Best Beaches Near Santa Ana, California

Santa Ana, Orange County's second most populous city and one of the most well-known South California vacation destinations, is a sight to behold.

It is popular for its historic sites, museums, recreational spots, and attractive parks. Moreover, this city is renowned for its museums and zoos, as well as its proximity to a few of Southern California's most stunning beaches.

In addition to this, the city has a distinct taste in tourism, but the basic Californian flavor, "the real SoCal Beaches," is not far away. Once you start driving 20 minutes south to Santa Ana, you will notice several lovely and popular beaches that are beautifully aligned. Whether it's the nearby Newport Beach or the little further away Crystal Cove, the sands vibe, quiet sea, beachside fun, or the coastal neighborhood's shopping and dining options, you'll find it all here.

Although Santa Ana is not a coastal city, you can still enjoy the beach ambiance during your visit. To explore the closet and the most magnificent South Californian beaches during your trip to Santa Ana, read the complete article.

In this article, we'll look at the best beaches in Santa Ana, showcasing their distinct qualities, accessibility, and interesting aspects. Pack your sunscreen and prepare to go on a coastal trip.

Here is the list of the best beaches near Santa Ana:

1. Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, one of the nicest beaches in southern California, is more than just a beach; it's also a wholesome seaside city. The beach is recognized for its waves, making it a popular destination for surfers. A half-hour trip from Santa Ana via S Fairview St. and Adams Ave will lead you to this beauty.

Huntington is popular for its 9.5 miles of continuous beachfront, outstanding surfing activities, traditional beach culture, and warm climate. The year-round bright sunlight and beautiful mild weather make it an ideal site for recreational activities such as beach volleyball, stand-up paddle boarding, top-notch surfing, kayaking, beach bicycling, and so on. The northwest end of the beach is particularly famed for kite surfing and windsurfing, which draw a large population here all year.

Huntington Beach is unquestionably an excellent location for beachgoers who want to spend the entire day having fun with their family and kids.

Huntington Beach also hosts a variety of events and celebrations around the year, notably the US Open of Surfing.

2. Newport Beach

Newport Beach is the ideal vacation destination in Santa Ana and one of the greatest beaches in Orange County. A short 15-minute journey from Santa Ana on State Route 55 S will take you to Newport, where the charm and adventure never stop. It is a wonderful region, and what attracts tourists the most is the enhanced appeal and calm and soothing natural beauty, in addition to the classic beach style of radiant sun, sand, and waves.

With its large area of clean and white sandy stretch, spectacular sunset views, and stunning sky-sea views from the coastline that are breathtaking, Newport is sure to impress you no matter what season or time you visit. Aside from that, visitors can enjoy various water sports activities like kayaking, sailing, boating, fishing, rowing, and paddle boating, as this is the largest recreational boat harbor on the US West Coast. If you visit the beach at the correct time, you can also participate in Newport's International Yacht Race, the world's largest sailboat race.

The beach is easily accessible, with plenty of parking available in surrounding lots and meters. Newport Beach has a long history, extending back to the early twentieth century when it was a popular vacation for Hollywood's elite.

3. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach, popularly known as the "real Orange County," is one of the must-see beach towns from Santa Ana. It is roughly a twenty-minute drive from Santa Ana and may be reached by I-5 South, CA-133 South, or State Route 55 South.

Laguna Beach is famous for its long surfing heritage, and it hosts various surfing events; however, the races are only limited to Laguna Beach locals. Aside from the surfing culture, it is the beautiful clifftop position and beach beauty during Spring that refresh the eyes with a spectacular viewpoint that is difficult to get elsewhere on beaches.

Along with the typical sand and water, the surrounding area becomes rich green with the blooming of seasonal flowers, offering a surreal enchantment right here. Laguna Beach also provides a variety of outdoor sports, such as scuba diving, body surfing, and snorkeling.

4. Seal Beach

Seal Beach, located in western Orange County, is a popular beachside destination for locals. It is approximately 18 miles from Santa Ana, and just a quick 25-minute drive on CA-22 W will get you there. On a warm day, the sandy section of Seal Beach is frequently crowded with sunbathers, while the water level is teeming with local and visiting surfers. It is kind of a down-to-earth town with friendly people and peaceful surroundings. Seal Beach also has California's second-longest wooden pier, which was originally erected in the early 1900s but was afterward restored to its current condition.

Apart from this, Seal Beach, a picturesque seaside village, is famous for its small Main Street, which is lined with interesting shops and restaurants. The beach itself is a serene sanctuary, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surf fishing. Parking is available in surrounding lots and on residential avenues. Seal Beach has a rich history, including its past prominence as a famous amusement park destination in the early 1900s and the existence of the Naval Weapons Station, which played an important role during World War II.

