Beach Cities Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Beach Cities, Southern California. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and food scenes, plan your perfect trip now!


Introduction to Beach Cities

Beach Cities is a region located in Orange County, Southern California, home to several beautiful communities that boast some of the state’s best beaches, pristine parks, fine restaurants, and luxurious resorts. The towns that comprise Beach Cities include Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Balboa Island, Corona del Mar, and Laguna Beach, each with its unique flair that caters to different tastes, from families to young singles.

Beach Cities offer year-round sun, fun, beach sports, aquatic excursions, and more. Its warm climate and beautiful scenery make it perfect for exploring natural attractions, visiting culturally significant spots and engaging in outdoor activities. Here’s our comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about Beach Cities.

List of Places to Visit in Beach Cities

Here are the top attractions you shouldn’t miss when visiting Beach Cities.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Pretend City Children’s Museum - A learning-through-play museum designed for children up to eight years old.
  2. Bowers Museum - A large art museum with a renowned collection of indigenous American artifacts.
  3. Laguna Art Museum - A museum showcasing California art and contemporary exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Beach Cities: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Newport Beach Pier - A beautiful pier with stunning views of the ocean and perfect for a scenic stroll.
  2. Huntington Beach State Park - Beautiful sandy beaches with plenty of activities, boasts access to a Wildlife Education Center.
  3. Crystal Cove State Park - A perfect place for hiking and admiring diverse nature with many trails offering breathtaking views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beach Cities

Beach Cities offer a wide range of hiking and biking trails with beautiful scenic views. Here are the most popular ones:

  1. Back Bay Loop Trail - A 10.5-mile semi-paved trail loop around the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve, ideal for bicycling and hiking.
  2. El Moro Canyon Trail - A 4.2-mile hike with incredible ocean views, located inside Crystal Cove State Park.
  3. Tree House Trail - A short hike in Laguna Beach area, surrounded by trees and beautiful nature.

Best Things to Do in Beach Cities: Activities and Tours

  1. Surfing Lessons - Perfect for the adrenaline junkies. Learn how to surf at some of the most famous surfing spots in California.
  2. Boat Tours - Take a boat tour and admire spectacular beachfront homes and beautiful landscapes.
  3. Balboa Island Fun Zone - An amusement park located in Newport Beach.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beach Cities

If you have a week to spend in Beach Cities, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1 - 2 Day 3 Day 4 - 5 Day 6 Day 7
Newport Beach Pier Bowers Museum Huntington Beach State Park El Moro Canyon Trail Crystal Cove State Park
Pretend City Museum Coronado Beach & Laguna Art Museum Back Bay Loop Trail Balboa Island Fun Zone
  Presidio Park      

Food and Drink Scene of Beach Cities

The food and drink scene of Beach Cities is diverse. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages you shouldn’t miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tacos Al Pastor/Carne Asada - A traditional Mexican dish typically served in a tortilla.
  2. Dungeness Crab - A local seafood favorite that’s available year-round in Beach Cities.
  3. Fish Tacos - A must-have beachside snack, perfect for a quick bite after a day of activities.

Local Beverages

  1. Craft Beer - Beach Cities is home to over 50 breweries, meaning there’s no shortage of refreshing craft beers here.
  2. Sangria - A popular Spanish beverage made from red wine and fruits, perfect for sunny days.

Where to Stay in Beach Cities: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Beach Cities offer a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to affordable hostels. Here are some of the best options:

  1. The Waterfront Beach Resort, a Hilton Hotel - Located in the heart of Huntington Beach, this luxurious hotel offers easy access to both the beach and downtown.
  2. Pacific Edge Hotel - A stunning resort in Laguna Beach, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
  3. The Wayfarer - A quirky hostel in Newport Beach, offers affordable rooms and a great atmosphere.

What to Buy in Beach Cities: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs, then you won’t be disappointed in Beach Cities. Here are some of the top things to buy:

  1. Surf Gear - Beach Cities have some of the best surfing spots, so why not buy some surf gear as a souvenir?
  2. Seashells - Collecting seashells from the beach is a fun activity that makes for great souvenirs.
  3. Local Artwork - Beach Cities have a thriving arts community, so why not visit an art fair or gallery to find a unique piece of art to take home?

Local Culture and Customs of Beach Cities

Beach Cities offer a laid-back, beachy vibe that’s impossible not to fall in love with. Here are some of the local customs and traditions you should know:

  • Dress casually but appropriately for the beach.
  • Respect the environment and nature.
  • Keep the beaches clean.
  • Sunscreen and a hat are essential items for the hot California sun.

Best Time to Visit Beach Cities

Beach Cities are a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is most favorable. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, visiting during off-season (September-May) is also a good option.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beach Cities

Do:

  • Do enjoy the beach during sunset.
  • Do take advantage of the many outdoor activities offered.
  • Do try the local cuisine.
  • Do respect the rules and regulations at the beach.
  • Do enjoy the cultural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter on the beach.
  • Don’t engage in illegal activities.
  • Don’t ignore signs or rules at the beach.
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

Safety and Health

Safety in Beach Cities

Beach Cities are generally a safe destination, but it’s always important to take the necessary precautions:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Don’t leave valuables visible in your car.
  • Follow water safety rules and regulations at the beach.

Health in Beach Cities

The warm and dry climate in Beach Cities can cause dehydration and heat exhaustion, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid direct sun exposure for prolonged periods.

Getting to Beach Cities: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Beach Cities

The nearest airport to Beach Cities is John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana. It’s approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Newport Beach and Huntington Beach.

Bus Stations Near Beach Cities

Beach Cities are well-connected to the public bus transportation system, with several bus stations in the region. The most popular bus station is the Newport Transportation Center, located in Newport Beach.

Other Options

Beach Cities are also accessible by car, taxi, and Uber/Lyft services.

How to Get Around in Beach Cities

Beach Cities offer several options for getting around, including bikes, rental cars, and public transportation.

Biking

Biking is a popular way to get around Beach Cities, especially in the summer months. There are several bike rental shops located near the beaches.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are also available, with many car rental services located near John Wayne Airport.

Public Transportation

Beach Cities are well-connected to the public transportation system, with frequent bus services available.

Where to Go Next from Beach Cities: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Beach Cities are located in Orange County, which offers several destinations and excursions nearby, including:

  • Disneyland Resort in Anaheim.
  • Dana Point Harbor.
  • The Ocean Institute in Dana Point.

Conclusion

Beach Cities in Southern California offer a diverse range of attractions, from beautiful beaches to cultural landmarks and outdoor activities. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, there’s something for everyone in Beach Cities. Plan your perfect vacation today!



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