The 4 Least Crowded Beaches In Newport Beach California
If you’re looking for an escape from bustling downtown Newport Beach without giving up access to amenities, these less crowded beaches are a great option!
What’s the least crowded beach in Newport Beach?
There are a few quiet spots to escape the crowds in Newport Beach. The least crowded beaches are:
- Little Corona Del Mar Beach
- Crystal Cove State Park
- Corona Del Mar State Beach Park
- Pirate’s Cove Beach
Whether you want to swim in calm waters or explore nature trails and tidepools, these spots will provide everything you need for an unforgettable day at the beach! As a native Californian, I’m always on the hunt for a slice of peace and quiet
These beaches are sure bets that you’ll find some zen on your day at the ocean.
The Four Least Crowded Beaches In Newport Beach, California
It’s widely known that California’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the U.S.
Still, with the influx of tourists and locals alike, some of the more popular beaches can become quite crowded.
Fortunately, Newport Beach offers some beautiful, secluded beaches for those who want to avoid crowds.
Little Corona Del Mar Beach
Little Corona Del Mar Beach is a quiet spot on the California coast, providing a tranquil environment for visitors enjoying its sandy shores.
This quiet beach is wonderful for those who want to spend some quiet time relaxing without too much hustle and bustle.
What To Expect
Little Corona Del Mar Beach is a secluded cove in Newport Beach that swimming enthusiasts often frequent. The Swimming conditions here are generally favorable and the crystal blue waters are perfect for splashing around.
The pristine waters here are also beloved by snorkelers and scuba divers. The shores here make for an easy walk-in entry. Rocks on the side of the cove provide cover for various local marine wildlife.
As one of the areas’s less traveled beaches, this location isn’t often crowded and offers an atmosphere where one can have peaceful walks or lunch on the beach. The tidepools here make for a great family activity in searching for crabs and starfish.
Amenities
- Lifeguards
- Showers
- Bathrooms
- Dog friendly
How To Get There
This small beach nestled in a cove is located at the end of a ravine called Buck Gully in the Corona Del Mar neighborhood.
It is easily accessible by Highway 1. Parking is freestyle on the side of the road leading to the cove.
Crystal Cove State Park
For a blissful escape to the beach, consider Crystal Cove State Park. With pristine white sand and crystal-clear water, it is perfect for those looking to relax and unwind without the crowds of tourists.
What To Expect
The coastline of Crystal Cove State Park stretches a lengthy 3.2 miles. The park is relatively uncrowded due to regulated parking fees.
This incredible state park offers miles of stunning beaches, breathtaking cliffs and caves, as well as secluded coves and stunning shorelines.
While this beach is relatively quiet – there is plenty of wildlife to keep you company. Sea lions, dolphins and seabirds are all frequently spotted here.
Like other beaches in the area, this one is also great for snorkeling and scuba diving.
If you plan to venture out into the ocean waters, be sure to keep a lookout for a variety of kelp forests, they are full of unique marine life such as crabs and colorful fish.
Amenities
- Hiking, biking, and horse trails
- Bathrooms
- Nearby restaurants
How To Get There
Crystal Cove is located 15 minutes south of the city of Newport Beach. It is easily accessible by North Coast Highway.
Corona Del Mar State Beach Park
Corona Del Mar State Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Newport Beach, and extremely but it also happens to be one of the least crowded during weekdays and the winter season specifically.
This state park is full of opportunities but will also suit an agenda for relaxing on the shore.
What To Expect
Located on the Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar State Beach Park is a hidden gem that is perfect for users looking to avoid the typical tourist rush. Framed by cliffs and featuring a rock jetty, this beach is from the east entrance to Newport Harbor.
This spot offers steady waves making it popular for surfers.
Despite the waves many swimmers and scuba divers call this a favorite place to jump in the water as well. Fishermen also love the rock jetty for a relaxing day of casting out.
It’s also a great place to go tidepooling or explore the rocky tide pools along the shoreline.
Amenities
- Lifeguards
- Bathrooms
- Changing rooms
- Outdoor showers
- Picnic tables
- Volleyball nets
- Firepits
How To Get There
This beach is conveniently located just five minutes south of the city of Newport Beach in the Corona Del Mar neighborhood off Ocean Boulevard.
Pirate’s Cove Beach
For beach-goers looking for a little extra peace and quiet, Pirate’s Cove in Newport might just be the perfect location.
This tiny slice of heaven is adjacent to Little Corona Del Mar, so hey, if one person has too many for your liking you can head on over to the other!
What To Expect
This beach is in a tiny cove great for watching the boats come out of Balboa Island. While it’s not as impressive in size and amenities as some state parks, it also keeps the crowds away.
There is enough space to set up a picnic, take a short hike, or whale watch from a beach
blanket.
Especially notable is the swimming here. Because the adjacent harbor protects the cove, the waters tend to be warmer and calmer than other beaches on this list, which is perfect for small children.
They’ll also enjoy exploring the small caves.
Amenities
- Leashed dogs are welcome
- Bathrooms and showers are available at the nearby state park
How To Get There
Pirate’s Cove is located below Lookout Point Park at the corner of Ocean Boulevard and Heliotrope Avenue.
Stairs at this intersection drop down into the beach area. There is some street parking available there.
Key Takeaways
- Newport Beach has several quiet beach options where you can avoid crowds.
- They are in various locations, from state parks to isolated coves.
- All are great for swimming and watersports.