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    South Swell Donuts

    4.6 (127 reviews)
    InexpensiveBakeries
    Open 5:00 am - 3:00 pm

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    Recommended Reviews - South Swell Donuts

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    Lindsey R.

    I wish we lived here, we'd be here weekly. The owners are the sweetest, they have a large selection and the donuts are delicious! Old school donuts just as they should be and a dozen was less than $24!

    a bakery counter with a variety of pastries
    Mandy F.

    This place is a gem! The owner is the primary worker and always has a smile on her face. Seems like there are regulars who come in and she remembers their orders. Every time I bring in donuts from here, I always get complimented for the quality and taste of the donuts. I often get the dozen for about 20 dollars. It's cute because she will add donut holes to the side for no extra cost. It always surprises me each time that happens :) Definitely a local and beach vibe. Located on PCH by Mission Hospital Laguna Beach. Be careful parking on the street but it seems like the drivers are more mindful if you are getting out and getting back in.

    Adrian L.

    I got 2 maple bars, 2 chocolate bars, and 2 glazed donuts. The bars are soooo good!!! They have a slight crunch that makes them really good!! I loved the maple donut bar here. The service was good too. The parking here is a hassle, I parked at the 7- Eleven for a few minutes just to get my donuts. 5 STARSSSSS:)

    South Swell Donuts - Excellent service and delicious donuts from Jackie!
    Wendy L.

    Pho and donuts? Sure, why not! Two of some of my favorite things can be found at South Swell Donuts: Pho and donuts! And it is especially comforting on a rainy day for someone visiting from out of town like myself. It was a rainy afternoon when I turned to my trusty Yelp app to look for a pho spot in the area. Surprisingly, South Swell Donuts popped up on my feed and I began perusing this shop's Yelp photos and reviews. I was sold after reading a few reviews and I knew I had to try it out. South Swell Donuts is located in Laguna Beach on PCH between 2nd and 3rd. There is limited street parking in front of the shop, as well as up the hill from the corner of the street. After snagging a parking spot, I walked in with my mom and we were welcomed with a friendly, "Hello, sweetheart!" This friendly owner was Jackie and she was the sweetest lady! We asked about their pho but, with our luck and Mother Nature, Jackie told us they had sold out of pho earlier in the day due to popular demand and the rainy weather. No worries at all because we were able to take back some donuts. Jackie recommended we try their Cronut, which we got 2, as well as some twists and Apple fritter. We also picked up some milk to drink with our donuts. For a family donut shop, their twisted donuts are on the smaller size; however, they tasted unbelievably delicious! There is something about them that tastes a lot milkier or creamier with a fluffier batter. It is definitely not like the hollow raised donuts with just sugar -- South Swell Donuts are a step above mom-and-pop donut shop donuts. Their Cronut is definitely a MUST here! It is so dense, crispy yet fluffy and overall just good! Their donuts are not overly sweet like Krispy Kreme but they have that same melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Their donuts are not complex in flavor like Side Car Donuts but are classic in their flavors. I was really pleased with their donuts and I definitely will stop by again the next time I'm in the area! Jackie's customer service is enough to make you return for another visit and, hopefully, next time I'll be able to grab a bowl of their pho (rain or shine)!

    Donut selection
    Jen T.

    Was super craving pho and excited to find a local donut shop with such a divergent menu. Sad to learn the pho was not available for the near future as the owner was recently hit by a car . But even thru the injuries she sustained, their donuts keep on coming.. fresh every day. Please come and continue to support this shop. BTW, the maple old fashioned was ! Will have to try the apple fritter, cronut, and steamed buns next time.

    bbq pork banh mi
    Regina G.

    Best shop ever. There's just no question. Service: amazing Food: amazing It's like going to your aunties house and being fed. Pull up here to get some quality food by the coolest lady.

    Chocolate twist donut
    Taylor M.

    We're South Laguna residents and South Swell is such a special fixture in our neighborhood. The smell of donuts being freshly baked each morning amidst the crisp ocean breeze... we're so lucky to have this locally-owned spot down the street. Jackie makes everything fresh each morning - the donuts are classic & nostalgic. If you're in town and looking to live like a local - a morning stop at South Swell is it.

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    9 months ago

    First try-While she is very nice, the donuts are quite average. I got up at 6am to buy donuts-they did not taste fresh.

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    3 months ago

    The friendliest, most gracious Staff! And the best food! The ham cheese croissant warmed is absolutely amazing

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    2 years ago

    Donuts were pretty good. Pricey for what they are but what do you expect at this location. Great location for a walk & donuts.

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    3 years ago

    A must stop in S Laguna, Jackie's doughnuts are legendary in OC. She also does PhO & Breakfast burrito. No better way to start your day!

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    Page 1 of 4

    Ask the Community - South Swell Donuts

    Do they make vegan donuts?

    Yes they are vegan friendly--just ask to make sure that particular donut is dairy free but i recall a lot being vegan friendly!

