Laguna Beach has quietly upped its game when it comes to indie retail, and Good Together House is a big reason why. On Ocean Avenue, the shop has spent the last five years becoming the kind of place people build a Saturday around. Part home goods store, part apothecary, part vintage jewelry counter, it's the sort of shop where a candle, a ceramic vase and a vintage silk scarf can all feel like they belong in the same bag.

I will admit it, this is one of my favorite stores in Laguna Beach. The vibe alone is worth the drive, warm and curated without ever feeling precious about it. It is also my go-to when I need a gift that feels thoughtful instead of last-minute. There is always something on the shelves I did not know I needed until I saw it.

Owner Kristin Winter opened Good Together House in June 2021, but her roots at that Ocean Avenue address go back further. She was a partner at Brass Tack, a retail store that once occupied the same space, and it's where she first worked alongside Jenn, her current business partner.

The name is intentional. "Good Together House" is meant to signal that the shop exists for its community as much as its customers, Kristin said. That philosophy shows up in three simple goals: make everything inside the walls extraordinary and unexpected, help customers discover the passion behind the products and the people who make them, and send every visitor home having had a genuinely good experience.

"We want Good Together House to be a worthwhile place for you to spend time," Kristin said.

That focus on craftsmanship is central to what sets the store apart. Kristin has cultivated relationships with artists and artisans whose work is hard to find anywhere else in Laguna Beach, or locally at all. Among her favorites on the shelves are ceramics from Isa Carr, MH Ceramics, Il Buco, Aaron Murray, Rachel Pally, Greg Garrett, Mt. Washington and LA Clay.

The store's connection to Laguna Beach runs deep on a personal level too. Eight of the shop's 10 employees live in Laguna Beach, and the other two live nearby.

For Kristin, the best part of running Good Together House isn't the merchandise, it's the people who walk through the door.

"The people we meet every day in the store give us such faith in our community and world," she said.

Good Together House is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, at 311 Ocean Ave. in Laguna Beach. For more information, call (949) 466-4428.

North Orange County's wellness scene just got a serious upgrade. Life Time has opened its Brea Athletic Country Club at Brea Mall, marking the brand's first location in North Orange County.

The club spans more than 85,000 square feet across three acres of indoor and outdoor space. It's designed as a one-stop destination where fitness, recovery, family time and social life all live under one roof, setting a new standard for healthy living in the area.

Members can enjoy a resort-style "Beach Club" experience complete with a lap pool, leisure pool, waterslides, cabanas and outdoor dining and bar service. Pickleball players have five courts to choose from, two outside and three indoors, and the fitness floor is outfitted with top-tier cardio and strength equipment along with open space for functional training and personal training sessions.

Group fitness fans can dig into signature programs like GTX, Alpha, Ultra Fit and the increasingly popular CTR (Core Tone Reform) athletic reformer workout. For recovery, there's a dedicated Recovery Zone with HydroMassage and CryoLounge chairs, Normatec compression therapy and Hyperice vibration tools, plus a full-service LifeSpa offering hair, nail, massage and skincare treatments.

The club also includes LifeCafe, a nutrition-focused cafe and lounge for grabbing a bite or catching up with friends, and a Work Club Lounge for members who want a community-style coworking space. Families are covered too, with a Kids Academy offering programming, camps and supervised care for children ages three months to 11 years. Luxury locker rooms come equipped with hydrotherapy suites, including sauna, steam, whirlpool and cold plunge, and members looking for pain relief can book appointments through LifeClinic with licensed chiropractors for an additional fee.

Life Time Brea is located at 1600 Brea Mall Road, Brea.

Image Courtesy: Life Time

Flea Style, the brand that turned a flea market side hustle into a roughly $18 million experiential retail business, is opening its first West Coast location: The Original Hat Bar in Laguna Beach.

Founder Brittany Cobb bootstrapped the company from the ground up, growing it about 50% year over year and, along the way, creating a category of retail that didn't really exist before: part styling bar, part vintage shop, part experience. The brand got its start in Texas, but Cobb is an Orange County native, so the Laguna Beach opening marks a homecoming as much as an expansion.

