A Crystal Cove nature ramble is a fun alternative when things are hot inland.

On one of the hotter days a few weeks ago, we headed to the coast and just hopped out at the state park to see some nature and cool off. It's amazing what we spotted on such a short trip.

Directions to Crystal Cove State Park: From Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) turn into the park opposite Newport Coast Drive (it dead ends into the state park) or at Reef Point into the parking lot.  On this particular trip, we entered at Newport Coast. We turned left and parked in parking area 3 or 4. MAP to Crystal Cove State Park

What You Might See on Your Nature Ramble

On the way to the parking area, we had a whole family of California quail run in front of our car. Keep your eyes out for these guys. Trails run all around the bluffs, pick one and see what you see.

We saw plenty of delicate flowers which were especially colorful against the brownish hue of the dried brush.

This plant looks like it was made for these conditions, holding in every bit of water it receives.

Of course, we saw lots of lizards. But many moved fast and didn't want to pose for photos.

This was my favorite spot for sitting in the salty air and staring at the activity out on the ocean.

An especially good seat for spotting dolphins:

Hope you get a chance to get out there for a Crystal Cove nature ramble and cool off while enjoying this incredible treasure!

Be Aware:

• There’s a steep hill down to the beach. We stayed on the bluff trails since it was high tide.
• We got in with our State Parks pass (good for use in Orange County at Bolsa Chica, Chino Hills, Crystal Cove, Doheny, Huntington, San Clemente, and San Onofre). Read here for details on the annual pass or else pay the $15-$20 for the day.  I think it’s a worthwhile investment toward our parks and your family time in nature.
• I have heard of rattlesnake and snake sightings on the bluff, but not as much of a issue when it's foggy and cool.

Checklist:

• Purchase a state parks annual pass before you go (or have $15-$20 on your credit card ready for parking)
• Bring a change of clothes so the kids can get wet and sandy if you head to the beach
• You might think about bringing: binoculars, camera, water to drink
• Link to the official Crystal Cove State Park website
• There is another separate, but official Crystal Cove State Park website which has even better local information.
• Finally, try the Crystal Cove Conservancy for info about the cottages and more.

Want to explore more of Crystal Cove State Beach?

• Moro Beach at Crystal Cove
• Reef Point at Crystal Cove
• Family Guide to Crystal Cove Historic District via Los Trancos
• Pelican Point and Treasure Cove at Crystal Cove

Originally published in August 2010.

The post Crystal Cove Nature Ramble appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Moro Beach is very confusing with all its names: El Moro, Moro Cove, or El Moro Canyon.

The signage seems to indicate that they've decided on Moro Canyon Area - as a way to describe the beach, canyon, and hiking/biking trails.

Whatever you want to call it, you enter near El Morro Elementary School off Pacific Coast Highway just north of Laguna Beach. And, yes, I spelled the name of the school correctly. See how confusing it can get?

How to Get to Moro Beach at Crystal Cove State Park

Get to Moro Beach through the southernmost entrance to Crystal Cove State Park. From Pacific Coast Highway - PCH - (between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach), turn inland at El Morro Elementary School.

Follow the narrow driveway up the hill and bear to your right at the fork. 

It will look like you are going into the campground. Pay (credit card only) or show your pass at the booth.

Go straight and turn downhill to the right (not into the campground). Turn right at the bottom of the hill and park in the lot.  MAP TO MORO BEACH at Crystal Cove State Park

Highlights:

• Truly one of my favorite Orange County beaches - we go here ALL the time
• Nice restrooms and showers
• Super EASY parking and walk to beach under PCH
• Beautiful for a day at the beach or sunset
• Awesome spot for long beach walks between Abalone Point to the south and Reef Point to the north - or all the way along Crystal Cove State Park beach (depending on the tides)
• CA State Park lifeguards during the summer
• Snack bar located at the front of the restroom building for buying treats and they even sell sand toys and beach chairs (expensive, but if you need them . . .). Open only during summer.
• Berns Environmental Study Loop has 8 field stations behind the beach where you can walk on an ADA-accessible trail and get involved in citizen science projects.

Be Aware: 

• $15 (or $20 on holiday weekends) to park or use your California State Parks annual pass
• Opens at 6am and closes at sunset
• The tunnel can sometimes be flooded at high tides or during storm events. I wouldn't go playing in the water right here.

Checklist:

• Crystal Cove Conservancy and CrystalCoveStatePark.org are the best sources for info about the park
• Restrooms are near the parking lot with outdoor showers.
• More restrooms on the south side of the beach in the lifeguard building.
• Read "How to Buy a California State Park Annual Pass" - which also has info on how to get the pass for free. I think it's really worth the investment. The more you go, the more it pays off!

What Families Can Do Once You Get to Moro Beach at Crystal Cove State Park

Take a beach walk to Abalone Point on the south side of the beach.

Set up "camp" near a lifeguard and enjoy a beach day boogie boarding and swimming during the summer.

In winter, hang out on the beach and let the kids get their toes wet and play in the sand. (As long as conditions are safe for this!)

Start a long beach hike from the south end of Crystal Cove State Park all the way to the north. Watch the tides! It's 3.2 miles of beach -- so it would be a 6+ mile hike if you do the whole thing out and back.

If you want to spend the night here, reserve a campsite at Moro Campground.

Walk the trail to the stations on the Berns Environmental Loop.

Want to explore more of Crystal Cove State Beach?

• Reef Point at Crystal Cove
• Family Guide to Crystal Cove Historic District via Los Trancos
• Pelican Point and Treasure Cove at Crystal Cove

The post Moro Beach at Crystal Cove State Park appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Craig Regional Park in Fullerton is in the most urban location of the regional parks I've visited.

It's right across the Imperial Highway near Brea Mall.

On the weekday we visited, I observed many visitors in high heels or suits walk over to the park with their sack lunches.

Once you are inside the gates, the mall and busy city streets fade away--the only reminder of the outside world is the whooshing sound of the 57 behind the soundwall. 

Many thanks to Lisa for recommending (her comments in italics)!

How to Get to Craig Regional Park in Fullerton

I took the 57 Freeway towards Brea and took the Yorba Linda Blvd. offramp. Turn right from the offramp onto Yorba Linda Blvd. and take your next right onto State College Blvd.

Follow it quite a few scenic miles to the park entrance on your right (just before Imperial Highway).

A more direct route would be to exit the 57 at Imperial Highway, make a left onto State College, and another quick left into the park entrance.

Remember, this is a regional park so you need to have your annual pass or pay the fee. (Address: 3300 N State College Blvd, Fullerton) MAP to Craig Regional Park in Fullerton

Recommended by: Lisa (see italics for her tips)

Highlights:

Very hilly and lush, lots of room to run around and roll in the grass.

Plenty of different play areas to choose from spread throughout the park.

Our favorite one is across the parking lot from the lake - my toddler runs back and forth from the play structure to the bridge and has a blast.

With so much space to run around and plenty of picnic tables, it seems like it would be an awesome place for a birthday party.

Let's call Lisa's favorite playground "Playground #1" (they don't really have #'s). It's at the back of the park. Follow the signs from the entrance. The bathroom is literally steps from the playground and there are shady picnic tables and picnic shelters. There are plenty of swings, an old-style dome jungle gym, 4 horse ride one toy, and two fun play structures with fast slides. It's closest to the lake and bridge across the lake to the sports park.

"Playground #2" is halfway back to the entrance. The bathroom is not as close here, but in the middle of the day the smaller structure was shaded. It's a very big playground with red standing teeter-totters, ride on motorcycle toys, swings, and bright orange slides.

"Playground #3" is right next to the nature center (open on weekends) and entrance. It's more for smaller children. It just has one structure, limited parking, and no swings.

Be Aware:

• Can be extremely busy around holidays and if there are lots of parties going on. Lots of people driving in circles trying to find a spot to park.
• Coyote territory! There is a sign posted way off to one end of the park that says "coyotes present" but I doubt they just stick to the area around the sign.
• Fee for parking. If you don't have an annual pass - you should get one!

Checklist:

• Pay parking lots - $3 weekdays, $5 weekends, and $7-$10 on holidays.
• Drinking fountains and restrooms all over the park
• Very nicely raked sand play surfaces on the playgrounds
• Many shaded picnic shelters available for reservation or on first-come, first-served basis
• Grills paired with many of the picnic areas
• The Ted Craig Shelter is absolutely huge and it would be great for a big company picnic. Did you know the official OCParks.com site has a whole reservation system for the shelters? Here's the link for reserving shelters at Craig and other OC Parks.
• For more information, link to the OFFICIAL OC Parks page for Craig Regional Park.
• Nearest public library: Brea Public Library (Branch of OC Public Libraries)
• Find more nearby parks in my North OC Parks Index

Originally published in October 2009.

The post Craig Regional Park in Fullerton appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

I'd never heard of Pirate Park in Bellflower until one of my readers pointed it out to me. (Thanks for telling me about it, Cat!).

It's a VERY small park and really geared towards the younger kids for that very reason. I think preschoolers and Kindergartners with BIG imaginations will love to play pirate here.

And, yes, I realize that Bellflower is NOT in Orange County. It's actually in LA County across the 605 Freeway from Orange County near Cerritos - which is also NOT in Orange County. But I like to cover parks along this corridor because #1 - it's a great place to meet friends from LA and #2 - if it's a neat park then I figure you want to know about it.

Directions to Pirate Park in Bellflower:  The park is reachable off the 605 Freeway with a short jaunt on the 91 Freeway to exit at Bellflower Blvd. (Address: 16559 Bellflower Blvd, Bellflower) MAP TO PIRATE PARK IN BELLFLOWER

Highlights:

• This has all the makings of pirate pretend: a fort, a bridge, a row boat, a pirate ship, treasure, and a skull cave
• The playground is gated and has operating hours
• Near restaurants (Subway, Ricci's Italian, 600 Degrees Pizzeria, Johnny Reb's True South - and more)
• Even though the park is basically in the middle of a parking lot, the perimeter is planted with bamboo and other view blocking plants so it feels very lush and tropical inside the park
• My favorite part of the whole playground isn't even inside the gates -- the mural outside sets the mood!

Be Aware:

• Did I say the park is small? Well, it is. I think some children might be able to spend hours playing and pretending here. Some kids will be ready to move on rather quickly. I wouldn't block off a whole morning or afternoon for a visit, but rather pair it up with another park outing nearby.
• The park is not always open. There are monthly hours posted on the gate and a PDF download called "Pirate Park Hours Calendar" on the city's page that shows hours every month. For example in June 2026, it's mostly open around 9am to 6:45pm/7pm.
• There is a Bellflower Sheriff substation right next to the playground. I have no knowledge of crime in the area, but just thought I should share that as a "heads up." The location is right off the main downtown strip of Bellflower Blvd so it felt pretty safe to me when we visited early on a Sunday morning.
• There's a note on their official web page that it is NOT rented out for private parties and it has no picnic area
• The sign below offers up other "be aware" warnings about hot surfaces, shoes required for kids, and for caregivers not to wear heels

Checklist:

• Recycled rubber play surface
• Free parking in a lot dedicated to the surrounding businesses/restaurants
• Not sure about restrooms because we visited before the park was open (there are definitely NO restrooms inside the small playground)
• Drinking fountain
• Official Bellflower page for Pirate Park - click on the PDF called "Pirate Park Hours Calendar" to get official hours.
• Visit my list of 15 Pirate Parks in Orange County for more pretend play opportunities!

Parks Nearby Pirate Park in Bellflower:

• Heritage Park Play Island in Cerritos
• El Dorado Nature Center and Park in Long Beach

Originally published in June 2018.

The post Pirate Park in Bellflower: Fun for Your Little Pirate appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Brio Splash Pad in La Habra comes with a park is a great summer destination for Orange County families because of its shaded playground and opportunity to cool off with the splash park.

If you want to fill up an entire morning or afternoon, you can also visit the Children’s Museum at La Habra, which is directly across the street.

Directions to Brio Splash Pad in La Habra: This park is off of Euclid street, which can be accessed from the North via Beach Boulevard/Whittier Boulevard (Highway 39) which links up to the 5 Freeway. Alternatively, you can come from the south via Imperial Highway 90 which links up to the 57 Freeway. (Park Address: 300 S Euclid St, La Habra) MAP TO BRIO PARK AND SPLASH PAD IN LA HABRA

Highlights:

• This cute neighborhood park is also the newest in the city of La Habra
• The shade cover on the playground is a huge advantage of this park in the summer, and sets it apart from Oeste Park down the road, which also has a sizable splash-pad. 
• This park has natural beauty too, with bright blooms along the wall of a pavilion adjacent to the splash pad
• The splash pad is one of the largest I have seen in Orange County, and has a train with 3 slides - 2 on one side and 1 on the other. 
• The playground at this park is small, just one structure. This makes it easy to watch multiple kids at once.
• The splash pad is gated, which is also nice if you have multiple kids
• Small park, easy to keep track of kids
• Adjacent to the play structure is a nice row of work out equipment for adults
• Children’s Museum of La Habra is across the street on the other side of Euclid, and it is easy to walk from the park to the museum.

Be Aware:

• The only parking available is along the street, which is close to the playground.
• Euclid Street is next to the playground, which is a busy road with stop lights.
• The restrooms are on the opposite side of the park as the splash pad, so it can be tricky getting small children to and from the restroom while they are playing in the water.
• There is an area with picnic tables and grills but, unlike the playground, this area has very little to no shade during the day.
• Surfaces here can be slippery if there is any standing water from irrigation systems or rain.

Checklist:

• Parking on the street 
• ADA Accessible Park
• Play surface: Recycled rubber under splash pad and wood chips on playground
• No sand
• Restroom building near the corner of 2nd St. and Main St.
• Drinking fountains by restrooms
• Splash pad open 11am-6pm during summer (Memorial Day-Labor Day)
• Three round picnic tables, 2 charcoal barbecues 
• Splash pad be reserved from 10am-11am during the summer using this form. 
• Official website for Brio Park and Splash Pad in the City of La Habra
• See my list of ALL the splash pads and water play in Orange County

Parks near Brio Park:

• Clark Regional Park in Buena Park

Originally published in 2022.

Contributing Writer Bio: Heather is a mom of two. In 2021, Heather launched her @OCParentGuide account on Instagram and is mesmerized by how many amazing things you can do with your family in Orange County. She is a Kansas City native who moved here for a job in 2013. Her passion is inspiring people to lead more joyful and full lives. (Photo credit for this post also goes to Heather!)

The post Brio Park and Splash Pad in La Habra appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

You want to know the best toddler beaches with no waves in OC?  I'm going to provide you with my Top 4 plus two bonus beaches, but they come with a note of caution.  

Still water beaches, meaning no waves or surf, have a general propensity for water quality issues and they can also be good stingray habitat - at least along the warm sandy edges.

Check Heal the Bay Beach Report Card for water quality. Make sure a lifeguard is watching and ask for his/her advice about local conditions on the day you visit.

Any body of water is a dangerous place for a toddler - you should be within arm's length of any child under 4 years old when they are wading or swimming - and this especially applies at the beach!

As long as you move forward with those precautions in mind, then you should have a grand time at these toddler beaches!

Most comments I get on this post when it's up on social media is about water quality. Like I said, you can check the Heal the Bay report card before you go. If you are worried about it, then don't go. It's okay to make that choice! Go play somewhere where you'll feel more comfortable. I have a list of splash pads and community pools if that's more your style.

Corona Del Mar -- inside the harbor (Pirate's Cove)

Scramble down the path that leads over the rocks and take the stairs to this mini beach (NOT stroller-friendly). Check the tides before you go!  

You'll have to find parking on the street above the beach or pay for parking in the adjacent lot. Read my post about Corona Del Mar State Beach.

It's also a fun place to watch boats enter and leave Newport Harbor in the summer. The Wedge is just across the harbor and from the bluff you can see the surf pound the breakwater.

Baby Beach in Dana Point

You can park close and you don't have to pay for parking, but this one can get incredibly busy on weekends and holidays. So arrive early!

It's a launch point for paddleboards and kayaks, as well. Swimmers are roped off from boat traffic by a buoy line so you'll have some room for shallow water swimming. Read my post about Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor.

Weekday trips in the off-season are probably the least crowded. August and September can still be very warm in California.

Also, be aware that it can be 90 degrees at your home inland and foggy at the beach. Make sure you come prepared!

Some families prefer the grassy area behind the beach for relatively sand-free picnics.

Newport Dunes in Newport Beach

Parking inside Newport Dunes will cost you, but there is a wide bay for swimming and you can pay extra for 1-hour only access to a waterpark with float toys in the summer for playing in the water.

In general, the better water quality is the middle and west sides of the bay. Check the Heal the Bay Beach Report Card on the day you go.

Tim at Pirate Coast Paddle Company, is also located inside the Dunes for families looking to SUP.

Read about our stay at Newport Dunes Beach Cottages and a resort overview.

North Star Beach at Newport Aquatic Center

North Star Beach in Newport Beach's Back Bay is in the same general geographic area as Newport Dunes (above), except the opposite side of the bay and a little further inland. So much of the area is protected as a nature preserve.

This City of Newport Beach spot is designed for launching recreational watercraft like kayaks, outriggers, canoes, and paddleboards. The beach area is VERY small, but the water play is fun and airplanes fly over from Orange County Airport. This is NOT a swimming beach, but more of a wading spot.

There are quite a few things to be aware of at North Star Beach and also A LOT of links to share about it, so I ended up writing a full post on it.

Read my post about North Star Beach in Newport Beach Back Bay to get all the details on this spot.

Marina Park in Newport Beach

And here's a 5th beach that became more toddler-friendly after Marina Park playground opened nearby.

It's adjacent to a wonderful lighthouse themed park and playground. Wading can happen on the harbor side where there are no waves.

Read my post on Marina Park in Newport Beach.

I have had one parent complain of rocks that hurt her child's foot, but otherwise no reported issues over the years this one has been included on the list. Could be seasonal since beaches tend to have the sand wash in and out over the year (summer = more sand, less rocks)?

Mother's Beach in Huntington Harbour

A favorite for the Huntington Beach area is Mother's Beach inside Huntington Harbour (thanks to reader, Meg, for pointing that one out)!

This one has an awesome pirate-themed playground and it's somewhat off the beaten path (except on popular weekends and holidays when it can be really busy)!

Read my post about Seabridge Park and Mother's Beach in Huntington Harbour.

Are dogs allowed at these beaches?

In general, no. Dogs are not allowed on beaches, especially the sand.

Instead, you have 2 dog-friendly beach options in/near Orange County.

• Huntington Dog Beach between Seapoint and Goldenwest / 21st Street
• Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach off Ocean Blvd between Granada and Roycroft
• Newport Beach's policy for dogs on the beach is: "Dogs are never allowed on the beach or any beachfront sidewalk between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., including the ocean front beaches and bay front beaches." The rest of the city's dogs-on-the-beach rules are here.

So that's it! If you can think of any other toddler beaches in OC with NO waves, please let me know! I do know of another in Huntington Harbour, but the parking is pretty impossible so I've not included it here.

And if you want to know what to pack for your beach trip - read my tips in What to Bring to the Beach and How One Parent Can Carry It All.

Another option is to go play at a beach without going into the water! You can grab a bite at one of these Best Family Friendly Beach Restaurants in Orange County (one is at Corona del Mar State Beach) while the kids play in the sand or go play at one of these 10 Beach Playgrounds in Orange County.

If you want to know about the 30+ Toddler-Friendly Parks in Orange County, then make sure you go read that blog post which highlights playgrounds with baby swings and restrooms - and other features that make them work for younger kids!

Originally posted in August 2013.

The post 6 Best Toddler Beaches with No Waves appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

The Bolsa Chica State Beach bike path is an almost 3-mile portion of the 10-mile bike trail which Google Maps calls "Huntington Beach Bike Trail" and what Visit Huntington Beach calls the "Ocean Strand" in Huntington Beach.

Whatever you call it, I'm talking about the short stretch that spans from an over-ocean bridge just past Seapoint Street on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and goes up the coast all the way to Warner Avenue.

How to Park at Bolsa Chica State Beach

It's a little tricky to figure out the best way to get to the beach from I-405 because of how the interstate runs diagonal to Huntington Beach's grid system streets. So what would seem the most direct might actually take the longest. I find that taking the Warner exit and following it directly to Pacific Coast Highway OR taking Warner and then turning left onto Goldenwest to PCH are both options. Or if you want to just cruise up PCH from the Huntington Beach Pier, then that works too.

The entrance to Bolsa Chica State Beach is located in the MIDDLE of the park. There is a stoplight that marks the turn. It's basically where the tall gray cinderblock park headquarters and visitor center are located. MAP TO BOLSA CHICA STATE BEACH BIKE PATH

If you have already purchased your California State Parks Annual Pass ($195/year), then hang it from your mirror and wait to be waved in by the attendant. Our pass had just expired so I bought mine right there at the booth with my credit card and ID - no forms to fill out. Otherwise,  you'll be paying the day use fee of $15/day.

I recommend parking at either of the far ends of the path if you want to bike the whole stretch and return the same way you came. Or you can park near the visitor center and go out and back halfway from there. 3 miles sounds far, but I was riding really slow -- mostly gliding -- and it only took me about 15 minutes to go one way end-to-end.

You cannot park along PCH or in the surrounding free lots which serve the Bolsa Chica Wetlands across PCH. The only other nearby parking is called Blufftop down between Seapoint Street and Goldenwest. It is a City of Huntington Beach metered lot (see bottom left of this map) where you'll pay $2.25/hr or $2.50/hr during peak season between 8am and 10pm.

Stops Along the Bolsa Chica State Beach Bike Path

The Basics

Since this is a State Beach, you'll find many amenities spaced along the wide path.

• A wide paved path (watch for pedestrians!)
• Beachside outdoor showers for rinsing off after a dip in the ocean
• Restroom buildings -- in addition to restrooms near each restaurant
• LARGE trash dumpsters
• Fire pits for a bonfire at sunset
• One spot with reservable shelters near a basketball court on the parking lot side of the path
• No tents allowed at the campground - it's mostly for RVs

Check restaurants for opening times.

Finally, although it's very sunny in my photos - there's a potential for marine layer clouds or fog at this location. So be prepared for cool and breezy.

Restaurants at Bolsa Chica State Beach

• Sealegs at the Beach
• Sea Salt Honky Tonk - with Heritage Barbecue
• Beach City Provisions
• PCH Tacos

Bolsa Chica State Beach Campground, followed by Beach City Provisions

This restaurant is directly past the camping area and has a small provisions store open on the weekends, as well as a restaurant window and area to dine outside. Here is the website for this restaurant.

Bolsa Chica Visitor Center

There's a small visitor center near the big cinder block tower and park rangers at the desk to answer your questions. There's one room of exhibits where children are encouraged to press buttons, open drawers, and then follow the ramp up to look through telescopes to see birds at the ecological reserve across the street. This was a really cool perspective on the wetlands from a distance

SeaLegs at the Beach

For me, this location looked more geared towards the adult crowd with lounges, curtains fluttering in the breeze, and even swings! Lots of seating arrangements meant for socializing. It still felt fun and casual, but chairs directly in the sand with a stage hinting at lively nighttime concerts and events.

Checklist:

• To see an official map of the park and bike trail, go to the California State Parks web page for Bolsa Chica State Beach and click on the brochures icon.
• Learn about SeaLegs and get info on the restaurants in the group
• Expect huge crowds on holidays and during the summer
• If you decide to come for a beach day, read my What to Bring to the Beach post (it even has a printable checklist!)

Nearby Nature Experiences:

• Bolsa Chica Wetlands are across the street from Bolsa Chica State Beach.  You will need to drive to get there because it's not safe to cross by foot from the beach.
  • Bolsa Chica Wetlands Interpretive Center and trails
  • Bolsa Chica Wetlands bridge and wildlife viewing

Are bikes allowed at Bolsa Chica Wetlands?

Bikes are NOT allowed at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve across the street from Bolsa Chica State Beach. It is a fragile area for wildlife so all the rules are aimed at protecting it. Find out further rules & regulations on the Bolsa Chica Conservancy's FAQ page.

Originally published in June 2017.

The post Bolsa Chica State Beach Bike Path appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Doheny State Beach near Dana Point Harbor is one of my favorite spots in Orange County.

We like to hang out at the harbor for breakfast, walks, and visits to the Ocean Institute.

I always seem to be walking through Doheny State Beach or driving past it on my way to the harbor.

How to Get to Doheny State Beach: The beach entrance is where Del Obispo turns into Dana Point Harbor Drive after you cross Pacific Coast Highway on your way to the harbor. I get to Doheny from all sorts of directions (Moulton to Golden Lantern, Crown Valley Parkway to Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), I-5 to PCH.  Look at the map to see what makes the most sense for you.  Taking the “Beach Cities” exit off Interstate 5 takes you right under the pedestrian bridge over PCH.  Turn left onto Dana Point Harbor Drive and make an immediate left at the light. (Address: 23500 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point) MAP TO DOHENY STATE BEACH IN DANA POINT

Things to Know about Doheny State Beach

A California State Park offering day use areas for picnicking or beachgoing, plus a beach campground and day use area with fire pits.

The Visitor Center / Interpretive Center at the entrance booth has an aquarium and small displays of local wildlife. Consult the calendar for interpretive programs for families and kids.

A great spot for large gatherings with reservable picnic areas -- many in the shade.

You can spend the day here and even walk over Dana Point Harbor and shops.

There are restrooms!

Be Aware:

• Ocean bottom is rocky at this beach
• In recent years, witnessed a rising number of people experiencing homeless sleeping on the grassy area
• Access to fire pits and day use area can be impacted by high surf or storm surge
• Big events like the Doheny Blues Festival and Ohana Fest make the park extra busy and hard to navigate during the event - make sure you check the park calendar before you go.
• $15 day use fee for parking (or use your CA State Parks annual pass). Here's my post all about How to Buy a California State Parks Pass.

Things to Know about Dana Point Harbor

One of my favorite places for family strolls because you never know what you are going to see. Park in the structure near the restaurants at the dead end of Golden Lantern and walk the sidewalk all the way to the Ocean Institute or across the bridge to the small island where many of the yacht clubs are located. I wrote a post about all the walks you can do at the harbor with route maps.

Coffee Importers is a local favorite that moved from it's location of 40+ years in the heart of the harbor shops down to right on the harbor side of The Ocean Institute. Still has great views of the harbor!

You can walk from the harbor shops to Doheny State Beach.

Public restrooms are near Dana Wharf Sportsfishing.

Be Aware:

Parking in the structure is free for the first 4 hours and then goes up drastically each hour after up to a daily max.

• First 4 Hours – FREE
• Each Additional Hour – $6
• Daily Max – $24
• Lost Ticket – $24

Here are posts I've already written on the area:

• Dana Point Headlands Nature Interpretive Center
• Visit the Ocean Institute in Dana Point for Learning about Local Nautical History and Marine Animals
• Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor
• Dana Point Tide Pools - Marine Protected Area (MPA) and State Marine Conservation Area (SMCA)
• Heritage Park doesn't have a playground, but it's nice for walks and views.
• Lantern Bay Park does have a small playground and restroom.
• Dana Point Bluff Top Trail for a short walk with views of the harbor.

Lots of people have covered the surf history, special events and activities related to this beach/park/campground/picnic area.  Here are the top online sources I consult when planning a visit:

• Huell Howser - California's Golden Parks (see the video online!)
• Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association
• Doheny State Beach (Official California State Parks page)
• Dana Point Harbor
• City of Dana Point
• The Ocean Institute

Originally posted in September 2010.

The post Doheny State Beach and Dana Point Harbor appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

There are so many kid friendly things to do near Newport Beach that it's hard to pick for a list! From playgrounds to nature centers to beaches, Newport Beach is the epitome of California tourism. It's the perfect place to be outdoors with your family.

Newport Beach feels like multiple cities because it is spread over a large section of the coast. In fact, Corona del Mar is a neighborhood of the city, even though it sounds like its own city, as are Balboa Island, Balboa Peninsula, and Newport Coast.

Let me run down a few of my favorite spots to take the kids. I've grouped these places to go in Newport Beach by proximity to each other and, in some cases, with a short description of how to visit.

21 Kid-Friendly Things to Do Near Newport Beach

Let's start with an exploration of Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve because it is one of the most biodiverse spots on the planet and we'll finish with Coastal Peak Park which is high above the ocean giving a view of it all.

1

Muth Interpretive Center and Upper Newport Bay for Families

Muth Interpretive Center can even be visited on a layover at Orange County Airport! It's a beautiful spot with a view of the nature preserve and nature exhibits to discover how these wetlands benefit us and what lives here. Everything is hands on and there's even room to stretch out and play. (Closed Mondays).

Go to Blog Post

2

Marina Park in Newport Beach on the Balboa Peninsula

This has become a popular beach playground for Orange County families with its nautical theme and also sand right up to the harborside beach. Climb up to the lighthouse to take the slide. If you want to grab a bite, visit the Lighthouse Cafe next door.

Go to Blog Post

3

Balboa Peninsula Summer Trolley to Balboa Pier

If you happen to visit on a Saturday or Sunday during the summer, you might be lucky enough to take the free summer trolley! This post lays out where you can stop on your way down and then back up the peninsula.

Go to Blog Post

4

Balboa Pier and Peninsula Park in Newport Beach

There are two piers on the Balboa Peninsula. This is the most popular one with the Ruby's Diner at the end of the pier. Take a walk and enjoy the view or play at the playground.

Go to Blog Post

5

Newport Elementary Shared Beach Playground

Visiting Newport Elementary playground in the summer or after school hours makes for some fun right on the beach!

Go to Park Post

6

Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach

The Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach is a hidden oasis of nature that you don't even know exists from the street. Park in the small parking lot, enjoy the nature center, and then take a walk of the grounds.

Go to Blog Post

7

Castaways Park in Newport Beach

This is the perfect sunset park and you can pair it with #7 on the list to get in a playground, too! Views of the Newport Back Bay and Newport Harbor.

Go to Blog Post

8

Bob Henry Park in Newport Beach

Nothing fancy, but it's close to Castaways Park and the Environmental Nature Center so it makes a great stop.

Go to Blog Post

9

Newport Dunes Beach Cottages and Resort Overview

Newport Dunes is an RV resort and beach where you can play at the playground, dip your toes in the bay, or rent out one of the cottages for a longer stay. They often have events like outdoor movies and summer is filled with play in the bay.

Go to Blog Post

10

Back Bay Science Center Community Days in Newport Beach

Back Bay Science Center is only open to the public for limited hours during "Community Days." I find it to be the perfect gateway to the nature you'll find along Back Bay Drive and Newport Bay.

Go to Blog Post

11

Sunset Ridge Park in Newport Beach

Sunset Ridge is one of my favorite parks and it's reachable via a pedestrian bridge that allows you to park and visit safely. It's at the base of the peninsula so a good place to start or end your day.

Go to Blog Post

12

Corona Del Mar State Beach for Families

Ahhhh! One of my favorite beaches on the planet! Many sunsets have been enjoyed here along with beach days. Read my Beach Eats post to see photos of food and learn more about The Jetty restaurant here.

Go to Blog Post

13

Grant Howald Park in Newport Beach

This park gets better and better. It's tucked back into a Corona del Mar neighborhood in close distance to a branch of the Newport Beach Library.

Go to Blog Post

14

Sherman Library and Gardens in Corona Del Mar

Sherman Library and Gardens in Corona del Mar is a small botanic garden with a lot of personality. We enjoy visiting everytime we go. During Summer 2026, it's undergoing a big improvement project so check the website and their social media for the latest.

Go to Blog Post

15

Newport Beach Civic Center and Park

It's been called Bunnyhenge and all sorts of other nicknames, but it's truly an awesome park with life-sized art exhibits and native plants scattered along the trails. Visit the main branch of the Newport Public Library here which has a new addition: Kit Coffee. There's even an Instagram for @kitatthelibrary !

Go to Blog Post

16

Irvine Terrace Park: Ride a Fast Tunnel Slide With a Window

Don't let the name fool you! This playground is just down the road from the Civic Center and it's a favorite with kids. There are peek-a-boo views of the harbor from here. You always have Fashion Island nearby for grabbing a bite or visiting Barnes & Noble. Bristol Farms has hot freshly-baked cookies for a sweet treat.

Go to Blog Post

17

San Miguel Park in Newport Beach

This park is so simple, yet a joy for the kids.

Go to Blog Post

18

Bonita Canyon Sports Park in Newport Beach

This spot is near #15 and it has 2 separate parking lots and playgrounds. One for older kids and one for younger. You'll like visiting both!

Go to Blog Post

19

Spyglass Hill Park in Newport Beach

I always like to hit this one at sunset. It's up on a hill and the lighting is nice that time of night.

Go to Blog Post

20

Spyglass Reservoir Park in Newport Beach

This one is even a bit higher up the hill than #17! Simple, yet easy to visit in a quiet neighborhood.

Go to Blog Post

21

Coastal Peak Park in Newport Beach

This one is always a favorite for those who visit. Sweeping views all around and just some fun play structures.

Go to Blog Post

I've already thought of more parks and places to cover and add to the list of kid friendly things to do near Newport Beach, but that should get you started whether you are visiting or living local!

If you are traveling to other Orange County beach cities, you can check out my posts on:

• Kid Friendly Things to Do in San Clemente
• Kid Friendly Things to Do Near Dana Point Harbor
• Laguna Beach Day Trip Ideas
• Best Beach Restaurants in Orange County (Family Friendly)

The post 21 Kid Friendly Things to Do Near Newport Beach appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.

Castaways Park in Newport Beach is one of the best spots in Orange County to take in views of the Newport Back Bay and Newport Harbor.

Directions to Castaways Park in Newport Beach: There are a lot of ways to get here! You can take Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), the 73, and even the 55.  It’s at the corner of Dover and 16th Street near Newport High School. You can set the map to a satellite view so you can see the parking lot in relationship to the paths. (Park Address: 700 Dover Drive, Newport Beach) MAP TO CASTAWAYS PARK IN NEWPORT BEACH

Highlights:

• Unbeatable views
• Flat, paved path perfect for little feet and walks after the rain
• It's big!  The path winds along the bluff top and heads in towards the bay.
• Very stroller-friendly and relatively flat
• Points of interest: benches overlooking the harbor, a veteran's memorial statue, a native plant demonstration garden
• Walk the loop: Walk from the parking lot out to the point overlooking the harbor, then loop back around and continue in front of the row of houses to a lookout point, then either head back the way you came -- or turn down the eucalyptus-lined path that will lead you back to Dover and a wide sidewalk leading back to your car by way of Bob Henry Park (restrooms).
• I also like to visit Juliette's Cafe and Coffee Culture when I'm around here!
• Great for birdwatching -- especially pelicans and other waterfowl

Be Aware:

• NO playground
• NO restrooms
• Path is shared with bikes and scooters, so keep your eyes out

Checklist:

• Parking in dedicated lot at the corner of Dover and 16th Street in front of the church (it looks like a parking lot to nowhere, but it quickly leads out onto the bluff top)
• Paved paths
• Dogs are allowed on leash - and I always see quite a few people walking dogs
• Stroller-friendly and bike friendly
• Official Newport Beach post about Castaways Park
• Nearest Public Library: Crean Mariner's Branch of Newport Beach Public Library

Nearby Nature Centers & Park:

• Bob Henry Park
• Environmental Nature Center
• Muth Interpretive Center
• Find more parks in the area using my Central OC Park Index

Originally published in March 2012.

The post Castaways Park in Newport Beach appeared first on Fun Orange County Parks.