Stars, Stripes & Seaside Lights: Celebrating the 4th of July in Orange County
There’s nothing quite like the Fourth of July on the Southern California coast—sundrenched days, cool ocean breezes, and fireworks that shimmer over the Pacific. From Newport Beach to Dana Point, Huntington to Laguna, Orange County knows how to celebrate Independence Day in style. Whether you're boarding a boat parade cruise, setting up a picnic in the park, or claiming your spot on the sand, this guide will help you find the perfect place to enjoy a dazzling night of patriotic fun.
Newport Beach: Fireworks by Sea and Sand
Balboa Peninsula – July 4th Fireworks & Parade Cruises
Celebrate aboard the water with two unforgettable cruise options from Newport Landing:
Celebrate aboard the water with two unforgettable cruise options from Newport Landing:
- Daytime Cruise | 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Sail through the Old Glory Boat Parade in Newport Bay and along the iconic coastline before heading into the open ocean.
Tickets: $78 per person - Nighttime Fireworks Cruise | 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Cruise past a glowing parade of festively decorated boats and enjoy front-row views of Newport Harbor's fireworks.
Tickets: $78 per person
Newport Dunes – Independence Day on the Back Bay
A local favorite, this all-day celebration features food trucks, full bars, live music, an inflatable water park, and fireworks at 9 PM.
Gates open at 8 AM. Parking available prepaid or day-of.
A local favorite, this all-day celebration features food trucks, full bars, live music, an inflatable water park, and fireworks at 9 PM.
Gates open at 8 AM. Parking available prepaid or day-of.
Mariners Park
Perfect for families, this low-key park provides a welcoming neighborhood setting to picnic and enjoy the fireworks.
Perfect for families, this low-key park provides a welcoming neighborhood setting to picnic and enjoy the fireworks.
Castaways Park
For panoramic views of the pyrotechnic display, head to Castaways Park—a serene blufftop spot perfect for soaking in the show.
For panoramic views of the pyrotechnic display, head to Castaways Park—a serene blufftop spot perfect for soaking in the show.
Dana Point: Fireworks with a View
Doheny State Beach
The most popular firework-viewing location in Dana Point, Doheny offers a quintessential beachside experience. The show begins between 9:00 and 9:30 PM—arrive early to claim your spot!
The most popular firework-viewing location in Dana Point, Doheny offers a quintessential beachside experience. The show begins between 9:00 and 9:30 PM—arrive early to claim your spot!
Heritage Park
Perched above the beach, Heritage Park offers sweeping ocean views and a quieter alternative. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs, and enjoy a relaxing night under the stars.
Huntington Beach: Fireworks Over the Ocean
Huntington Beach Pier
This beloved annual show begins at 9 PM, lighting up the night over the water.
This beloved annual show begins at 9 PM, lighting up the night over the water.
- Early Entry Tickets: $42.16 (access begins at 7 PM)
- General Admission: $31.87 (access begins at 7:30 PM)
Seating is provided on the pier. Please note: no alcohol is permitted and parking is not included.
Laguna Beach: The Return of the Fireworks
Monument Point at Heisler Park
After last year's drone experiment, Laguna Beach is bringing back its classic fireworks show. Fireworks will launch at 9 PM from Monument Point.
Note: Access to Monument Point and the surrounding area (Myrtle Street to Rockpile Beach stairs) will be closed starting at 5 PM for safety.
After last year's drone experiment, Laguna Beach is bringing back its classic fireworks show. Fireworks will launch at 9 PM from Monument Point.
Note: Access to Monument Point and the surrounding area (Myrtle Street to Rockpile Beach stairs) will be closed starting at 5 PM for safety.
Main Beach
Spend the day enjoying Laguna's charming Main Beach—home to the lifeguard tower, nearby eateries, and sandy spots perfect for families with little ones.
Spend the day enjoying Laguna's charming Main Beach—home to the lifeguard tower, nearby eateries, and sandy spots perfect for families with little ones.
Wherever you choose to celebrate, Orange County offers an unforgettable 4th of July—from sparkling skies and oceanfront views to festive family fun. Pack a blanket, bring your patriotic spirit, and enjoy a night to remember!