01
Closest full-service beach
Oceanside City Beach
Oceanside Shoreline By The Pier • Lively Pier-Front City Beach • Closest Full-Service Ocean Beach To Murrieta
A broad, energetic stretch of sand anchored by the Oceanside Pier and backed by plenty of food, drinks, and people-watching.
For many Murrieta locals, this is the go-to first stop when the temperature spikes at home. You get wide sand, volleyball courts, and easy access to the pier for sunset walks and fish-and-chips. Go early on summer weekends for the best parking and bring a light layer—coastal evenings can cool off fast.
02
Best for a laid-back day trip
Carlsbad State Beach
Carlsbad Village Coastline • Relaxed Bluff-Backed Beach • Great For Low-Key Beach Days
A scenic, slightly quieter alternative with tan bluffs, good swimming, and an easy stroll to Carlsbad Village.
Carlsbad State Beach trades the pier scene for a more relaxed, small-town coastal feel. Park along the bluff, walk down to the sand, and spend the day rotating between the water and the picnic area above. Afterward, head into the village for coffee, tacos, or an ice cream before driving back inland.
03
Best classic surf spot
San Onofre State Beach – Old Man's
San Onofre State Beach, South Of San Clemente • Retro Surf Break With Rustic Vibe • Best For Classic Longboard Waves
A mellow, cobblestone surf break with a throwback feel, beach parking right by the sand, and a loyal local crowd.
If your beach day includes a board, Old Man's at San Onofre is worth the slightly longer drive from Murrieta. The waves are typically gentle and rolling, great for longboards and improving surfers, with a friendly lineup that spans generations. Expect simple facilities, bring shade if you want it, and plan to linger—this is a place where time slides by slowly.
04
Best coastal campground
San Clemente State Beach
South San Clemente Bluffs • Bluff-Top State Park Beach • Best For Beach Camping Weekends
A classic state park with bluff-top campsites, a wide sandy beach below, and easy access to San Clemente’s charming town.
San Clemente State Beach is the spot when you want more than a quick dip and prefer to make a full weekend of it. Campsites perch above the ocean, with trails leading down to the sand for surfing, swimming, or long walks along the shoreline. Even as a day trip, the park feels a bit more removed and wild than the pier areas to the north and south.
05
Family favorite with harbor access
Doheny State Beach
Dana Point Near The Harbor • Gentle, Family-Friendly Beach • Best For Kids And Calm Water
A mellow, protected stretch of coast with grassy picnic areas, gentle waves, and easy walks to Dana Point Harbor.
Doheny is a smart choice if you’re bringing kids or mixed-ability swimmers from Murrieta. The water is usually calmer here, with plenty of shallow areas, lifeguards, and room to spread out between the sand and lawn. When everyone needs a break from the sun, you can duck over to the harbor for snacks, ice cream, or a quick look at the boats.