Ready to ditch the theme parks and have a more relaxing time in the sun with the fam? Southern California is bursting with awesome beaches that are not too far from Anaheim. Perfect for a fun day out! Here are our top beaches near Anaheim where you can take a break from the theme parks, soak up the sun, build some epic sandcastles and simply enjoy life.
#1. Huntington Beach
If there’s one beach that truly embodies the laid-back California surf lifestyle near Anaheim, it’s Huntington Beach – aka ‘Surf City USA’. Around a 40-minute drive from Disneyland, California, this isn’t just a place where people surf – it’s a place where surfing is practically a religion. If your kids have ever dreamed of riding the waves, this is the place to make it happen – there are surf schools dotted along the coast, ready to turn even the wobbliest of beginners into mini Kelly Slaters.
Not a surfing family? It doesn’t matter – Huntington Beach is more than just a surfer’s paradise. The Huntington Beach Pier is an iconic spot for a seaside stroll, where you can soak in panoramic ocean views and maybe even spot a dolphin or two. Head inland to Main Street, where you’ll find the Surfing Walk of Fame, a cool tribute to legends of the sport – kind of like Hollywood Boulevard but with more board shorts.
For something a little different, check out Huntington Harbour. This charming network of islands and canals offers a quieter escape from the beach buzz. Rent a kayak or a paddleboard and glide past waterfront homes that will have you questioning all your life choices (why don’t we live here?). Need a break from the sand? Pacific City is a shopping and dining hub with serious California cool vibes.
Whether your crew is all about surfing, shopping, or just soaking up the SoCal atmosphere, Huntington Beach delivers. It’s got the perfect blend of high-energy adventure and laid-back beach town charm, making it one of the top beaches for a family day trip from Anaheim.
#2. Newport Beach
If Orange County had a family-friendly beach capital, Newport Beach would be wearing the crown (and probably some stylish sunglasses to match). With its mix of classic seaside charm, kid-approved attractions, and stunning coastal scenery, it’s the kind of place where lazy beach days, boat rides, and boardwalk fun all come together. Bonus points for being only a 25-minute drive from Disneyland, California.
Kick off your Newport Beach adventure with a stroll around Balboa Island, where the vibe is as laid-back as a Sunday afternoon nap. The island is famous for its frozen bananas (yes, just like on Arrested Development), and if your kids haven’t experienced the magic of chocolate-dipped, sprinkle-covered goodness, now is the time. Once everyone is sufficiently sugared up, hop on the Balboa Island Ferry, a charming little boat ride that takes you across the harbour to the Balboa Peninsula – and drops you off right in front of a kid’s paradise.
The Balboa Fun Zone is one of those classic boardwalk amusement areas that brings back childhood memories (even if your childhood was nowhere near a beach). The Ferris wheel here is a must – offering an incredible bird’s-eye view of the ocean and harbour.
Heading up the peninsula, you’ll hit Newport Beach itself, home to a long wooden pier where locals love to fish and surfers love to chase waves. It’s also a short and stroller-friendly walk to shops, cafés, and beachside restaurants if you need to refuel.
From thrilling boardwalk rides to peaceful nature spots, beach days, and boat cruises, Newport Beach has something for every family. Whether your crew is here for the waves, the wildlife, or just a delicious frozen banana, this beach is well worth a visit from Anaheim.
#3. Laguna Beach
Just a 30-minute drive from Disneyland in Anaheim, Laguna Beach is where artsy vibes, hidden coves, and coastal views come together in the most magical way. Nestled between Los Angeles and San Diego, this seaside gem is nothing like your typical Southern California beach town – it’s got rugged cliffs, sea caves, tide pools, and lush canyons all within city limits. Translation: there’s plenty of space for the kids to roam, splash, and discover!
It’s also home to California’s highest number of beachfront hotels, meaning you could literally wake up to the sound of waves crashing – just in case your kids don’t wake you up first.
