Irvine, California beaches are world famous for the long sandy shoreline and great waves. Many of these Irvine beaches are hot spot areas for surfing, and they are compact with best entertaining attractions and nicest outdoor activities for your enjoyment. Also, the suitable weather in these Irvine beaches makes it a perfect getaway destination among many hearts to go and explore the beauty of nature. Moreover, visitors are able to get indulged with several fun things, including playing water sports, beach combing, sunbathing, relaxing and many other top-rated beach activities.
So, here is the list of some of the best Irvine beaches that are perfect for your weekend vacation. Some of these beaches are world famous for their clean shoreline and some are popular for being great family-friendly getaway destinations. So, read on and choose your favourite beaches for next vacation and grab lots of fun and enjoyment in these coastal gems!
1. Doheny State Beach
Doheny State Beach is a protected beach, located in the city of Dana Point. Aspiring surfers will never miss this beach as Doheny State Beach is one of the state’s most popular surfing spots. The 62 acres of beach area offers many other recreational opportunities as well.
Wildlife explorers get the opportunity to explore marine life when visiting this place. Many visitors have witnessed various types of sea bass, dolphins, crabs, octopus and a variety of sharks. For birdwatchers, Doheny State Beach is also a perfect spot.
There is a visitor center with several aquariums. You will discover nice campgrounds in the southern part of the beach. And it is no wonder that the campgrounds are so popular that they attract over 850,000 visitors per year. Spending a night in Doheny State Beach campground with your people is truly some of the best experiences to have in Irvine, California.
Ohana Festival, one of the most family friendly beach events, is held every year in Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. This mirthful festival makes Doheny State Beach different and special from other Irvine beaches. From kids to grownups, all ages are welcome. Moreover, kids aged 5 or below, get free admission into the Ohana Festival with a ticketed adult.
Want to enjoy more in Doheny State Beach? Attend the year-round interpretive education programs, and know more about marine life, oceanwater quality, bird life and animal life. Trust me, it’s going to be your one of the best learning lessons with the fun-packed practical method and far away from bookish knowledge.
Doheny Beach is free for Pedestrians and cyclists. Otherwise, visitors need to pay. Seniors have to pay $14 and vehicles are $15 each. Doheny State Beach offers two day-use areas in north and south parts of the state beach. And entrance to the beach is always off Dana Point Harbor Drive.
Address: 25300 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629
2. Crescent Bay Beach
Crescent Bay Beach offers large shore area with the peaceful surroundings. And the clean sandy shore is perfect for all types of beach activities that you can think off. The beach is located in the north end of Laguna and is considered one of the best beaches in Irvine.
The entire area is well-maintained and visitors need to walk upon the paved ramp to get to the beach. The shallow water is also safe for your kids. You don’t need to worry that much when they are playing in the oceanwater. There is a view point nearby. It is a popular spot for doing photography and the iconic whale-watching.
Don’t forget to enjoy the gigantic rock that is about 120 yards off shore. It is popularly called as Seal Rock.
If you’re planning for Crescent Bay Beach day trip in weekends, note that parking on weekends can be a hassle. So, try to reach there early.
Address: Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
3. Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is one of the best beaches in Irvine CA where opportunities are endless. From nice beaches to incredible campsites, Huntington Beach has everything you’re looking for. Surfing is a must-to-do fun activity in this sandy beach.
With the long stretches of 10 miles sandy shore, the beach boasts a fishing pier. Visitors can explore several laid-back activities along with exploring nice shopping areas. The beach offers visitors immense opportunities for swimming, boating, paddleboarding, picnic areas and many other top-rated entertainment facilities.
Address: Huntington Beach, CA 92648
4. Bolsa Chica State Beach
Bolsa Chica State Beach is one of the most beautiful ocean beaches in Orange County. This popular 3-miles long public beach is sandwiched between Huntington Beach and Sunset Beach. Earlier this beach was known as Tin Can Beach among locals.
There are several recreational activities enjoyed by all age groups in Bolsa Chica State Beach. Popular activities include sunbathing, surfing and multiple water sports. Unfortunately, tent camping is not allowed at Bolsa Chica State Beach. But you don’t need to be sad! RV camping is always a great fun here. And the live music beside your camp upon the sandy shore, will addon extra charm in your entire trip.
Must visit the nearby Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. It’s a great spot for birdwatching. And this ecological reserve is located across the Pacific Coast Highway from the beach. You’ll encounter many groups are visiting this spot.
