Visit the Top State Parks in Orange County

Are you looking for outdoor adventure in Newport Beach? You won’t want to miss these Orange County State Parks! We’ve outlined notable things to do at each park, as well as our favorite nearby spots for a bite to eat.

When you’re ready to complete your itinerary, request our free Newport Beach Vacation Guide. This handy tool is filled with local insight into more things to do in Newport Beach and recommendations on the best local rental homes. Everything you need to plan your trip is inside!

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Bolsa Chica State Beach | Huntington Beach, CA 92649

TO DO & SEE

Bolsa Chica State Beach is the perfect family beach. At Bolsa Chica, expect to see whale sightings, local surfers, stunning sunsets, and more! Experienced surfers can catch a wave, and beginners can learn the basics with surf lessons for all ages. Other activities include biking, volleyball, fishing, volleyball, and beach bonfires.

TO EAT

Seasalt Beachside Burgers | Lunch/Dinner| $

Are you hungry after a long day of swimming? Check out Seasalt for Santa Maria-style burgers in their craft beer garden!

Pacific Kitchen | Lunch/Dinner | $$

Are you searching for fresh coastal cuisine options like sustainably caught fish, acai bowls, and tacos? Be sure to check out Pacific Kitchen for a delectable lunch or dinner.

Corona del Mar State Beach | Newport Beach, CA 92660

TO DO & SEE

Corona del Mar State Beach, AKA Big Corona Beach, is another great family beach and a popular destination for swimmers and sunbathers. Enjoy beautiful sandy beaches with cliffs and rock jetties. Like most of the California beaches, activities include scuba diving, surfing, volleyball, snorkeling, swimming, and more!

TO EAT

The Jetty | Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner | $$

If you’re looking for beachside eats, check out The Jetty! Fan-favorite food items include their “famous” lobster roll, delicious poke bowls, and burgers/hotdogs.

Crystal Cove State Park | Laguna Beach, CA 92651

TO DO & SEE

Crystal Cove is great for those who like camping, hiking, horseback riding, and lounging by the beach. Explore Moro BeachReef PointHistoric District, and Pelican Point while you’re here for the whole experience!

TO EAT

The Beachcomber Café | Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner | $$

If you’re looking for beachside bliss, you’ll find it at The Beachcomber! This coastal menu is seafood-heavy for lunch and dinner with traditional breakfast offerings in the morning hours.

The Shake Shack

You may recognize the name but think again; this beach shack has no affiliation with the national chain. You will, however, find delicious burgerscrispy fish and chips, and famous shakes & malts here.

Doheny State Beach | Dana Point, CA 92629

TO DO & SEE

Doheny State Beach is a popular beach for locals and visitors, attracting nearly one million visitors per year. Activities include surfing, camping, volleyball, picnicking, tidepool viewing, and activities/exhibits at the visitor’s center.

TO EAT

Proud Mary’s Restaurant | Breakfast | $$

Grab a bite to eat before you spend a day at the beach! Proud Mary’s is a waterfront institution on the Dana Point Harbor. Enjoy traditional offerings like eggs, benedicts, and pancakes, or opt for a trendier option like avocado toast.

Wind & Sea Restaurant | Lunch & Dinner | $$

Wind & Sea serves up coastal favorites on the harbor. Wind & Sea doesn’t disappoint with up to 10 fresh-catch selections offered daily and 180-degree views; Wind & Sea doesn’t disappoint. Stop by for their Hawaiian Happy Hour after a day at the beach!

 

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Huntington State Beach | Huntington Beach, CA 92646

TO DO & SEE

Huntington Beach, AKA Surf City USA, spans 121 acres, with plenty to see and do. While the big draw is surfing, you can also enjoy beach volleyball courts, basketball courts, surf fishing, and much more!

TO EAT

Lemonade | Lunch & Dinner | $$

If you’re looking for something on the healthy side, check out Lemonade! From poke bowls to sandwiches, this place doesn’t disappoint. The best part is it’s fast-casual, so you can enjoy your Seared Ahi Tuna Bowl and Cucumber Mint Lemonade in the restaurant or on the beach!

The Bungalow | Light Eats & Cocktails | $$

This trendy nightlife spot supplies refreshing cocktails, SoCal eats (by Bear Flag Fish Co.), and a guaranteed good time. With an atmosphere that’s described as “going to a party at a rich uncle’s beach house,” The Bungalow is a place like no other.

 

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San Clemente State Beach | San Clemente, CA 92672

TO DO & SEE

San Clemente is full of interest and wonder. From its high bluffs, cliffs, ravines, and wooded hills to its beaches, there’s something for everyone. We love biking and walking along the San Clemente Coastal Trail! It’s a great way to get exercise with a view.

San Onofre State Beach | San Clemente, CA, 92672

TO DO & SEE

San Onofre State Beach “hosts surfers, swimmers, sunbathers, campers, kayakers, birders, fishermen, and bicyclists. It has almost 2.5 million visitors per year, and it is one of the top five most-visited state parks in California.” As one of the most popular beaches in California—you won’t want to skip it!

Book Your Stay with Burr White Realty

When you’re done exploring the natural wonders of Orange County, come back to the comforts of your Newport Beach rental! We offer a wide selection of oceanfront, oceanside, and bayfront homes for every traveler’s style and budget. We can accommodate any type of getaway from studio apartments to whole-house rentals. All our rentals are also equipped with spacious living areas, comfortable furniture, outdoor gathering spaces, and more to make your stay pleasant!

Browse our entire inventory of our Newport Beach rentals to start planning!