Rivian South Coast Theater - Laguna Beach, California

Evelyn W.

On February 14, 2025, my friends and I visited the Rivian theater store in Laguna Beach to take some casual photos outside. It was my friend’s wedding day, and we were all dressed properly for the occasion. We were simply using our phones, not doing any professional photography, and we never even set foot inside. The dealership was completely empty—there were no customers, just the staff.

From the moment we arrived, the employees stared at us, whispered among themselves, and made us feel like we weren’t welcome. They never approached us, never asked if we needed help or to clarify any concerns. Instead, they stood there, watching us as if we were a problem. Their body language was unwelcoming and hostile, like they were ready to drive us away at any moment.

At first, I kept wondering if we did something wrong. Were we too many people? Were we disturbing something? But then I realized—we weren’t. We weren’t breaking any rules, and the space was empty. I don’t know if it was because we’re Asians or if there was some other reason, but the fact that they refused to engage with us and instead just watched and whispered made it hard not to think that our race played a role in how we were treated.

Rivian claims their spaces are open for everyone, but their employees’ behavior told us otherwise. Whether intentional or not, we were singled out, made to feel like outsiders, and treated differently—in a space that is supposedly inclusive.

Even if we weren’t immediate customers that day, we could have been in the future. But after this experience, I would never consider supporting Rivian. If a company allows this kind of behavior, they don’t deserve my business.

I will also be reporting this to Rivian directly, because no one should be treated this way.

David L.

Great space. Similar to other Rivian spaces but roomier and of course has a cool theater area and historical significance. Small gear shop and coffee shop attached as well. They make great lattes by the way. The gear shop is small, I think they could have made that bigger to display more. They had an R1T and R1S on display but it was no ordinary R1T. It was the winning EV from Rebelle Rally 2023! How cool is that? They also had several vehicles parked out front for test drives. One thing they could make a big improvement on is signage. If you didn’t know you wouldn’t know what this space is for and that you can test drive vehicles.

Hewe W.

Thank you Rivian for giving us the opportunity to explore the vehicles in this theater showroom. The showcases of customizable options that you can choose from are incredible. Every staff was great to speak to and made us feel welcome. Hope to see more Rivian in this space soon!

I L. F. C.

They don't serve any beverage (even water) or simple snacks inside the showroom. However there is a small coffee shop next to the theater. There are a few seating outside the coffee shop.

There is also a retail store next door selling their merchandise.

The Parking: Unbelievably difficult!! The theater is right across the street from the pier and with many restaurants and shops close by. They don't have their own private parking lot so it's so difficult to find parking.

Street metered parking $5.9 per hour. Public parking lot $5 per 30 minutes!!

Blake S.

What an incredible space to tell stories and discover! Recently visited during the grand opening, amazing staff, great films, and breathtaking history at the Classic Laguna South Coast Theater. The story of this place is something to cherish, and I am so happy to have been able to see this finished work.

Andrew P.

I was blown away by the space. What a fun & cool atmosphere to take the family. You can utilize it as a workspace too with open dedicated tables & conference room upstairs. Excited to check out their movie nights and unique events. Rivian did a great job with the retail space as well. Very welcoming with cool products.

Mary H.

Rivian has given Laguna an amazing new event space, restoring our beloved,but worn and decaying theater, new life! I encourage everyone to visit when you’re in the area.

Bree M.

We walked over to see the Grand Canyon documentary. The first ten minutes were beautiful, with majestic Drone footage, Dave Matthews music, and narration by Robert Reddord. However after that the promised environmental message was never really delivered and it seemed like an expensive home movie of some ultra wealthy guy's family vacation with a shameless cameo by RFK.
The movie screen is quite small by modern standards. There was terribly salty Neon yellow stale popcorn given for free. It gave both of us a stomach ache.

There are giant couches, a lovely ceiling emblem, and the barstools were metal and very uncomfortable.

Chatted with another local and it was a friendly atmosphere.

I would recommend more MULTICULTURAL movies, such as an Indian favorite of mine, The Lunchbox.