The beach is truly gorgeous and many families make it their weekend favourite destination. There are plenty of spaces for eating, enjoying the oceanfront views and so much things to see and do in this one of the most magnificent beaches in Irvine California.
Also Read: Beaches You Must Visit in Arkansas With Your Family.
5. Victoria Beach
Victoria Beach is another neat and clean, picture-perfect beach destination in Irvine California. This Irvine beach destination is only 2 miles south of the Laguna Beach business district.
Victoria Beach is perfect for strolling, sunbathing and sand castle building. There are long stairs you need to cover to reach to the beach shore. It is one of the most secluded beaches in Orange County. On weekends, the land gets little crowded. And it is hard to find a parking space because the parking area is too small.
Swimming and other water sports are not very popular here due to its rocky ambience. But there are volleyball courts. And you will definitely get a closer view of the iconic 60-foot pirate tower from this beach.
Address: 2713 Victoria Drive, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.
Also Read: Most Popular Connecticut Beaches with Boardwalk You Must Explore.
6. Newport Beach
Newport Beach is the nearest beach to Irvine. Also, Newport Beach is one of the most expensive beaches in California. This pristine beach is one of the best city beaches in the southwest. In fact, in 2012, Newport Beach was designated as one of the cleanest US beaches by the Natural Resources Defense Council.
The wide 6 miles of clean shoreline is perfect for sandcastle building and beach combing. For spending a relaxed holiday far away from your stressful lifestyle, this Pacific Coast beach is a great getaway destination. The best thing is Newport Beach is among the few Irvine California beaches where dogs are allowed.
There’s a nearby playground where kids find a variety of entertaining things according to their taste. This clean beach is also a good place for your kids to play with oceanwater. Don’t worry for their safety at all. Watchful lifeguards are always available here.
One of the best family-friendly Irvine beaches, Newport Beach also offers abundant places for sunbathing or soaking up in the sunny weather. Swimming in the warm water is very refreshing.
The beach also provides restrooms to visitors. If you want to take part in surfing, check with a lifeguard as rip currents are frequent here.
If you have much time, head to the Wedge near Balboa Peninsula’s Jetty.
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7. Corona del Mar State Beach
Corona del Mar State Beach is a small beach with less crowd but the rocky shoreline along with picturesque surrounding make beachgoers fall in love with this lesser-visited beach destination. This beach is close to Newport Beach and only 20-minutes-drive from Irvine. The rock formation created tide pools making it perfect for observing marine life.
Watching the sunset is the most alluring activity in Corona del Mar State Beach. Other fun-filled engaging activities include beachcombing, relaxing with friends by sitting upon shining sands, observing marine life and feeding seabirds.
The plus point is, Corona del Mar State Beach is wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Parking is available, but visitors need to pay for availing it. Nearby area is good for shopping, tasting delicious seafoods at nice restaurants and visiting multiple nicely decorated parks and playgrounds.
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8. Main Beach
This natural gem is Laguna’s Main beach. Because of its easy accessibility and the year-round entertaining events, this iconic beach is over subscribed in each season. You might have seen Main Beach’s famous lifeguard tower in some movies as it is often featured in movies.
Visitors who want to experience a true beach charm, Main Beach is the place for them. Though crowd-haters are not able to get that beach vibe. But trust me, once you start enjoying the beach with crowd, it will give you more charming experiences! And this is the reason Main Beach is one of America’s must-visit beaches.
Emerging activities are exploring a boardwalk, playing with kids in the park, playing beach volleyball and basketball. There are public restrooms and showers available. And lifeguards are always at their service to predict potential dangers and protect beachgoers.
Furthermore, Main Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the whole world. And crowd is increasing every year to explore this natural gem.
Try to reach there early to avoid excess crowd and to get a nice parking lot. And enjoy this incredible natural wonder. Dogs with leash are allowed in Main Beach.
Related: Best White Sand Beaches in Texas.
9. Salt Creek Beach
Salt Creek Beach is a small and beautiful white sandy beach. This beach is well-known as a popular surfing destination. There’s a paved parking area and parking fee is $1 per hour. The parking lot provides easy access to the beach.
Popular recreational activities are sunbathing, swimming, tidepool exploration and body surfing. Public restrooms and shower facilities are available. You can also access a beach concession building where quick food and some other beach equipment are accessible.
Salt Creek Beach is also famous for its party type atmosphere. Various events are organized here. Wedding special events are also conducted. There are other so many nice things draping over Salt Creek Beach.
