Last month, I escaped to Laguna Beach with my sketchbook in hand and no strict plans—just the joy of wandering, observing, and capturing moments on paper. The town, with its blend of ocean views, vibrant architecture, and laid-back energy, was the perfect setting for a spontaneous art retreat. I explored beaches, side streets, and garden gates, sketching whatever caught my eye. Here’s a glimpse into my sketch weekend, what I saw and sketched during those colorful days. I stayed at Laguna Surf Lodge, its very close to ocean and great spot for the sunset.
Btw if you struggling to sketch people and confused by sketching faces this post is for you.
A Moment by the Fountain – Near Rebel Omakase
While waiting for our appointment at the Japanese restaurant Rebel Omakase, I noticed a quiet fountain nearby and decided to sketch it spontaneously. I used brush pens to quickly capture the structure and the motion of the falling water. Later, I added watercolor to bring the surrounding trees to life. It was a simple moment, but one that perfectly reflects the spontaneity of sketching on the go—unpolished, honest, and full of atmosphere.
Beach Sketches – Scene and Movement
Sketching on the beach was both peaceful and dynamic. In one quick sketch, I captured the overall scene—umbrellas, the coastline, and a striking building in the background—using bold lines and minimal color for contrast. The second sketch challenged me to draw people on the move: sunbathers, a surfer, and beachgoers walking by. It was a fast-paced exercise in observation, forcing me to loosen my style and embrace spontaneity.
Laguna Architecture – Lines and Washes
Laguna Beach is full of beautiful architecture, and I couldn’t resist capturing one of the more striking buildings I passed. I used my fountain pen to sketch it on the spot, focusing on the bold shapes and rooftop details. Later, I added simple water brush washes to bring out the shadows and volume. The contrast between the ink and diluted tones gave the sketch a timeless feel, much like the town itself.
Charming Gates – A Splash of Color
Laguna Beach is full of personality, even in the smallest details like its private gates. Almost every home has one, and many are surprisingly artistic or whimsical. I picked one that stood out and experimented with a bold, colorful approach. Using only Ecoline watercolor and a brush pen, I exaggerated the greens, blues, and purples to capture the gate’s lush surroundings and artistic personality. It felt more like painting emotion than structure, and I loved that freedom.
Charming Houses – Blue Walls and Pink Flowers
Laguna Beach is filled with homes that feel like characters themselves, each with distinct charm. I chose this house for its vibrant blue walls and lush pink flowers climbing beside it. Using only Ecoline watercolor, I let the paint guide the energy—bright, loose, and nearly abstract. The sketch isn’t exact, but it captures the color and mood that first caught my eye, which is often more powerful than perfect lines.
This sketch weekend in Laguna Beach reminded me why I love sketching while traveling—it’s not just about what you see, but how you see it. From quick gestures and spontaneous washes to vibrant color experiments, each page tells a little story. Laguna offered endless inspiration, and I left feeling sun-warmed, paint-splattered, and completely creatively recharged. I can’t wait to return, sketchbook ready.
