01
Best overall pick
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach Coast • Classic Surf City Beach • Best Overall Beach Day
A long, lively stretch of sand with steady surf, a bustling pier, and plenty of amenities for an all-day outing.
If you want the full Southern California beach experience in one place, Huntington is the sure bet. Wide sandy expanses make it easy to spread out, whether you are setting up near the pier or farther south by the fire pits. Nearby shops, casual restaurants, and beach rentals mean you can park once and settle in for the day.
02
Most scenic coastline
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach Coves • Scenic Cove-Lined Coastline • Best Coastal Scenery
A string of sheltered coves and rocky points that feel more like a small Mediterranean coast than a single city beach.
Laguna Beach is where Beaumont locals go when they want dramatic bluffs, tide pools, and postcard views. Smaller coves like Shaw's Cove and Treasure Island feel intimate, with clearer water and great spots for tide pooling at low tide. Expect a bit more effort with parking and stairs, rewarded by some of the prettiest shoreline in Orange County.
03
Best for a lively scene
Newport Beach
Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach • Lively Harborfront City Beach • Best For People-Watching
A busy, energetic beach backed by boardwalk-style paths, volleyball courts, and easy access to food and harbor attractions.
Newport Beach pairs a broad, soft-sand shoreline with a walkable strip of rentals, snack spots, and classic piers at either end. The Balboa Peninsula is ideal if you want to mix beach time with bike rides, harbor cruises, or a spin on the Balboa Fun Zone ferris wheel. It is a great choice for groups who like plenty of activity options beyond the sand.
04
Best for families
Doheny State Beach
Dana Point • Laid-Back Family State Beach • Best For Young Families
A mellow stretch with gentle waves, grassy picnic areas, and a low-key campground right on the sand.
Doheny State Beach is a favorite first-ocean stop for Beaumont families thanks to its relatively calm water and easy layout. The mix of sand, shady lawn, and nearby restrooms makes it simple to spend a half or full day with kids in tow. On the south end, the small waves are popular with beginner surfers and paddleboarders looking for forgiving conditions.
05
Best for quiet walks
Bolsa Chica State Beach
North Of Huntington Beach • Wildlife-Adjacent Sandy Preserve • Best For Long Walks And Birding
A wide, relatively relaxed beach backed by dunes and close to a wetlands reserve, ideal for low-key days and evening bonfires.
Bolsa Chica feels a little quieter and more natural than the main drag in Huntington, which appeals to Beaumont visitors looking to unwind. You can pair beach time with a stroll or birdwatching session at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve just across the highway. Long, straight shoreline and bike paths make it perfect for sunset walks before settling around a fire ring.