Laguna Passport to the Arts

Le Rêve would like to join the City of Laguna Beach in introducing to you one of the most exciting opportunities of the summer in Southern California. The three world-renowned outdoor summer art festivals of Laguna Beach - The Festival of Arts, Sawdust Art Festival and Art-A-Fair -- have joined forces with the Laguna Beach Visitors & Conference Bureau to create the Passport to the Arts for the 2009 season. This is truly a special offer, as for only $19, the 'Passport' allows visitors unlimited admission to all three festivals for the entire summer season. Over 500 amazing and unique artists and 300 hands-on workshops, dozens of special events, and an array of restaurants provide fun for the whole family; plus one time all-day free parking with each ticket. Additionally, selected retailers and merchants throughout Laguna Beach are offering special discounts to Passport holders.

The Festival of Arts was introduced in 1932 and is one of the nation's most highly acclaimed and attended fine art shows. With nightly musical entertainment, hands-on demonstrations, and a myriad of special events running from July 5 - August 31, the Festival of Arts is a "must-see" this summer!

The Sawdust Art Festival occurs June 26 to August 30 and showcases art created only in Laguna Beach. It was named one of the country's top five festivals by American Style Magazine. Located in a beautiful eucalyptus grove, visitors experience the creativity of over 200 local artisans while enjoying the entertainment, artist demos, and hands-on art workshops for adults and children

The Art-A-Fair also runs from June 26 to August 30 this year and features 125 artists from all over the world. Every art form will be represented from oil paintings and acrylics, to photography and jewelry. The Art-A-Fair will also present "Opera and Musical Night" which has received standing ovations since three years ago when it was founded.

Escape to Catalina

Whether you are a Southern California native or traveling to the California Riviera for the first time, Catalina Island is a must see! Amid beautiful tropical climate, gorgeous beaches, and spectacular views, Catalina offers something for everyone from hiking and snorkeling to site-seeing and fine dining. Begin your Catalina Experience with a helicopter flight across the 22 miles of Pacific Ocean west of Los Angeles. Overlook the beautiful California Gold Coast, and take in an amazing aerial view of the spectacular cliffs, beaches, and scenery that Catalina affords. On this small island, there is an enormous diversity of plant life, with almost 400 native species that you can only find on the island.

The island is also renowned for its Mediterranean climate, turquoise waters, and wide range of marine life. The entire family will enjoy the adventures and ecological treasures that you can only find on Catalina. The whole family will love exploring the boutique shops and dining at some of the local restaurants, famous for their seafood. Take a guided Jeep Eco tour across the island to learn more about the unique native flora or allow us to customize a day of adventure.

The island is most famous for its amazing marine activities. Parasailing, kayaking, or jet skiing are just a few of the water sports that allow you to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Catalina. Experience the stunning marine life by paddle boarding into secluded coves and reefs teeming with sea and bird life. A favorite for the child visitor is the Glass Bottom Boat Tour which leads into the clear water of Lover's Cove Marine Sanctuary. You will get the chance to see bright orange Garibaldi, huge schools of bait fish, leopard sharks, barracudas, lobsters and more.

After exploring the unique flora, marine life, and culture of Catalina, relax in luxury at the Inn at Mt. Ada. This hotel was originally the private residence of William Wrigley Jr. who owned Catalina in its earlier days, and chose the setting for his new home because it received the first sunlight in the morning and the last rays at sunset. Now this Victorian mansion offers traditional yet elegant and friendly accommodations with incredible ocean views.

Take in the ocean euphoria on a private yacht back to the California coast and don't be surprised by visits from dolphins playing in the wake and greeting you to their waters. A slide show of your Catalina Experience tied in with music to match the moments will be playing on board, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime. A wonderful family adventure is waiting for you and your loved ones, as you discover the breath taking beauty and tranquility of this extraordinary destination.

LAST MINUTE - Awesome Opportunity!!

We just found out about an amazing opportunity to experience the artistic melding of both dance and sculpture, tonight at the Dawson Cole Fine Art Gallery located at 326 Glenneyre Street. Laguna Beach, CA 92651. What an incredible chance to view world class ballet artists, alongside sculptures representing one of the finest dancers of our time. Here is more information about the event.

Dawson Cole Fie Art presents the ARTWALK today, May 7th, as they premiere the newest releases from Richard MacDonald's ballet series, Katherine II. Drawing on the artist's highly developed sensitivity and experience of the dancer, KatherineII displays all he quiet beauty of a private moment of reflection.

In addition, the gallery will premiere a special dace presentation by Jodie Gates, featuring dancers from the NYC based contemporary dance company, CorbinDances. The dancers will perform a duet in the Dawson Cole Sculpture Garden to violin concertos by Antonio Vivaldi and J.S. Bach. choreography by Jodie Gates. Performance begins at 7:30!!.

A Day in San Juan

One of the best kept secrets in Southern California is the San Juan Mission. Built and founded in 1776, the mission is described as "the Jewel of the California Missions." Upon entering the mission, you will feel as though you have gone back in time. You can experience the new "Voices of the Mission" audio tour which provides detailed and interesting information throughout the mission. As you walk through the mission area you will love the serenity of the beautiful gardens and the rustic chapel. You will also be amazed by the Great Stone Church, which gives you an amazing picture of what life back in the 18th century would have been like. The entire family will love the experience.

From there, you can walk old town San Juan and enjoy the local culture of the area. From the quaint boutiques, to the excellent restaurants, it is a wonderful way to spend the day. A day in San Juan wouldn't be complete without a tour of the Los Rios Historic District with a visit of the new retablo in the Mission Basilica. The kids will also love Zoomars petting zoo where they can feed the emu's, hold the bunnies, and ride a pony.

Throughout the summer, another fun evening activity is "Music under the Stars," when a crowd gathers inside the mission to enjoy a wonderful band and excellent food.

Step back in time and enjoy an amazing San Juan Experience!