Subsequent research has found several prehistoric encampment sites in the area. Known as "Laguna Woman", the skull originally was radiocarbon dated to more than 17,000 BP, but revised measurements suggest it originated during the Holocene era, 11,700 years BP. In 1933, the first fossilized skull of a paleoindian found in California was uncovered during construction on St. Laguna Beach was the site of a prehistoric paleoindian civilization. Large annual events include the Pageant of the Masters, Festival of Arts, Sawdust Art Festival, Art-A-Fair, Bluewater Music Festival, and Kelpfest. Tourism is the primary industry with an estimated six million people visiting the community annually.
The Laguna Beach coastline is protected by 5.88 miles (9.46 km) of state marine reserve and an additional 1.21 miles (1.95 km) of state conservation area. The city has remained relatively isolated from urban encroachment by its surrounding hills, limited highway access, and dedicated greenbelt. The city adopted the council–manager form of government in 1944. Laguna Beach was settled in the 1870s, officially founded in 1887, and in 1927 its current government was incorporated as a city. Historically settled by Paleoindians, the Tongva people, and then Mexico, the location became part of the United States following the Mexican–American War. The population in the 2020 census was 23,032.
Located in Southern California along the Pacific Ocean, this seaside resort city has a mild year-round climate, scenic coves, and environmental preservation efforts.
Laguna Beach ( / l ə ˈ ɡ uː n ə/ Laguna, Spanish for "Lagoon") is a city in Orange County, California, United States.