From the book βWelcome to the Villageβ. Short cards you can read in a minute.
Laguna Woods Village (LWV), in south Orange County, is the largest 55-and-over community in the western United States. More than 18,500 people live in 12,736 homes, with golf courses, pools, seven clubhouses, more than 250 clubs and 24-hour security - a small city of its own. It began in 1964 as Leisure World and took its current name in 2005.
In a co-op you buy shares in the housing cooperative, and purchases are cash only. A condo is deeded in your own name, and a mortgage is possible. The Towers offer hotel-style living with meals, housekeeping and concierge, for residents 62 and older. Before you look at homes, the first step is deciding which of these three fits you.
CH1 has a large fitness center and billiards; CH2, next to the golf course, has lawn bowling and a ballroom; CH3 is the 814-seat Performing Arts Center; CH4 is for crafts such as ceramics, woodworking and sewing; CH5 has the Village's largest lounge and a dance floor; CH6 has cozy small meeting rooms; and CH7 has a 130-person multipurpose hall (home of the American Contract Bridge League unit). Clubhouse reservations: 949-597-4227.
On the 27-hole championship course, 18 holes cost $17 and 9 holes $9; the 9-hole par-3 course costs $8. Power carts are $15 for 18 holes and $8 for 9, pull carts $1, and club rental $25. The driving range is $3/$5/$7 for a small/medium/large bucket. The dress code requires collared shirts and soft-spike golf shoes; jeans and shorts more than 6 inches above the knee are not allowed. Golf pro shop: 949-597-4336.
Every spring Laguna Woods Village holds its signature community sports event, the Village Games, for about three weeks. In 2026 it runs April 6-30, with dozens of events by age group and level - golf, tennis, pickleball, bowling, swimming, table tennis, billiards, shuffleboard, bridge and more. You can join as a spectator, volunteer or cheering section even if you do not compete, and most entry and viewing is free. It is a great way to make new friends and feel the community spirit, so check the dates early each spring.
Fees, rules and phone numbers can change. Check with the Village or your Mutual before you act.
