Corona Del Mar is a state-owned, city managed beach on the east side of the Newport Harbor channel entrance. Enjoys relatively calm conditions thanks to jetty protection; can be calm when other nearby ocean locations are rough.
Access via Ocean Boulevard with paid state beach parking or limited free street parking nearby. Bike-friendly via Pacific Coast Highway with bike racks near lifeguard tower and bathhouse. OCTA bus 47 stops nearby.
Beach amenities include restrooms, showers, and drinking fountains.
Swimming routes: Protected beach with buoy line parallel to shore (0.75 mile course). Local groups organize weekend distance swims from Balboa Pier to Newport Pier (2 miles) typically on weekends. Best swimming before 8AM to avoid crowds.
Safety: Lifeguards on duty 10AM-5PM (winter) and 9AM-6PM (summer). Watch for boat traffic near harbor entrance. Water quality updates through Orange County Health Department.