01
Closest sandy option
Yucaipa Regional Park Swim Beach
Yucaipa, North Of I-10 • Spring-Fed Swim Lake With Sandy Shoreline • Fastest True Beach Day From Cherry Valley
A small but well-kept swim lake with a sandy beach, picnic lawns, and mountain views just a short drive from Cherry Valley.
When you want sand and water without committing to a long freeway run, this is the go-to spot. The guarded swim area, gentle slope, and proximity to restrooms make it easy with kids, and shady picnic tables mean you can make a full day of it. Arrive earlier on summer weekends to snag parking close to the beach area.
02
Best lake day
Moreno Beach at Lake Perris
Lake Perris State Recreation Area, South Of Moreno Valley • Wide Reservoir Beach With A Classic Lake Vibe • Best Balance Of Space, Views, And Amenities
A long, sandy shoreline on Lake Perris with plenty of room to spread out, warm water, and classic inland-lake beach atmosphere.
Moreno Beach feels like a traditional beach day, just with a backdrop of rocky hills instead of crashing surf. There is room for volleyball, sunbathing, and swimming, and the water often warms up earlier in the season than the ocean. Pack shade, as the shore is open and sunny, and expect a modest day-use fee at the park entrance.
03
Classic OC beach day
Newport Municipal Beach
Newport Beach Peninsula • Busy Oceanfront With Long, Flat Sand And A Pier • Best All-Around Ocean Choice
A big, lively stretch of sand with a pier, bike path, and plenty of food options, ideal for a full ocean day trip from Cherry Valley.
Newport’s main beach is the one locals pick when they want everything in one place: surfable waves, wide sand, lifeguards, and an easy walk to casual restaurants and ice cream. The paved path behind the sand is great for bikes and strollers if some of the group prefers a stroll to a swim. Parking can be tight near the pier, so budget time (and a bit of patience) to find a spot in the lots or side streets.
04
Best for active groups
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach Pier District • Energetic Surf Beach With Long Shoreline • Top Pick For Surfing, Volleyball, And Bonfires
A long, wavey stretch of coast with volleyball courts, surf breaks, and fire rings that suit groups who like to stay busy.
If your crew wants to pack in surfing, beach games, and a sunset bonfire, Huntington City Beach delivers. The pier area has a busy, somewhat surf-town feel, with rental shops and quick bites just across the highway. Look for the designated fire rings if you plan to stay into the evening, and bring layers—the breeze can feel cooler than it does back in Cherry Valley.
05
Best scenic escape
Main Beach, Laguna Beach
Downtown Laguna Beach • Scenic Cove-Style Beach By An Artsy Village • Most Picturesque Day Trip
A pretty, gently curving beach with tide pools and a boardwalk, backed by an artsy small-town center that’s fun to wander.
Main Beach trades some of the wide-open feel of other Orange County shores for views, tide pools, and a more walkable, village-like backdrop. The grassy park, boardwalk, and basketball courts just off the sand give plenty to do between dips in the ocean. Parking is scattered in small lots and metered street spaces, so it pays to arrive earlier and plan for a short walk through downtown.