Experience Orange County, California's Beautiful Beaches

Known internationally as the birthplace of Disneyland (and more recently as the home base for a group of affluent housewives on Bravo TV's Real Housewives of Orange County), Orange County also boasts some of Southern California's most spectacular beaches. Laguna Beach, with its seven miles of soft sand and romantic coves, is a perfect example.

Located steps away from the Pacific Coast Highway near Newport Beach, Crystal Cove State Park has something for everyone.  A 1,140-acre underwater park attracts snorkelers and scuba divers, and 18 miles of trails offer hiking, biking and horse-riding opportunities. Historic beach houses are also part of the attraction to this state park.

Popular with swimmers because of its calm waters, Corona del Mar State Beach is a perfect spot for a romantic picnic or family outing. The half-mile long sandy beach is framed by cliffs and a rock jetty that forms the east entrance to Newport Harbor. 

The waters off Orange County are a surfer’s paradise. Even if you don’t personally ride the waves, it’s fun to watch others in action.

The historic lifeguard tower in Laguna Beach is one of the town's most popular tourist attractions. . .as is the team of lifeguards in their red bathing suits.

The affluent community of Newport Beach combines urban chic with the atmosphere of a premier oceanside retreat.  When not relaxing on the soft sand, boogie-boarding or surfing the waves, visitors can enjoy world-class shopping, yachting and a uniquely Southern Californian sophistication.

No matter what time of the year you visit Orange County beaches, they are never overly-crowded. Get up close and personal with nature on these pristine beaches.

Historic piers line the California coastline, adding to the ambiance of its beaches. Huntington Beach, known for its trendy surf culture, also boasts one of the largest pleasure piers in the world and 8.5 miles of golden sand beaches.

In addition to sunbathing on the golden sands, visitors can participate in water sports such as kayaking, boogie-boarding, surfing, sail surfing, and paddle boarding.

The Orange County beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway are quite spectacular. They can be viewed from the comfort of your seat on the Amtrak "Surfliner" train, which follows the coast from San Diego to San Luis Obispo.

Strolling along an Orange County beach at sunset is the perfect way to end your day, and begin your evening.