This beach destination is probably going to be your one of the personal favourite beaches.
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10. Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach in Orange County, California, has been selected as one of the cleanest beaches. It is a popular getaway destination among both locals and tourists. The city offers 30 amazing beaches and the long beachfront area is filled with all top-rated activities. And the beautiful waves are ready to melt any visitor’s heart instantly!
Laguna Beach offers stunning views along with walking trails. And swimming and surfing in the blue water are yead-round popular activities here.
The beach is fairly expensive but after reaching there you won’t think it was wastage of money. Rather, many visitors came here several times only to experience its unique beach charm. Nearby attractions are Three Arch Bay and Thousand Steps Beach.
People can access free parking at Lot 16 (1900 Laguna Canyon Road). After that, they can take free trolley ride to downtown that is available every Saturday and Sunday, from 9 am to 7 pm.
Also Read: Best Beaches You Must Visit in Houston, Texas.
11. Crystal Cove State Beach
This white sand beach is 3.2 miles long. Crystal Cove State Beach is a part of Laguna Beach. Crystal Cove State Park is the biggest attraction of this beach. And this beach is one of the most beautiful Irvine California beaches for its amazing location.
You can access amazing hiking trails here. Hikers must visit this beach. This is one of the few Irvine California beaches where visitors can enjoy amazing hiking trails. Amazing beach activities are boogie boarding, swimming, surfing, marine life observing, sandcastle building and exploring the tidepools.
The park is a famous campground. So, carry your tent and spend a great vacation here. To get some laid-back experience, head to the Crystal Cove Historic District and watch the historic buildings.
Also Read: Best East Coast Florida Beaches That Are Perfect For Your Gateway Destination.
12. Treasure Island Beach
For having a great gateway destination, head to this exquisite Treasure Island Beach. You’ll get here a nice protected swimming area. And unlike the earlier one, there are plenty of parking area in this beach.
This beach is a favourite spot among many locals. And visitors need to walk down the beach. The protected area, clean water, great ocean views and nice beach activities, all can be enjoyed here. And there is always something special for all age groups in this dream destination.
There are large viewing areas from cliffs. In the shore, there is a rock cave, perfect for having a shaded shelter. Beach amenities are limited in this beach. In nearby area, there are some good hotels that are always ready to serve you.
Address: 30801 S Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Also Read: Most Beautiful Central California Beaches You Must Visit in Your Next Vacation.
13. Thousand Steps Beach
Thousand Steps Beach is one of the largest beaches in Orange County. This beach destination is worth to visit to experience one of the most open-spaced Irvine California beaches. And the breathtaking views of sandstone cliffs, make Thousand Steps Beach one of the prettiest beaches in the state.
There are nice tide pools, you’ll encounter. Must go for swimming when the tide is low. Body surfing and skimboarding are popular hare. Beach amenities such as restrooms, an outdoor shower and volleyball courts are offered to the public.
Address: 31972 Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, CA 92651
14. Pirates Cove Beach
Pirates Cove Beach is a quiet and small beach located on the west side of the parking lot at Corona del Mar State Beach. Visitors usually cover this beach when they come to explore the more popular Corona del Mar State Beach.
Though the beach is not large like other Irvine California beaches, still you can make this beach destination a worth visiting spot because of its nice and peaceful surroundings and the popular short hike. Though it is a less-crowded spot, try to reach there early to get a nice place as the beach is also small.
The ocean water in this beach is calm and makes it a perfect spot for kids to learn how to swim. Remember, visitors need to return from the beach before the evening tide arises. And at high tide, the beach completely disappears beneath the ocean water.
Address: Ocean Blvd. & Goldenrod Ave., Corona del Mar, CA 92625
15. Balboa Island
Balboa Island is a part of Newport Beach. The island’s popularity is not only limited to the soft sandy beach’s easy access, but also the pier, Baloboa’s Fun Zone make it a fantastic place for a day trip with whole family.
Amazing shopping opportunities, great restaurants, fun adventures and public docks make it one of Southern California’s most desirable areas.
16. Irvine Cove Beach
Located on the northern side of Laguna Beach, Irvine Cove Beach offers some of the thrilling beach activities. The beach is only accessible via the private community of Irvine Cove. And this cove is governed by the Irvine Cove Homeowners Association.
The beach is divided into two sections. The southern section of the cove is the larger one and this section is visited by the majority of people.
