Day Trips from Santa Ana
← All Santa Ana day tripsDay Trips from Santa Ana: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Santa Ana, 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 Santa Ana
Salt Creek Beach Park
33333 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point
Just 35 min from Santa Ana, rated 4.9 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.
Fletcher Cove Beach Park
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Just 1 hr 6 min from Santa Ana, 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.
Heisler Park
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Just 27 min from Santa Ana, rated 4.8 stars by 7,584 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 16 min from Santa Ana, 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.
Pier Point Park
Long Beach, CA 90802
Just 36 min from Santa Ana, 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.
ShoreLine Aquatic Park
Long Beach, CA 90802
Just 33 min from Santa Ana, 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
212 Golden Shore, Long Beach
Just 36 min from Santa Ana, 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.
Colorado Lagoon
Long Beach, CA 90814
Just 29 min from Santa Ana, rated 4.6 stars by 1,923 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.
Mothers Beach
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Just 57 min from Santa Ana, rated 4.6 stars by 3,262 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Marina Green
Long Beach, CA 90803
Just 35 min from Santa Ana, 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 34 min from Santa Ana, 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.
Lake Gregory Regional Park
Crestline, CA 92325
Just 1 hr 19 min from Santa Ana, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from Santa Ana
What are the best beaches near Santa Ana, CA?
The best beaches near Santa Ana 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 Santa Ana?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Santa Ana 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 Santa Ana?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Santa Ana. 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 Santa Ana?
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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