//
Area in the Pacific Coast in Orange County, California
Photo: Traveler100, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Beach Cities of Orange County are among its major attractions. Whether to sunbathe, swim, surf, or play some beach volleyball, beach-goers will find much to enjoy here. Fishing from the piers is also very popular.
For most international visitors Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) will be the main entry point, but if you can get a flight into John Wayne Airport or (SNA) Long Beach Airport (LGB) they are much easy to get…
Read in the guideChoose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Santa Ana · International · SNA
Loading places around the airport…
A marina city near the southern end of the county, offering whale watching tours and ferries to Catalina Island as well as the Ocean Institute aquarium and maritime museum.
Perhaps the most popular stretch of beach in Orange County, famed for its surfing scene, its pier, and its numerous restaurants and bars.
A resort town with popular beaches and numerous luxury resorts.
One of the wealthiest communities in the nation, with a popular nightlife scene, upscale shopping, and one of the busiest beaches and boardwalks in the area. Within the city is Balboa Island, a community with its own unique beachfront vibe and a vibrant boardwalk. Here you can also find whale watching tours and ferries to Catalina Island.
A charming laid-back town with a lovely beach and pier at the southern tip of Orange County.
Offers a popular beach and fishing pier linked to a pleasant Main Street lined with shops and restaurants.
Articles and travel topics about Beach Cities and United States.
Travel tipsFind the cheapest countries to fly to from the US and UK in 2026. Compare realistic round-trip flight deals, budget airlines, and prime booking windows.
8 min read
Travel tipsFind the best time to visit Hawaii in 2026. Compare whale seasons, big-wave surf, dry shoulder months, hotel rates, and island microclimates.
8 min read
InspirationDiscover the best places to visit in April. Compare Dutch tulip fields, Thailand's Songkran water festival, Roman spring gardens, and cherry blossoms.
6 min read
Travel tipsA practical guide to travelling with medication and refrigerated drugs like insulin and GLP-1s. Learn airline rules, customs papers, and cooling tips.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.