Best beach to watch the Sunset

Question

Hello,

I am coming to visit California with my family after moving to England 20 years ago. We are coming to visit family and friends and reminisce. We are staying half our time in Orange County and the other half in Mission Viejo. We would love to spend a day (or two) on the beach close to where we are staying and just relax all day. Can you please recommend the best beach to spend the day where we can watch the sunset in the evening too (we are wanting to have s'mores too on the beach if possible).

Thank you in advance :)

Answer

Orange County is one of the very best places in California for long, relaxing beach days followed by beautiful sunsets. Since you’re also hoping to enjoy s’mores, it’s important to pick beaches that offer fire pits or allow evening fires. Several beaches near both Orange County and Mission Viejo fit your needs perfectly.

Below are the best options for a full relaxing beach day, great sunset viewing, and the ability to roast s’mores.

Huntington City Beach (Huntington Beach) – Famous for its wide sandy shoreline, consistent waves, and over 100 fire pits. It’s one of the most classic sunset beaches in California. Spend the day swimming, relaxing, strolling the pier, and then grab a fire pit in the late afternoon. Fire pits are first-come, first-served, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends. This is one of the best options for s’mores.
Bolsa Chica State Beach (north of Huntington Beach) – Calmer and slightly quieter than Huntington Beach but still offers a large number of fire pits. It’s excellent for families wanting a more relaxed environment. Easy parking, long flat shores, and fantastic sunset views across the ocean. A great place for a full-day beach trip.
Newport Beach – Corona del Mar State Beach – A beautiful protected cove with gentle waves and great facilities. Corona del Mar used to have many fire pits, but fire regulations have at times reduced their availability. Depending on season and restrictions, some pits may still be available. Even without guaranteed fire pits, this is one of the most scenic sunset beaches in the county, with dramatic cliffs and great viewpoints.
Doheny State Beach (Dana Point) – One of the closest good beaches to Mission Viejo. Doheny offers a classic California beach vibe with grassy picnic areas, shallow water great for families, and a number of fire rings. It’s very popular with locals and ideal if you’re staying in south Orange County. Sunset views are beautiful here since the beach faces southwest.
San Clemente State Beach – A beautiful, less crowded option with a stunning coastline and good surf. Fire pits are available in designated areas. This beach has a more rugged, natural feel and is very pleasant for a long relaxing beach day.

Of these, the best options specifically for guaranteed fire pits and sunset viewing are Huntington City Beach, Bolsa Chica State Beach, and Doheny State Beach.

If you prefer more scenic cliffs and picturesque scenery but don’t necessarily require a fire pit, Corona del Mar and Laguna Beach’s coves (such as Treasure Island or Crescent Bay) offer some of the most beautiful sunset views in California — though fires are not allowed at most Laguna beaches.

Laguna Beach coastal viewpoints – Amazing sunsets, tide pools, and dramatic coastal rocks. Not fire-pit friendly, but perfect for your non-s’mores beach day.
Treasure Island Beach – One of Orange County’s most beautiful beaches for photography and sunset picnics.
Crescent Bay Beach – Quiet, scenic, clear water, and excellent for a relaxing day.

For your trip, I suggest spending one day at a fire-pit friendly beach like Huntington Beach or Doheny for your s’mores night, and another day at a scenic cove like Laguna Beach for a more laid-back daytime visit and incredible sunset views.

No matter which you choose, Orange County sunsets are stunning year-round, and you’ll have a wonderful place to relax, reconnect with family, and reminisce.

Best beach to watch the Sunset

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