01
Best overall day trip
Newport Municipal Beach
Newport Peninsula • Classic Socal Surf-And-Sand Strip • Best All-Around Pick
A big, lively stretch of sand with plenty of room to spread out and an easy mix of pier, shops, and classic beach-town energy.
From Home Gardens, Newport is one of the most reliable choices when you want a full-package beach day without overthinking it. Park near the Newport or Balboa Pier, then wander between the sand, the paved boardwalk, and casual spots for tacos or an ice cream break. It can get busy on summer weekends, but the wide beach absorbs crowds better than many smaller coves.
02
Surf-town classic
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach Pier District • Lively Surf Town Beach • Best For Surf Vibe
Pier views, constant surf action, and a busy promenade make this an easy pick when you want that ‘Surf City’ atmosphere.
Huntington City Beach is where Orange County’s surf culture is on full display, from dawn patrol sessions to sunset pier walks. The sand is broad and well-kept, with volleyball courts and plenty of space for groups, while the streets just inland are lined with cafés, bars, and gear shops. Expect more of a scene here, especially around the pier, which is part of the fun if you like a high-energy beach day.
03
Laid-back family pick
Corona del Mar State Beach
Corona Del Mar • Sheltered Family-Friendly Cove • Best For Mixed-Age Groups
A protected, horseshoe-shaped beach that feels calmer than the big surf spots and works well for families and casual swimmers.
Tucked below seaside bluffs, Corona del Mar State Beach has softer waves, a defined cove, and plenty of lifeguard coverage, which makes it comfortable for younger kids and less confident ocean swimmers. There’s a paved path along the sand, easy access to restrooms, and good visibility across the whole beach so it’s easier to keep an eye on your group. Go earlier in the day for better parking and cooler air before the afternoon sun really kicks in.
04
Scenic coastal stroll
Main Beach, Laguna Beach
Downtown Laguna Beach • Scenic, Walkable Beach With Coves • Great For Scenery And Strolling
A picturesque central beach backed by a park, art galleries, and coastal walkways that make it ideal for wandering as much as swimming.
Main Beach puts you right in the heart of Laguna’s coastal charm: palm-dotted lawns, a small boardwalk, and easy access to shops and cafés across Pacific Coast Highway. The sand itself is narrower than at Newport or Huntington, but the setting—rock formations, nearby coves, and the backdrop of town—makes it a standout for photos and relaxed walks. It’s a good choice when you want equal parts beach time and browsing the art-and-boutique streets just steps away.
05
Best for bonfires and sunsets
Bolsa Chica State Beach
North Huntington Beach • Wide, Less-Developed State Beach • Great For Relaxed Hangouts
A long, open stretch of sand with fire rings and fewer built-up distractions, perfect for unhurried afternoons that roll into sunset.
Compared with the pier areas, Bolsa Chica feels quieter and more laid back, with the focus on sand, surf, and sky rather than shops and bars. It’s popular with locals for its fire pits, so it’s a smart pick if you’re planning a cookout or want to linger into the evening. The parking lot runs parallel to the beach, making it easier to haul coolers, chairs, and shade gear from the car.