Top Beaches in Orange County

Summer has arrived here in California, which means sunny days ahead and perfect weather for the beach. Let’s be real…any day is good for the beach. We are fortunate to have some of the most beautiful beaches. The perfect beach awaits you whether you are a surfer, splasher, or sunbather.

Ready to hit the beach now? I have you covered!

Victoria Beach

Victoria Beach is a romantic getaway great for couples needing some alone time. Make your way down the long stairway down to the Victoria Tour. This medieval structure was built in 1926, which led the homeowners above straight down to the beach. Once at the beach, enjoy the gorgeous sunset that will make you feel like you are living a story from a Danielle Steel novel. Pack your favorite picnic basket with wine, cheese, and maybe some chocolate-covered strawberries to set the mood.

Dana Point Harbor Beach (aka Baby Beach)

If you have offspring that won't allow you to a private getaway with your honey, head to Dana Point Harbor Beach (aka Baby Beach). This family-friendly beach is in the protected waters of Dana Point Harbor. A small beach is roped off for families and has a lifeguard on hand. Behind the beach, you will find a grass park for picnicking and sunbathing. The kids will want to explore the Pilgrim, a replica of a historic ship. Surely, the kids are bound to fall asleep on the ride back home, giving you time to change the kid toons to something more age-appropriate.

 Newport Beach

One of my favorite beaches is Newport Beach. This cute beach has a pier perfect for a late-night stroll where you can admire fishermen hard at work fighting off hungry seals stealing their bate and fish. If you enjoy getting into the water, then, of course, you will want to go during the day. Parking is not terrible, and it is right off the beach. Your toes will touch the sand right out of the car. I might be exaggerating a little. The parking lot shares a cute little strip of stores and eateries. You can try anything from Mexican favorite antojitos to Boba drinks and ice cream. If you aren’t foody, you can also check out the bar right next door.  If you are saving your appetite for a hearty meal, you can find the Old Spaghetti Factory right across the street, and you can also park there for $10 to head over to the beach.  You do know how the sun and water build up a massive appetite.

Aliso Beach

Aliso Beach is also a great family-friendly beach. This beach features a tidepool exploration, but please don’t touch it! Aliso Beach also has sandcastle-building activities. Aside from convenient parking, if you ask me what a beach must-have is, the answer is… a snack bar! Which this beach has. A fully stocked concession stands with all your guilty pleasures. This is perfect if you don’t feel like toting snacks and bags around. You can do so much at the beach, such as sunbathing, surfing, boogie boarding, and paddle boarding, but you cannot fish or take any marine life home. I don’t feel like that’s asking much. It only makes sense to protect our environment, admire it from afar, and not disturb anything.

Huntington Beach

I also love fire pits. Seriously, anywhere there is a firepit, I am a happy girl. Huntington Beach offers fire pits and wood for sale so you and your guests can enjoy a beautiful fire by the beach. I mean, even just saying that gives me immediate tranquility. Picture yourself alone or with your preferred person or people sitting near a bonfire, admiring the sunset and ocean breeze. When I first moved out to California, this was one of my top 5 things to do immediately. Parking has been said to be expensive, so make sure you leave with enough time to park as close as possible in the cheapest and safest area. The beach also has a long pier with a lot of restaurants to choose from. You can check out Duke's Huntington Beach or Sandy’s Beach Shack, just to fill in your tummy before making that long day stroll. The last time I was there, we ate outside the restaurant overlooking the ocean, and I was lucky enough to see three dolphins. It was pretty memorable. If you haven't already, you need to check this place out; if you have, take your family and friends.

California is well known for many things, and the activities are endless, but nothing beats good old-fashioned fun on a sunny beach day. Free Vitamin D for your bones, good minerals in the water, and sand as a natural exfoliator. Your mind and body will be at peace from being so relaxed to thinking of the regular worries. Always be cautious and respectful; remember that we are so small compared to the world's natural wonders. Have good, safe fun, and make memories to last a lifetime.😊

Looking for more beach fun, be sure to check out Newport Beach...