Sure, Laguna Beach’s coastline is perfect for classic beach days, but if your crew is feeling adventurous, there’s so much more to explore. Think hiking trails with jaw-dropping views, marine sanctuaries brimming with wildlife, and mountain biking tracks for those who like their adventures on two wheels. With 20,000 acres of protected wilderness, you can swap flip-flops for hiking boots and still be in paradise.
Laguna Beach isn’t just about sandcastles and surfboards – this place has art in its DNA. It started as an artist colony, and today, it’s a year-round hub for creativity. You’ll find art galleries, music festivals, film screenings, and live performances around every corner. If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss the Pageant of the Masters, where real people recreate famous paintings (yes, actual humans standing completely still – prepare to be impressed).
Laguna Beach blends outdoor adventure, stunning landscapes, and a touch of culture in a way few places do. Whether your family loves beach days, scenic hikes, or diving into the arts, this is a place where everyone can find something to love.
#4. Moro Beach
If your family is looking for a less crowded, more natural beach escape near Anaheim, Moro Beach is an absolute winner. Nestled between Laguna Beach and Newport Beach, this stunning stretch of coastline feels a little more off-the-beaten-path while still being just a 30-minute drive from Anaheim. Think soft sand, rolling waves, and zero theme park lines – just what you need after a few hectic days at Disneyland!
One of the biggest perks of Moro Beach is that it’s part of Crystal Cove State Park, meaning you get clean beaches, scenic coastal views, and a touch of wilderness. If you’ve got little explorers in the family, the tide pools at low tide are pure magic – full of tiny sea creatures just waiting to be discovered. Just remind the kids to look, not touch!
For families who like to mix in a little adventure with their beach day, just across the way, Moro Canyon Trail offers some easy-to-moderate hikes with breathtaking coastal views. There are some things to know before you go, though:
- There’s a tunnel under the Pacific Coat Highway that safely connects the parking lot to the beach. Parking spots fill up fast so you’ll need to arrive early.
- As it’s a state park, there’s an entrance fee. However, it’s worth it for the scenery and well-kept facilities.
Moro Beach is the ultimate family-friendly coastal escape – a little bit of adventure, a lot of natural beauty, and just the right amount of relaxation. Whether you’re splashing in the waves, exploring tide pools, or hiking through Moro Canyon, it’s the perfect way to unwind after the whirlwind of theme park days in Anaheim.
#5. Seal Beach
If you’re driving down the Pacific Coast Highway, Seal Beach is your first official taste of Orange County’s coastal magic—and what a welcome it is! This laid-back beach town is known for its classic wooden pier, charming Main Street, and incredible sunset views over the Long Beach Harbor skyline. And if you’re lucky, on a clear day, you might even spot Catalina Island shimmering in the distance.
Seal Beach has that small-town, old-school beach charm that makes you want to slow down and take it all in. Main Street is just a few blocks long, but it’s packed with quirky shops, local eateries, and that relaxed, friendly atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a family stroll, an ice cream stop, or some casual souvenir hunting.
And, of course, the Seal Beach Pier is the star of the show. One of the longest wooden piers in California, it’s a perfect place for a scenic walk, some ocean breeze, and maybe even a seal sighting—though these days, you’re more likely to see them in quieter coastal spots. But don’t worry—Slick, the bronze seal statue at the pier, is always ready for a photo op!
If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly beach day away from the crowds near Anaheim, Seal Beach is a top choice. With a charming pier, cute local shops, and plenty of nature to explore, it’s the perfect spot for a slower-paced coastal escape near Anaheim. Whether you’re watching the waves, cycling along the river, or snapping a pic with Slick the Seal, this little beach town is well worth a visit.
Getting to the beaches near Anaheim
Public transport options to these coastal gems are limited, and while rideshares work for short trips, they can add up fast – especially if you’re lugging along beach gear, kids, and all their “essential” sandcastle tools. If your budget allows it, hiring a car will give you total flexibility, letting you hit the beach early before the crowds, stop at scenic lookouts along the way, and pack everything you need for a full day of fun without worrying about storage space. If the weather forecast is looking good, hiring a convertible for the day is a memorable experience!
Ready to hit the road? Check out these car rental options in Anaheim below and start planning your ultimate beach-hopping adventure!
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