The Orange County coast is not just palm trees, bronzed surfers, and the occasional reality TV cameo. Each beach town has its own personality—whether it’s the hidden coves and art galleries of Laguna, the sailing scene in Newport, or the sleepy, Spanish-style vibes of San Clemente. If you're visiting for a weekend or an extended getaway, consider this a local's guide to Orange County’s best beach towns—complete with where to stay, eat, and stretch out your towel.
Newport Beach
The vibe: Newport Beach may have a glossy rep—think Housewives, Lamborghinis, and a bit of Botox—but the real Newport is far more down to earth. Locals still cruise the harbor in Duffy boats with wine in hand, stroll Balboa Island for frozen bananas, and live in vintage beach cottages tucked between million-dollar homes. It’s a place where yacht clubs and hole-in-the-wall burrito spots exist on the same block, and a day can go from hiking bluffside trails to boating around Balboa Island within the same hour.
Where to Stay
Lido House
Housed in a former city hall building, Lido House has a breezy Cape Cod-inspired aesthetic. Guests can take beach cruiser bikes for a ride down the peninsula, lounge poolside with a cocktail, or head up to the hotel’s rooftop bar.
Where to Eat
The Beachcomber at Crystal Cove
A SoCal classic, The Beachcomber is laid-back, beachfront, and simply quintessential. Sip a martini at the Bootlegger Bar, grab a lobster roll, and don’t miss the daily raising of the martini flag at 5 p.m.
Bear Flag Fish Co.
Bear Flag feels more like a fish market-meets-beach shack than a formal restaurant—and that’s exactly why it’s so great. The poke is a must (order it spicy), the grilled fish plates are incredible, and the fish tacos are some of the best around.
What to Do
Corona Del Mar State Beach
This postcard-perfect stretch of sand is one of the most beloved beaches in Newport. It’s framed by towering bluffs and dotted with tide pools at low tide, where you can spot crabs, sea anemones, and other marine life.
Dana Point
The vibe: Dana Point often flies under the radar, but those who know, know. Named after Richard Henry Dana Jr., the 19th-century sailor and author of Two Years Before the Mast, this town celebrates its maritime history with whale-watching cruises, paddleboarding, and the annual Festival of Whales. Although it has been undergoing some (semi ritzy) changes lately, it’s still one of the most laidback cities in the county.
Where to Stay
Blue Lantern Inn
This quaint boutique inn is cozy and coastal. It has views of the harbor and is a great home base for those who want a full Dana Point experience.
Where to Eat
Wind & Sea Restaurant
Since 1972, Wind & Sea has been serving local favorites like macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi and Big Eye tuna poke in a somewhat gritty, nautical setting. Enjoy sunset drinks, live music, and a true taste of the harbor.
Truly Pizza
This relatively new artisan pizzeria has a garden patio that feels more like a stylish backyard dinner party than a typical pizza joint.
What to Do
Strands Beach
Strands Beach is undoubtedly one of Dana Point’s best-kept secrets. Wide, quiet, and uncrowded, it’s the perfect place for morning swims or sunset walks.
San Clemente
The vibe: Known as the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” San Clemente is Orange County’s most laidback city. Expect surf breaks, a long pier and beach trail, and very small-town feel. With a strong surf culture and year-round sunshine, San Clemente can be hard to leave.
Where to Stay
Beachcomber Inn
Very quaint, this little inn is located on a bluff just steps from the sand. It has 13 cozy, coastal-style cottages and the best hands down, best views of the sunset.
Where to Eat
Nick's San Clemente
Although this is technically a chain, it’s still a local favorite. Don't miss the signature fried chicken sandwich or the melt-in-your-mouth-worthy butter cake.
El Ranchito Restaurant
Known for its classic recipes and generous portions, this family-run favorite has authentic flavors that keep locals—and visitors—coming back for more.
What to Do
Lausen’s Beach
If you want a true San Clemente beach experience, Lost Winds Beach (aka Lausen’s Beach) is the place to go. Locals surf, play volleyball, walk along the trail, and sunbathe here most days of the year.
Laguna Beach
The vibe: Laguna Beach is hard not to love. This coastal town is known for its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and a vibrant art scene. It has great galleries, busy beaches, tons of boutiques, and some of the most picture-perfect views you’ll ever see.
Where to Stay
Hotel Joaquin
Housed in a revamped 1940s home, this hotel is packed with curated art, cool vibes, and vinyl turntables instead of TVs. Enjoy an on-site Mediterranean eatery, an outdoor pool, and gear rentals.
Where to Eat
Driftwood Kitchen
Perched right on the waterfront, every seat here has unbeatable ocean views. Nosh on fresh seafood, sip on stiff drinks, and soak in the coastal atmosphere.
Coyote Grill
Coyote Grill is the best hole-in-the-wall you’ll find. Their happy hour is a favorite, featuring great deals on homemade margaritas and food. Be sure to try the crispy calamari tacos—they’re one a kind.
What to Do
Main Beach
The best beach in Laguna Beach? Hands down, Main Beach. It has a wide, sandy shore, volleyball courts, a buzzing boardwalk, and the iconic Lifeguard Tower. Plus, it’s steps away from shops, restaurants, and galleries.
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