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Costa Mesa enjoys close proximity to 42 miles of pristine beaches located along a Southern California coastline dotted with fabled seaside communities, quaint beach towns and art colonies. What better place to sample our year-round mild climate and sunny skies?
So whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just a grommet (that’s beach lingo for an inexperienced wave rider), or you take great joy in sailing, snorkeling, fishing, sunbathing, parasailing, kite flying, strolling or biking along the beach, or just plain gazing at an incredible Pacific Ocean-style sunset bursting over legendary Catalina Island, Costa Mesa is the destination for you.
Here are a few places to get your feet wet:
Orange County Harbors, Beaches, & Parks
Want to learn more about all of our beautifual harbors, parks, and beaches? Resources and Development Management Department / Harbors, Beaches and Parks Division operates regional recreational facilities and manages historical and natural resources. These 37,000 acres of parkland and open space include regional and wilderness parks, nature preserves and recreational trails, historic sites, and harbors and beaches.
County Of Orange RDMD/Harbors Beaches & Parks
1 Irvine Park Road
Orange, CA 92869
714-973-6865 or 866-OCPARKS
Ocparks@rdmd.ocgov.com
Visit: http://www.ocparks.com
Balboa Island
This charming man-made island accessible from Newport Beach via ferryboat or access road, offers beaches, shopping and many restaurants. (Approximately 7 miles from South Coast Plaza.)
Visit: http://www.balboa-island.net/pb.htm
Corona Del Mar
Part of Newport Beach, this spot offers spectacular views, along with beaches and tidepools. (Approximately 8 miles from South Coast Plaza.)
Visit: www.parks.ca.gov
Dana Point
Take off from this harbor for Catalina or whale watching cruises, November through March. Along with fine beaches, such as Doheny State Beach and Capistrano Beach, the Dana Point Harbor features several restaurants and gift shops, with a stunning marina backdrop. (Approximately 22 miles from South Coast Plaza.)
Visit: http://www.dohenystatebeach.org/
Huntington Beach
Known as Surf City USA®, this is the only city featuring eight and a half miles of uninterrupted coastal views. Main Street is the city’s center, featuring the Surfing Walk of Fame, the International Surfing Museum, beachwear shops, casual dining and nightlife hotspots. At the end of Main Street is the Huntington Beach Pier, the longest concrete municipal pier in California. (Approximately 8 miles from South Coast Plaza.)
Visit: http://www.surfcityusa.com/
Laguna Beach
The striking coastal town of Laguna Beach is known worldwide as an artists’ colony. With a picturesque and rugged California coastline, this charming village-like community is loved by locals and visitors alike. Whether you explore the shops, galleries, and side-walk cafes on foot, or head straight to one of the many small beaches, such as Aliso Creek Beach, or Crystal Cove, Laguna Beach will be a spot you’ll want to visit over and over again. (Approximately 14 miles from South Coast Plaza.)
Visit: http://www.lagunabeachinfo.org/
Newport Beach
Home to the largest small craft yacht harbor in the United States, and dozens of multi-million dollar homes along the water’s edge, Newport Beach is a favorite spot for water fun and restaurant delights. Kayak the Newport Back Bay or relax on a chartered harbor cruise in one of Orange County’s most sophisticated ocean destinations. (Approximately 6 miles from South Coast Plaza.)
Visit: http://www.visitnewportbeach.com/
San Clemente
Orange County’s most southern coastal point is a unique beach town built on hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Spanish-style architecture adds to the charm and quaintness of San Clemente. The world-renowned surf breaks and pristine beaches make this a popular beach destination for locals and tourists alike. (Approximately 28 miles from South Coast Plaza.)
Visit: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=646
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