First in our six part Coastal Living series, focusing on the beautiful coastal communities of Southern Orange County, California

Sometimes the kids need a little more than just a day at the beach to run off energy. So where can you go to feel some of those ocean breezes without sacrificing playtime? Here are five of our favorite parks located along the coast of Southern Orange County, California. Take a look to see which offers the right mix of sun and fun for your family. For more kid-themed info visit www.FunOrangeCountyParks.com

1) Aliso Creek Beach Park 31131 S. Pacific Coast Hwy. Laguna Beach, CA 92652. Located right on the water in Southern Laguna Beach, Aliso Creek Park offers a fantastic backdrop for their ample playground.

  • Ship-themed playground provides a great opportunity for pretend play, with a large flat area for running as well.
  • Soft composite ground throughout

Views: Direct ocean views steps away from play area

For the Parents: Concession building called “Sands”, located on opposite side of parking lot.

Other Info

  • Fire pits available on first-come, first-served basis
  • Parking is paid, unless you have an OC Parks sticker
  • Restrooms available

2) Lantern Bay Park 25111 Park Lantern Road, Dana Point, CA 92629. If you’re looking for an inspiring picnic spot, Lantern Bay Park will not disappoint! This bluff-top park offers incredible 240 degree views of Dana Point, and the coast.

  • Good-sized playground tucked in behind the trees.
  • Long series of sidewalks that span the entire bluff, could be great for bike riding practice.

Views: Expansive coastal and marina views throughout

For the Parents: Great location to attend a Yoga in the Park session! Kids are welcome too!

Other info

  • Restrooms available
  • Popular event rental space. Contact the City of Dana Point for more info.

3) Bluebird Canyon Park 798 Blue Bird Canyon Drive, Laguna Beach, 92651. Well known throughout the area as a top park for several decades now, Bluebird Park in Laguna Beach is perfect for kids of all ages.

  • Separate play areas for younger and older kids
  • Completely fenced in, so you can let older kids run free

Views: This park is nestled between a couple of Laguna’s beautiful hills, and is quite secluded. No ocean views, but close enough to feel the breeze.

For Parents: Every summer there are concerts held in Bluebird Park. Great for the whole family!

Other Info

  • Full bathrooms offered
  • No dogs allowed (for more info on where to take dogs in Orange County visit www.ocdogfriendly.com )

4) Main Beach Park Broadway & PCH Cross Streets, Laguna Beach. The city has recently redone this busy park located at Main Beach to reflect a more nautical theme. A day at the beach + brand new playground = family day success!

  • Brand new facilities opening Spring 2013
  • Ideally located within walking distance to Broadway, Forest Ave. & shopping

Views: Doesn’t get much better than this! Located directly on Main Beach!

For Parents: Keep a close eye on the kids. This park can get very busy especially in the summer.

Other Info: Beach bathrooms available

5) Creekside Park 25743 Stonehill Dr Dana Point, CA 92629. If you’re looking for a park that will really impress, this is it! The kids will definitely be asking to go back!

  • Large space and unique features like rock climbing
  • Tot area separate for little ones

Views: No direct views

For Parents: Great place for a birthday party with plenty of greenspace

Other Info

  • Bathrooms available
  • Bike trail goes all the way to the ocean