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    Jedidiah Coffee

    Jedidiah Coffee

    4.5
    (210 reviews)
    3.9 mi
    $$

    Needed me a fix , arrived and was already feeling the vibes with the music and the ascetic. I…read moredidn't know what to get but once I was directed to the specialty lattes I ordered the Golden Tropic. Meanwhile waiting , got myself familiar with the place and caught the vibe by the window. This is something expected especially by the beach. I got my drink and nice enough to allow me to help myself to sprinkle some cinnamon on my drink. Super cool. Make me feel like I added my own twist to the drink. Who doesn't like to feel engaged. The drink was good. Drink was smooth especially with the coconut and it paired well not to over powering not to sweet. It' was a good choice. I always ask for specialty lattes because it gives me a better insight on what they're about. Come by ! I recommend it.

    Finally got to try Jedidiah yesterday (5/10) while I was in the area. It was a bit busy because of…read moreMother's Day, but still manageable. The shop has a very homey, family-friendly feel and the decor/aesthetic was really cute. The staff looked busy and overwhelmed but they did well. The location is also a huge plus since it's right across from the beach. Unfortunately, the matcha was a miss for me since it lacked flavor. I had read similar reviews before but still wanted to give it a try myself. I'd still be open to trying their coffee next time, though it seems more suited for people who enjoy lighter coffee or matcha flavors. If you prefer rich and bold flavors, this spot might not hit the mark for you. Hopefully they'll look into using a higher quality matcha in the future because the shop itself has a lot of potential and such a nice vibe.

    Photos
    Gluten Free banana walnut muffin
    Gluten Free banana walnut muffin
    9/4/24 Refreshing iced oat milk latte
    9/4/24 Refreshing iced oat milk latte
    Mint latte, meh. Wish they used fresh mint.

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    Mint latte, meh. Wish they used fresh mint.
    Le Macaron French Pastries

    Le Macaron French Pastries

    4.4
    (206 reviews)
    3.6 mi
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Grab-and-go

    First of all, you really can't beat this location! Right across from main beach, it's a perfect…read morespot to grab a treat before or after going to the beach. The interior is adorable as well! I loved all the little macaron themed decor and accents; it really gives this place a fun vibe. Service here was wonderful as well! I was pretty overwhelmed with all the options, so they were very patient and took the time to go over all their items with me. Now let's get to the DESSERTS. The macarons were a hit and came in so many different flavors it was hard to choose! They are also gluten free, which was a huge bonus. My favorite was the lavender white chocolate. They also had a variety of chocolates with different fillings that were an absolute delight. The raspberry macaron cake was also a hit! The fresh raspberries and creamy filling were so yummy. They also had ice cream and drinks that I will have to come back to try! They have a little something for everyone, so definitely check them out the next time you need a sweet treat in Laguna Beach!

    We popped in over the weekend just to see if they had any new flavors. One of my favorite was the…read morestrawberry Keylime and the raspberry, but I also love their tiramisu. Macarons They have some other treats there as well, ice, creams, etc., and chocolates. But I absolutely love coming here for the French Macarons.

    Photos
    Pistachio Ice cream Macaron sandwich. Yummy !!!!
    Pistachio Ice cream Macaron sandwich. Yummy !!!!
    Le Macaron French Pastries
    Le Macaron French Pastries

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    Laguna Coffee Company

    Laguna Coffee Company

    4.1
    (556 reviews)
    2.9 mi
    $

    If you're in Laguna Beach and love great coffee, Laguna Coffee Company is an absolute must-visit…read more This charming spot serves some of the best coffee in the area--rich, smooth, and perfectly brewed every time. It's the kind of coffee that makes you want to slow down, sit back, and truly enjoy the moment. Their bakery is always incredibly fresh, and every pastry tastes like it just came out of the oven. From flaky croissants to delicious baked treats, everything is made with care and high-quality ingredients. And the food? Simply out of this world. Every dish is flavorful, satisfying, and beautifully prepared. The ambience perfectly captures the relaxed spirit of Laguna Beach. It's warm, welcoming, and the perfect place to start your morning or take a peaceful break during the day. What makes the experience even better is the crew--they are always polite, friendly, and genuinely kind, making every visit feel special. Great coffee, amazing food, fresh bakery, and wonderful people--Laguna Coffee Company truly stands out as one of the best spots in Laguna Beach.

    Went here the other day for breakfast and really enjoyed it. The food was delicious, and you could…read moretell the ingredients were high quality. They even had fresh bread being delivered while I was there. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the place was clean and well-kept. There was also a nice view of the ocean from the windows, which added to the experience. The only downside is that it's a bit pricey in my opinion. I paid around $30 for my meal, but I still think it was worth it because you can definitely taste the quality of the ingredients. I would come back again, though next time I might try some of the less expensive menu items.

    Photos
    Morning bun was delish.
    Morning bun was delish.
    Churros, Egg porch Bagel and Mexican Latte
    Churros, Egg porch Bagel and Mexican Latte
    Coffee

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    Coffee

    South Swell Donuts - bakeries - Updated July 2026

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