The top art galleries and museums to visit in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is renowned for its stunning coastline and sandy beaches, but it’s also a vibrant hub for the arts. There are a high number of galleries and museums in or near Laguna Beach and they are just part of a thriving art scene that attracts both local and international artists. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking to explore something new, here are the top art galleries and museums in Laguna Beach, California.

Top Art Galleries in Laguna Beach, California

Whether you’re an avid art collector or simply looking to enjoy a cultural experience, Laguna Beach’s art galleries offer something for all who are interested in art. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most noteworthy art galleries in Laguna Beach, California.

Seven Degrees
891 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

7 Degrees serves as a multifaceted art and event venue that harmoniously merges nature with award-winning geometric architecture. Spanning 25,000 square feet, the facility encompasses an exhibition gallery, a media lounge, and an outdoor terrace reception area. It regularly hosts a diverse array of exhibitions and events, including art shows, installations, and multimedia presentations.

The gallery showcases a broad spectrum of artists, such as Jorg Dubin, renowned for his paintings and sculptures that explore socially and politically relevant themes, and Brad Neal, celebrated for his vibrant abstract compositions. Other featured artists include Kirsten Whalen, whose intricate natural landscapes captivate viewers, Tom Lamb with his striking aerial photography, and Mia Tavonatti, known for her complex mosaic installations. Together, these artists contribute to the gallery’s reputation as a dynamic space for contemporary and innovative art.

Visiting Hours: For updated visiting hours and event details, check the official website, as hours may vary depending on events.

Laguna Gallery of Contemporary Art (LGOCA)
611 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

The Laguna Gallery of Contemporary Art (LGOCA) stands out for its commitment to contemporary art that supports humanitarian causes. Its notable exhibitions have included works by Brian Bent and Michael Torquato DeNicola, both of whom present expressive sculptures and vibrant, thought-provoking pieces. Diana Carey’s approach to visual storytelling with abstract and mixed-media creations is equally compelling. Another highlight is Jan Lord’s “Girl on Fire” series, a collection of dynamic works inspired by music, showcasing the gallery’s diverse and impactful pieces. The gallery welcomes visitors daily from 11 AM to 5 PM.

Dawson Cole Fine Art
326 Glenneyre St, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Dawson Cole Fine Art is a sophisticated gallery located in the heart of Laguna Beach, dedicated to showcasing a curated selection of contemporary works. Specializing in figurative sculpture, painting, and drawing, the gallery represents a variety of acclaimed artists, such as Richard MacDonald, whose bronze sculptures are widely recognized for their elegance and expressiveness.

The intimate setting of the gallery allows visitors to closely engage with an array of artworks, ranging from large-scale sculptures to detailed drawings and vibrant paintings. Dawson Cole Fine Art also holds regular exhibitions, featuring solo shows for their artists and thematic group displays that highlight various aspects of the contemporary art world. The knowledgeable staff is passionate about art and can provide deeper insights into the techniques and themes of the works on display. It’s a must-visit destination for those looking to explore fine art and unique contemporary sculptures in Laguna Beach.

JoAnne Artman Gallery
326 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

JoAnne Artman Gallery is a standout among contemporary Laguna Beach art studies. Showcasing work such as Jane Maxwell’s impactful “We, the People” to David Buckingham’s colorful metal sculptures, there is a strong social and political commentary in many of the pieces. The gallery is open to visitors Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 5 PM.

Andrew Myers Art Gallery
224 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Andrew Myers Art Gallery showcases his distinctive “Screw Art” technique—an innovative style that combines screws and paint to create multidimensional portraits. Exhibitions often include other notable artists, such as Christopher Schulz, whose bronze sculptures intricately depict human emotions, and Tim Shockley, who is celebrated for his captivating glass installations. The gallery is open to visitors from Monday to Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM.

Lu Martin Galleries
372 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Established in 1988, Lu Martin Galleries is known for its collection of both contemporary and traditional paintings. The gallery’s featured artists include Martin Beaupré, who captivates audiences with ethereal acrylic landscapes like Find Your Own Light, and Stephen Shortridge, whose impressionist works convey a dreamlike quality. The gallery is open for visitors Monday through Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM.

La Bottega Gallery
550 South Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

La Bottega Gallery highlights international art. One standout exhibition is “Emerge” by Tamer Sahinoglu, inspired by the bi-continental nature of Turkey, using airbrush and spatula techniques. Jadranka Munitic’s textured and 3D visual effects of Dubrovnik landmarks are also showcased here. The gallery is open daily, Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 6 PM, and on Sundays from 12 PM to 5 PM.

Redfern Gallery
1540 South Coast Highway Suite #103, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Specializing in American Impressionism, Redfern Gallery is dedicated to showcasing historical California art. Its exhibitions include plein air landscapes by Gregory Hull, such as Montage Beauty, which captures the rugged coastlines and natural light of the region. The gallery has also featured works by revered artists like Guy Rose, William Wendt, and Granville Redmond, who are celebrated for their impressionist interpretations of California’s scenery.

The gallery is open to visitors from Tuesday through Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM.

Brasa Gallery
490 S Coast Hwy Ste 1, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Brasa Gallery exclusively features the original artwork of Mandy Brasa. Known for her contemporary, bold, and expressive style, Mandy Brasa’s works are characterized by abstract and subconscious interpretations that inspire the viewer’s imagination. Her notable works include “Ethereal Dreams” and “Abstract Reflections,” which highlight her unique approach to abstract art. The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday, 12 PM to 5 PM.

