With 42 miles of white sandy beaches overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you’ll have no problem finding a nice spot to work on your tan, swim, play volleyball, or just relax and read a book. There’s also plenty of boardwalk where you can rollerblade, take a bike ride, or get in a good jog down to the pier.

Of course, if you’re a little more adventurous there’s always body surfing at The Wedge in Newport Beach, people watching at Main Beach in Laguna, boating excursions from Dana Point Harbor, or the excellent surfing and boogie boarding conditions over in Huntington.

Big Corona Beach, Family beach with fire rings, picnic tables, volleyball area. 949-722-1611. 

Capistrano Beach, the swallows return to the Mission each year in March. 949-493-4700.

Dana Point, Marina with shops and restaurants, sportfishing, Orange County Marine Institute and the tallship Pilgrim. 949-496-1555.

Huntington Beach, 8-1/2 miles of white sand beach, longest concrete pier in California, surfing capital, shops and restaurants. 714-969-3492.

Laguna Beach, scenic white sand beaches, picturesque boutiques, restaurants and art galleries. 800-877-1115.

Newport Beach & Balboa Island, 6 miles of white sand beaches, watersports, harbor cruises, two wooden piers, restaurants and shops. 949-722-1611.

Seal Beach, quaint village atmosphere. 562-431-2527.

San Clemente, Pier, beach and charming restaurants and shops. 949-492-1131.