The launch also coincides with the release of Cobb's book, "How to Style a Hat," which carries a foreword from Miranda Lambert.

At the new Coast Highway location, visitors can build their own custom hats from a curated selection of bands, feathers, pins and vintage embellishments, alongside a shop stocked with vintage finds.

711 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach. 949.376.2815. 

Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay is bringing a taste of London to the Downtown Disney District with the opening of Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby, a new restaurant inspired by the energy, style and culinary scene of 1960s London.

Named for the iconic Carnaby Street district, the restaurant draws inspiration from an era known for its influence on music, fashion and culture. The space features three distinct dining areas, including lively social spaces, more intimate settings for private gatherings and a spacious outdoor terrace overlooking Downtown Disney. Design elements, artwork and music throughout the restaurant pay tribute to the vibrant spirit of Swinging London.

The menu showcases several of Ramsay's signature dishes, including Beef Wellington, Fish & Chips with triple-cooked fries and Sticky Toffee Pudding. Guests will also find updated takes on British classics such as Bangers & Mash and Cottage Pie, along with globally inspired dishes including Branzino, Chicken Milanese and Chickpea Tikka Masala.

One of the restaurant's highlights is a tableside Prime Rib Cart featuring hand-carved prime rib served with Yorkshire pudding, roasted vegetables and au jus.

The cocktail program includes creative offerings such as the Passionfruit Royale and Cherry Baby, alongside a selection of wines and beers from around the world.

The restaurant seats 175 guests and is expected to become a popular destination for Disneyland Resort visitors, convention attendees and Orange County locals alike.

During its soft opening, Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby will serve dinner nightly from 4:30 to 10 p.m. Breakfast and lunch service are expected to be added in the coming months.

 For more information, visit the website or connect with Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby at @gordonramsayatthecarnaby. Reservations are encouraged and can be made through OpenTable.

Noble Ace officially opened in Laguna Beach's historic Heisler Building, bringing a fresh dining option to the heart of downtown.

Open nightly beginning at 4:30 p.m., the restaurant offers a modern American menu from Executive Chef Magellan Moore, who spent 12 years as head chef at Mastro's Ocean Club Newport Beach. Signature dishes include Short Rib Stroganoff with handmade pappardelle and Jumbo Beef Potstickers served with blue cheese fondue and a beet and chive salad.

The cocktail menu is equally creative, featuring drinks such as a cantaloupe and olive oil martini and a mezcal cucumber Collins, along with a curated wine list. A wine locker program is also in the works, allowing guests to store bottles on-site for future visits.

Founded by Elizabeth and Tom Schreiber, Noble Ace brings together a team with deep roots in Orange County hospitality. The restaurant is led by General Manager Hillari Galindo and Assistant General Manager Danny Reyes, both longtime hospitality professionals.

Designed by Ralitsa Kombakis of Studio Rallou, the space combines the character of the historic Heisler Building with the feel of a modern supper club.

Open Sunday through Thursday from 4:30 to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 4:30 to 11 p.m.

Noble Ace is located at 400 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, and more information can be found at www.thenobleace.com.

Laguna Beach's Festival of Arts is bringing back one of the most unique theatrical experiences in the world this summer with the 2026 Pageant of the Masters production, "The Greatest of All Time."

The show runs nightly from July 9 through Sept. 4, transforming famous works of art into living pictures, real people posed on stage to recreate masterpieces with remarkable precision. This year's theme digs into some of the most influential artists, artworks and creative achievements in history, and gives audiences a chance to think about the stories and innovation behind some of the world's greatest artistic accomplishments.

The lineup includes Rome's Trevi Fountain, designed by architect Nicola Salvi, and the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., home to Daniel Chester French's sculpture of Abraham Lincoln. The production also recreates work from artists including Claude Monet, Johannes Vermeer, Norman Rockwell, Vincent van Gogh, Frida Kahlo and Pablo Picasso. Beyond the art history lesson, "The Greatest of All Time" invites the audience to weigh in on their own picks for the G.O.A.T.s of the art world as these influential pieces come to life on stage.

