Newport Beach
Newport Beach, CA
Distance: ~ 18.5 miles (~ 28-minute drive)
Known for its shoreline and seafood restaurants, Newport Beach is more than just sand and surf. This coastal city in South Orange County, California, is a vibrant playground of attractions and activities.
Balboa Island
Balboa Island, CA
Distance: 18.9 miles (~ 32-minute drive)
This charming man-made island has been around for over a century and is filled with cozy homes and mouth-watering eateries. Here, you can enjoy a scenic walk along the waterfront, explore the adjacent Collins Island, check out the small Balboa Island Museum, or rent a bike to explore the peaceful streets. When it's time for lunch, head over to Marine Avenue, where you'll find family-owned taverns, Swiss bistros, and classic diners. Make sure to stop by the taffy store for some sweet treats, too. Visit during the holiday season to see homeowners decorate their homes in sparkling festive lights. If you're keen on dolphins and whale-watching, many boat tours depart from Balboa Island.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach, CA
Distance: ~ 23.7 miles (~ 33-minute drive)
Laguna Beach has a spectacular clifftop setting above some of the finest beaches in California. Outdoor enthusiasts can snorkel, scuba dive, body-surf, or hike the trails in nearby Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. A center for artists, there are several special events and festivals, such as the Sawdust Art Festival, Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Masters, Art-A-Fair, and Plein Air Painting Invitational.
Dana Point
Laguna Beach, CA
Distance: ~ 32.8 miles (~38-minute drive)
Dana Point is more than a destination. It's a feeling. Nestled between dramatic coastal bluffs and the sparkling Pacific, this seaside town invites you to breathe deeper, explore slower, and reconnect with what matters most. Whether you're savoring ocean-to-table cuisine, setting sail at golden hour, or discovering hidden coves and tide pools, every experience here feels personal, vibrant, and full of heart.
San Clemente
San Clemente, CA
Distance: ~ 35.2 miles (~38-minute drive)
Escape to San Clemente for ocean-centric fun and charming Spanish Colonial architecture. San Clemente offers world-class beaches, a stunning ocean view hiking trail, excellent dining, and boutique shopping are just part of what makes this Orange County beach city a hidden gem. San Clemente quietly impresses visitors with a rich history of surfing culture, unlimited sunshine, and charming small-town vibe.
San Juan Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano, CA
Distance: ~ 28.2 miles (~32 miles drive)
San Juan Capistrano is an easy day trip from Orange County by Amtrak train or freeway. Tours of the Mission buildings and gardens include the ruins of the 1797 Great Stone Church, a destination for the legendary swallows of Capistrano. The Los Rios Historic District has buildings open to the public, such as the 1881 Ramos House Café and the1794 Montanez Adobe. Zoomars Petting Zoo is a kid-friendly attraction in the district adjacent to the train depot. The attractive town center has interesting galleries, antique stores, shops, and restaurants.
Huntington Beach Pier
Huntington Beach, CA Main St., Huntington Beach, CA 92648-5161
Distance: ~ 14.7 miles (~ 31-minute drive)
The surfing capital of California! There is a great pier and a shopping center opposite with some great food options.
Heisler Park
Laguna Beach, CA 375 Cliff Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651-1623
Distance: ~ 24.0 miles (~ 32-minute drive)
The park is very pleasant, with beautiful sea views seen from flower-lined walkways. It's the main attraction in Laguna Beach and one of the favorite places in Orange County & SoCal!
Crystal Cove State Park
Laguna Beach, CA 8471 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Distance: ~ 23.9 miles (~ 32-minute drive)
Crystal Cove State Park is one of Orange County’s largest remaining examples of open space and natural seashore. It features 3.2 miles of beach, 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, and an offshore underwater area.
Treasure Island Beach
Laguna Beach, CA Wesley Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651-4220
Distance: ~ 26.4 miles (~ 35-minute drive)
Great views of the turquoise water and walkways with beautiful landscapes. Nice sandy beach with many tide pools. The weather is always sunny and warm. Laguna Beach’s best-kept secrets.
Salt Creek Beach
Dana Point, CA 33333 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92629
Distance: ~ 34.2 miles (~ 40-minute drive)
A stunning beach spot with a large grass area for a picnic event overlooking the beach, then a cool walkway going down to the beach itself. Very picturesque with cliffs near the sides. They have refreshment places up top as well.
Corona Del Mar State Beach
Corona Del Mar, CA 3001 Ocean Blvd, Corona del Mar, Newport Beach, CA 92625
Distance: ~ 19.3 miles (~ 28-minute drive)
Corona del Mar State Beach is a popular place for swimmers. The half-mile-long sandy beach is framed by cliffs and a rock jetty that forms the east entrance to Newport Harbor. The beach is also popular with surfers and divers.
Laguna Beach Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA 105 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Distance: ~ 23.7 miles (~ 30-minute drive)
Main Beach in Laguna Beach is perfect for a relaxing day at the sea. The beach is clean, the surrounding area is very well maintained, and there are restaurants and cafes right nearby. Ideal for walking, sunbathing, or just enjoying the view. A beautiful mixture of nature and a cozy coastal atmosphere.
Doheny State Beach
Dana Point, CA 25300 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
Distance: ~ 32.4 miles (~ 38-minute drive)
This is a fun state beach with rental bikes, snack bar with hot food and bar, plus picnic tables and BBQs. It’s fun to surf, fish, and play in the sand.