Visitors can fish here without a license and catch perch, halibut, stingrays, and small sharks. Locals also visit the waterfront for a relaxing stroll and a calm stay in the early morning and late hours. Seal Beach is a good place to see sunsets; it gets a little crowded, but it's still manageable compared to some of the other popular spots on the list.

5. Crystal Cove State Park Beach

Though Crystal Cove State Park is well-known for its expansive natural woodland, its 3.2 miles of waterfront are also worth seeing. It is only an 18-mile journey from Santa Ana via State Route 55 S and CA-73 S to the Crystal Cove Beach site, which will take no more than 22 minutes.

Crystal Cove State Park is a magnificent respite from the throng and activity of Newport Harbor, with a 3.5-mile-long isolated beach, an official "underwater park" rich with reefs, and over 2,000 wooded acres to explore. Tide pools and coves are popular with vacationers year-round, but rangers recommend exploring them during the winter when lower tides provide finer views of aquatic life.

Crystal Cove features numerous beach access spots that differ greatly from one another, with one being rocky terrain and the other flanked with new residences and well-maintained greens. All of the access locations are called Pelican Point, Los Trancos, and Reef Point.

Reef Point is renowned for two magnificent coves: Pelican Point, with its long walking track, and Los Trancos, which may be reached via a historic area of 1930s-style residences. Crystal Cove State Park beach is popular for swimming, surfing, and enjoying the tide pools and sandy coves.

Over 23 miles of mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking paths have been carved into the park's hills and canyons, with many of them including steep, rocky climbs.

6. Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach, located in Huntington Beach, serves as one of California's widest beaches. Santa Ana is around 18 to 20 miles away from the beach, which can be reached in about 25 minutes via CA-22 W, Bolsa Chica Rd, I-405 N, and Warner Ave. On bright, warm days, the beach is generally calmer, with only sunbathers present. However, thanks to the fresh air, the beach is packed with kiteboarding professionals and enthusiasts spending a day on the surf.

Sunset Beach is equipped with limited seaside facilities and a massive 14-acre Green Belt Park adjacent, which is very beautiful and becomes even more enticing during the springs. Locals with their children and pets can be seen walking along the sandy stretch or at the park during the week, particularly on weekends.

7. Alamitos Bay Beach

Alamitos Bay Beach makes up part of Long Beach and is located between the two coastal cities. It is approximately 20 miles from Santa Ana and may be reached in 30 minutes or less by driving along CA-22 W. Alamitos may not be as magnificent as Huntington, Newport, or Long Beach, but it offers amazing views and fewer crowds.

Alamitos Beach features a wide and lengthy stretch that is great for cycling, walking, jogging, and running, which the locals do in the early hours of the day and evening. The water here is pure; however, it is rather cold and can make you shiver in the absence of sun. Alamitos Bay Beach provides a more relaxing and serene atmosphere than other Orange County beaches. Also, if you're here until the late evenings, consider staying until sunset to photograph some amazing views that you'll remember forever.

8. Long Beach

Long Beach is a spot where you can find some unique fun and vibrant seaside scenes, both in excellent condition. Driving from Santa Ana to Long Beach via CA-22 W and I-405 N will take about 30 minutes. It is a great area for playing beach baseball and basketball because the urban waterfront playground is quieter than the surrounding cities.

Surfing, water skiing, and sailing are some of the fun and daring water activities available here, and the location is renowned worldwide for its annual festivities. Evenings here become more of a celebration, including live music and dancing performances and visitors relaxing in picnic areas all around. In addition, while here, you may visit the nearby Long Beach Aquarium to see the iconic 1930s ocean liner and sea lions.

9. Corona Del Mar State Beach

Corona del Mar State Beach is a popular destination for families and swimmers. Corona del Mar State Beach, also known as Big Corona Beach, is a half-mile-long sandy stretch surrounded by cliffs as well as a rock jetty that serves as Newport Harbor's eastern entry. Surfers, divers, volleyball players, and sunbathers enjoy the beach as well.

This is the safest of the nicest beaches around Santa Ana. Corona Del Mar is the ideal location for a safe and relaxed picnic with your family and dogs. Dogs on a leash are welcome at this family-friendly beach until 5 p.m. Despite the crowds, this region offers an incredibly soothing ambiance. You can also camp there because there are fire pits. Walkways are accessible for a leisurely stroll.

