Here are my five favorite family-friendly picnic spots in Laguna Beach, plus insider tips, nearby activities, and where to grab dessert when the day winds down.

Laguna Beach isn’t just about art festivals and summer crowds. It's a year-round playground for families who love sunshine, ocean breezes, and that small town charm. The city’s parks and coves are made for picnics. Spread a blanket, unpack some sandwiches, and let the kids chase seagulls while you enjoy ocean views that never get old.

As a Laguna Beach native and raising my own boys here, I’ve learned where the real family-friendly picnic spots in Laguna Beach are. These are the places where locals gather, sunsets glow, and no one minds a little sand in the salad.

1. Heisler Park & Picnic Beach — Classic Laguna with a View

If you had to pick one place that captures the spirit of Laguna Beach, this is it. Heisler Park stretches along the cliffs above Main Beach, offering panoramic views, paved paths for strollers, picnic tables, and easy access to the sand below.

Why Families Love It

• Large grassy areas where kids can play frisbee or roll down gentle slopes.

• Picnic tables overlooking the ocean.

• Clean restrooms, drinking fountains, and plenty of trash bins.

• Safe, scenic pathways along the cliffs and next to green grassy lawns.

  
  

I love bringing my family here in the late afternoon when the sun hits the cliffs just right. We grab dinner from a local taco shop, find a shady bench near the gazebo, and watch surfers at Rock Pile Beach below. It’s also a perfect spot for those classic Laguna sunset photos.

Insider Tips

• Parking: Metered street parking along Cliff Drive fills quickly, so arrive early or park downtown and take the free Laguna Beach Trolley. (Here’s my guide on where to park in Laguna Beach and why you should take the trolley).

• Best Time: Mornings for quieter vibes; golden hour for photos.

• Nearby Fun: Stroll through Heisler’s public art displays, then wander down to the tide pools (read my tide pool guide here).

• What to Bring: A lightweight picnic blanket, folding chairs, and a small cooler (I love this insulated picnic tote on Amazon).

  
  

Make a Day of It

After your picnic, walk south to Main Beach for the playground and volleyball courts, then treat the family to a scoop from one of Laguna’s best ice cream shops.

If you’re staying overnight, check out these family-friendly hotels in Laguna Beach. Many are within walking distance.

2. Crescent Bay Point Park — Ocean Views & Wide Open Space

If Heisler Park is Laguna’s social hub, Crescent Bay Point Park is its peaceful lookout. Perched on the northern edge of town, this small bluff-top park offers one of the most panoramic views in Orange County. The grassy area is perfect for spreading out a blanket and watching dolphins play just offshore (I’ve spotted them countless times).

Why Families Love It

• Sweeping 180-degree ocean views from Palos Verdes to Dana Point.

• Compact, safe grassy area ideal for toddlers and young kids.

• Less crowded than Heisler Park — great for families who prefer a quieter scene.

• Benches for parents who’d rather sit and soak up the view.

  
  

It’s not a spot for sandcastles. There is no direct beach access, but it’s one of the most peaceful picnic spots in Laguna Beach. Bring a camera; the lighting near sunset is spectacular, and the waves crash dramatically over the rocks below the cliffs.

Insider Tips

• Parking: Street parking along Crescent Bay Drive can be tight; arrive early or plan a weekday visit.

• What to Bring: A compact picnic blanket and light picnic gear (these collapsible picnic baskets are perfect).

• Nearby Fun: After your picnic, head down to Crescent Bay Beach for tide-pooling or a short walk north along the bluff trail. If you’re up for a longer outing, it connects to several scenic hiking trails in Laguna Beach.

  
  

Make a Day of It

Pack binoculars for whale watching, or stop for smoothies afterward on Forest Avenue, one of my favorite spots for a post-picnic stroll and boutique shopping (read my post about shopping on Forest Avenue).

3. Treasure Island Park — Where Cliffs Meet the Sea

This one’s close to my heart (and my home). Treasure Island Park is the beach I visit most often, tucked just below the Montage Resort. Even after decades of living here, I still pause every time I walk along the cliffs. The lawns are immaculate, the walkways are stroller-friendly, and the ocean below sparkles in the most beautiful way.

Why Families Love It

• Grassy picnic lawns with unobstructed views of the Pacific.

• Clean public restrooms and water fountains.

• Easy access to Treasure Island Beach, one of Laguna’s most picturesque.

• Great for families with older kids who love exploring tide pools or spotting sea lions on nearby rocks.

  
  

It is ideal for a mid-morning brunch or golden-hour picnic. Bring sandwiches, a few coloring books for the kids, and your camera. Catalina Island often makes an appearance in the distance.

Insider Tips

• Parking: Park at the Montage garage (validated if you visit the café) or along Pacific Coast Highway.

