11 Best Beaches in Orange County, CA (From a Local)
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If you’ve started planning a trip to Southern California, you’ve probably noticed something pretty fast: there are way too many beaches to choose from. And while Los Angeles gets most of the attention, the actual best beaches — the ones with hidden coves, turquoise water, and dramatic cliffs, that hardly look like you’re in the U.S. — are largely in Orange County.
After living in Southern California for almost eight years, I’ve spent countless weekends beach-hopping through Laguna, Newport, San Clemente, and beyond. I’ve probably visited at least 30 different beaches across the county at this point — some amazing, some overrated, and some I almost don’t want to share.
If you’re a first-time California visitor (or you’ve been before but only hit the big tourist spots), and you want nature, hidden gems, and budget-friendly beaches without spending hours trying to figure out which ones are actually worth it… you’re in the right place.
Because in this guide, I’m breaking down the best beaches in Orange County, CA — based entirely on firsthand experience — including the beach I take every out-of-town guest to, and the easiest options if you’re staying in LA but want a true SoCal beach day.
1. Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach
Why I Love It
If you only have time to visit one beach during your time in Orange County, I’d make it this one. Laguna Beach is such a fun beach city to visit, because of its beautiful architecture and artsy vibe.
And of its roughly 60 coves and beaches, don’t get me wrong, they’re all stunning, but this is the one I’ve returned to again and again.
Treasure Island Beach is the first one I ever visited, back before I’d even moved to California, and it’s the one I always take people to when they come visit me.
Even though it’s one of the furthest away from where live, of all the best beaches in Orange County, Treasure Island is probably the one I return to most — that’s how gorgeous it is!
Just walking down to the beach is part of the experience – the landscaping is seriously amazing, so be prepared to take your time and take lots of photos!
Parking + getting here
This beach is tucked right behind Montage, a super luxurious resort, which has its own parking that’s actually pretty affordable. (There’s one small lot and a small garage — If you’re visiting on a summer weekend you may have to find street parking instead.)
What else to know
You’ll also find a public bathroom along the walkway, before you get down to the beach, as well as some places to rinse your feet off.
It’s a couple miles away from downtown Laguna, so plan to bring food with you or leave the beach when it’s time to eat.
2. Victoria Beach, Laguna Beach
Why I Love It
After years of only visiting Treasure Island Beach when I went to Laguna, I was finally determined to branch out a bit when I saw a photo of the pirate tower that’s here. This distinctive tower was built in the 1920s and although you can’t go inside, it still makes for some amazing photos.
As if this beach weren’t already gorgeous enough, you also get some amazing tide pools at low tide. Some stretches of the beach, especially around the tower, are pretty rocky, so water shoes aren’t a bad idea.
Parking + getting here
The one thing to keep in mind is that parking here is not pretty – every time I’ve come here, I’ve had to park in the neighborhood across the street from the beach, up in the hills, at least 20 minutes away, which isn’t the most pleasant walk in the heat, especially going back up.
What else to know
Just keep in mind that you won’t be able to reach the tower during high tide!
You’re also a little ways away from downtown Laguna where most restaurants are, so plan to bring food with you if you’ll be there for a while.
Check out this budget-friendly Laguna restaurant guide for your visit!
3. Crystal Cove State Park
Why I Love It
Wedged right between Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach, I finally made it to Crystal Cove State Park for the first time last summer and I finally know what all the fuss is about.
SoCal locals know and love it, but for tourists, I think it’s one of Orange County’s hidden gems.
This has become one of my favorite beaches since that first visit thanks to its gorgeous natural rock formations, wide open space, and cute historic charm. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly beach to spend the whole day at, this is it.
Apart from your typical beach activities, you’ll see a bunch of cottages dating back to the 1930s and ‘40s, which add an extra special touch.
Parking + getting here
There are a couple of paid parking lots across the street from the beach — apart from holidays (I’m still recovering from a traumatic attempt at parking here on the fourth of July this past summer), it’s usually no problem finding a spot.
From there, you can even take a 10-minute walk down to the beach, or take a shuttle.
What else to know
No visit here is complete without getting a shake and a burger from Shake Shack (not that Shake Shack), which also has an incredible view overlooking the ocean. There’s a tiny little parking lot you can stop in on your way to or from Crystal Cove, but you can also access Shake Shack directly through a little staircase leading up from the beach.
I’ve also heard amazing things about the Beachcomber, another restaurant that’s right on the sand, but it’s on the pricier side so I haven’t made it there yet.
🌴 Need packing help for your OC beach trip? Check out this guide 🌞
4. Thousand Steps Beach, Laguna Beach
Why I Love It
Ignore the name, there are just over 220 steps to get to this gorgeous Orange County beach — and while way better than 1,000, I definitely had to take several breaks going back up them afterward.
