Woods Cove Inn
Woods Cove Inn Reopens in Laguna Beach, Signaling a New Chapter for the Property as an Independent Boutique Escape
Woods Cove Inn, a 22-room boutique hotel located along Laguna Beach’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway, will reopen May 11, emerging as a newly independent coastal retreat. Previously operating under the Sonder brand, the property debuts with a renewed identity rooted in local character, thoughtful design, and relaxed California living.
Owned by hospitality entrepreneur Blake Marriott, who also developed the newly opened Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel in Newport Beach, Woods Cove Inn was acquired following its unexpected closure and repositioned as an independent boutique hotel. To bring the vision to life, Mr. Marriott partnered with Southern California-based Parable Hospitality, operator of more than 30 boutique hotels and resorts along the Pacific Coast and Hawaii, to oversee operations, marketing, and guest experience.
Parable Hospitality has appointed hospitality veteran Didi Shields as general manager. Shields also oversees Bay Shores Peninsula Hotel and previously led the opening of El Caminante Bar & Bungalows in Dana Point.
Designed by CPD Studio, the property blends clean, modern lines with warm, textural elements inspired by nearby Woods Cove beach, known for its commanding cliffs, sandy shores, and crystal-clear tide pools. Each of the 22 guestrooms features natural wood touches, marble bathrooms, and commissioned artwork by local artist Jordan Nicole of High Desert Studios, infusing Laguna Beach’s creative spirit into each stay.
Each guestroom features a curated mix of amenities designed to enhance the stay and make coastal exploring feel effortless. Guests can grab Tin Marin tote bags, ICEMULE cooler backpacks, Surfwater, and electrolyte packets for a day at the beach, then return to unwind with Simone Fan custom robes, Bellino linens, and Salt & Stone bath amenities for a spa-like in-room experience.
At the heart of the hotel is an inviting lobby with an intimate breakfast nook, where guests can enjoy herbal welcome tea, coffee and pastries before heading out to explore nearby beaches, galleries, and coastal trails. Additional amenities include a swimming pool and outdoor terrace, ideal for morning yoga or unwinding in the ocean air.
Set just steps from the shoreline in the beloved Woods Cove neighborhood, the inn offers a quieter, more residential take on Laguna Beach, while still being moments from the destination’s vibrant dining, shopping, and arts scene.
Woods Cove Inn is located at 2020 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA. Reservations are now open, with stays beginning May 11, 2026. For more information or to book, visit www.woodscoveinn.com. Follow the property on Facebook and Instagram.