Best beach to watch the Sunset

Question

Hello,

I am coming to visit California with my family after moving to England 20 years ago. We are coming to visit family and friends and reminisce. We are staying half our time in Orange County and the other half in Mission Viejo. We would love to spend a day (or two) on the beach close to where we are staying and just relax all day. Can you please recommend the best beach to spend the day where we can watch the sunset in the evening too (we are wanting to have s'mores too on the beach if possible).

Thank you in advance :)

Answer

Orange County has some of the most beautiful beaches in California, and many of them are perfect for spending a full day relaxing and enjoying the sunset. Since you’re staying in both Orange County and Mission Viejo, you’ll want options that are not too far from either location and ideally have amenities like fire pits for s’mores.

Here are some of the best options:

Huntington Beach: Known as “Surf City USA,” this beach offers a long stretch of sand and a wide pier. You can relax on the beach, watch surfers, and enjoy the sunset over the ocean. Fire pits are allowed in designated areas, but it’s best to check the current regulations and arrive early to claim a spot.
Newport Beach: Popular and family-friendly, Newport Beach has wide sandy areas perfect for picnics and games. Some areas allow beach bonfires (e.g., at the Newport Dunes or nearby designated fire pits). It’s a great spot for both daytime relaxation and sunset watching.
Laguna Beach: A bit more scenic and quieter than Huntington or Newport, Laguna Beach offers picturesque coves and tide pools. Main Beach has amenities like restrooms and is good for families. Fire pits are limited, so check local regulations if planning s’mores.

Additional tips for a full beach day and sunset:

Arrive early to claim a good spot, especially if you want to have a fire pit for s’mores.
Pack chairs, umbrellas, and plenty of water and snacks to make the day comfortable.
Check the tide schedules if you want to explore tide pools or tide-related activities.
Bring blankets or extra layers as evenings can get cool once the sun sets.
Some beaches require a small fee for parking, so plan accordingly.

All three beaches above provide easy access from both Mission Viejo and other parts of Orange County, and each offers a beautiful sunset experience. Huntington Beach tends to have the classic “California beach” vibe, Newport Beach is ideal for family activities, and Laguna Beach provides a scenic and more relaxed atmosphere.

Best beach to watch the Sunset

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