Hi- My boyfriend and I are looking to spend a couple of days in Laguna Beach. Any hotel recommendations? Something moderately priced. Also, was thinking of going to Catalina for a day? Is this close? Any recommendations? (hotel/restaurant?)
Thanks for your suggestions!!

In Laguna, don't miss Las Brisas - the table outside are worth the wait, and if I recall there was a different menu for the restaurant vs. the bar area (I preferred the bar area).

http://www.eltorito.com/lasbrisas/

I like the Hotel Laguna right in main beach. Check out their website
www.hotellaguna.com
Also go to-
www.lagunabeach.com
to find out how to save a few extra dollars on hotel there.

Another place just north of main beach I like is By The Sea Inn. Both these palces ar moderately priced but the Hotel Laguna has more amenities.
Yes Catalina Island ferries are available at several nearby locations to Laguna Beach. You can drive (20 minutes) south on the PCH and take the ferry from Dana Point or you can drive north on the PCH (30 minutes) and take the ferry from Newport Beach. I have taken the Newport Beach ferry and very much enjoyed the ride to Catalina Island. One of my fondest memories for sure.
Try-
www.catalinaflyer.com for ferry schedules and more details.
Hope this helps.
Annika

Go snorkling at Catalina - you can rent the gear right at the pier when you get there. www.catalina.com

Was in Laguna on July 10th, if I had it to do over, I would stay at the Best Western on the South end of town. There are actually 2 of them, and either one would be fine with me. One is right across the street from the Montage resort which is on the prettiest beach in Laguna. The beach is a public beach called Treasure something? Don't remember the exact name....
I am not into the tourist hustle and bustle, so being on that South end of Laguna kind of away from most of the people would be my choice. I don't know for how long, but while we were there the Trolly bus ran for free, all up and down the main road along the beaches. I think it is for the Pagent of the Masters? No need to drive your car around there ~ can be difficult to find a parking space. Also, that Southest Best Western is right next door to Albertson Grocery store making it doubly convenient...prettiest beach, and grocery -short walk to both.
Also spent 2 nights on Catalina Island...
My advice is a day trip would be fine.
Go early - stay late.

I only know the real high-end places and I'm not sure they're worth it. But restaurants...If you like fish, check out Cafe Zooloo in Laguna. The decor is sort of beach-surf and it's tiny, the portions are giant and it's all fantastic. Kind of off the beaten path, but definitely a favorite. The patio bar at Hush (Laguna) is fun; when it first opened, I used to see Rodman there a lot.