I recommend Manhattan and Hermosa for beach volleyball lovers. Hermosa has Pier Avenue which is great for hanging out, sushi, and bar hopping. These three beaches are all connected by The Strand- a concrete path, perfect for a walk, jog, rollerblading or bike ride. Both the Newport Pier and Balboa Pier are great during the day and offer some interesting shopping in the near by areas. Laguna Beach is the furthest south of all of these and could almost be described as sleepy at times.
Fashion Island is near by and city of Laguna is nestled in the hills, right next to the beach.