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While you already have your work cut out for you as far as Disneyland planning is concerned, picking out the perfect beach for you and your family can take a lot of time. That’s because there are hundreds of beaches near Disneyland that all provide different experiences. Fortunately, you won’t have to search the web after you check out these beaches we’ve lined up for you.
When you are planning how may days to go to Disneyland, you might want to consider taking a break day and heading to one of the many beaches near Disneyland. This is a great way to have a relaxing day between the hustle and bustle of the parks.
Whether you are going to Disneyland for Spring Break, during the summer, or even hitting up the Holidays at Disneyland, you may find that it is plenty warm in during your visit to enjoy some time on the beach, but fair warning, the Pacific Ocean is pretty cold.
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Beaches Near Disneyland
In our list, you’ll find the ideal beach for smaller children, surfers, snorkeling, bikers, dog-friendly, popular to remote beaches where there’s not another soul within sight. Or maybe beauty and tranquility are the most important thing that you consider while narrowing it down to the perfect destination?
Check out our extensive list of best beaches near Disneyland that you’ll enjoy during your next visit to Disneyland.
We have broken our list down by the “Beach Town” and then to specific beaches, sharing a little about each beach. We love that each beach is unique, so there is sure to be one for your family – as long as you don’t mind sand.
Also, be sure to check out our custom map of these beaches close to Disneyland to get an idea of where each one is located.
Below you can find what we like, and what to watch out for, at each location. We have also included drive time to each beach location. Remember, with traffic, the many freeways, and more, the closest beach isn’t always the quickest one to get to.
Beaches Near Disneyland: Dana Point, CA Beaches
1. Baby Beach
Looking for some of the best beaches near Disneyland that are toddler-friendly? Baby beach is within a marina that provides excellent views and calm waters for smaller children, leaving you with no worry of crashing waves or undertow.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 39 minutes
2. Capistrano Beach
This beach has had a few setbacks over the last couple of years due to storms, but Orange County has worked very hard at reviving it. At Capistrano Beach, you’ll find both volleyball and basketball courts, picnic areas along with firepits.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 38 minutes
3. Doheny State Beach
The protected Doheny State Beach is most notable as a great surf spot and for its campsites along the beach. Here you’ll also find lifeguards on duty and be able to grab a drink at the Boneyard Cafe that’s nearby.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 41 minutes
Huntington Beach, CA – Surf City, USA
1. Huntington City Beach
At the Huntington City Beach, you’ll quickly find out why it’s a popular beach spot, with several activities including volleyball courts, surfing, and bodyboarding. Be sure to take a stroll out on the iconic Huntington Beach Pier when you visit.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 37 minutes
2. Bolsa Chica State Beach
Bolsa Chica State Beach happens to be one of the best beaches near Disneyland. The waves are much calmer there and plenty of parking to appease the large crowds. There are RV campsites (no tent camping) and fire pits on location.
The sandy beaches are a great spot for kids of all ages to play, and build sand castles, and beyond. PS – we love these collapsible sand buckets for travel.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 33 minutes
3. Huntington State Beach
Another excellent beach that has many activities is Huntington State Beach. You’ll find basketball and volleyball courts, a bike path, and a disc golf course nearby. It draws not only swimmers but bodyboarders and boogie boarders.
This is on the list of beaches that I consider best for families. It has nicer bathrooms than the much smaller, city-run beaches, and plenty of space, concession stands, and various activities.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 30 minutes
4. Huntington Dog Beach
How about a beach where you can bring your canine friend, while not having to worry about keeping it on a leash? These Californian beaches are harder to come by, but Huntington Dog Beach is where you’ll find such a spot.
It is the perfect place for dog owners to visit on a short day trip from Anaheim and the Disneyland Resort area.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 35 minutes
5. Sunset Beach
Sunset beach didn’t get its name for anything, as it boasts an excellent sunset out on its pier. It also happens to be one of the closest beaches to Disneyland. You’ll notice that surfers and kite surfers find this beach irresistible as well.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 32 minutes
Newport Beach, CA – Most Popular Beaches Near Disneyland
While Huntington Beach is pretty popular, I have found that the Newport Beach area is one of the most popular beaches among Disneyland Resort guests. Here are some of the individual beaches in this area.
1. The Wedge
Are you looking for just the right beach for surfing? At The Wedge, you’ll be able to catch some of the largest and most awesome waves that you’ll find anywhere. Some get as tall as 30 feet! Make sure you check the wind and wave advisory conditions before you visit. Waves and rip currents can be extremely dangerous at times.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 37 minutes
2. Corona Del Mar State Beach
This beach is in a beautiful location and is a great choice for families and swimmers. Sandcastle building is taken very seriously here too.