A ticket to the Pageant of the Masters also gets you into the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show, which USA Today recently named one of the top 10 art festivals in the country. Arrive early and spend the day browsing work from more than 100 award winning Orange County artists, catch some live music, watch demonstrations, take a class or pick up an original piece directly from the artist who made it.

The Pageant of the Masters only runs for eight weeks each summer, and that's part of what makes it special. Once the curtain closes on Sept. 4, this particular production is gone for good.

The Festival of Arts is sponsored in part by Volvo Cars, City of Hope Orange County, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, and KOST Radio 103.5. A separate ticket is required to attend the Pageant of the Masters and may be purchased at PageantTickets.com. 

Earl of Sandwich has returned to the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort with its largest and most immersive location yet, bringing new dining experiences while staying true to the history and hospitality that have defined the brand for generations.

Founded by hospitality entrepreneur Robert Earl in partnership with the Montagu family, including John Montagu, the 11th Earl of Sandwich, the restaurant traces its roots to 1762, when the 4th Earl of Sandwich inspired the creation of one of the world's most recognizable meals.

Alongside its signature toasted sandwiches, the new location introduces The Carvery, where premium pastrami is carved fresh throughout the day in full view of guests. The new Earl's Pastrami features slow-cooked pastrami layered with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Dijonnaise, and Thousand Island dressing on marbled rye. Fan favorites including The Full Montagu and The Original 1762 remain on the menu, joined by deli sandwiches, wraps, salads, and other longtime classics.

The expanded bakery adds even more reasons to stop by, serving oversized cookies, cinnamon rolls, and seasonal treats throughout the day. Guests can also visit The Pub, an all-new gathering spot offering draft beer, wine, frozen cocktails, and seasonal beverages.

To celebrate the opening, Luke Montagu, the 12th Earl of Sandwich and a direct descendant of the family behind the iconic sandwich, will visit Anaheim for the grand opening festivities on July 15. More than 260 years after the sandwich first gained popularity, the event offers a connection to the brand's unique history and the family that helped make it famous.

Located in the Downtown Disney® District at Disneyland® Resort, Earl of Sandwich is open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information, visit EarlOfSandwichUSA.com

A new wellness experience has arrived in Costa Mesa. Invita Head Spa recently opened its doors, and I had the opportunity to visit and experience a treatment firsthand.

Inspired by the Japanese tradition of scalp care, Invita is designed to promote healthy hair, a healthy scalp, and total relaxation. The treatments combine scalp analysis, therapeutic massage, cleansing, and nourishing hair care into one blissful experience. It's the perfect way to unwind, and I couldn't help but think it would also be a wonderful way to spend time with a friend.

One of the things I appreciated most was how personalized everything felt. My scalp was analyzed before the treatment so I could actually see its condition, I selected my own aromatherapy fragrance, and the team explained the process along the way. It felt thoughtful from beginning to end.

The spa itself is beautiful. Every detail has been carefully considered, creating a peaceful, spa-like atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease.

Invita exclusively uses the complete Milbon professional haircare line, a premier Japanese salon-exclusive brand known for its innovative, science-based approach to scalp and hair health. Whether you're experiencing dryness, buildup, thinning hair, or simply want to give your scalp some extra attention, there's a treatment designed for your individual needs. They recommend starting with the Basic Head Spa treatment, which includes a comprehensive scalp analysis and helps determine the best treatment plan going forward.

If you'd like to enhance your visit, Invita also offers a variety of add-ons, including hair styling with or without hot tools, light therapy for hair loss, and a private VIP room for an even more elevated experience.

For those who plan to return, the annual membership is an excellent value. For $100 per year, members receive 10% off treatments for themselves and a friend, 20% off products, a complimentary birthday treatment, and invitations to exclusive member events.