Artists Eye Gallery
1294 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Artists Eye Gallery is a cooperative space featuring fine art paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media by 18 local artists. As one of the largest and most diverse galleries in Laguna Beach, it participates in the First Thursdays Art Walk, allowing visitors to meet the artists and experience new works. The gallery features artists like Tom Swimm, known for his vibrant landscapes, and Marie Tippets, recognized for her detailed sculptures.

Kush Fine Art Gallery
210 Forest Ave, Suite A, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Those with an eye for the unconventional should visit The Kush Fine Art Gallery. This gallery is a celebration of surrealism, featuring the works of Vladimir Kush. His paintings and sculptures blur the line between dream and reality, captivating visitors with imaginative scenes and vibrant colors. The gallery hosts art shows and meet-the-artist events that allow art enthusiasts to delve deeper into the surrealist style.

The gallery is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM and on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 9 PM.

Museums and Cultural Spots in Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach’s rich cultural and artistic heritage is also showcased in some of Laguna Beach’s museums and cultural hotspots.

Laguna Art Museum
307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, CA

No visit to Laguna Beach would be complete without stepping into the Laguna Art Museum, a cornerstone of California’s art scene. This museum is distinct for its focus on California art, showcasing works that depict the region’s landscapes, cultural history, and diverse artistic styles. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibitions that span a broad timeline—from the early California Impressionists to modern-day artists pushing the boundaries of creativity.

Beyond its exhibitions, the museum offers a range of activities that cater to all ages. Whether it’s a family art workshop that introduces children to the joy of creation, a docent-led tour offering deeper insights into the collections, or the annual Art & Nature Festival that explores the connection between art and the natural world, the Laguna Art Museum serves as an engaging and educational hub for the community.

The museum is open Thursday through Tuesday from 11 AM to 5 PM and closed on Wednesdays.

Murphy-Smith Historical Bungalow
278 Ocean Avenue, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

History enthusiasts will find a hidden gem in the Murphy-Smith Historical Bungalow, a charming example of early 20th-century Laguna Beach architecture. Managed by the Laguna Beach Historical Society, this meticulously preserved bungalow serves as a portal to the past, offering insights into the town’s early days. Visitors can peruse historical artifacts, vintage photographs, and documents that tell the story of Laguna Beach’s transformation from a small seaside village to a thriving cultural destination.

The bungalow also organizes themed historical walks, guiding visitors through the town’s most notable landmarks. These immersive tours provide a fascinating narrative of Laguna’s heritage, making it an enriching experience for anyone interested in the city’s origins.

The bungalow is open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 1 PM to 4 PM, and other days are available by appointment. Admission is free, and donations are welcome. For more information, you can contact them at 949.497.6834.

Nearby Museums

While there are more than enough art hotspots and galleries in Laguna Beach to keep even the most ardent collector busy, there are also some great galleries very near Laguna Beach that you may also want to visit.

Bowers Museum (30 Minutes Away)
2002 N Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92706

The Bowers Museum in Santa Ana is one of Southern California’s premier cultural art museums. It has a diverse collection of more than 100,000 objects, offering a rich exploration of global cultures. The museum’s exhibits range from pre-Columbian Mesoamerican artifacts and African tribal art to Asian art and Native American artifacts.

In addition to its permanent collections, the Bowers Museum regularly hosts traveling exhibitions from around the world, providing a constantly changing array of art and artifacts for visitors to enjoy. It also features family-friendly programming, educational lectures, and cultural events, enhancing the experience for visitors of all ages.

The museum’s charming courtyard and on-site restaurant, Tangata, make it a perfect destination for an entire day of cultural immersion. Its wide variety of exhibitions and activities make it an excellent destination for those seeking an enriching art experience near Laguna Beach.

Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) (25 Minutes Away)
3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

This cutting-edge museum is dedicated to contemporary art. With a focus on 20th and 21st-century art, OCMA highlights works by artists from California and the Pacific Rim, offering a diverse look into modern artistic trends and cultural dialogues.

The museum regularly rotates its exhibitions, presenting an ever-changing landscape of art, including painting, sculpture, multimedia installations, and experimental works. The museum’s mission is to provide a platform for emerging and established artists who push boundaries and challenge conventional perspectives. With educational programs, special events, and collaborations with artists and communities, OCMA serves as a hub for those passionate about modern art.

Its location within the Segerstrom Center for the Arts complex makes it part of a vibrant cultural district that combines visual and performing arts.

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens (26 Minutes Away)
415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, CA 92672

Located in nearby San Clemente, just a short drive from Laguna Beach, Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is a historic site offering an array of cultural and artistic experiences. Perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, this Spanish Colonial Revival estate was originally built in 1927 by Ole Hanson, the founder of San Clemente.

Today, Casa Romantica has been transformed into a multi-purpose cultural center, showcasing art exhibitions, live music performances, educational programs, and garden tours. The venue’s meticulously maintained gardens feature drought-resistant plants, succulents, and stunning ocean views, making it a picturesque spot for both nature lovers and those interested in California’s history and architecture.

The center also hosts seasonal events and family-friendly programs that reflect the artistic spirit of Southern California. With its blend of cultural heritage, art, and natural beauty, Casa Romantica provides a serene escape and insight into the region’s artistic traditions.

Make Art Part Of Your Life

Laguna Beach is a haven for artists and art enthusiasts alike. The First Thursdays Art Walk, held on the first Thursday of every month, allows visitors to explore the local galleries, meet artists, and enjoy live music—all for free. Other similar events include the Laguna Dance Festival, which brings contemporary dance performances to the city, and the Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational, where artists paint scenic landscapes on the spot.

Discovering the art galleries in Laguna Beach is just the beginning of what this vibrant city has to offer. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, these galleries and museums will delight and inspire.

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