Capistrano Beach Park
Dana Point, CA
A low key stretch of Orange County coastline that locals call Capo Beach, sitting in the shadow of its more famous Dana Point neighbors without the crowds that come with them. The sand is wide, the surf is manageable, and parking is easier than almost anywhere else nearby.
Parking here tends to be easier than at Doheny or Salt Creek just up the coast, especially on weekends.
More Pacific Coast beaches
Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.
Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.