Best Beaches in OC

Once you’re on the beach sand, it’s no surprise that dogs and their owners love Huntington. Known as “Surf City USA” Huntington Beach is a popular spot among tourists and locals alike. Big crowds can often be found on the pier with local artisan markets, tons of restaurants and other large events like the annual US Open of Surfing. Ideal for animal lovers, the 1.5-mile stretch on Pacific Coast Highway between Goldenwest and Seapoint streets is designated for dogs with an off-leash optional policy.

www.huntingtonbeachca.gov | Huntington Beach

(Photo Courtesy of Huntington Dog Beach)

With four family-friendly beaches in total, it’s not hard to see why Crystal Cove is on our list. Moro Beach is the place to be for stand-up paddle boarders and kayakers plus campers looking for incredible ocean views. Meanwhile, body surfers head to Reef Point. The Historic District features 46 vintage cottages while Pelican Point has bluff-top parking with beach access points and restroom facilities with outdoor showers.

crystalcovestatepark.org | Newport Beach/Laguna Beach

(Photo Courtesy of Crystal Cove)

For those wishing to spend some time in the waves, San Clemente State Beach is a hotspot for surfing. The mile-long beach stretches between the ocean surf and the foot of a steep bluff. In addition to surfing, activities you can partake in include swimming, picnicking, fishing, hiking and skin diving. Campsites are available for RV as well as tent camping. Eight people max are allowed per campsite. The campground provides water, electrical and sewage hookups. The tent area provides fire pits, tables, shade and water.

parks.ca.gov | San Clemente

(Photo Courtesy of Skye Gallagher)

Calm waters can be found at this Corona Del Mar beach for some tame beach explorations at the tide pools to discover sea creatures. Visit during low tide to discover small ocean critters and plant life. Maybe you’ll find a starfish or two! For more adventurous kids there are also plenty of rocks to climb. The surrounding scattered rocks make Little Corona the perfect beach for snorkeling too.

www.visitlagunabeach.com| Laguna Beach

(Photo Courtesy of Big Philip:Flickr)

Better known as Baby Beach, Dana Point is perfect for little swimmers or first-time bodyboarders, kayakers, or paddleboarders because of its gentle waters. Bring the whole family and set up at one of the public BBQs or grassy areas for a picnic. Then take a short walk toward the end of the harbor to enjoy the view on the pier. Plus kids can get further marine education if you stop by the neighboring Ocean Institute.

visitdanapoint.com | Dana Point

(Photo Courtesy of Skye Gallagher)

Calm waters can be found at this Corona Del Mar beach for some tame beach explorations at the tide pools to discover sea creatures. Visit during low tide to discover small ocean critters and plant life. Maybe you’ll find a starfish or two! For more adventurous kids there are also plenty of rocks to climb. The surrounding scattered rocks make Little Corona the perfect beach for snorkeling too.

www.visitnewportbeach.com | Corona Del Mar

(Photo Courtesy of Irvine Ranch)

Newport Dunes is one of OC’s favorite marinas for little ones. There are little to no waves which is perfect for paddleboard or kayak rentals. Newport Dunes Inflatable Water Playground offers endless fun for kids in the summer. The water wonderland includes giant inflatable slides, a climbable iceberg, a jungle gym, a floating trampoline and more. Other seasonal activities include free movies on the beach playing every weekend until labor day. Plus check out a very cool family-fun prize in Newport Dunes which Parenting OC offers a lucky participant of our annual Reader’s Choice Awards.

www.newportdunes.com | Newport Beach

(Photo Courtesy of Newport Dunes)

Although quieter than the neighboring Seal Beach and Huntington, Bolsa Chica is a great beach to hold a family outing or simply watch the sunset. Year-round RV camping is available by reservation and over 200 bonfire pits are available to beachgoers first come, first served. Also located at the waterfront is the SeaLegs at the Beach which has live music, tasty food and drinks. Across the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve and wetlands which has miles of trails with plenty of wildlife like rabbits and ruddy ducks to admire.

https://www.parks.ca.gov | Bolsa Chica

(Photo Courtesy of Terry Fletcher)