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Coastline with palm trees at Laguna Beach, California

Southern California

Orange County Coast

Classic Beach Towns, Surf Culture, and Fine Art

From legendary surf breaks and picturesque harbors to secluded coves and historic missions, the Orange County Coast captures the quintessential Southern California lifestyle. Watch surfers ride the waves beneath Huntington Beach Pier, wander Laguna Beach’s art-filled streets, or head out on the Pacific in search of migrating whales.

Sunrise sky over Huntington Beach Pier and the Pacific Ocean in Huntington Beach, California.
Huntington Beach Pier

Huntington Beach & Newport Beach

Known as Surf City USA, Huntington Beach celebrates California’s surf culture along miles of sandy shoreline. Its iconic 1,850-foot pier is a favorite place to watch surfers ride the waves below. Farther south, Newport Beach pairs coastal sophistication with a rich maritime heritage. Enjoy waterfront dining, ride the historic Balboa Island Ferry across the harbor, or explore the scenic beaches and coastal trails of nearby Crystal Cove State Park.

Walking path above a sandy beach in Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

Tucked between dramatic coastal bluffs, Laguna Beach has long attracted artists inspired by its extraordinary natural setting. Explore the town’s galleries and the Laguna Art Museum, which celebrates California art. Longstanding summertime festivals, including the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters, showcase the town’s creative heritage. Beyond downtown, explore dozens of secluded coves and sandy beaches and stroll the cliffside gardens of Heisler Park.

Dana Point Bluff Top Trail
Bluff Top Trail in Dana Point

Dana Point

Dana Point is one of Southern California’s premier whale-watching destinations, with cruises departing year-round. Depending on the season, visitors may spot migrating gray whales, blue whales, humpback whales, and playful pods of dolphins. Paddle the calm waters of Baby Beach by kayak or paddleboard, or hike the dramatic clifftop trails of Dana Point Headlands Preserve. Nearby Doheny State Beach is a favorite for surfing, while Salt Creek Beach offers a beautiful stretch of sand beneath coastal bluffs.

Mission San Juan Capistrano
Mission San Juan Capistrano

San Juan Capistrano & Laguna Hills

Just inland, San Juan Capistrano is steeped in California history. Explore Mission San Juan Capistrano, founded in 1776, with its beautiful gardens and centuries-old architecture. Nearby Los Rios Historic District preserves the character of early California with historic adobe buildings and charming garden-lined streets. Neighboring Laguna Hills offers a quieter base for exploring southern Orange County. Fossil Reef Park preserves evidence of the region’s prehistoric marine life, offering a fascinating glimpse into its ancient past.

Where to stay in Orange County

3 Hotels

Guestroom deck with bistro table and chairs overlooking Dana Point HarborA large guestroom with a fireplace and separate sitting area with bay windowsAn airy guestroom with a fireplace and two wingback chairs with shuttered windows and door to private deckA guestroom with a desk and chair, a fireplace and door to private balcony overlooking the harborA guestroom with a canopy bed and door open to private deck and a couple stairs leading down to a sitting area with a sofa

Blue Lantern Inn

Dana Point$$$

This intimate bluff-top retreat pairs sweeping ocean views with warm hospitality and easy access to downtown Dana Point and Laguna Beach.

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Outdoor courtyard with fire pit and modern sectional and chairsThe building features a striking, multi-story green wall thickly covered with dense green foliage, cascading vines, and various low-maintenance plantsLobby mook area with wood bookcases holding books and other items on display against a dark wall, a leather sofa with round mirror above and a small accent tableA modern lobby with l shaped leather sofa, accent chairs and tables, a floor to ceiling stone fireplace, with a large modern piece of artwork on one wall and a large medal piece of artwork on the other

SCP Seven4One Hotel

Laguna Beach$$$

Tranquil rooms, open-air gathering spaces, and sustainable hospitality create a restorative retreat just steps from the sand in Laguna Beach.

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Standard king guest room at Tiller House with a king bed, bedside tables, work desk and contemporary furnishings.Standard king guest room at Tiller House with a king bed, upholstered headboard, bedside tables, seating area and contemporary furnishings.In-room coffee station at Tiller House with a coffee maker, ceramic mugs, bottled water and coffee supplies arranged on a wooden counter.Welcome basket at Tiller House filled with assorted snacks, bottled beverages and locally inspired treats for arriving guests.Nightstand between two beds at Tiller House with a table lamp, telephone, notepad and decorative details in a guest room.

Tiller House

Laguna Hills$$

Inspired by Laguna Hills’ historic Moulton Ranch, this stylish hotel brings modern comfort and playful character to the heart of Orange County.

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Orange County Coast

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