Introduction to Laguna Niguel, California
The city of Laguna Niguel, located in the southern part of California's Orange County, is situated about 25 miles southeast of Anaheim, 50 miles southeast of Los Angeles, and 70 miles northwest of San Diego. Surrounding communities include Aliso Viejo, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Mission Viejo and San Juan Capistrano. Serviced primarily by California State Highway 73, the city is also adjacent to State Highway 133 and Interstate I-5.
Laguna Niguel History
The present-day location of Laguna Niguel was once part of an expansive 8,000-acre ranch originally owned by San Juan Capistrano resident Juan Avila and purchased in the late 19th century by wealthy land owner Lewis Moulton. In 1959, the Laguna Niguel Corporation was established for the purpose of creating a master planned community. A period of steady development followed, culminating three decades later in the 1989 incorporation of the City of Laguna Niguel.
Points of Interest in Laguna Niguel
With over one-third of its total area designated as open space, Laguna Niguel is home to several regional parks, including Aliso & Wood Canyons Regional Park, Laguna Niguel Regional Park and Badlands Park. The Niguel Botanical Preserve is an 18-acre botanical garden located within Crown Valley Community Park. Cultural sites in the city include the Orange County Natural History Museum, which offers natural history exhibits, lectures and community programs for kids and adults. Annual events in Laguna Niguel include the Echoes & Visions Juried Fine Art Show, held every November at the city's Sea Country Center. In December, residents and visitors can gather along Crown Valley Parkway to enjoy the Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade, which features marching bands, equestrian units and much more. Less than an hour away from Laguna Niguel are the Anaheim and Los Angeles areas, home to some of the most popular world-class attractions in the country.