aaah - a day at the beach!

[cmr]

We will have one day to hit the beach. But I've read so much my mind is muddled!

Which beach is best for a family with kids? Rent bogey boards, swimming, amusements, etc.
Which is closest to DL?
Which is easiest to get to from DL?
Which has the easiest parking to find?

I was thinking Newport/Balboa, then thought maybe Long Beach.

Then thought Huntingdon Beach would be best.

Then someone told me not to miss Santa Monica for the pier, etc.

I am sooo confused! Can anyone help? Thanks!

 

[maci]

There is a thread at the top of the board with some beach info. But it seems it is all a matter of opinion which is the best.
We are going for the newport beach/balboa area...dont know when you are leaving but, I will be happy to post what I think when we get back.
I was toying with the idea of going to malibu one day too.

I am sure you will get other replies from SO. Cal. Natives!

 

[Tink33]

I think Newport Beach/Balboa has the most variety. You have the beach, the famous wedge (to watch surfers), the Fun Zone, lots of parking and some great restaurants. And don't forget to try a Balboa bar.

I was in Huntington Beach this weekend. Nice wide beach, lots of parking, bike rentals, good restrooms. Hundreds of fire rings available.

Santa Monica is much farther away and I don't think the parking was great. The pier is fun and the performers are entertaining.


Here is a link from the travel channel describing Newport Beach as a top beach.

 

[maci]

Cool! Thanks for the Link- Tink!!

I am *almost* as excited to go to the beach as to disney!!

 

[cmr]

Thanks for the link!

and Maci, we are leaving 6/25, so I would love to hear about your trip, and the beach! - when you get back - if you get a chance.

I'm leaning toward Newport/Balboa, but Huntingdon sounds good too.

Any others with a preference?

Thanks so much!

 

[mobetsy]

Depends on the age of your kids. I think Newport is a great beach, and you can find very gentle spots. Huntington is good too, but the waves are likely to be bigger. If you go there, stay away from the area right near the pier, as the water quality there is often very poor (in terms of bacteria and contaminants).

 

[Blondiex46]

am thinking about going to CA next June instead of DW so this is a good post for me. I also want to go to Malibu Beach. When I was in LA a couple of years ago I went to Venice Beach, it was everything I heard, loved it. Didn't lay on the beach just went and walked on the Boardwalk. Keep the responses coming.
Thanks