Bolsa Chica State Beach

Bolsa Chica State Beach is a roughly three-mile stretch of coast in Orange County running between Sunset Beach and Huntington Beach. The sandy strip runs parallel to Pacific Coast Highway and sits right next to a wetland area that attracts many water birds.

The site was once known by the less flattering name Tin Can Beach before becoming part of the California state beach system in 1960. The surrounding area served for a long time as an oil extraction zone, still visible today in the form of old drilling platforms.

Surfers spend many hours in the water here, while other visitors use the fire rings for evening gatherings with family or friends. Birdwatchers come because of the nearby ecological reserve, where many species live along the ocean edge.

Lifeguards are on duty year-round, and there are restrooms with showers along the beach. Parking is paid and can fill quickly on weekends.

During certain months, California grunions come ashore at night to lay their eggs in the sand, and visitors are allowed to catch these silvery fish with bare hands. The phenomenon follows the moon cycle and draws curious night visitors to the beach.

Location: Orange County

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=642

GPS coordinates: 33.69556,-118.04889

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:31