Best Beaches Near Disneyland: Beaches in Anaheim, California
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If you’re visiting Disneyland in Anaheim, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy some of Southern California’s best beaches. Here’s a list of top beaches nearby for a great coastal experience.
Huntington Beach
Map: Google Maps
Huntington Beach offers expansive sandy shores and is known for its surfing culture. With consistent waves, it’s a favorite for surfers, while families and groups enjoy playing in the sand or walking along the pier. The beach is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for grabbing a meal before heading back to the water. The nearby downtown area also offers plenty to do, making it easy to spend the whole day here. There’s plenty of parking, though it can get busy on weekends. It’s also home to various beach events, including surf competitions.
Newport Beach
Map: Google Maps
Newport Beach is known for its clean shores and excellent facilities, making it a top spot for sunbathing, swimming, or water sports. The wide, flat stretch of sand is perfect for beach activities, and it’s easy to find your own spot even during busy times. Newport Pier is a hub of activity, with local shops and eateries nearby, offering everything from snacks to fine dining. The harbor offers boat rentals, adding to the variety of activities.
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Crystal Cove State Park
Map: Google Maps
Crystal Cove State Park offers more than just a typical beach experience, with hiking trails and historic cottages adding to the adventure. The beach itself is wide and unspoiled, with rocky sections perfect for exploring tide pools. It’s a bit quieter than some of the other nearby beaches, ideal for those looking for a break from the crowds. The bluffs overlooking the beach provide stunning views of the Pacific, especially at sunset. Visitors can also explore the small museum and visitor center to learn more about the area’s natural history. Note that entrance to the Park is charged by the carload. Most days the charge is $15 per vehicle, but on some summer weekends and holidays, the price rises to $20 per vehicle.
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Laguna Beach
Map: Google Maps
Laguna Beach is a favorite for its scenic beauty and vibrant art community. The coves and rock formations along the shore make it a visually stunning place to relax. Art galleries and small boutique shops are scattered nearby, providing plenty to explore after spending time on the sand. For water lovers, it’s a great spot for snorkeling, as the clear waters reveal vibrant marine life. The beach is also home to some of the most iconic surf spots in Southern California. You can find lifeguards on duty and plenty of services nearby.
Balboa Peninsula Beach
Map: Google Maps
Balboa Peninsula Beach offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a long stretch of sandy shore and calm waters. The beach is ideal for swimming, with lifeguards patrolling during the day. The nearby Balboa Fun Zone is popular with kids and offers activities like arcade games and a Ferris wheel. For those interested in a more leisurely activity, the boardwalk is a great place to explore, with restaurants and cafes along the way. The historic Balboa Pavilion nearby adds an extra element of charm to this classic beachside experience.
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Seal Beach
Map: Google Maps
Seal Beach provides a more laid-back experience compared to its neighboring beaches. The waves here are gentler, making it a good spot for families with young kids. The pier is one of the oldest wooden piers in California and offers a great view of the ocean. Seal Beach’s small downtown area is a short walk from the shore and features charming shops and casual eateries. It’s also a haven for local surfers, and you’ll often find people out on the water in the early morning hours. On the sand, you’ll find plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy.
Corona Del Mar State Beach
Map: Google Maps
Corona Del Mar State Beach offers calm waters and a peaceful environment, perfect for families and casual swimmers. The cliffs surrounding the beach provide some natural shelter from the wind, making it a pleasant spot to lay out and relax. There are fire pits available for evening gatherings. Just a short walk away is Lookout Point Park, which offers panoramic views of the coastline. It’s a popular location for scuba divers and paddleboarders due to the sheltered waters.
Best Beaches Near Disneyland
Huntington Beach
Newport Beach
Crystal Cove State Park
Laguna Beach
Balboa Peninsula Beach
Seal Beach
Corona Del Mar State Beach
