UCI located in the heart of Orange County is known for its geographical advantage, it has access to the best beaches the west coast offers. These beaches can be visited all year long. These beaches are easily accessed by cars and also public transport.
- Laguna Beach
Laguna beach is comprised of multiple secluded beaches. Each has its own charm and secrets to be unlocked. There are also many overlooks as well to find and explore. The views are breathtaking. Laguna also has a large downtown area with lots of small boutiques and restaurants. Also a popular place for nightlife and is about a 20 minute drive from campus or you can take the OC bus 79 till San Clemente and then take the 1 for Laguna beach. http://www.visitlagunabeach.com/
- Newport Beach
Newport beach is right next to Laguna’s beaches. Newport is a long beach with many access points. The main downtown area has a boardwalk and a few restaurants to enjoy. There is also a few nightclubs and bars to explore as well. This beach is also around a 20 minute drive from campus or you can take the OC bus number 79 from University Centre which takes you to Newport beach directly. http://www.visitnewportbeach.com/
- Balboa Pier
Balboa Pier is located at the end of Newport beach. The pier is alongside balboa peninsula which is also a fun place to explore. The pier itself has a ruby’s diner on the end which has spectacular views of the ocean. The peninsula has bicycle rentals, a play zone for children and launches many dolphin and whale watching cruises. The peninsula’s one side is located on the ocean while the other is the bay. The bay also houses many luxury houses which can be toured on cruises launched daily. The Balboa Peninsula is around a 30 minute drive from campus. http://www.visitnewportbeach.com/vacations/balboa-peninsula/
- Huntington Beach
Huntington beach is a little farther than the other beaches being around 30 minutes from campus. However the pier is always full of people during the summer months and downtown has great restaurants to explore. There are also many festivals during the summer months. This is also a go to place for fireworks during the 4th of July. Huntington also has many great bars and nightclubs to explore as well. http://www.huntingtonbeachca.gov/