01
Best overall pick
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach Waterfront • Classic Surf City Strand • Great All-Rounder For Groups
A long, lively stretch of sand with a pier, surf culture, and plenty of room to spread out.
For many Inland Empire residents, Huntington City Beach is the default ocean day trip: wide sand, reliable surf, and an easygoing vibe. The pier anchors the scene with casual food and classic views, while fire pits and volleyball courts keep things social into the evening. It is a smart choice when you have a mixed group and want something that feels iconic without being fussy.
02
Best for a boardwalk stroll
Newport Municipal Beach (Balboa Peninsula)
Balboa Peninsula • Busy Boardwalk Beach • Best For People-Watching And Bike Rides
A wide beach backed by a paved path, classic rentals, and a steady buzz of activity.
Newport’s main municipal beach runs along the Balboa Peninsula and pairs easily with a walk or bike ride on the oceanfront path. Expect a more urban beach feel here, with houses lining the sand, casual bars and taco spots, and plenty of rental stands for bikes and bodyboards. It works well if you want a lively atmosphere and easy access to food without moving your car all day.
03
Best family cove
Corona del Mar State Beach
Corona Del Mar Village • Sheltered Family-Friendly Cove • Best For Younger Kids And Relaxed Swims
A curved, protected beach with gentler waves and a mellow neighborhood feel.
Tucked below bluffs in an upscale neighborhood, Corona del Mar State Beach feels calmer than many bigger OC beaches. The cove shape helps soften the surf, so families with smaller kids often gravitate here, and the view of the harbor jetties adds interest without a lot of walking. Go early for easier parking, then plan a low-key day of sandcastle building and short swims.
04
Best coastal scenery
Crystal Cove State Park Beaches
Between Newport And Laguna • Scenic State Park Shoreline • Best For Long Walks And Tidepooling
Rugged bluffs, quieter stretches of sand, and a more natural feel than typical city beaches.
Crystal Cove State Park is where Inland Empire day-trippers go when they want the coast to feel a bit wilder. You trade a few more stairs and some walking from the parking lots for wide-open views, tidepools at low tide, and long, uncrowded strolls along the waterline. It is ideal if you care as much about scenery and space as you do about sunbathing.
05
Best town-and-beach combo
Main Beach, Laguna Beach
Downtown Laguna Beach • Artsy-Town Central Beach • Great For A Full Day Out
A central beach with a park, gentle waves, and easy access to galleries, cafes, and shops.
Main Beach puts you right at the heart of Laguna, with a grassy park, basketball and volleyball courts, and a sandy shoreline that works for casual swimming. When you need a break from the sun, the surrounding streets offer coffee, ice cream, and small galleries within a few minutes on foot. It is a strong pick if you want your beach day to feel like a full coastal outing rather than just time on the sand.