Kristin Nicholson
2025-02-08 · 4 min read
From protecting ocean ecosystems to housing homeless cats, these ten Laguna Beach nonprofits are quietly shaping the community's character and future.
Laguna Beach is a small coastal town known for its geographical beauty, charming character, and close-knit community. Within this close-knit community are several nonprofits who are making a powerful impact. From preserving the environment to addressing social issues, these organizations are dedicated to improving the lives of residents and visitors.
1. Laguna Ocean Foundation
Possibly the most well known organization in town, the Laguna Ocean Foundation was formed in 2003 by concerned citizens. Their mission involves raising awareness and educating people on ways to protect and preserve ocean ecosystems. When exploring tide pools, visitors often encounter docents educating beach-goers. Most notably, the Ocean Foundation successfully established Laguna Beach as a marine protected area.
Website: lagunaoceanfoundation.org
2. Laguna Canyon Foundation
In 1989, a large crowd marched along Laguna Canyon Road to protest destruction of natural terrain for shopping centers, golf courses, and housing developments. Because of their efforts, we have 22,000 acres of wilderness to protect and cherish. The Laguna Canyon Foundation works to preserve the flora and fauna of these canyons for future generations.
Website: lagunacanyon.org
3. Pacific Marine Mammal Center
The Pacific Marine Mammal Center is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine mammals along the Southern California coastline. The center provides medical care for sea lions and seals and is open to the public at no charge. Visitors can explore the visitor yard in Laguna Canyon to observe these creatures, learn about the organization, and browse the gift shop.
Website: pacificmmc.org
4. Friends of the Laguna Beach Library
This nonprofit was formed over 50 years ago by a group of friends who wanted to make the library something special. The organization supplies funds for monthly special events, children's crafts, building improvements, and scholarships. Most notably, they maintain the luscious butterfly and fairy garden that was initially created by long time local Jessica deStefano.
Website: friendsofthelagunabeachlibrary.org
5. Crystal Cove Conservancy
This organization was founded in 1999 to save the historic buildings and unique topography from being redeveloped into a luxury resort. They restore century-old cottages, beautify the park, and educate environmental leaders. But coolest of all, the Crystal Cove STEM education program brings thousands of low-income students to Crystal Cove State Park for the first time.
Website: crystalcove.org
6. Laguna Food Pantry
Located in Laguna Canyon, anybody is welcome to stop by for groceries at no cost and with no questions asked. The organization began after the 1993 fires that destroyed hundreds of homes and left families with few resources. Due to consistent need, their organization has grown and flourishes to this day.
Website: lagunafoodpantry.org
7. KX FM Radio
As a small community, it is so cool that we have our very own FM radio station — and a nonprofit, commercial free, human crafted one at that! KX FM aims to connect the community through meaningful, locally-oriented music, culture, and events. The station supports on-air hosts, student interns, special needs volunteers, and underrecognized musicians in developing their talents.
Website: kxfmradio.org
8. Laguna Beach Pride
Laguna Beach has substantial gay history, and Laguna Beach Pride was organized to honor culture and diversity as well as to celebrate the rich contributions of the gay community to Laguna Beach. The organization hosts various events throughout the year that are open to all.
Website: lagunabeachpride.org
9. Laguna Beach Historical Society
This nonprofit was formed to collect and preserve historical documents and share them for everybody to appreciate. Located in the Murphy-Smith Bungalow, visitors can browse memorabilia on display, chat with friendly volunteers, and learn about Laguna Beach's history.
Website: lagunabeachhistory.org
10. Catmosphere Foundation
Initially started as a cat cafe in downtown Laguna Beach, Catmosphere volunteers and foster parents devote their time to providing care for homeless cats and kittens. The foster care system provides felines a safe environment until they find permanent homes. Despite the cafe's closure, the organization stays busy fulfilling their mission.
Website: catmospherelaguna.com
