Business Spotlight: The Abbey

The Abbey in South Laguna Beach has new owners and a new vibe.

Troy and Lisa DuAmarell are the new owners of The Abbey at 31632 South Coast Hwy. Both are longtime residents of Laguna Beach, and longtime customers of the previous local liquor store in South Laguna. In fact, Troy is the 2018 Brooks St. Surf Contest Men's Longboard Division winner, which makes the DuAmarell couple known in many circles in the area. The Abbey has stayed true to its roots as a liquor store with an abundance of inventory being added to the beach and surf theme, always with the spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. Blair Conklin, Laguna Beach raised World Champion Skimboarder signed and gifted one of his own skimboards to the new business.

Lisa would jokingly ask the owner, Harry Yang, if he would sell her the business, answering no each time. Surprisingly the last time she asked he said YES! The dream of being local business owners came true for the couple on July 1, 2018. The past owner and his wife, Mimi, retired and moved back to Korea to live. Before going he shared his success of being a small business owner for over 25 years with the couple.

The new Abbey has been rearranged, restocked, and reimagined with a lot of hard work. They stock an abundance of wines and offer a seating section with a TV.  Plans in the future include expanding the wine section with enough seating to accommodate tastings. Stocked with snacks, drinks, beach gear which includes flip-flops, towels, umbrellas, toys, fishing equipment, straw mats, and chairs. Surfers and Skimmers are able to buy supplies for their boards, not to mention some pretty cool socks by Merge4. Ice cream treats and light chilled food are also available. A larger grab and go food selection will soon be available. With a new, relaxing and up to date vibe the store is a whole family destination.

Next summer will bring more changes to The Abbey with surf, skim and paddleboard lessons from Troy and other local professional surfers. Rentals will be available for paddle boards, surfboards, skimboards, dive equipment, boogie boards, and fins.

Doordash and Postmates both will deliver to your door right from The Abbey. Users will go to either website to sign up and view The Abbey's inventory to order from. Troy and Lisa care about their local and visiting customers and want to offer what is needed to best serve them. The DuAmarells spend their free time surfing at Brooks St. beach or eating at neighborhood restaurants, Coyote Grill or Papas Tacos. Follow The Abbey on Instagram @theabbey_lagunabeach. A website is in the process and will be available soon.

Marlo Jackson is a freelance writer based in Laguna Beach. She loves to write about interesting people and places of business.