Are you looking for the best beaches in Irvine? Look no further!
In this blog post, we’ll examine the best beaches near Irvine, their amenities and attractions, and what to anticipate when you visit.
Best beaches close to Irvine have something for everyone, from Crystal Cove State Park to Newport Beach.
So grab your swimsuit and sunscreen and prepare to enjoy the sun as we explore the Irvine beaches!
In Irvine, you’ll find the ideal beach for swimming, surfing, relaxing, or exploring nature.
Continue reading to learn more about the city’s top beaches.
Table of Contents
Where can you Find the Best Beaches Near Irvine?
In truth, Irvine does not have beaches, but adjacent cities like Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and Dana Point do.
All of them are in Orange County and are roughly 20 minutes (10-15 miles) by car from Irvine.
What are the Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Beaches Near Irvine?
Location
The location is the most important factor to consider when selecting the best beaches near Irvine.
You want to locate a beach that is not too far from your home or other planned activities.
Consider beaches near restaurants, stores, and other tourist attractions.
Crowd Size
Depending on your preferences, you may wish to pick a less busy or more popular beach.
The cost of beach activities and amenities can also be affected by the size of the crowd.
Amenities
Many Irvine beaches provide amenities like lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, and outdoor grills. Consider what facilities you want and what is within your budget.
Activities
Consider what things you would like to do on the beach. Do you want to swim, surf, kayak, or just sit back and relax in the sun? Make sure the beach you choose has the activities you want.
Cleanliness
Before you go, make sure to inspect the beach for cleanliness. Many Irvine beaches are well-kept, although some may be dirtier than others.
What are Some of the Best Beaches in Irvine? 10 Amazing Beaches in Irvine
Crystal Cove State Beach
Crystal Cove State Beach is one of California’s most gorgeous locations and one of the best beach near Irvine.
This beach in Orange County is famous for its magnificent natural setting and clean, blue water.
With miles of shoreline, this is an ideal place to spend an afternoon or maybe a whole day.
People visit Crystal Cove to enjoy the scenery and participate in a variety of activities. Nature enthusiasts can stroll along the boardwalk, explore the tidal pools, or hike the trails.
Guided kayak tours are provided for individuals looking for a unique way to experience the outdoors.
The beach is also well-known for its excellent swimming and surfing opportunities. Surfers appreciate the steady and reliable waves, while swimmers appreciate the calm and beautiful waters.
Amenities
- Miles of sandy beaches and coves
- 3 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails
- A variety of tidepools and bluffs
- Picnic areas, barbeques and fire rings
- Playground area
- Educational programs and nature center
Pet Policy
Dogs allowed on paved areas only. Except for service animals, dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the backcountry.
Newport Beach
Looking for a quiet and relaxing getaway in Orange County? Look no further than Newport Beach!
This city of about 83,000 people, located on the Pacific Coast just south of Los Angeles, offers a variety of activities for both tourists and locals.
Newport Beach has something for everyone, from swimming and boating in the warm waters to shopping and dining in its many restaurants.
Enjoy the sun, sand, and waves as you stroll along its lovely boardwalks. Visit the Orange County Museum of Art and the Laguna Art Museum, or go on a cultural adventure.
During the entire year, you can also attend cultural events such as the Newport Beach Film Festival and the International Street Fair.
Amenities
- Boardwalk with cafes and shops
- Harbor cruises
- Surfing and kayaking
- Fishing
- Biking and walking trails
- Beach volleyball
- Picnic areas
- Midway-style amusement park
Pet Policy
Leashed dogs are permitted on Newport Beach’s beachfront beaches before 10:00 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m. Leashed dogs are permitted on Bayfront beaches before 9:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m.
Corona del Mar State Beach
Often referred to as a little piece of paradise, Corona del Mar State Beach is one of Southern California’s most frequented beaches and among the best beaches in Irvine.
The beach, which is located in Orange County, has a lovely shoreline and stunning landscape, making it ideal for a day of fun in the sun.
It’s ideal for families or anyone looking for a relaxed day at the beach, with crystal-clear waters and plenty of activities.
The beach has a variety of services, such as lifeguards on duty, bathrooms, picnic spaces, and numerous beach access points.
You will undoubtedly discover the ideal area to spend the day swimming or sunbathing.
The breathtaking views of the beach make it a favorite place for romantic walks, sunset viewing, and other outdoor activities.
Corona del Mar State Beach is the ideal spot for a romantic retreat or a family day out.
Amenities
- Lifeguards on duty
- Picnic areas
- Showers and restrooms
- Handicap-accessible areas
- Fire rings
- Volleyball courts
Pet Policy
Dogs are allowed prior to 10 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m. Between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., dogs are not allowed on the beach or any beachfront sidewalk, including ocean and bay front beaches.
Treasure Island Beach
Treasure Island Beach in Irvine is a beautiful location for a one-of-a-kind beach vacation and among the best beaches in Irvine.
The beach is located on Newport Beach’s southernmost peninsula and is surrounded by a spectacular view of the bay, making it the ideal site to soak up some rays and appreciate nature’s beauty.
