Visit US Parks

San Onofre State Beach

San Onofre State Beach Overview


San Onofre State Beach is a beautiful coastal park located in Southern California, just a short drive from San Diego and Los Angeles. The park is situated on 3,000 acres of pristine coastline and offers visitors a wide range of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, hike, or simply relax on the beach, San Onofre State Beach has something for everyone.

One of the main attractions of San Onofre State Beach is its world-class surf breaks. The park is home to several popular surf spots, including Trestles, which is considered one of the best surf breaks in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are waves for all skill levels at San Onofre. In addition to surfing, visitors can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing along the park’s miles of sandy beaches.

For those who prefer to stay on land, San Onofre State Beach offers several hiking trails that wind through the park’s rugged coastal terrain. The trails offer stunning views of the ocean and surrounding hillsides, and are a great way to explore the park’s natural beauty. Visitors can also learn about the park’s history and ecology by visiting the San Onofre Interpretive Center, which features exhibits on the area’s native plants and animals, as well as its rich cultural history.

In addition to its natural beauty, San Onofre State Beach is also home to several historic landmarks. The park’s namesake, the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, was once one of the largest nuclear power plants in the country. While the plant is no longer operational, visitors can still see its iconic cooling towers from the beach. The park is also home to several historic military structures, including the San Onofre Beach Club, which was once a popular destination for military personnel stationed in the area.

Overall, San Onofre State Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of Southern California. With its stunning beaches, world-class surf breaks, and diverse range of activities, there’s something for everyone at this iconic coastal park.

Visitor’s Experience


San Onofre State Beach is a popular destination for visitors seeking a relaxing and enjoyable experience in California. Families, couples, friends, and solo visitors can all find something to enjoy at this beautiful beach. The beach is located in San Diego County, and it offers a wide range of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages.

Families can enjoy a day at the beach with their children, building sandcastles, playing in the water, and enjoying a picnic on the sand. The beach is also a great place for families to go camping, with several campgrounds available for overnight stays. The campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and fire pits, making it easy for families to enjoy a comfortable and fun camping experience.

Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway at San Onofre State Beach, with plenty of opportunities for quiet walks on the beach, sunset views, and intimate picnics. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing, and couples can take surf lessons together or simply watch the surfers catching waves.

Friends can enjoy a day at the beach, playing beach volleyball, swimming, and soaking up the sun. The beach is also a great place for hiking, with several trails available for visitors to explore. The trails offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape, making it a great way to spend a day with friends.

Solo visitors can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing day at the beach, reading a book, meditating, or simply enjoying the beauty of the ocean. The beach is also a great place for solo travelers to meet new people, with plenty of opportunities to strike up a conversation with other visitors.

The best times of year to visit San Onofre State Beach are in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, the beach is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the beach and its amenities throughout the year.

Overall, San Onofre State Beach is a beautiful and enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, a romantic getaway, a day with friends, or a peaceful solo retreat, San Onofre State Beach has something to offer.

Tell us, what do you think of this park?

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.