You’re in Anaheim and ready to hit the beach, but which one should you pick? The ocean is close, but there are at least a dozen beaches within driving distance. You don’t want to waste time going to the wrong spot.
This guide shows you the best beaches you can reach from Anaheim in under an hour. I’ll tell you how far each one is, where to park, what makes it special, and who it’s great for. You’ll learn which spots work for families, which have the best waves, and where to find fewer crowds.
I grew up in Orange County and have spent countless weekends at these beaches. I know which parking lots fill up first, which beaches have the cleanest water, and where locals actually go. If you want surfing, swimming, or relaxing, you’ll find your answer here.
How to Plan Your Beach Day Near Anaheim
Anaheim isn’t on the beach, but you’re close. The ocean is 20-30 minutes away. Plan to make the most of your beach day.
- Morning drives: Leave by 9 AM to beat traffic. The afternoon rush starts around 3 PM, heading back.
- Popular routes: Take Beach Boulevard straight south or hop on I-5 to reach Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, or Laguna Beach.
- Must-bring items: Sunscreen, water bottles, towels, and a beach umbrella. Optional fun is surfboards, boogie boards, or beach volleyball.
Best Beaches Near Anaheim
Southern California has incredible beaches. You’re 20-30 minutes from the ocean when staying in Anaheim. Here are the best beaches to visit, from closest to farthest.
Long Beach
Long Beach is the closest major beach to Anaheim. Just 20 minutes away. The sand is clean and white, and the crowds are smaller than on other beaches.
- What to do: Bike the 5-mile bike lane, try boogie boarding, play beach volleyball.
- Don’t miss: RMS Queen Mary, Shoreline Village, Aquarium of the Pacific nearby.
- Parking: $1.50 per hour with clean toilets available
I love Long Beach for families. It’s easy to get to and has tons of activities beyond the beach.
Seal Beach
This is a quiet seaside town with a small-town feel. Low crowds, high charm. The white sand stretches along a peaceful shoreline, great for relaxing.
- What to do: Fish from the pier, let kids play at the playground, shop on Main Street.
- Parking: $10 per day, but spots fill up fast, and outhouses serve as public toilets.
- Food tip: Hangout Restaurant has fantastic pier views
Seal Beach is my pick for a calm day. Skip it if you want big waves and surf action.
Bolsa Chica Beach
This massive state-owned beach has everything. Firepits for evening bonfires. Clean sand that goes on forever. Multiple parking lots mean you’ll find a spot.
- What to do: Watch birds at Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, play beach sports, and build bonfires.
- Parking: $15 per day with clean public toilets
- Bring this: Binoculars for bird photography, over 200 species live here
The firepits make Bolsa Chica special. Come back at sunset for a bonfire dinner on the beach.
Dog Beach (Huntington)
Your dog can run free here. Off-leash paradise. This beach has rocky areas mixed with sand and offers great ocean views.
- What to do: Let dogs play in the water, walk along the scenic shoreline
- Parking: Limited spots at $3.50 per hour, public toilets aren’t the cleanest
- Safety note: Keep dogs leashed until you reach the sand, watch for cliff traffic
Keep your dog leashed in the parking area. Once you hit the sand, they’re free to run and swim.
Huntington Beach
This is Surf City. The most famous beach near Anaheim. Expect big crowds, great waves, and excellent people-watching. The sandy area is huge.
- What to do: Take surfing lessons, bike along the strand, sunbathe, shop at surf stores
- Must-see: Huntington Pier, Zach’s Too Beach Concession for snacks
- Parking: $3.50 per hour or $15 all day with clean toilets
I always take visitors here first. It’s the classic Southern California beach experience everyone pictures.
Corona del Mar State Beach
Tucked between cliffs, this beach feels like a hidden gem. Smaller and more protected. The tide pools at low tide are incredible for kids.
- What to do: Check out tide pools, bodysurf in gentle waves, and watch cliff divers.
- Rock formations: The Arch Rock is great for photos
- Parking: Limited street parking or paid lots nearby
Check tide schedules before you go. Low tide reveals the best tide pool creatures.
