SURFING SOAPBOX: Nightlife sizzles at Laguna’s hot spots

Summer’s here. The sun’s out and the ocean’s warm. You’ve just spent a great day on the beach, and you don’t know where to go next.

Don’t fret, because I’m going to give you my key to the city’s most happening spots, and there’s only one place to begin with the best view of Laguna’s seascape and hillsides.

The one and only Roof Top at Casa del Camino hotel (1287 S. Coast Hwy.) is the perfect place to watch the sunset while warming up with a few appetizers and cocktails.

Downstairs k’ya awaits if it’s the ideal meal you’re looking for, not to mention the best small plate menu in town.

Other great alternatives for dinner include Rumari’s (1826 S. Coast Hwy.) for the best Italian food in town, Dizz’s As Is (2794 S. Coast Hwy.) which has the greatest prawn dish one can imagine.

If it’s sushi you want, then you have to start with Laguna Sushi (231 Ocean Ave.), with some of the best hand rolls in town topped with unique sauces; if it’s sushi you’re looking for with a little bit more of a fun-filled party vibe, then your best bet would be San Shi Go (1100 S. Coast Hwy., No. 303).

Now for the next phase. If it’s more of a romantic night, my new personal favorite place is French 75 (1464 S. Coast Hwy.).

On a Saturday night one can enjoy great food and drinks with a great piano singer to boot.

Hush (858 S. Coast Hwy.) has one of the nicest bars in town, great food and on most nights offers a ride home for those who know better than to drive.

A great service for those who like to enjoy the bar and don’t want to worry about flagging down a cab.

Late night there’s only one place to go and that’s the world famous Sandpiper (1183 S. Coast Hwy.), otherwise known as the “dirty bird,” and for good reason.

And for the ultimate in Laguna happenings, the Sawdust festival and the Pageant of the Masters.

I went to the Pageant last summer for the first time and had an amazing experience.

So there you have it, a couple of good spots to get you started on a summers evening.

Just remember: Don’t drink and drive.

Peace.

JAMES PRIBRAM is a Laguna Beach native, professional surfer and John Kelly Environmental Award winner. His websites include AlohaSchoolofSurfing and ECOWarrior Surf.com. He can be reached at Jamo@Aloha SchoolofSurfing.com