Best Beaches in Orange County

Being raised in Southern California, it was almost mandatory to become a surfer. I had an immediate attraction to the ocean because of the calming feeling I got from the salt air and the sound of the waves. In addition, I have been to almost every break from the Oregon coast to Ensenada Mexico, but I think that Orange County beaches are the best, hands down!

In the 60s and 70s, the best beaches for surfing and sunbathing were in Los Angeles. But today the crowd has shifted south to Orange County, most likely due to water pollution. If you are visiting Southern California and looking for the right beach to visit, many of the locals will guide you to a crowded and not so attractive spot. This is because there are only a few spots that are not yet discovered……well until now.

The first break when you head south from Los Angeles is in Seal Beach. Seal Beach is situated at the border of LA and Orange County. Most people go to the Seal Beach Pier but just south from there is a little known spot called surfside.

To reach surfside, drive south on Warner Ave, all the way to the beach, turn right immediately after you pass Jack-In-The-Box. Head all the way down and park when the street ends. There are many good surf spots and plenty of sand to find a good place to sunbathe.

Heading south on PCH will take you to beautiful Huntington Beach. There are two good breaks in Huntington Beach. The first spot is called 'the cliffs', this beach can be reached by driving south on Goldenwest, then take a left on PCH (parking is available on the street). This beach is great to spend a sunny afternoon with family or friends. The other break in Huntington Beach that is worth visiting, is the Huntington Beach Pier. The pier is famous for professional surfing events and a hot spot for tourism. However, to beat the crowds, drive about 300 yards north of the pier. Park near the Taco Bell, hence the name 'Taco Bell Reef'.

However, if you're looking for a beach with a party atmosphere, then head south to Newport Beach. You've probably have heard of Newport Beach from the popular TV show 'the OC'. The beach I always frequent is secretly located in an upscale neighborhood. In fact, celebrities such as Kobe Bryant and Dennis Rodman live there. Just head south on PCH till the road splits into two directions. Take a slight right onto Balboa Blvd. Now, take a quick right, and drive around. The best spots are from 45th St to 54th St. I love this place because there is something going on every day. Also, the city takes good care of the sand and the water is clean.

The next stop on our tour is Laguna Beach. In its infancy years, the city was regarded as an artist colony. Today Laguna Beach is famous for its eclectic beachfront stores and great restaurants. The main strip will lead you to the pier, which is very crowded in the summer, but still it's a great beach to visit.

Orange County has a beach for everyone, from partygoers to the typical family man. Most the spots have free parking, which can be found in residential neighborhoods near the shore, i.e. avoid beaches where you have to drive through a pay booth. Well, bring a lot of sun tan lotion and have a great time!