Beach trip by car

[rainbowmama]

This is not a tour question so I'm not sure if it belongs here. I will have a car while we are at HoJos. I want to spend at least one day of our trip at a beach but need a suggestion of where to go. I have 3 children--ages 14, 12, & 7. We're coming in early June--will it be warm enough to be in the water? The kids have never been to the ocean so we're open to anything. Thanks for any help!

[Darkbeer]

I think the Newport Beach/Balboa Pier area is great for kids, and easy to get to.

Just get onto the I-5 going southbound, to the 55 South. Take that until the end of the freeway, and follow the road to Newport Beach. Balboa Pier is at the far end (well, almost the end).

As for weather, it should be nice enough.

Balboa Pier has changing rooms and showers available.

There is a small fee for parking.

Also, I like the Balboa Ferry, for just a few dollars, you can take your car over the water to Balboa Island, where you can either just turn around and come back, or exit via the Island (there is a bridge that takes you to Main Drag. Also, Fashion Island, a fancy shopping center is right there.

[rainbowmama]

Thanks, Darkbeer! It sounds just right for us. The kids will love the ferry (me, too!). I can't wait!

[Darkbeer]

Here is a marked map showing the way to Newport Beach, Balboa Island and the Fashion Island Shopping Center.

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=2827247

I recommend parking by the Balboa Island Pier for your "Beach" time.