Don't let Disneyland be the end of your vacation. It is just the beginning of beach excitement and entertainment. Pictured above is Balboa Pier and the stunning coastal hillside homes of Newport Beach in Newport Beach, California.

Disneyland in Anaheim, California, is well known as a Southern California and Los Angeles vacation for the family to enjoy. But people often want to get an idea of what there is beyond the theme park and other attractions such as Universal Studios Hollywood, Legoland, and Hollywood Tours.

Beaches are one of the top attractions, whether you come in the summer, winter, spring or fall. The weather is consistent most of the year (though just a tiny bit cooler at night in the winter). That's why you might want to know about the beaches. In fact, many vacationers have discovered that it is great to spend one day and night at the theme park hotels, then veer out a bit to the surrounding beaches for some additional entertainment...kind of like you would do at Disney's Orlando vacation.

Shown in the picture above is the Balboa Pier, one of two of Newport Beach, California's most prominent piers. Located next to the pier is a hotel that's been renovated and is in the heart of it all, Balboa Inn.  Outside the hotel door you'll find your boat awaits (across the street) at the Balboa Pavilion for a day trip to Catalina Island. How convenient!

Pictured above is one of the favorite spots to walk during the day, eat at the beach cafe diner, Ruby's on the Balboa Pier, then watch the sun go down.  When visiting and going to Disneyland, do give yourself time to explore Orange County's beaches that surround the Magic Kingdom. One great place to stay is Newport Beach.