I left feeling refreshed, relaxed, and with my hair and scalp feeling exceptionally clean and healthy. Invita is a wonderful addition to Costa Mesa, and if you're looking for an hour to completely disconnect and recharge, I highly recommend treating yourself to the experience.

Open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 

3001 Harbor Blvd Ste D, Costa Mesa. +1949.805.0600

This year's Fourth of July carries a little extra weight: America turns 250. Whether you're drawn to live music on the water, fireworks over the harbor or a hands-on workshop to get into the spirit, Orange County's coastline has plenty of ways to mark the occasion. Here are spots worth adding to your holiday weekend itinerary.

Lido Marina Village (July 2)

Kick off the long weekend early at Lido Marina Village's Patriotic Pop Up on the Lido Deck, set for Thursday, July 2, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Patriot Brass will perform live patriotic favorites while guests try their hand at seasonal workshops, including a patriotic floral arranging class with French Buckets and a watercolor American flag workshop led by Bailey Art Studios. Pink Lady Creamery will be on hand serving handcrafted ice cream, rounding out a festive waterfront afternoon for families, friends and visitors getting an early start on the celebration.

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina (July 3-5)

For a holiday spent on the water, Newport Dunes' annual Independence Day on the Back Bay celebration returns with live music, food trucks, watersports and family activities all weekend, capped by a fireworks display over the Back Bay on July 4. Guests can kayak, paddleboard, cruise Newport Harbor aboard a Duffy boat or splash around the Inflatable Aquatic Park, with live entertainment running throughout the weekend ahead of the 9 p.m. fireworks show. 

Photo by Mike Novak

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa | Huntington Beach (July 4)

For a front-row seat to Huntington Beach's Fourth of July festivities, check into the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa. Located steps from the sand, the resort puts guests in the heart of the action, from the city's iconic parade to fireworks over the Pacific. Spend the day at the beach, enjoy a bonfire and s'mores, and take advantage of dining options ranging from casual beachfront fare to upscale coastal cuisine.

Starting rate: From $450 per night.

Dana Point Harbor (July 4)

Dana Point Harbor offers a full day of options, from soaking up the sun at Doheny State Beach and Baby Beach to watching fireworks light up the night sky. For waterfront views, book a spot on July 4th Fireworks on the Water Cruises at Dana Wharf or aboard Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari. By land, stop by Delanya's Smokin' Hot Texas BBQ's limited-edition community pop up or grab a dinner reservation at a waterfront restaurant while they last. The official fireworks show, hosted by the City of Dana Point, kicks off at 9 p.m. just offshore of Doheny State Beach.

Mark your calendar for Thursday, Aug. 6, when Festival Ballet Theatre brings its beloved "Gala of the Stars" back to the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall for a one-night-only celebration of ballet.

Now in its 17th year, the gala pairs international ballet stars with a select group of young protégés for an evening that's equal parts mentorship and masterclass. This year's headliner is Maria Khoreva, first soloist of the Mariinsky Theatre, who joins guest artists from American Ballet Theatre, Dutch National Ballet, Mariinsky Ballet, New York City Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet, Tulsa Ballet and Vienna State Opera. (Guest artists are subject to change.)

The evening unfolds in two parts. At 6 p.m., the program opens with an optional one act performance from the young protégés, dancers chosen for their exceptional promise who've just wrapped two weeks of intensive training under top artistic directors from the Royal Ballet School, Youth America Grand Prix and San Francisco Ballet Training Program. Then at 7 p.m., the main event takes the stage: a one act performance featuring the world renowned guest artists themselves.

It's a rare chance to watch seasoned stars and rising talent share one stage, all in celebration of the same craft.

This year's gala also marks a bigger milestone: the 38th anniversary of Festival Ballet Theatre, Orange County's premier resident ballet company. The young protégés taking part will be coached by Royal Ballet School Artistic Director Iain Mackay, along with YAGP founders Larissa Saveliev and Gennadi Saveliev, and a roster of esteemed guest faculty.

Tickets are available now at scfta.org.

600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa.