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Best Public Beaches In Orange County

sailboat BEACH header 610
(credit: JOE KLAMAR/AFP/Getty Images)

California girls and boys, as well as people from all around the world, flock to Orange County to enjoy the waves and the endless fun in the summer sun. The remarkable collection of eye-catching public beaches adds to the enjoyment of feeling your toes in the sand, immersing yourself in the waves of OC's welcoming waters and checking out the surf. With no shortage of beach activities and all types of dreamy views, your perfect summer day to wear that new swimsuit is simply an OC beach visit away from becoming a reality. Clearly, OC shines with an impressive range of optimal beach brilliant options - here are five of the best public beaches in Orange County.

Visit Huntington Beach
(credit: Visit Huntington Beach)

Huntington City Beach
325 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
(714) 969-3492
www.surfcityusa.com

In this Orange County spacious beach heaven, surfing highs occur all year, thus the moniker, "Surf City USA." Downtown is a short walk from the sands of Huntington City Beach and includes the International Surfing Museum as well as a unique shopping area, all of which adds to the endlessly euphoric experience of summer beach days. Some come for specific events such as the surfing championships, others to experience the famed surf breaks. Waves of tourists and locals alike enjoy experiencing why Surf City carries such a magnetic, irresistible and unforgettable fresh flow of beautiful beach allure.

Related: Best Museum Gift Shops In Orange County

Laguna Beach Visitors & Conference Bureau
(credit: Laguna Beach Visitors & Conference Bureau)

Laguna Beach - Main Beach
335 S. Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 497-9229
www.lagunabeachinfo.com

Diving into the world of Laguna Beach's Main Beach offers you the opportunity to see remarkable marine life up close. In the northern section of this beach where marine life flourishes, there is a tide pool. The sand volleyball courts, the playground and the full public facilities are all pluses. Located in the center of the city's downtown area, this beach is near hotels and lodging ideal for events ranging from romantic dinners to picturesque weddings.

City of Newport Beach
(credit: City of Newport Beach)

Newport Beach
100 Civic Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 644-3309
www.newportbeachca.gov

Nothing can hold back the tide of visitors to gorgeous Newport Beach, a five-mile OC haven for swimmers, surfers, bicyclists, skaters, sun-soaked summer beach lovers and more. At the start of the early 1900s, this beach began bringing large waves of people to its waters, and the tradition continues as visitors come to the area for the surf and for the sights. Just south of the Newport Pier, this municipal beach is a short drive to the downtown area of the city of Newport Beach. So beloved is this beach that many people rent valuable homes on the boardwalk just for the summer, while others simply enjoy visiting for a great sunny day at the beach.

Sunset Beach
(credit: Gayle Barrientos)

Sunset Beach
103 Pacific Coast Highway
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
(714) 536-5497
www.huntingtonbeachca.gov

If you simply want to enjoy a pleasant, mellow beach location, you can find relief in the relatively under-discovered beauty of Sunset Beach. Recently annexed by the City of Huntington Beach, Sunset Beach sits in its own physical and cultural niche north of the core city beach in Huntington and south of Seal Beach. Near restaurants, hotels and shops, Sunset Beach is beloved for its low-key location and its penchant for beach activities such as swimming, surfing and lounging. It's a sight to see and if you're looking to avoid the massive crowds, you may find that the clean, calm Sunset Beach is fitting.

Corona del Mar city of Newport Beach
(credit: City of Newport Beach)

Corona Del Mar State Beach
3001 Ocean Blvd.
Corona del Mar, CA 92625
(949) 644-3151
www.parks.ca.gov

You'll enjoy relaxing at the half-mile-long, family-oriented Corona del Mar beach because it provides a wonderful way to take in the air and enjoy a great swim. Part of the city of Newport Beach, this "Crown of the Sea" is located near the east entrance to Newport Harbor. Dog lovers should also note that their four-legged friends are welcome at specific times. As you look into the famed voluminous treasure of the Pacific Ocean, you'll recognize that this picture-perfect location is simply one of the many great beaches in the world of OC's spectacular sights, sounds and beach cultures.

Related: Best Camera Stores In Orange County

Will Engel is a musician and music journalist with eight years of experience. A graduate of Wesleyan University, Will is a singer, keyboardist/pianist, and songwriter who released a well-received album and frequently performs around Southern California. He lives in the Los Angeles area. His work can be found at Examiner.com.

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