Step 1: Ride Metrolink from Los Angeles or San Bernardino to Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo

Start your trip at Los Angeles Union Station or San Bernardino Downtown, where you’ll board the Metrolink Orange County Line or the Inland Empire/Orange County Line.

• On Saturdays and Sundays, take the ML1660 train at 8:40 AM from LA Union Station or ML1859 train at 8:56 AM from San Bernardino Downtown. Arrive at Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station between 10:00 and 10:47 AM
• Buy the $10 SoCal Day Pass for unlimited day travel for an adult. Up to three kids 17 years and under ride free with each fare-paying adult.
• Onboard perks include spacious seating, power outlets, onboard restrooms, water fountains and views of Southern California’s scenic corridor.

Step 2: Take the Free Laguna Niguel Summer Trolley (with One Easy Transfer)

When you arrive at the Metrolink station, you’ll connect to the Laguna Niguel Summer Trolley, which runs Thursdays through Sundays and holidays during summer.

Important: There is one transfer required to reach the beach.

Here's how it works:

1. Board the North Line trolley at the Metrolink station.
2. Ride to Crown Valley Park, the transfer point.
3. Switch to the South Line trolley, which continues to Salt Creek Beach.

Each line runs every 20 minutes, and the full trip from the station to the beach typically takes about 30–40 minutes, depending on timing.

Use the PassioGO! app to track trolley locations in real time and avoid long waits.

Step 3: Arrive at Salt Creek Beach

The South Line trolley drops you off at Ritz Carlton Drive, just a short walk from the entrance to Salt Creek Beach. From there, you’ll follow a paved path down to the sand and surf.

Salt Creek Beach is a favorite for families and surfers alike, offering:

• Consistent waves for surfing and bodyboarding
• Clear water and lifeguard coverage for swimming
• Tide pools at low tide
• A large sandy area for sunbathing or beach games

Right above the beach, Bluff Park features:

• Ocean-view picnic tables and BBQ grills
• A half-court basketball area
• Walking paths with spectacular views

If you need snacks or a cold drink, stop by Young’s Beach Shack, located along the beach access road.

Step 4: Return to LA on Evening Metrolink Trains

After a full day of sun and sand, ride the trolley back the way you came:

1. Walk back to Ritz Carlton Drive and hop on the South Line to Crown Valley Park.
2. Transfer to the North Line back to the Metrolink station.
3. Catch the ML1667 6:10 PM Metrolink train back to Los Angeles or ML1860 7:14 PM train back to San Bernardino Downtown.

That gives you plenty of time to enjoy the beach and have a relaxing journey home.

Watch Before You Go

See Salt Creek Beach for yourself in these two videos:

Salt Creek Beach Park - Dana Point California | Overview

Dana Point’s Hidden Gem: Salt Creek Beach