Corona del Mar has stunning sandy beaches and coves that look like they came straight out of a movie set. You might have seen these shores in films and television shows like Gilligan's Island and a few contemporary Disney TV productions. On the hills above the beaches are houses, winding roads, and a vantage point with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and bay. The sunsets here are astounding, so pack a picnic and enjoy!

In 1928, the Pacific Coast Surf Riding Championships were held at Corona del Mar State Beach, making it the first significant surf tournament in mainland America. Tom Blake organized the challenge via the Surfboard Club, which required paddling and surfing skills. From 1934 to 1936, the entrance to the harbor was dug up to 25 feet to make it passable for boaters, and almost 200,000 tons of rocks were dumped at the point of entry to expand the West and East jetties. The East Jetty increased to its current length of 1,673 feet, and the elimination of the entrance sandbar put an end to the famous easy waves.

10. Salt Creek Beach Park

Are you seeking a lovely place to spend quality time with your loved one? If so, you must head to Salt Creek Beach Park. It is a peaceful location in Santa Ana with lush green parks and picturesque landscapes. You can also enjoy a game of basketball on the court.

Salt Creek Beach Park is a beach park situated near Dana Point, Orange County, California. It is a favorite destination for South Orange County residents, with attractions like a half-court basketball court, beach volleyball, and a seven-acre grassy Bluff Park that allows for surfing, swimming, and fishing. It is situated around 10 miles south of Laguna Beach, 70 miles north of San Diego, and 45 miles south of Los Angeles.

The sunset is what sets it apart as one of the nicest beaches around Santa Ana. It's so serene and majestic that you will remember it for days.

Restrooms with outdoor showers and a paved parking lot are among the convenience structures. A beach concession building, open during the spring and summer, provides quick food and beach necessities.

11. Bolsa Chica State Beach

Bolsa Chica State Beach, located south of Sunset Beach in Orange County, is a prominent state beach that draws hundreds of thousands of people. This region was once known as "Tin Can Beach" and was designated a state beach in 1960. Bolsa Chica is ideal for surfing, sunbathing, volleyball, water sports, family vacations, and watching the sunset.

This is a quiet sanctuary for beachgoers, with a more relaxed vibe than its crowded neighbors. The tranquil seas are ideal for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Bolsa Chica State Beach is reachable via Pacific Coast Highway and offers plenty of paid parking and picnic sites.

This beach also includes the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, a significant wetlands ecosystem with a long history dating back to 1000's of years.

12. Venice Beach

Are you bored of the same beach scenes? Do you wish to visit a beach that is different from others? If so, go to Venice Beach. It is recognized as Southern California's seaside playground. The seaside scenes here are very distinct.

Venice Beach is unlike any other beach in the world. Yes, other California beaches have sand, surf, and sunshine. They do not, however, have a three-ring urban street circus including philosopher artists, snarky hoopsters, weightlifters, barefoot sand sculptors, and other performers. The most popular attraction, however, is the oceanfront boardwalk as all of these frantic activities take place on Ocean Front Walk, a 3/4-mile concrete boardwalk lined with boutiques, fast food restaurants, flea markets, and artists.

There are a number of restaurants and retail complexes nearby. Several recreational opportunities are available here, including swimming, beach volleyball, fishing, and surfing.

Surfers gather along the Venice Breakwater, whereas bodybuilders go to the open-air gym on Muscle Beach. Enjoy the various cafes and souvenir stores that line the coastline, or ride a bicycle down the 4-mile boardwalk that connects Venice Beach's southern shore with Santa Monica Beach. Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring that families and kids have a safe and fun time in the water.

13. Thousand Steps Beach

Do you wish to try something new and not just the beach? If so, you must go to Thousand Steps Beach. The beach gets its name from the incredibly long stairs one needs to take to go down to it.

There aren't exactly a thousand stairs to the beach, but you'll take the stairs as they will get you to the beautiful coast. While there are roughly 250 steps, it feels like a thousand, notably climbing back up.

This beach also has Laguna's renowned sea cave. Some activities available here include body surfing, body boarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, swimming, tidal pools, as well as stand-up paddling.

The waves here are huge and challenging, making it a popular surfing destination. You may also go on a kayak tour in the region to explore marine caves and see sea lions in the ocean. Since it is a steep fall, this beach is inaccessible for people with mobility impairments, and parking is far away and fills up quickly. Check tide forecasts, as high tides can cover a large portion of the beach.

Thousand Steps Beach is definitely worth the descent because it is always uncrowded due to a lack of parking, poor access, and difficulties discovering this location.

14. Hermosa Beach

Next on the list of famous beaches near Santa Ana is Hermosa Beach. Hermosa, with a population of 19,506, is a must-see attraction in California, USA. The city-owned beach goes along Santa Monica Bay before entering King Harbor in Redondo Beach. Hermosa Beach demands at least two full days to see its key attractions.