Newport Beach
This upscale beach town has white sand and gorgeous homes. Busy but worth it. The pier is iconic, and the water stays relatively calm.
- What to do: Boogie board, rent e-bikes, stroll the pier, go whale watching in winter.
- Nearby: Historic residential homes, Seaside Donuts (get there early)
- Parking: $3.75 per hour with limited spots, and toilets are available
Newport is pricier than other beaches. The vibe is more polished and fancy.
Laguna Beach
Over 30 beaches and coves make up Laguna Beach. An artist town by the ocean. This is the prettiest beach area, hands down. Expect a 45-minute drive from Anaheim.
- What to do: Kayak, snorkel, paddleboard, hike coastal canyons, visit art galleries
- Hidden spots: Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach, Treasure Island Beach for families
- Parking: Paid lots throughout town with accessible facilities
Each cove has its own personality. Main Beach is busy, and 1000 Steps Beach is quieter but requires a long staircase down.
Dana Point & San Clemente
These laid-back beach towns are an hour from Anaheim. Whale and dolphin central. Come here for a full-day trip, not a quick beach stop.
- What to do: Swim, kayak, hike, visit Casa Romantica cultural center
- Wildlife: Best whale watching from December to April
- Parking: Paid lots with accessible facilities at most beaches
San Clemente has a small-town surf vibe. Dana Point feels more developed with its harbor and marina. Both are gorgeous and less crowded than beaches closer to Anaheim.
Making the Most of Your Day Trip
One beach is good. Multiple beaches in one day? Even better. You can easily hit two or three spots if you start early.
- Early start: Leave Anaheim by 8 AM to maximize beach time. Visit Huntington Beach first, then drive south to Newport or Laguna. Each beach has a different vibe.
- Add attractions: Stop at the Huntington Beach Pier for photos. Check out the tide pools in Laguna Beach. Newport has great shopping on Balboa Island.
- Meal options: Pack a cooler with sandwiches and snacks to save money. Or try beachside restaurants like Duke’s in Huntington Beach or The Beachcomber Cafe in Newport.
Conclusion
Finding the best beaches near Anaheim doesn’t have to be hard. You now have several great options to choose from, if you want big waves, calm waters, or family-friendly spots. Each beach has something special to offer, and they’re all just a short drive away.
Pack your sunscreen, grab your towels, and pick the beach that fits your mood. You can’t go wrong with any of these coastal gems. They’re great for a quick day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway.
Have you visited any of these beaches? We’d love to hear about your favorite spots in the comments below. Share this guide with friends who need a beach day, and check out our other Southern California travel tips for more ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far are the best beaches near Anaheim?
Most beaches are 15-30 minutes from Anaheim by car. Huntington Beach and Newport Beach are the closest, at about 20 minutes. Laguna Beach takes around 30 minutes. Traffic can add time during weekends and summer, so plan and leave early if possible.
What is the closest beach to Anaheim?
Huntington Beach is the closest beach to Anaheim, just 15-20 minutes away, depending on traffic. It’s a great choice if you want to spend more time at the beach and less time driving. The beach has plenty of parking and facilities for visitors.
Which beach near Anaheim is best for families with kids?
Newport Beach is great for families. The water is calmer than at other beaches, and there are tide pools that kids love to look at. The sand is soft, the bathrooms are clean, and you’ll find playgrounds nearby. Lifeguards are always on duty during the day.
Can you visit multiple beaches near Anaheim in one day?
Yes, you can visit two or three beaches in one day since they’re close together. Spend a few hours at each location. Start early in the morning to beat crowds and traffic. This works well if you want to see different vibes and scenery.
What should I bring to the beach near Anaheim?
Bring sunscreen, towels, water, snacks, and a beach umbrella or tent for shade. Don’t forget swimsuits, flip-flops, and a cooler with drinks. Parking costs money at most beaches, so bring cash or a credit card. A beach chair makes your day more comfortable.