Be sure to check out many of its tide pools, where you’ll find starfish and sea corrals. The Corona Del Mar State Beach also happens to be one of the closest beaches to Disneyland Resort.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 31 minutes
3. Little Corona in Corona Del Mar State Beach
If scuba diving is on your agenda, Little Corona in Corona Del Mar State Park is one of the best beaches nearby Disneyland to do just that. There’s also neat rock formations jutting out of the water that adds to the beach’s beauty.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 32 minutes
4. Crystal Cove State Park
At Crystal Cove State Park, you’ll notice more of a rustic setting (yet beautiful), and well over 1,140 acres of an underwater sanctuary for snorkelers and scuba divers. Visitors will appreciate the Crystal Cove Historic District of old beach homes.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 33 minutes
5. Newport Municipal Beach
Newport Municipal Beach has about everything, from surfing, biking trails, people watching to walking its pier. It’s definitely a family-friendly beach, with gorgeous scenery and the perfect beach atmosphere.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 30 minutes
6. Newport Pier located at Balboa Peninsula
Another Newport Beach you’ll love is at the Newport Pier in Balboa Peninsula. There are plenty of bike and skate rentals along with a waterfront Ferris Wheel. You’ll find several bars, local restaurants, and other neat places close by.
This is a great destination for whale watching or heading over to Catalina Island.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 32 minutes
7. Balboa Pier
One of two piers, Balboa Pier is an excellent spot for fishing and sunset gazing. There’s even a restaurant at the end of the pier, but keep in mind that there’s limited parking there.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 35 minutes
Laguna Beach, CA – Most Well-Known Beaches Near Disneyland
1. Crescent Bay
One of the prettiest beaches on our list, Crescent Bay at Laguna Beach is stunning. Further out to sea you’ll notice seals hanging out on the rocks of Seal Rock. It’s also a pretty decent diving site.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 37 minutes
2. Diver’s Cove
Diver’s Cove is another beautiful (and secluded) beach that is ideal for families. It has beach volleyball courts, restrooms, and obviously, amazing some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the area.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 34 minutes
3. Main Beach
You’ll quickly discover that Main Beach is one of the closest beaches to Disneyland and extremely beautiful too! It’s perfect for surfing and has plenty of volleyball nets. There are plenty of tourist attractions and other activities nearby also.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 32 minutes
4. Rockpile Beach
There are plenty of rocky outcroppings and swaying palm trees along the beach that completes the beautiful views. Rockpile Beach would make an excellent postcard home to your family and friends.
During high tide, the beach is nearly covered, while during low tide, several tide pools become visible.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 35 minutes
5. Thousand Steps
Thankfully, it’s nowhere near a thousand steps to this beauty. To access the beach, you will have to descend down a long and steep staircase that makes it feel as if you’ve taken a thousand steps. A Thousand Steps Beach you’ll find not only a stunning beach but volleyball courts, restrooms, tide pools, and cafes closeby. Divers enjoy the reefs and on the east side of the beach there. This beach made our list of West Coast Spring Bread Vacations for families.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 42 minutes
6. Treasure Island
This might very well be where X marks the spot of your favorite Laguna Beaches near Disneyland. When you’re planning your visit, be sure to stay later on into the evening to catch a splendid sunset at Treasure Island Beach. It’s not hard to see why this is one of the best beaches near Disneyland. Pamper yourself with the experience you deserve by staying at one of the Montage resorts.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 41 minutes
7. Woods Cove
Woods Cove might be on the smaller side as far as beaches go, but it’s beautiful no less. You’ll notice several residential homes on the surrounding hills, tide pools waves crashing against the rocks. Kayaking and snorkeling are popular activities there.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 38 minutes
8. Aliso Beach
Aliso Beach has a convenient parking lot a stone’s throw from its waters, making it a great beach location to bring the family. It’s also one of Laguna Beaches most popular too. Dogs are also permitted on the beach with a leash.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 41 minutes
9. Fisherman’s Cove
At Fisherman’s Cove, snorkeling and camping are among the best activities to do there. Most of the beach will be covered during high-tide, so plan your visit accordingly.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 34 minutes
10.Cleo Street Beach
Cleo Street Beach is perfect for kayaking, scuba diving and snorkeling. Many divers head down to the wreckage of Foss 125. The site is also known for delicious cups of coffee at its cafes.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 36 minutes
11. Moss Cove
If you’re trying to track down a secluded beach, where you can have a romantic time with your loved one, while catching a dazzling sunset, Moss Cove is your destination. A great hiking trail we’d encourage you to check out is Moss Cove Trail.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 38 minutes
12. Victoria Beach
Victoria Beach is not only a historic beach, with its Pirate tower that rests against the Rockwall, but also very beautiful.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 41 minutes
13. Picnic Beach
Picnic Beach happens to have easy access, with close bathrooms and parking. It has spectacular views with paved walking paths. This is another good Scuba diving spot.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 37 minutes
Long Beach, CA – Best Family Vacation Beach Near Disneyland
1. Mothers Beach
Mothers Beach is the perfect location for your family to spend a fun and lazy day, or make it your beach vacation home base. There’s a large playground, picnic areas, lifeguards, and calm waters, suitable for smaller children. It also happens to be one of the closest beaches to Disneyland.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 30 minutes
Seal Beach, CA
1. Seal Beach
Another beach that people enjoy visiting (seals and whales too) is Seal Beach. It has a long pier that teenagers (dangerously) jump off of, a playground and excellent waves for surfing.
This is my personal favorite beach for a few reasons.
First, I can almost always find plenty of room for my family to spread out on the sand. Second, I find this beach has reasonable parking rates, compared to say Huntington Beach.
I really love this beach and we go here more than any of the others on this list.
Approximate drive time from Disneyland Hotel (varies based on traffic): 33 minutes
These are the best beaches near Disneyland, each offers something unique for families and water enthusiasts. Which of these are you most interested in visiting with your family real soon?