Swimming and sunbathing are among the activities available at the beach, as are kayaking and canoeing.
The beach is ideal for families because there are several activities for children. A neighboring nature center offers educational programs about the area’s unique animals.
There is also a coastal café that serves wonderful food and drinks and is ideal for a beach lunch or dinner.
The accessibility to Treasure Island Beach is one of its most notable aspects. A disability parking lot, wheelchair-accessible beach paths, and beach wheelchairs are available at the beach.
Amenities
- Soft, sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and beach activities
- Designated swimming area
- Outdoor showers for rinsing off
- Picnic tables and BBQ pits
- Onsite restaurant
- Ample parking
Pet Policy
Dogs are not allowed on the beach. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from June 15 until September 10th. Outside of specified dates and times, dogs are allowed on a leash.
Laguna Beach
Are you looking for a fantastic getaway destination? Then Laguna Beach Irvine is the ideal destination for you. This gorgeous area, located in the heart of Orange County, California, boasts some of the best beaches in the world making it among the best beaches in Irvine.
It’s simple to see why Laguna Beach is a popular tourist destination with miles of pure white beaches and sparkling blue waves.
The region is packed with activities for the entire family to enjoy. Laguna Beach provides something for everyone, whether it’s swimming, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, or simply lazing in the sun.
If you’re looking to explore the local wildlife, there are a number of hiking trails and nature reserves to explore.
Or if you’d rather stay in one spot, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to keep you entertained.
Laguna Beach Irvine is the ideal place to rest and unwind, with its stunning sunsets and miles of shoreline. It’s also ideal for a romantic break or taking the kids on an excursion.
With so much to offer, it’s easy to understand why Laguna Beach Irvine is one of California’s top locations to visit.
So come and enjoy the beauty of Laguna Beach Irvine while making unforgettable memories.
Amenities
- Two resort-style swimming pools
- 24-hour fitness center
- On-site retail and dining
- Outdoor lounge areas
- Clubhouse with billiards and entertainment
Pet Policy
Dogs are allowed on the beach as long as they are leashed
San Onofre State Beach
San Onofre State Beach, located in Irvine, California, is a beautiful beach that offers a variety of fun activities, spectacular views, and rejuvenation options.
It’s gorgeous, sandy beach and moderate weather make it a great destination for you and your friends or family to spend the day having fun and relaxing.
The State Beach has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking for an outdoor exploration trip or just a relaxed day of sunbathing.
You can hike a nature trail, visit tidal pools, or watch the sunset over the water. There are other locations for fishing and surfing, as well as kayaking and boating.
Camping and hiking are also popular activities at San Onofre State Beach. There are various campgrounds nearby, making it simple to find a place to stay for the night.
You can also rent a bicycle and have a leisurely ride down the beach, exploring the local area.
Amenities
- Sandy beaches
- Campground and cabins
- Picnic areas
- Hiking trails
- Fishing
- Surfing
- Boating
- Bike Trail
- Volleyball courts
- Nature center
Pet Policy
Pets must be kept under control at all times and kept on a leash no more than six feet in length. They are only allowed on Trails 1 and 6 of the beach.
On complaint, owners must remove noisy and/or aggressive pets from the campground. Pets must be kept in a car or tent at night and not left alone.
Pirate’s Cove Beach
If you’re looking for a wonderful beach in Irvine to visit and unwind, look no further than Pirate’s Cove Beach.
This beach is located on Irvine’s northern shore and is ideal for spending the day lazing in the sun, swimming in the ocean, and admiring the breathtaking views.
Pirate’s Cove Beach is ideal for families and anyone looking to unwind in the sun. The beach is quite large, so there is plenty of space for everyone to spread out and enjoy the scenery.
The beach is soft and welcoming, ideal for a day of sunbathing making it among the best beaches in Irvine. When you’re ready to go swimming, the water is always clear and comfortable.
Aside from the beach, there are numerous more activities to enjoy. Hiking routes abound in the area, making it ideal for exploring the environs.
There’s also a small marina nearby for fishing and boating. You can even ride a banana boat for some added excitement.
Amenities
- Lifeguards on duty
- Surfing and swimming area
- Picnic areas
- Showers
- Bathrooms
- Grills
- Playground
Pet Policy
- Dogs are allowed on the beach as long as they are on a leash.
- Owners must clean up after their pets and keep them away from other beachgoers.
- Dogs are not allowed in the water or in the picnic areas.
Huntington Beach
Are you looking for an exhilarating destination to visit? Look no further than Huntington Beach!
Huntington Beach is the ideal place for any and all beach activities, thanks to its magnificent golden sand beaches and proximity to major sites such as Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and others. These features make it among the best beaches in Irvine.
Huntington Beach has it all, whether you’re searching for a romantic sunset stroll, a great game of beach volleyball, or just a chance to relax and soak up some sunshine.
Huntington Beach’s stunning, pure seas make it one of the best spots for swimming, surfing, and kayaking.
