Come with us as we walk you through the sets of some of the movies and TV shows that have been filmed right here in Laguna Beach. From reality TV to black and white classics, Hollywood has come to the shores of Laguna over and over as quintessential beach locale for California and beyond.
TV SHOWS
1. “Dead to Me” on Netflix
This “dark comedy”, based and filmed in Laguna Beach became an instant hit. Jen, played by Christina Applegate, had recently lost her husband from a hit-and-run, leaving the widow hungry for justice. Judy, played by Linda Cardellini, had recently suffered a tragic loss of her own. Jen & Judy met at local support group and became unlikely friends. As the story grows, you will be hooked with the countless plot twists leaving you at the edge of your seat. Season 2 was released on May 8, 2020. Click the image to begin watching!
2. “Laguna Beach” on MTV
Follow along with the local Laguna Beach high-schoolers that put Laguna Beach on the map for teens far and wide, like Lauren Conrad, Lo Bosworth, Kristin Cavallari, Stephen Colletti, Talan Torriero and Tessa Keller in this smash hit reality TV show, as they figure out the ins and outs of growing up in Laguna Beach! Click the image to begin watching!
3. “The OC” on Hulu
Orange County locals have their lives forever changed when a new person moves to town. Follow along as this group of friends acclimates to their new life in The O.C. This show became a huge hit and went on to have four seasons. Click the image to begin watching!
4. “The Real Housewives of Orange County” on Bravo/Hulu
Catch these O.C. ladies in this hit reality TV show! You can spot them at local Laguna Beach establishments playing with the kitties at Catmosphere Laguna or dining at Las Brisas and much more. With 13 seasons, there is plenty to see! Click the image to begin watching!
MOVIES
1. “Savages” on Hulu
Two friends living and “growing” their world renown marijuana business in Laguna Beach put up the fight of their lifetime when they go after the cartel for kidnapping the woman that they are both in love with. Click the image to begin watching!
2. “A Few Good Men” on Amazon Prime Video
A Navy lawyer, (played by Tom Cruise), is investigating a murder that involves two Marines who killed a fellow Marine. The U.S Naval Base in this film is set in Guantanamo Bay, but it was actually filmed right here in the Crystal Cove/Laguna Beach area. Click the image to begin watching!
3. “Beaches” on Hulu
These friends stood the test of time by remaining close after meeting as children while vacationing in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The famous beach cottage that they stay in years later is non other than the famous beach cottages right here in Crystal Cove. Click the image to begin watching!
The Classics
1. “A Star is Born” with Judy Garland on Amazon Prime Video
Judy Garland returns to the big screen after a four year hiatus to star in “A Star Is Born”. The beach scenes in this classic tragic story were filmed right here in Laguna Beach. Click the image to watch this film!
2. “The Long, Long Trailer” on Amazon Prime Video
Newlyweds, Nicholas (Desi Arnaz) and Tacy (Lucille Ball) buy a motor home after their wedding and travel across the country together. Watch as life’s curve-balls takes a toll on their young marriage. This movie was filmed where the Montage is currently located. Click the image to begin watching!
3. “Now, Voyager” on Amazon Prime Video
This classic film about a forbidden love story starring Bette Davis is a must watch. Did you know Bette Davis once lived in Laguna Beach? She also often performed at The Laguna Playhouse in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Her historic California English Tudor home in Wood’s Cove is a must-see attraction in Laguna Beach. The home was built in 1929 and is registered as a historic structure. The home is located off of Diamond Street…just look closely for the chimney with a big letter “D” on it, a decorative touch that Ms. Davis added when she moved in. Click the image to begin watching!
More Films in Laguna Beach
1. “The Death and Life of Bobby Z” starring Paul Walker, Laurence Fishburne and Olivia Wilde (2007).
2. “Boxboarders!” directed by local resident Rob Hedden (2007).
3. “Dating Games People Play” by O.C. director Stefan Marc (2005).
4. “Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation” starring James Stewart (1962).
5. “Treasure Island” starring Wallace Beery and Jackie Cooper (1934).
