SPOTLIGHT: SALT CREEK BEACH PARK
Location: The park entrance is off Pacific Coast Highway, 4 miles north of the San Diego Freeway between South Laguna and Dana Point.
Description: The park’s 18 acres include sandy beaches, rocky promontories and sheer cliffs. It is a favorite surfing with a small offshore reef that creates some of the best left swells in the area. Swimming, body surfing, sunbathing and tide-pool exploration are among other popular activities.
History: The Salt Creek area has long been a popular surfing and swimming location. In the 1960s, it was purchased by developers and planned as a private community. But a “Save Salt Creek” movement was launched to push for public access to the beach, and in 1971 Avco Community Developers agreed to provide the county certain acreage for beach parking and the beach itself. A partially constructed facility was opened in 1972; the park project was completed in 1976.
Facilities: Restrooms with outside showers are provided. A concession stand offers snacks and beach supplies in spring and summer.
Parking: Metered parking (72 minutes for each quarter) is available.
Mass Transit: OCTD route No. 1. Call (714) 636-7433.
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