Southern California is always a top choice when it comes to choosing some of America's best beaches, this mild Mediterranean climate zone a dreamy US coastal hotspot.
Perhaps one of the first popular beach areas you may think of in this area is Laguna Beach, or the slightly lesser known Dana Point. Often times lumped together as one spot in the same, these two beach destinations actually differ in quite a few ways!
When it comes to finding the perfect beach for your group there are certain factors you should consider: weather, crowds, price, and views. Take a look at our Dana Point vs Laguna Beach breakdown below.
Dana Point
Dana Point is an Orange County treasure in Southern California, sitting snugly along the Pacific Coast. This city is known for whale watching opportunities, sports fishing, hiking and cycling, and surfing and sailing! It is essentially a beach and recreation lovers paradise!
It is also known well for its unique boutiques and eateries, this city providing some seriously fine small town venues that still hold that big-city California feel. There is easy access to bigger attractions here as well, with Anaheim located just about an hour north.
- BEACHES: Doheny State Beach, Salt Creek Beach, Capistrano Beach, Dana Point Harbor Beach
- WEATHER: 75°F Average Summer, 65°F Average Winter
- CROWDS: 3.2 Million Annually
- PRICE: $$
Dana Point Beach Pixabay Public Domain
Dana Point Beach Pixabay Public Domain
Dana Point Harbor Pixabay Public Domain
Dana Point Pixabay Public Domain
Laguna Beach
What seaside city is more quintessentially California than Laguna Beach, the Orange County legend that holds beachside bliss beyond belief? With plenty of beach options along with natural areas such as the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and Heisler Park, this OC hotspot is also a nature and recreation lover's dream!
Laguna Beach also holds several well-known art galleries, gardens, and busy boardwalks, plus it is situated just about halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, giving travelers really easy access to more major attractions.
- BEACHES: Victoria Beach, Main Beach, Crystal Cove Beach, Aliso Beach
- WEATHER: 79°F Average Summer, 64°F Average Winter
- CROWDS: 6.3 Million Annually
- PRICE: $$
Laguna Beach Coast Pixabay Public Domain
Laguna Beach Coast Pixabay Public Domain
Laguna Beach CovePixabay Public Domain
Laguna Beach Coast Pixabay Public Domain
The common agreement among travelers:
Dana Point is the better spot to visit for relaxing beach experiences, Laguna Beach is best for a more upbeat beach experience.
So, which beach wins for your group?? Call us, let us know, and let us get you there!!
Check out our Battle of the Beaches: Honolulu vs Miami Beach, Battle of the Beaches: Virginia Beach vs Myrtle Beach, Battle of the Beaches: Clearwater vs Key West blogs as well.
