Heisler Park is probably my favorite sunset spot in Orange County. The views are amazing and it's easy to see the ocean and the beaches right from your car. If you can, you can take the stairs right down to the sand and explore the beach and tidepools below.

Picnic Beach is wider than Heisler, but not as hard to access. Parking is also nearby and there is a ramp. It's not really a swimming beach, but a fun place to play in the sand.

Laguna Main Beach Playground is right in the middle of everything so it can be very busy, but it's also beautiful and worth the trip. The playground is patterned after the famous historic lifeguard tower nearby. Your kids will probably play lots of pretend games inspired by the play equipment.

This is across from one of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County, but many people never know this gem of a park is nearby. Combine it with the beach or keep it as its own trip.

Quite easily the most popular park in Laguna Beach and south Orange County. So many slides and one-of-a-kind play equipment. I recommend visiting this one early to get close parking and a less crowded park experience.

Moulton Meadows Park takes you up from the parks and beaches posted so far into the hills above so you can experience the canyon views. It's a nice little park with lots of nature spots to stroll and explore.

Now, this is a little bit of a cheat post. This and the next 3 on the list are all part of Crystal Cove State Park. However, each entrance provides a different visitor experience so it's worth including them all so you can choose based on your mood. This beach is part of the state park system so it does cost $15/day for parking. That's why I included the 3 beaches at the start of the post. If you have the funds, I highly recommend investing in a California State Parks annual pass.

Reef Point is the next entrance up the coast from Moro Beach. There are sit spots on benches up on the bluffs to just view the action below or you can hike down the steps and steep ramps to reach the beach and tidepools.

This is the most accessible of all entrances to the beach where you can drop off close to the beach and beach wheelchairs are available for loan. Moro Beach also has beach wheelchairs, but I'd prefer this entrance for the ability to drop off closer to the action and an easier path to the restaurants and views. There's a restaurant at this entrance and also fire pits you can check out for an evening on the beach.

This is the furthest north entrance to Crystal Cove State Park -- almost in Newport Beach/Corona del Mar. I love the hike to the tidepools from here. There are early views of the ocean and caves down at the beach. It's just perfect if you are ready to get out walking!