Although nestled between Pearl Street Beach and Bluebird Beach, Agate Street Beach is distinct in its beauty and charm. This sandy stretch of the shoreline is relatively secluded as compared to its neighbors and is a popular choice amongst locals. Although surfing is not permitted during at the height of summer from 12p to 5p, Agate Street Beach attracts sun-bathers, swimmers and casual tourists aplenty. The beach is easily accessible via a ramp that begins at the intersection of Ocean Way and Agate Street. Walk down to the Keyhole rock arch, or find yourself a sandy nook and bask in the sunshine.
Pearl Street Beach is a stretch of pristine white sands and rock formations which stretches along the North Pacific Ocean. Characterized by its rocky landscape, the beach is not for swimming or water sports. However, these coves provide shelter for a number of bird species and is a great spot to come to do some bird watching. You can also explore the many tide pools which form here and the variety of small ocean creatures which make their home there. The arched rock formation on the Southern side of the beach is worth taking a look at but make sure you only go during low tide.
Orange County is not known for wine production. However, Laguna Canyon Winery stands as proof that with the right measure of tender loving care, enological brilliance can be squeezed from a region previously untapped. First and foremost, the operation is a small one, allowing for an attention to detail not possible in big-time wineries. Another important secret is that the grapes do not actually come from Orange County. Instead, vintners truck in the finest product from points north. Finally, the winery's fruit-forward approach to the craft results in bottles that mesh perfectly with the warm and sunny climate.
Bordered by rocky points at both ends, Woods Cove-Beach is a stunning, albeit low-lying, beach. While it fills up completely during high tide, low tide uncovers plenty of tide pools for exploration. The sharp rocks makes swimming hazardous, however, one can go scuba diving under the right circumstances.
Officially known as the Alta Laguna Park, the Top of The World park offers panoramic views of the surrounding Orange County landscape. The park, which lies approximately 1,000 feet (304.8 meters) above sea level, has a well-equipped playground on its premises, which includes a miniature soccer field and a half-court for basketball.
La Tour (French for "the tower") is what locals love to call the mysterious tower jutting next to the cliffs at Victoria Beach. This quaint and browning tower, with rugged stones at its base, seems almost as though it has grown naturally out of the cliffs. For decades locals have wondered about the tower's origin; was it perhaps a lighthouse to guide sailors or really a pirate's haunt? Most people now seem to agree that the tower is nothing but an extension of a former home that perched on the clifftop. It was built in 1926 as a stairway for Senator William E. Brown and his family to access the beach from their home. The single metal staircase found inside the tower seems to confirm this theory. You can only visit La Tour during low tide and that too with permission from the owners, as it stands on private property. However, if you do get a chance to visit, the beach surrounding the tower is one of the most picturesque and secluded spots in the city.