A guide to the perfect beach to meet the requirements of everyone.
Good beaches can be hard to come by. For some, all that matters is feeling the sand between their toes, but for others, there are other criteria that need to be met.
Many beaches are within an hour or two of California Baptist University and each of them have something different to offer.
• If waves are wanted, what better beach than “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach? The geographical structure, sandbars and incoming swell deliver a variety of waves making it perfect to “shred the gnar.”
If surfing is a bit beyond the skillset, one can always watch the professionals at the Vans US Open of Surfing.
Every July, the world’s largest surf competition and lifestyle festival — with more than half a million attendees — takes place in Huntington Beach, making it easy for everyone to find something to do such as shopping, surfing, BMX and skateboarding.
“I love going to the US Open because the beach is always packed with people and things to do,” said Darryn Campbell, senior music major. “There is always something to look at. If I get bored of surfing, I can move on to BMX and it’s all right on the beach.”
• If entertainment is desired then Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach will not disappoint. Balboa Island, one piers in Newport Beach, has a variety of restaurants from fresh seafood to authentic Mexican food.
After appeasing the stomach, the Balboa Fun Zone is there to fulfill a sweet tooth with a vanilla ice cream dipped in hot fudge and rolled in roasted nuts, known as the Balboa Bar.
“One of my favorite things is to ride the Ferris Wheel at Balboa while eating a Balboa Bar,” said Megan Pastrallo, senior theater major. “You can see everything from the top. I love going at night because you can see the light reflecting off the ocean.”
• For the best views, head to Laguna Beach to check out the art scene. With plenty of festivals throughout the year, such as the Festival of Arts, the Sawdust Art Festival and the Art-A Fair, Laguna Beach not only has beautiful sunsets but also gives visitors a chance to admire art.
“There are so many different art galleries and stores in Laguna — its crazy,” said Evan Schneider, senior criminal justice major. “It is fun to walk along the street and see the different pieces of art.”
No matter what type of beach is preferred, remember a day at the beach is better than a good day at school.