With a cool sea cave, tide pools visible at low tide, and a secluded vibe, this is definitely one of the best beaches in Laguna. And despite being one of the larger beaches in Laguna, most tourists still miss it (or are deterred by the stairs, which honestly, fair).
Parking + getting here
You’ll have to find street parking around Pacific Coast Highway (aim to park between Eighth and 10th Streets). Then, brace yourself for the steps going down!
What else to know
Because of all the steps, this beach isn’t ideal for anyone with mobility challenges.
🌊 Find all the best things to do in Laguna (and my all-time favorite hotel) in this guide 🌺
5. Seal Beach
Why I Love It
This one doesn’t have the most natural beauty among the beaches on this list, but it is a winner if you’re looking for a low-key, budget-friendly area and a cute Orange County beach town that most tourists miss.
If you’re staying in LA, this one will be the easiest for you to visit. I come here pretty often since it’s so close to Long Beach, where I live (it’s the very first beach town once you cross the line into Orange County) and I definitely think it’s underrated.
Apart from having a wide, open beach with a pier, and plenty of space to lay out on the sand (I’ve come here even during summer weekend days and it never feels too crowded), there’s also a nice little Main Street lined with different shops, bars, and places to eat that’s always worth strolling down.
Parking + getting here
Look for free street parking in the neighborhood a couple of blocks away from the beach.
What else to know
On Main Street, Crema Cafe and Hangout Restaurant & Beach Bar are Seal Beach staples, as is O’Malley’s on Main, if you’re looking for more of an Irish pub vibe.
Santa Fe Importers Seal Beach, which is around three miles away from the beach, is at the top of my list for places to try next. Their Long Beach location has been around since the 1940s, and I love nothing more than enjoying a sandwich on the beach!
6. San Onofre State Beach, San Clemente
Why I Love It
I’ve gotten to visit San Clemente a number of times over the last couple of years, as it’s become a meet-in-the-middle spot for my friend who lives in San Diego and I. And of its nearly 20 beaches, San Onofre State Beach is one of its standouts.
It’s technically right on the edge of San Clemente and Camp Pendleton, a marine corps base right over the county line in San Diego County. So, you’ll see signs and blocked off areas as you drive into the beach’s parking areas.
This three-mile stretch of sand is a popular spot for surfers and is apparently one of the most popular state parks in California. This was surprising for me to learn, but maybe it’s just because all my visits have been in the off-season, so it’s never been too crowded.
But it is really gorgeous, with its surrounding cliffs, untouched vibe, and trails. It technically includes a few different beaches, like Trestles, which is particularly great for surfing, supposedly (you will never catch me on a surf board so I can’t personally attest to that, though!).
There’s even a nearby campground, plus volleyball nets and restrooms, and whale and dolphin sightings happen from time to time, too.
Parking + getting here
Parking for the day is $15 to $20 in the official lot. I’ve never struggled finding a spot!
7. T-Street, San Clemente
Why I Love It
If you’re looking for that quintessential California beach experience, T-Street is a great pick.
You can see the famous San Clemente pier, but it’s not right in the main action, so it feels a little bit calmer. It’s also easily accessible from downtown, which is definitely worth checking out.
Beloved among locals and surfers, whenever I come to T-Street, I always take a walk along the San Clemente Coastal Trail, which connects down to the pier plus other nearby beaches. It’s also an amazing sunset spot!
Parking + getting here
You’ll find both free and metered street parking around here. Parking is known for being a bit tricky here especially during the summer, so just be sure to give yourself some extra time. I usually end up parking somewhere around the downtown area and walking.
What else to know
In nearby downtown, I love wandering around and checking out the pretty Spanish architecture, shops (go to Beach Town Books!), and restaurants. (If you don’t mind walking like 30 minutes or so, I love Cafe Rae for its cozy breakfast dishes).
8. Calafia Beach, San Clemente
Why I Love It
San Clemente gets so overlooked by out-of-state visitors, and that’s seriously a shame, with beaches like Calafia Beach.
This wide-open beach is just around a mile long and is technically one section that’s part of San Clemente State Beach. Its interesting rock formations and sandy cliffs run along this beach, which is also the end point of the San Clemente Beach Trail.
I’ve come here at least three or so times, and it always has a really relaxed atmosphere — while I doubt it’s always like this, I’ve also never seen it crowded!
You’ll also see a 1930s Spanish-style cottage with gardens, which is a popular event space as well as a Visitor’s Center which is open Sundays through Fridays during the warmer months.
Parking + getting here
Parking here is also $15 to $20 for the day. From the parking area, you’ll have to cross some train tracks to reach the sand.
What else to know
There’s also some ocean-view camping here, although recent reviews mention coyotes and lots of ants.
9. Doheny State Beach, Dana Point
Why I Love It
Laguna Beach is generally pretty well-known among tourists, but most people miss the town that’s just a bit further south: Dana Point. I’ve visited Dana Point a handful of times, and Doheny State Beach is definitely one of Orange County’s hidden gems.
