A Scenic Journey Through the Heart of Orange County’s Coastline

Experience the best of Southern California’s coastline on this full-day private tour from Encinitas. From clifftop views and iconic surf towns to boutique shopping and historic neighborhoods, this route captures the heart of Orange County’s beach culture—perfect for families, couples, and small groups looking to immerse themselves in the region’s coastal charm.

Your day begins with a relaxing drive north along the coast. As you enter Orange County, your guide will point out the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station, where Cold War-era history meets today’s active military docks, followed by the Bolsa Chica Wetlands, an ecological reserve teeming with native birdlife and natural estuary landscapes.

The first stop is Huntington Beach Pier, a legendary surf destination known as Surf City USA. You’ll have 40 minutes of free time to stroll the iconic pier, explore the shops and cafes along Main Street, or simply take in the views and ocean air near Pacific City.

Continuing south, you’ll cross over to Balboa Island, a postcard-perfect harbor village nestled in Newport Beach. Here, you’ll have 30 minutes to wander Marine Avenue’s boutiques, sample a frozen banana or Balboa Bar, and enjoy views of sailboats gliding across the bay.

Time permitting, you’ll pause for a photo stop in Corona del Mar, perched on bluffs above Newport Harbor. This scenic overlook showcases luxurious coastal homes and the entrance to The Wedge, one of California’s most iconic surf breaks.

From there, enjoy a narrated coastal drive through Crystal Cove State Park, a preserved stretch of undeveloped shoreline with vintage beach cottages, and then past Heisler Park, where clifftop gardens and public art meet dramatic ocean vistas.

Arriving in Laguna Beach, you’ll stop for a one-hour lunch break (meals not included) near Main Beach. Whether you choose to explore the town’s boutique galleries, grab tacos by the sand, or relax at the water’s edge, this charming artist enclave offers something for everyone. After lunch, your guide will take you up to Top of the World, a quick photo stop with sweeping views of Orange County’s coast.

The journey continues south through Dana Point, where you’ll have the option to stop briefly at the Dana Point Harbor Overlook. This elevated viewpoint offers dramatic panoramas of the harbor, the sailboat-filled marina, and the rugged Headlands.

The final stop is San Juan Capistrano, one of California’s oldest and most historic towns. With 40 minutes of free time, you can stroll the Los Rios Historic District, visit the impressive Mission Basilica, browse artisan shops, or check out the River Street Marketplace, a newly developed center that blends modern retail with rustic charm.

After a full day exploring the coast, you’ll head back to Encinitas in the early evening, having experienced the diverse beauty, surf culture, and heritage of Orange County’s most treasured seaside communities.

• Private pickup and drop-off from your hotel, vacation rental, or custom location in Encinitas or nearby areas
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle reserved exclusively for your group
• Entertaining live narration from a knowledgeable local guide
• Photo opportunities at three scenic overlook stops (time permitting): Corona del Mar, Top of the World, Dana Point Harbor Overlook
• Scenic drive-throughs of iconic coastal locations including Seal Beach, Bolsa Chica Wetlands, Crystal Cove, Heisler Park, and Dana Point Harbor
• Free time at four key stops:
• Huntington Beach Pier – Surfing Walk of Fame, Pacific City, Main Street
• Balboa Island – charming boutiques, Balboa Bars, ferry views
• Laguna Beach – lunch break, beach access, galleries, and local charm
• San Juan Capistrano – Los Rios Historic District, Mission Basilica, River Street Marketplace
• Complimentary bottled water and light snacks onboard the vehicle

• Lunch (available for purchase in Laguna Beach)
• Gratuities for your guide and driver (optional but appreciated)