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Hotel Laguna Faces Daily $11k Fine for Beach Privatization

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated May 19, 2025 1:12 PM ET

Laguna Beach has some of the most coveted beaches in the entire state, often topping listicles of California’s “best” and leading to heavy crowds. And right, smackdab in the middle of town, at perhaps the enclave’s most visited strand, Main Beach, a hotel is under fire for an attempt at privatization.

Per reports and videos from citizen activists, the iconic Hotel Laguna has constructed a sand berm, signifying exclusivity for their patrons, posted signage reading “Laguna Beach Club,” and shooed away anyone who isn’t staying at the hotel. All of this is a violation of the California Coastal Act, which ensures public access to beaches at the high tide line. And so, a beach battle has ensued.

If the issue isn’t resolved by May 23rd, the California Coastal Commission can fine the hotel $11,250 per day.

Speaking to the regulations regarding public access to beaches, Laguna Beach City Manager Dave Kiff said:

“Everybody should know that from the mean high tide line – which can change when the sand changes – to the water, is for the public. And you’re not to impair access to the public to get to that line, even if you think that your private property goes underneath sand. I think that’s the way the Coastal Commission looks at it, and that’s the way we look at it too.”

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Wait ‘til you see what #hotellaguna says about their #privatebeach #cali #PublicBeach #justice #KnowYourRights #lagunabeach #CaliforniaBeaches #staytuned
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Meanwhile, TikTok justice warriors are taking matters into their own hands, poking the bear, and testing the “beach colonizers” of Hotel Laguna. One such citizen activist – see above – has repeatedly shown the situation at Hotel Laguna, breaching the berm, and when asked to leave, demanded to speak with the manager.

The drama…just in time for summer.

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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