It’s a large beach, with plenty of space, and some areas are a bit rocky.
Parking + getting here
Parking for the day right by the beach is $15 to $20. But when I visit Dana Point, I typically park for free around the Dana Point Harbor. It’s around a mile away, so it takes me around 20 minutes to walk, but there is a large lot here with plenty of space.
10. Pirate’s Cove, Newport Beach
Why I Love It
Newport Beach always seems to get overlooked for neighboring Huntington Beach, even though it has way more charm, if you ask me. And Pirate’s Cove is one of the best hidden beaches in Orange County.
With golden cliffs and rock formations, Pirate’s Cove looks like what I imagine the beaches of Greece or Italy look like (I’ve never been though, so correct me if I’m wrong 😂).
As a less-than-stellar swimmer, I also love how the rocks block all the waves, making for super calm waters that even I will venture into.
To reach this beach, you have to do a quick hike over some rocks. It’s fairly easy, but I did feel a little nervous navigating over them in my flimsy flip-flops.
Despite this, this beach is pretty small, so keep in mind that it may be tough to find a spot on the sand during peak times, and as the tide rises, the available sand will shrink even more.
If I come here again, it will definitely be a weekday. It’s also a super popular place for teen baptisms apparently (?) which I learned the hard way during my visit. If you don’t want to listen to acoustic bible songs during your entire visit, maybe skip a Sunday afternoon.
Regardless of the annoyances, it really is that beautiful, which is why I still consider it one of the best beaches in Orange County. Lookout Point, a grassy area overlooking the ocean, is also one of my favorite picnic spots in the OC.
Parking + getting here
It’s also pretty easy to find parking, with a large lot right outside of the beach plus plentiful street parking, and amenities close by.
11. Corona del Mar State Beach, Newport Beach
Why I Love It
Right on the other side of those cliffs you have to climb over to reach Pirate’s Cove is another one of the best OC beaches.
This gorgeous beach is around half-a-mile long, and you’ve got all the amenities here: parking, restrooms, volleyball courts, etc. without sacrificing any natural beauty from its rock formations, golden sand, and palm trees.
It really gives you all those classic SoCal vibes that you see in movies — in fact, I think it’s popped up in a number of TV shows and movies, like “Gilligan’s Island.”
Its harbor jetty keeps the waves pretty calm too, making this a great swimming beach. This beach is definitely popular so don’t come here if you’re looking for that super secluded, off-the-beaten path feel. But it’s big enough that it doesn’t tend to feel overwhelmingly crowded, luckily.
Parking + getting here
The parking lot right by the beach is paid, but I’ve usually been able to find a free spot on the street or nearby residential areas.
Which Orange County Beach Is Best for You?
If you’re overwhelmed by the options (totally fair — OC has 40+ beaches), here’s how I’d decide:
⭐ Best for first-time visitors/if you only have one beach day: Treasure Island Beach (my #1 pick!
✨ Best hidden gem: Thousand Steps Beach
📷 Best for photos: Victoria Beach (come at low tide!) or Treasure Island Beach (Laguna)
💸 Best for budget travelers: Seal Beach (free parking + affordable food)
🌴 Best for nature + historic charm: Crystal Cove State Park
🏖️ Best if you’re staying in LA: Seal Beach or Pirate’s Cove
Planning your California trip
Whether you’re spending one week in Los Angeles or road-tripping throughout the state, spending some time at an Orange County beach is a non-negotiable for your Southern California itinerary.
When to visit Orange County
Southern California famously has great weather. And while SoCal weather is pretty temperate — and I definitely go to the beach year-round here — the wintertime is not exactly sunbathing weather.
The weather typically gets the sunniest and hottest around July, and it sticks through October, generally. The rest of the year, you’ll definitely want to pack layers for the beach.
Winter temperatures usually range from the 50s to early 70s. Mornings can typically be gloomy throughout the year, with the sun not peaking out til late morning/early afternoon.
Keep in mind that even in the summer, nights can get chilly, so bring a sweater or light jacket if you’re going to be hanging out after sunset,
But regardless of when you visit, Orange County beaches are some of the prettiest in the country — especially the ones on this list.
Explore more of Southern California:
- 11 Best Beaches in Orange County, CA (From a Local)
- Best Things to Do in Laguna Beach (From a Repeat Visitor)
- Best Restaurants in Laguna Beach (Budget-Friendly Guide)
- 11 Best Things to Do in Palm Springs on a Budget
- 3 Days in Palm Springs Itinerary (on a Budget)
- The Ultimate Budget Itinerary for 1 Week in Los Angeles
- Where to Stay in Los Angeles on a Budget
- 15 Best Hidden Gems in Los Angeles
- What to Do During a Weekend in Santa Barbara
- The Best Weekend in Solvang Travel Guide
