The Village
Local. Eclectic. Experience-driven.
The Village runs along South Coast Highway from roughly Sleepy Hollow to Victoria Beach, including the stretch many locals call the HIP District. It is where Laguna’s residential and commercial worlds meet most directly.
What defines it
More neighborhood-oriented. Restaurants, boutiques, services and specialty businesses are woven into the surrounding residential community.
Independent businesses define its character. Smaller storefronts and distinctive concepts give it a less institutional feel than Downtown.
Restaurants, wellness and personal services fit naturally. Experiences and services that can’t easily be bought online have an advantage.
High occupancy costs remain a challenge. Businesses still have to generate Laguna-level revenue from relatively small spaces.
Success requires becoming a destination. Pedestrian activity helps, but businesses increasingly need repeat customers, referrals, community relationships and a reason for people to seek them out.
New businesses can feel disconnected. One recent operator said no local organization had contacted her to welcome her, explain available resources or connect her with neighbors.
Voice from the street
“Community connection is essential.”
A recently opened Laguna business owner, describing how quickly becoming part of the community was critical to survival
The takeaway
The Village may be where Laguna’s residential and commercial worlds intersect most directly. Businesses that become part of the community, not simply located in it, have an advantage.