The Orange County and San Diego areas are filled with beach towns offering residents scenic and pleasant communities with laid-back vibes, endless outdoor fun, and picturesque waterfront real estate. Let’s look at some top beach towns to explore across Orange County and the San Diego area.
Coronado
Coronado is a well-known tourist hotspot with famous resorts and hotels, and its long sandy stretches of uninterrupted coastline have made it a popular spot for day trips and long-term stays. Residents can enjoy famous beaches regularly, such as Coronado Beach, and the main street is brimming with shops and restaurants. Also, Coronado’s unique setting means residents can enjoy some of the best views possible of the San Diego skyline.
La Jolla
La Jolla is an affluent seaside community just north of San Diego famous for its rugged coastline, serene beaches, golf courses, and premier surfing destinations. La Jolla is lined with rocky cliffs overlooking the water, and many homes stand high above the Pacific Ocean with uninterrupted views. The La Jolla Village is the community’s commercial center, with upscale shops and world-class waterfront dining destinations.
Newport Beach
Newport Beach is a stunning Orange County community renowned for its huge soft-sand shoreline. It is a haven for surfers and sunbathers, with a spacious stretch of renowned beaches along the Balboa Peninsula. The Wedge is where experienced surfers go to catch massive waves, while the Balboa Pier offers family-friendly attractions along the water. The town has a thriving arts scene, delicious dining hotspots, and excellent safety ratings.
San Clemente
San Clemente is a uniquely charming Orange County city and one of California’s eminent beach communities, hosting the San Onofre State Beach and San Clemente State Beach. Known for its historic Spanish colonial architecture, this coastal city is a beachfront paradise and a prime location for a seaside hike. It has numerous beaches running along an expansive coastline, with some of the best surf conditions in the state. Also, the T-Street Pier is a large pier jutting into the Pacific Ocean that serves as an excellent place to take a stroll or fish by the water.
Carlsbad
Carlsbad is a thriving city and a major tourist destination north of San Diego. Not only is it home to some of the best beaches in the San Diego area, including Tamarack Surf Beach and South Carlsbad State Beach, but it also hosts Legoland, one of California’s top family destinations. Millions visit Carlsbad every year to experience this community’s coastal charm and dynamic food scene. The Carlsbad Village near the ocean has hundreds of shops, dining options, and attractions.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach, comprising seven miles of beaches and coves, is one of Orange County’s premier destinations and has been a favorite of sunbathers and surfers for years. Laguna Beach is known for having some of the most incredible beachfront real estate and lodging options in the U.S., incredible native wildlife, and a charming city area with a thriving arts scene.
