Day Trips from Riverside
← All Riverside day tripsDay Trips from Riverside: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Riverside, CA. Lake beaches, river walks, and coastal parks that make for a perfect warm-weather day trip. Real drive times, ratings, and photos included.
12 beaches near Riverside
Redondo beach
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Just 1 hr 21 min from Riverside, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Treasure Island Park
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Just 59 min from Riverside, rated 4.9 stars by 2,270 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fletcher Cove Beach Park
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Just 1 hr 34 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 3,236 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Powerhouse Park
Del Mar, CA 92014
Just 1 hr 33 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 2,537 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lifeguard La Jolla Cove
La Jolla, CA 92037
Just 1 hr 35 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 10,458 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shoreline Park
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Just 2 hrs 29 min from Riverside, rated 4.8 stars by 2,511 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
La Jolla Shores Park
La Jolla, CA 92037
Just 1 hr 35 min from Riverside, rated 4.7 stars by 8,289 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
ShoreLine Aquatic Park
Long Beach, CA 90802
Just 1 hr 3 min from Riverside, rated 4.7 stars by 2,775 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shoreline Park
San Diego, CA 92106
Just 1 hr 41 min from Riverside, rated 4.7 stars by 2,371 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shoreline Park
212 Golden Shore, Long Beach
Just 1 hr 5 min from Riverside, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Marina Green
Long Beach, CA 90803
Just 1 hr 4 min from Riverside, rated 4.6 stars by 961 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
North Shore Beach
CA 91773, USA
Just 38 min from Riverside, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from Riverside
What are the best beaches near Riverside, CA?
The best beaches near Riverside include lake beaches, state park swimming areas, and waterfront parks. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable beaches within driving distance of Riverside?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Riverside have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. State park beaches are often the cleanest and best-maintained options.
When is the best time to visit beaches near Riverside?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Riverside. June and July offer the warmest water temperatures. Shoulder months (May, September) have fewer crowds and are great for walking and photography.
What should I bring for a beach day trip from Riverside?
Pack sunscreen, towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, and water shoes for rocky shorelines. Some state park beaches charge a vehicle entry fee ($5-$15), so bring cash. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking.
Don't know where to go?
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