Also known as Corona Del Mar State Beach. it is probably the best beach for families. The main reason is the great but easy 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, hills to climb, shaded picnic areas with barbecue grills.

While enjoying the sand and the surf you can watch the sailboats go by. The beach is adjacent to Newport Beach jetty, which leads to Newport Harbor.

This beach is very popular in warm weather. Parking is at a premium. 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. One the way down you rest in one of the rest stops and take great photos. You can also park anywhere along Ocean Blvd.

If you did not pack snacks or lunch and prefer not to buy food at the snack bar, you can grab some food from the many restaurants and coffee shops along PCH. I especially like Baja Fresh Mexican Grill at 3050 E. Coast Hwy.

More information at: http://www.beachcalifornia.com/corona-delmar-state-beach.html

Phone 949-644-3151

Related Books:

• Sun, Sand & Surf: The Ultimate Guide To Orange County Beaches
• Afoot & Afield Orange County: A Comprehensive Hiking Guide
• 101 Hikes in Southern California: Exploring Mountains, Seashore and Desert