Big Corona Beach, also known as Corona Del Mar State Beach, is probably the best beach for families in Orange County.
This is mainly due to the light surf. On other beaches, the surf tends to be too high for smaller kids, scaring them away from the water. On this beach, the water is very inviting. The surf is just the right size for body surfing, boogie boards, and skid boarding. The older kids can go in a little further for slightly bigger waves.
The park has a snack bar, equipment rental, volleyball nets, picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and some fire rings. There are hills to climb and shaded picnic areas with barbecue grills.
You can watch the sailboats go by while enjoying the sand and the surf. The beach is adjacent to Newport Beach jetty, which leads to Newport Harbor.
Interesting Fact: Big Corona Beach is not only a popular spot for families but also a favorite location for professional photographers and film crews due to its picturesque views.
This beach is very popular in warm weather, and parking is challenging. Go early to reserve your spot. You can avoid some of the crowds if you try to enter the park from Orchid Avenue. Parking is free (if you find it), and the view is breathtaking, but you have to climb down a steep ramp to get to the sand. On the way down, you can rest at one of the stops and take great photos. You can also park anywhere along Ocean Blvd.
More information at: http://www.beachcalifornia.com/corona-delmar-state-beach.html
Main entrance 3100 Ocean BlvdNewport Beach, CA