Laguna's West Beach is one of the few remnants of the gay glamour of years past. Gone are previously popular clubs the Boom Boom Room and Woody's (formerly Lil' Shrimp), and although Bounce still exists (formerly Main Street), it's hard to settle for such a small, neighborhood bar when the club/restaurant tandem that used to be just across the street is now a distant memory (ditto for going to Tin Lizzie Saloon in Costa Mesa now that dance club Newport Station is ancient history). But whether one chooses to Bounce to the only bar in town, it's hard to debate more fun may be found at West Street Beach. There are certainly more gay people at the beach during the day than at any Laguna Beach bar (gay or straight) at night. And the bodies in speedos are often works of art. It's a relaxing way to sit back and watch the eye candy or jump in and join the frisbee, volleyball, or circles of gay gossip. There's usually a better chance of meeting someone than at most gay bars, also. Parking is tough, and the hike back up the steps is a mini-workout (though nothing like the cliff at Black's Beach in San Diego). Nevertheless, West Beach has been the most consistent gay presence in Laguna Beach's shrinking gay social community.

weather (pun intended) sunny or cloudy, West Beach is fun