Salt Creek Beach is the closest ocean beach to Laguna Niguel, about four kilometres south of the city centre via Crown Valley Parkway. The beach is well-known for surfing — the point break at the southern end produces reliable waves that attract experienced surfers, and the more sheltered northern section is suitable for beginners and swimmers. The beach is wide and sandy, with a park and facilities at the top of the bluff.
The beach is accessible by car (paid parking at the bluff top) or on foot via the Salt Creek Trail that runs down from Crown Valley Parkway through a preserved coastal corridor. The trail is a legitimate walk with ocean views and is a better approach than driving if you are staying in Laguna Niguel. The Ritz-Carlton hotel overlooks the beach from the bluff and the coastal path connects northward toward Laguna Beach along the Headlands trail.