• Best Time: Midweek mornings for fewer crowds.

• What to Bring: Sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and a folding picnic mat (this waterproof picnic blanket is my go-to).

• Nearby Fun: Walk down to the sand for tide pooling. Don’t miss the chance to read my guide to Laguna Beach tide pools.

  
  

Make a Day of It

After your picnic, enjoy a drink or dessert at the Montage’s outdoor café (you can walk right up in casual clothes). It’s one of the most scenic ways to end a family beach day in Laguna.

4. Aliso Beach Park — Sand, Surf, and Playground Fun

For families who prefer a beach day and a picnic, Aliso Beach Park is the clear winner. It’s the only beach in Laguna with on-site parking, picnic tables, restrooms, a playground, and a snack bar. It is perfect for families with younger kids.

Why Families Love It

• Picnic tables just steps from the sand.

• Shallow areas for wading (though keep an eye on waves).

• A small playground near the parking lot.

• Restrooms and showers nearby.

  

This beach is easy, convenient, and classic SoCal family fun.

Insider Tips

• Parking: Paid lot (credit card accepted). Arrive early on weekends or holidays.

• What to Bring: Sand toys, extra towels, and a beach umbrella (I sometimes use a lightweight pop-up shade tent).

• Best Time: Mornings or early evenings for smaller crowds.

• Nearby Fun: The Aliso Creek Trail offers a short, stroller-friendly walk afterward.

  
  

Make a Day of It

Grab a cold drink or snack at The Lost Pier Café, right on the sand. It is a true Laguna local gem. Then, take the scenic drive back toward town and stop for ice cream or a quick stroll through Heisler Park to cap off the day.

5. Bluebird Park — Playgrounds and Local Vibes

If you’re looking for a shady park where kids can run wild, Bluebird Park is your spot. Nestled inland along Cress Street, this city park is a favorite for Laguna locals. With its massive playground, picnic tables, and relaxed neighborhood feel, it’s the perfect spot for families with toddlers or young children.

Why Families Love It

• One of the largest playgrounds in Laguna Beach, complete with slides, swings, and a climbing wall.

• Shady trees and grassy areas ideal for picnics or birthday gatherings.

• Gated play area (so parents can relax a little!).

• Restrooms and parking on-site.

  
  

While you won’t see the ocean here, you’ll enjoy a peaceful escape from the coastal crowds and plenty of space for kids to burn off energy.

Insider Tips

• Parking: Small lot and nearby street parking on Cress Street.

• What to Bring: Reusable plates and utensils, snacks, and a cooler backpack (try this insulated one on Amazon).

• Nearby Fun: Stop at Papa’s Tacos or Anastasia Café afterward for lunch, or grab a treat from one of Laguna’s best ice cream shops.

• Best Time: Morning to early afternoon for shade and parking availability.

  
  

Make a Day of It

If you’re visiting Laguna from out of town, this is a great mid-day break between exploring Forest Avenue shops and heading to the beach later.

It’s also close to several family-friendly hotels in Laguna Beach where you can rest up before your next adventure.

What to Pack for a Perfect Laguna Beach Picnic

Before you head out, make sure you’ve got the essentials for your day in the sun:

• Picnic blanket — lightweight and easy to clean (my favorite here).

• Cooler tote — keeps snacks fresh.

• Reusable utensils and cups — eco-friendly and sturdy.

• Beach umbrella or shade tent — especially for little ones.

• Sunscreen and hats — SoCal sun can be strong, even in winter.

• Sand toys and tide pool shoes — for spontaneous adventures.

  
  

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Wrap-Up: Simple Joys by the Sea

Laguna Beach offers so much more than oceanfront restaurants and luxury hotels. Sometimes the best meals come from a picnic basket on the grass. Whether you’re spreading a blanket at Heisler Park, chasing dolphins at Crescent Bay, or letting the kids loose at Bluebird Park, these moments are the ones that linger.

Each of these family-friendly picnic spots in Laguna Beach captures something different about this town I’ve always called home. Enjoy the art, community, and a deep connection to the sea that this town is known for.

So grab your basket, pack your sunscreen, and make a day of it. I’d love to know which picnic spot becomes your family’s favorite. Leave a comment below or tag me in your photos @LagunaLiztravelblogger.

Laguna Beach Picnic FAQs

Can you picnic at Heisler Park? Yes—bring a blanket or use a table and enjoy the ocean views.

Best spot for toddlers? Bluebird Park for playground + shade; Aliso Beach for tables by the sand.

Alcohol/BBQs? Policies vary—check the city site; a cold picnic is the safest bet.

Best time to go? Mornings for parking, golden hour for photos.

Parking tips? Consider the free trolley; see my full parking guide.

Tide pools near picnics? Yes—Heisler/Picnic Beach and Treasure Island. Be gentle and follow posted rules.