About the Riverside Area
The city of Riverside, located in Riverside County within Southern California's Inland Empire, is known for its rich history and scenic beauty. The area is famous for being the birthplace of the navel orange industry, thanks to the University of California Riverside's pioneering agricultural work. Riverside has a population of approximately 330,000 and is a short drive from Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. It’s also home to historic landmarks such as the Mission Inn and several local parks and national forests, offering easy access to both nature and urban attractions.
Beaches Near Riverside
1. Corona del Mar State Beach
Nestled along the Pacific Coast Highway, Corona del Mar is the perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty. Its soft, golden sand invites you to kick off your shoes, while the gentle lapping of waves creates a peaceful backdrop. The calm waters and spacious picnic areas make it a favorite spot for families and beachgoers looking for a tranquil escape. With lifeguard towers, restrooms, and easy access parking, it’s well-equipped for a carefree day by the ocean.
Visitors love this beach for its calm, welcoming feel and stunning ocean views. It’s a great place to spend the day, whether you’re soaking in the sun or enjoying a peaceful picnic. Plus, being a short drive from Riverside, it's a convenient way to reconnect with the coast without venturing too far.
- Address: 3001 Ocean Blvd, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
- How Far from Riverside: about 47 miles; about a 55 minute drive depending on traffic
- Parking: Large parking lots available with easy access.
- Fees: $15-$20 for parking.
- Open Season: Year-round.
- What to Expect: This is a well-maintained ocean beach along the Pacific Coast Highway. This sandy beach is great for families and beach lovers. It offers picnic areas, restrooms, and lifeguard towers, with calm waves perfect for swimming.
- Size and Crowds: Medium-sized, popular with locals but not overly crowded.
- Why People Love It: Beautiful views and a short drive from Riverside, making it a great place for a day trip.
2. Huntington State Beach
As an expansive ocean beach, Huntington State Beach is a lively spot for surfing, bodyboarding, and beach volleyball. It offers miles of beach, fire pits, volleyball courts, and lifeguard towers. There are multiple parking lots providing easy access to the beach, although they can fill up quickly during peak times. This beach is bustling with activity, and you’ll find plenty of facilities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas to enhance your visit.
- Address: 21601 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
- How Far from Riverside: about 52 miles; about a 1 hour drive
- Parking: Ample parking lots along the Pacific Coast Highway.
- Fees: $15-$20 for parking.
- Open Season: Year-round.
- What to Expect: Ocean beach; Famous for its surf culture, Huntington Beach (also known as Surf City USA) offers miles of beach, fire pits, volleyball courts, and beach cruisers for rent. Great for swimming, surfing, and group outings.
- Size and Crowds: Spans over 2 miles, often busy.
- Why People Love It: Iconic Californian surf culture and amenities like lifeguard towers and picnic areas make it one of the best beaches in Southern California.
3. Bolsa Chica State Beach
Bolsa Chica State Beach is a wide-open ocean beach with plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out. It’s known for its soft sand and easy access to amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, and fire pits for evening bonfires. The beach is located near the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, adding a unique wildlife viewing experience. With ample parking, though paid, it’s a popular spot for surfers, families, and those looking to enjoy a day by the water.
- Address: 17851 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92649
- How Far from Riverside: about 55 miles; about a 1 hour drive
- Parking: Large paid parking available.
- Fees: $15-$20 for parking.
- Open Season: Year-round.
- What to Expect: Ocean Beach; Adjacent to the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, this beach offers a sandy beach, calm waters, and abundant wildlife. It’s a popular spot for surfing, birdwatching, and family picnics.
- Size and Crowds: Large, with plenty of space for families and groups.
- Why People Love It: Wildlife enthusiasts enjoy the nearby Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, while beachgoers appreciate the space and easy access to amenities like fire pits and picnic areas.
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4. Crystal Cove State Park
Located along the coastline, Crystal Cove is a more secluded ocean beach known for its rugged beauty and scenic hiking trails. Expect to explore tide pools, walk along sandy shores, and enjoy the tranquility of this protected state park. Though the beach is not right next to parking, there’s a shuttle service to help visitors access the shore. The beach is perfect for those who want a more serene, nature-filled experience with fewer crowds.
- Address: 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
- How Far from Riverside: about 55 miles; about a 1 hour drive
- Parking: Ample parking with shuttle service to the beach.
- Fees: $15-$20 for parking.
- Open Season: Year-round.
- What to Expect: Ocean Beach; Known for its scenic beauty and tide pools, Crystal Cove State Park offers over 3 miles of sandy shoreline and hiking trails through acres of undeveloped woodland. It’s a great place for a tranquil beach day and nature exploration.
- Size and Crowds: Expansive, typically not crowded.
- Why People Love It: Beautiful landscapes, tide pools, and hiking opportunities make it perfect for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
5. Lake Perris State Recreation Area
As a lakeside beach, Lake Perris offers a warm-water retreat with calm waves, making it a safe option for families with young children. The beach area includes picnic spots, BBQ grills, and restrooms, making it convenient for a full day of relaxation. While not as expansive as the ocean beaches, it provides a peaceful atmosphere away from the coast, with plenty of space for beachgoers to enjoy. Parking is ample, and it’s an affordable option for a quick getaway.
- Address: 17801 Lake Perris Dr, Perris, CA 92571
- How Far from Riverside: About 20 miles; About a 30 minute drive
- Parking: Large parking lot available.
- Fees: $10-$20 per vehicle.
- Open Season: Year-round.
- What to Expect: Lakeside Beach; This inland beach offers calm waters, shaded picnic areas, and BBQ grills. Ideal for families looking to enjoy a beach day without driving to the coast.
- Size and Crowds: Moderate-sized, often busy during summer.
- Why People Love It: A quick escape for Riverside residents, with family-friendly amenities and warm water.
Fun Facts About the Riverside Area and Beaches
- Navel Oranges: Riverside is famous for being the birthplace of California's navel orange industry, started in the 1870s.
- Unique Wildlife: Bolsa Chica State Beach is adjacent to one of California’s most important bird sanctuaries, where you can see rare species of shorebirds.
- Laguna Beach Art Scene: Nearby Laguna Beach is famous for its art galleries and festivals, including the renowned Pageant of the Masters.