The shoreline is lined with piers and boardwalks, and there are plenty of wonderful food options.
The views of the neighboring mountains, combined with the crystal blue waves, make for an unforgettable setting for any beach day.
There are plenty of activities in Huntington Beach for people who prefer to stay on dry land. There’s something for everyone, from biking trails to golf courses.
You may also visit the Huntington Beach Pier, which is the longest on the West Coast and gives breathtaking views of the ocean and its surrounding cities.
Amenities
- Miles of sandy beaches with plenty of room for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing
- A variety of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops
- A nearby pier with plenty of activities such as fishing and sightseeing
- Multiple parks with trails for biking and hiking
- Multiple golf courses for golf enthusiasts
Pet Policy
Dogs must be kept on a leash no more than six feet in length and under constant supervision.
They are only allowed in the parking lot and on the multi-use trail. On the beach, dogs are not allowed (except for service dogs).
Sunset Beach
This beautiful beach in Irvine is a beautiful and tranquil location to visit if you’re seeking for a beautiful and calm place to visit in California.
Sunset Beach is a magnificent beach and park in the city of Irvine on the West Coast of the United States and among the best beaches in Irvine.
It’s a great place to spend a day in the sun, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and plenty of outdoor activities.
The beach is an excellent choice for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and other beach activities as it is among the best beaches in Irvine.
Pack a picnic lunch and dine while admiring the views and sounds of the beach. You can also take a leisurely stroll down the sand and gaze out at the sea.
If you’re feeling more daring, take your hand at fishing or boating.
This destination is unquestionably a fantastic site to visit, regardless of your interests. With its breathtaking vistas, it’s likely to be a pleasant place to spend an afternoon.
The beach is an excellent spot to shoot pictures if you’re looking for a scenic location. Capture some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever witness.
It is also an incredible place to capture some of your most important memories, from the golden sand to the vibrant colors of the sky.
Sunset Beach in Irvine is an excellent choice for a day trip. Sunset Beach is likely to be a great experience, whether you want to rest and take in the views or participate in some of the activities provided.
So, why not visit this beautiful beach soon and soak up some rays?
Amenities
- Amenities:
- Boat launch ramp
- Lifeguard stations
- Picnic tables and BBQs
- Playground
- Showers
- Restrooms
Pet Policy
- Dogs must be leashed at all times
- Dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10am and 5pm
Table Rock Beach
Table Rock Beach in Irvine, California is the ideal spot for a sunny day. It’s easy to see why it is among the best beaches in Irvine.
The beach has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quiet day at the beach, a picnic in the park, some outdoor recreation or a spot to take in the spectacular views of the adjacent hills and Pacific Ocean.
Table Rock Irvine offers a variety of activities for anyone wishing to get active. Popular activities in the park include hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
The spot in Irvine is an excellent choice for those wishing to spend time outside in Orange County.
It’s easy to see why this park is so popular, with its diverse animals, breathtaking scenery, and plethora of activities to pick from.
So come see the beauty of Table Rock Irvine now!
Amenities
- Free parking
- Restrooms
- Beach access
- Picnic tables
- BBQ grills
- Volleyball courts
- Hiking trails
- Lifeguard
Pet Policy
- Pets are allowed in most other outdoor areas if they are controlled physically or on a leash no more than six feet in length.
- Pets are not permitted in the cabins or cabin areas, nor are they permitted on the swim beach at Table Rock State Park.
Conclusion on Best Beaches in Irvine
The best beaches in Irvine offer the perfect combination of sun, sand, and surf. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax and take in the sunset, or a lively destination for a day of fun in the sun, Irvine has it all.
From the popular Corona del Mar State Beach to Huntington Beach, there is a beach for everyone.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen and get ready to explore the best beaches in Irvine!
Recommended Read
11 Romantic Things to Do in Irvine
Frequently Asked Questions
Corona Del Mar Beach. Corona Del Mar Beach is the closest beach to UCI campus and is operated by the city of Newport Beach.
Coronado Beach. Coronado Beach features prominently on lists of the most beautiful beaches in America and is sometimes regarded as the finest beach for swimming in Southern California.
Large harbor and beautiful beaches. Newport Beach is famous for its beautiful beaches and large harbor. It is one of the best beaches close to Irvine. The boundaries of Newport Beach also include Balboa Island and Fun Zone, as well as Corona Del Mar.
El Matador Beach. There are several beautiful beaches close to Los Angeles, but El Matador Beach is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful. It is located in Malibu, approximately 45 minutes from Los Angeles, and is known for its breathtaking views, rock formations, and crystal clear water.
YES. Irvine is a wealthy and diverse community, so you can expect to see a mix of high-end neighborhoods and people from various cultures.
I am Monica, the enthusiastic explorer behind funthingsworld.com. With a degree in Leisure and Recreation Management and over 5 years of diving into thrilling adventures, I’ve made it my mission to uncover the best and most exciting activities around the globe.
Stay connected and get a sneak peek into my adventures on Instagram: @mongjerde