It is a great destination for adventure lovers. This beach is one of the few great beaches around Santa Ana that offer a variety of outdoor beach activities. You can swim, surf, sunbathe, or play volleyball or paddleball on the beach, and the fun doesn't stop there. There is a paved boardwalk near the ocean where you may jog cycle, bike, or simply wander.

15. Victoria Beach

Victoria Beach is a hidden treasure in Orange County. This beach offers stunning ocean views and excellent skimboarding opportunities. It is recommended to avoid surfing there because the waves are not appropriate. Aside from that, the beach boasts nice sand, which attracts sunbathers to the area.

In addition, Victoria Beach is one of Laguna Beach's favorite spots due to the variety of activities available, including exploring historic sites and geological features and resting on the sand. This coastline is home to the renowned Pirate Tower, an ancient lighthouse that may be visited. This beach also has caves to explore, in addition to the familiar dunes and seas. Simply make sure to visit during the summer. The colder months leave little sand on the shore, making the beach largely rocky.

Overall, this is an excellent location for a quiet retreat and self-reflection.

How to Reach the Beaches Near Santa Ana

Driving is the most convenient way to reach the beaches in Santa Ana. There are several freeways connecting you to the beaches, including the I-405, I-5, and I-10. Visitors can also take public transit to the beaches, however this may necessitate a transfer or two.

Tips for Visiting the Beaches Around Santa Ana

Here are a few ideas for exploring the beaches around Santa Ana:

• Wear sunscreen, carry an umbrella or a hat to shield your skin from the sun.
• Carry lots of water to stay refreshed.
• Be mindful of the tides and currents prior to entering the water.
• Do not leave the beach dirty. Always pack away the garbage you carry with you.

Parks in Santa Ana, CA

Apart from the beaches, Santa Ana is renowned for its spectacular and mesmerizing parks.

Each of Santa Ana, CA's 47 public parks provides a unique opportunity to get outdoors.

Santiago Park is one of the most prominent attractions in Santa Ana. This green park covers 34 acres and has a variety of outdoor facilities, such as hiking paths, tennis courts, an archery range, and a wildlife education center.

Centennial Regional Park is another neighborhood favorite, with playing fields, picnic spots, lakeside fishing, as well as access to the Santa Ana River Trail.

Memorial Park, Jerome Park, and Carl Thornton Park offer a well-balanced combination of sports facilities, playgrounds, and outdoor enjoyment.

Conclusion

Thus, this brings us to the end of the list of best beaches near Santa Ana, California.

The beaches around Santa Ana have something for everybody. Whether you're searching for a calm day at the beach, a fun session of surfing, or an opportunity to explore the tidal pools, you'll find the ideal beach for you.

FAQs

1. Is Santa Ana Costly?

Santa Ana is undeniably one of the most expensive areas to live in the U.S.A. Santa Ana's median cost of living index is 165/100, 65% more expensive than the national average. Much of this is due to the high cost of housing (236/100), which is 2x in comparison to the national average.

2. Why is Santa Ana So Popular?

Santa Ana is the heart of the globally recognized Orange County in California. It is the County Seat, the second-most populated area in Orange County, and is home to a thriving nightlife and arts culture.

3. What is the Best Thing about Santa Ana?

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Santa Ana is also known for its downtown area and natural parks, including- Floral Park, Meredith Parkwood, French Park, Metro Classic, and Fisher Park.

4. Which is the Most Secure Beach for Swimming Near Santa Ana, California?

Laguna Beach is well-known as one of Southern California's top swimming places. The water is always a stunning blue, and the temperature is never too low. Laguna is also an absolute surfer's paradise, nevertheless, there are always serene locations for swimming at Laguna's various beaches.

5. Which is the Prettiest Beach Near Santa Ana?

All the beaches near Santa Ana are beautiful and offer a serene experience. However, Newport Beach, Crystal Cove State Park, Huntington City Beach, and Salt Creek Beach are said to be the most beautiful beaches near Santa Ana.

6. Which Beach Near Santa Ana is Best for Surfing?

Newport Beach features a long series of jetties that create new surf breakers every other street; the two most well-known and surfed by short boarders are 54th and 56th streets. The jetty breaks up the flow of the sand of a conventional surf break, so the waves peak for quicker speed surfing.

7. Which is the Best Beach Near Santa Ana, California, For Families?

Crystal Cove Beach is one of the top beaches in Orange County, California. It also happens to be one of Southern California's most family-friendly beaches, with plenty of amenities and activities to enjoy with your loved ones.