as some of you may have noticed, i played hooky this weekend because i snuck away for a long weekend in laguna beach for bri’s epic bachelorette weekend. we checked in at the new hotel joaquin, and honestly, i didn’t want to check out. a petite boutique resort with just 22 rooms nestled above beautiful Shaw’s Cove (a short walk that is a must-visit), not only are the grounds and view gorgeous, but the renovation to this old hotel is simply sublime. from adorable snorkel fins hung outside each guest room, to hi-fi’s and vinyl they’ve really thought of everything to make you feel welcome. the drinks and the food is out of this world, too — our special dinner to honor bri’s impending love nuptials included oysters on the half shell, a drool-worthy seabass in coconut broth and black ‘forbidden’ rice, and crab gnocchi. repeat, please. oh, and amazing breakfast options including coconut yogurt & fruit (served in a fresh coconut, of course!) are included with your stay. the staff was so kind and the amenities amazing. i’ll definitely be making a trip back to hotel joaquin.