Corona Del Mar Beach, California

Corona Del Mar State Beach lies just to the south of the better known Newport and Balboa beaches, but has its own distinct character, thanks to the rocky cliffs behind the south side of the beach.

There's everything you'd want to make chilling out easy - picnic tables, BBQ pits, volleyball nets, showers and food concessions. The swimming's great too, and don't forget your body board when the surf's up.

The northern end of the beach is bounded by the Newport Bay breakwater - a popular fishing spot. To the south lies the rocky Inspiration Point, a super place to snorkel or scuba dive when the water is calm. If you prefer to stay out of the water, and have a head for heights, the rocks around the point make a popular bouldering circuit.