About Hotel Laguna: Hotel History

Hotel Laguna was the first hotel in Laguna Beach and the first substantial business building. It remains today the most known structure. It is picturesque, romantic and has quite an intriguing past. It has given over 100 years of almost continuous service.

The original structure burned to the ground 60 days after opening and was rebuilt in 1888. The hotel did well providing rooms for the many visitors who streamed into California during the travel boom. Unfortunately, a depression came about in 1896 and the hotel was sold twice before it began to make a profit again.

A Mr. Yoch now owned the hotel and, after purchasing the Arch Beach Hotel which was located south of the Hotel Laguna, moved the two hotels together at the present site, Laguna Avenue and Coast Highway. He called this building the "New Hotel Laguna." It proved highly successful and was visited by many dignitaries, including Madam Modjeska (the canyon was named after her) and James Irvine, who was said to be the life of the party circa 1900.

In 1928 the hotel was demolished on speculation that its bat and hoard construction was considered a fire hazard. Work started on a more modern establishment, which was dedicated in 1930. This is the hotel we know today, painted white with side Spanish arches in relief and featuring a bell tower (it never held a bell!).

At one time there was a huge neon sign on the top of the hotel proclaiming "Hotel Laguna" to all those traveling north and south on the Coast Highway. It was a beacon to all but finally gave way to a 1966 ordinance law. In 1985, the hotel was purchased by Mr. Claes Andersen who refurbished the interior and exterior of this "Grand Old Lady" and created an award-winning establishment with a European flair.

People feel emotional about Hotel Laguna, probably because years of experiences and memories pervade its walls. Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall are said to have visited and these days it is used as a hide-away by many dignitaries and movie industry people.

Of the thousands of visitors that check in each year, few will know its historical significance but will simply enjoy the relaxation and escape provided by the Hotel Laguna.

Excerpts from "LAGUNA YESTERYEARS: The Famous Hotel"
Written by Bill Farnham, January, 1981