Newport Beach, CA 92660
JENNIFER FARRELL: We’re in Laguna Beach, California in a newly constructed modern masterpiece, where you’re not just looking at the ocean you’re in it. Let’s take a look!
JENNIFER FARRELL: So we’re here in Laguna Beach and we are at an ‘in the ocean’ home – tell me about this home.
ANDY STAVROS: So the house sits in the Three Arch Bay private gated community of just under 500 homes of brand new construction. The architect was Mark Singer – very well known here in Laguna Beach. [This home] was his last design unfortunately before he passed, but again just a warm contemporary feel that you’ll see once we get inside.
JENNIFER FARREL: This is a multi-level home overlooking/overhanging the ocean… How many bedrooms and bathrooms, and how big is this house?
ANDY STAVROS: The house is just over 5,000 square feet with five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, three levels, an elevator that takes you to all levels including the master… It really is one of those turnkey, lock and go homes.
JENNIFER FARRELL: Well I can feel the ocean breeze behind me, I’m dying to see the ocean view. Lead away!
ANDY STAVROS: All right, let’s go.
JENNIFER FARREL: Wow, we’re not looking at the ocean we’re standing over the ocean. This is unbelievable, it’s a view that I think few people have ever seen.
ANDY STAVROS: Yeah, it feels like you’re on a boat when you walk in… This is the time in a tour where I just stop talking, because everybody’s gravitated towards the view on the deck. I just allow people to take that all in, because it is breathtaking once you walk into this room.
JENNIFER FARREL: You know you’re right, it is like being on a yacht. Even the railings for the balconies are a horizontal metal, so it actually feels like we’re on an ocean liner. I love all of the contemporary beautiful lines here – it’s a very clean color palette, very open space, without crazy high ceilings. Because the ceilings are not overwhelmingly high, you still get a feeling of coziness and intimacy in this house.
ANDY STAVROS: Right you do get the coziness. Because of height restrictions and view obstruction, you occasionally have to compromise high ceilings, but you still get a sense of openness to the house with the colors, the design and the finishes throughout.
JENNIFER FARREL: I happen to love this portico that’s in the middle of the room. It’s such an interesting way to create an indoor veranda space, so you feel like you’re outside in an outdoor covered patio area, and yet you’re right in the middle of the house.
ANDY STAVROS: Right absolutely, and you’ll see a blend of the industrial look with the beams exposed but painted. I’m sure you can tell this house sits on bedrock, so much steel, it’s not going anywhere, and here’s just evidence to prove that it’s a solid house with a solid foundation that was just recently built.
JENNIFER FARREL: Well this home may not be going anywhere, but we are going somewhere – I’m dying to go in that kitchen.
ANDY STAVROS: All right, let’s go.
JENNIFER FARREL: Although I would love to say I’d be doing a lot of dishes here, I may just stand here staring out at the view.
ANDY STAVROS: There is a little bit of a distraction. You might burn your food as you’re cooking here, because you just want to gaze outside.
JENNIFER FARREL: That is true, although there’s a lot to see in this kitchen itself. These counter tops are actually porcelain slabs, which means they’re as durable as a tile, but have the gorgeous look of marble. I also think that the surrounding caesar stone behind us makes a great counterbalance. The materials here are really nicely laid out.
ANDY STAVROS: Right, you’ll see the beautiful contrast with the wood grade finishes, the vertically opening white cabinetry, all the high-end appliances – gagging out melee, sub-zero refrigerators, etc. It’s a very functional chef’s kitchen.
JENNIFER FARREL: We have glass surrounding us. We have beautiful artistic touches, like that porcelain faux marble slab again and unique lighting which I’ve never seen.
ANDY STAVROS: Yeah, throughout the house the light fixtures are all unique, but complement each other. You can also see some of the same materials from the kitchen used here on the fireplace.
JENNIFER FARREL: Well this one’s definitely unique, because you have this frameless glass wet room that becomes part of the bedroom. It’s a very resort feel here.
ANDY STAVROS: Right, it gives you an open feel and who wouldn’t want to wake up every morning staring up the coast – from Thousand Steps Beach all the way down to Palos Verdes, Catalina Island, etc.
JENNIFER FARREL: The view here could not be more spectacular. I’d love to see the outdoor space.
ANDY STAVROS: You get 270 degree views in this home, with every room positioned differently.
JENNIFER FARREL: I can’t believe we have a yard here!
ANDY STAVROS: Grass on the bluff front is rare to find! Today you can hear the waves crashing against the rocks. Out here there are multiple entertainment spaces, if you didn’t have enough upstairs; a spa, barbecue area, wet bar, more cooking space, etc. it’s a great level to be on.
ANDY STAVROS: In total the home is 5,041 square feet – five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, elevator, three-car garage, laundry on the ground level… It’s a really fantastic home for somebody that’s looking for a house that’s ready to go with no blood, sweat, or tears. Zero maintenance with a 15 year design and build process, priced just under 20 million.
JENNIFER FARREL: In this area that’s actually a deal.
ANDY STAVROS: We also dropped the price five million dollars, so it’s on discount.
JENNIFER FARREL: This is an amazing home and an unbelievable once in a lifetime property. Thank you so much, Andy.
If are considering buying or selling a home in the Orange County area, connect with us. See how our local, experienced and well-connected team can exceed your expectations. Let’s talk strategy!