Popular activities in Irvine Cove Beach include multiple water sports, surfing, body surfing, skin and scuba diving, and skim boarding. Fishing is not allowed here.
Address: Irvine Cove Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
17. Shaw’s Cove
This public beach is located in Orange County, California. Shaw’s Cove is most popular for swimming, tide pools and scuba diving. The beach is perfect for families with little children. It’s also one of the few Irvine beaches that allow dogs.
Shaw’s Cove is less crowded Irvine beach. If you want to enjoy any beach, but not with crowd, Shaw’s Cove is a perfect pick for you. It’s a little hidden gem with beautiful rock structures, abundant sea life and more. So, put Shaw’s Cove in you list of best Irvine California beaches.
18. North Star Beach
North Star Beach in Newport Beach Back Bay is a family-friendly beach. This beach is also less crowded. Kayaking opportunity is fine here. The shoreline offers nice vista.
It’s a very small beach and you could explore it within one hour. The nearby attraction is the Newport Aquatic Center. It’s a popular destination. And Newport Beach is everyone’s favourite. When you’re visiting these attractions, North Star Beach is also a nice stop for spending one or two hours.
Address: 498 N Star Ln #200, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Conclusion
The powdery-soft and sandy beaches, along with long coastline, turquoise ocean water, plenty of space, amazing recreational opportunities make Irvine California beaches one of the pre-eminent beaches in the world. So, pack your suitcase and embark on a journey to the beautiful beaches of Irvine in your next family vacation.
FAQs
1. Does Irvine have a beach?
The city of Irvine doesn’t have its own beaches, but the nearby areas feature one of the most beautiful beaches. Above all, beach lovers can enjoy some of the pristine beaches in California located all around Irvine. The most popular nearby beaches are Victoria Beach, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Main Beach, Laguna Beach and Crescent Bay Beach.
2. How far is Irvine California from the beach?
Corona del Mar State Beach, Pirate’s Cove Beach and Laguna Beach are very close to Irvine. The beaches require 17 minutes, 17 minutes and 19 minutes respectively by car to reach, from the city.
3. Is Irvine a beach town?
Irvine doesn’t hold any of its beaches. But there are some of the best California beaches located very close to Irvine. From the city these beaches are very easy to access. Corona del Mar State Beach and Pirate’s Cove Beach are the closest to Irvine.
4. What beach is most kid friendly in Irvine?
The most popular kid friendly beaches in Irvine California are Crystal Cove State Beach, Treasure Island Beach, Adventure Playground, Pirate’s Cove Beach and Little Corona Del Mar Beach.
5. Is it safe to go to the beach in California?
California beaches are very famous throughout the globe. There are umpteen recreational activities visitors enjoy in these wonderful beaches. And swimming is the most desired activity. Though these beaches are available for year-round, there are some times (like after significant rainfall), beach users should avoid contact with the sea water for 2-3 days. In that time the elevated bacteria in the ocean water may cause illness.
6. Is Newport Beach California worth visiting?
The undeniable scenic beauty and 10 miles of pristine coastline make Newport Beach a popular beach destination for beach lovers. There are numerous activities lined up to attract people. Water sports opportunities are huge. Plus, there are great dining opportunities available near this famous beach.
7. Can you swim at Newport Beach CA?
Newport Beach CA is some of the most pristine California beaches and offers 10 miles of coastline to enjoy amazing swimming experiences. Another popular water activity in Newport Beach includes great surfing.
8. What is Doheny State Beach parking fee?
Doheny State Beach parking fees for day use is $15 each. Visitors can access the parking on first come, first served basis. The best thing is you can also get annual paring passes under just $195. Remember, you will not get Doheny State Beach free parking area.
9. Can you drink alcohol at Doheny State Beach?
No, you can’t consume any alcoholic beverages at Doheny State Beach or within the day-use areas of the beach. It’s not permitted. But in the campsites of the state beach, alcohol is permitted. But drinkers need to carry valid identification and they must be at least 21 years of age.
10. Do California state parks allow dogs?
In most of the California state parks, dogs are restricted to campgrounds, day-use beaches, and picnic areas. The main reason is to protect the wildlife heritage of California. But still, there are few parks that allow visitors to take their dogs for a hike in the designated areas.
11. Are dogs allowed at Doheny State Beach?
Yes, Doheny State Beach allow visitors to take their pets to the beach. But they must be on leash, and no pets are allowed longer than six feet. Make sure to clean up after your pets. If you’re night staying along with your pet, make sure to confine them to either a tent or a vehicle.
