Glamping in Sunset Beach, California sits at the intersection of ocean access and urban proximity, with most sites resting at sea level and experiencing a year-round Mediterranean climate. Average temperatures range from 65-85°F during peak summer months, while winter visitors can expect temperatures between a mild 50-65°F. Coastal fog often rolls in during early mornings, clearing to sunny afternoons.
What to do
Beach exploration: Crystal Cove State Park offers both traditional camping and upscale glamping options with direct ocean access. "Short walk down to the beach! Lots of hiking trails around, or take the walk across the beach to the shake shack! Definitely recommend for a local glamping trip!" notes Brianne S.
Wildlife viewing: Moro Campground provides opportunities to observe coastal wildlife while glamping near Sunset Beach. "The sunset was absolutely beautiful and in the morning we were high up above the marine layer which was really cool to see," reports Torye C., who stayed at a backcountry site overlooking the ocean.
Mountain biking: China Camp State Park offers glamping opportunities with access to cycling trails. "Located on the west side of the San Rafael/Richmond Bridge, on San Francisco Bay, this park is extremely popular with mountain bikers," explains Nathaniel S. "The trail running and hiking is great too."
What campers like
Ocean views: Many glamping sites feature direct views of the Pacific. Patrick J. says of Crystal Cove, "This is a gem of a campground. Almost every site has an ocean view of some kind," while noting the electrical and water hookups that elevate the camping experience.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Newport Dunes RV Resort caters to families seeking glamping accommodations with activities. "We stay here every year. They have activities for the kids like arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course or you can rent paddle boards or watch a movie on the beach," shares Karissa J.
Modern comforts: The glamping cottages at Newport Dunes RV Resort provide home-like amenities. "We rented the Large Cottage in the back because we needed a kitchen for cooking all the food we'd packed. The small cottage would've been fine if we didn't need an oven, stove and large refrigerator," explains Chad M.
What you should know
Site spacing: Most glamping areas near Sunset Beach have relatively close quarters. At Newport Dunes, Theresa S. notes, "I hope you like cozy. Neighbor in campsite next to us yapped his belligerent drunken mouth all weekend," indicating that privacy may be limited.
Reservation requirements: Securing glamping accommodations requires advance planning. Anaheim Harbor RV Park fills quickly due to its proximity to attractions. Jennifer H. advises, "Get a deluxe site if you can. The standard sites are essentially a large parking spot in a paved parking lot."
Cost considerations: Glamping near Sunset Beach typically comes at a premium. Ray S. says of Newport Dunes, "This is a very clean and well maintained park with a lot of amenities," while Mark E. adds more bluntly, "Enjoy each time we are there. Clean but pricey."
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Plan around tide schedules when glamping with children. Amy H. shares about Crystal Cove: "The tide was high both times we tried to walk under the highway to get to the beach but there were parking lots just a short drive up the road."
Entertainment options: Dockweiler Beach RV Park provides unique plane-watching experiences alongside beach access. "We watched planes from LAX fly overhead, and soaked in a stunning sunset. It was the ideal place to settle into our campervan life," reports Prince C.
Site selection: When glamping with children, choose sites strategically. Tracey S. advises about Anaheim Harbor, "Ok, so it is just a parking lot, but they do it well! Little tufts of fake grass with full hook ups. Nice bathrooms and hot showers with laundry on location."
Tips from RVers
Logistics: RV glamping requires attention to setup details. Patrick J. notes about Crystal Cove, "The roads that lead to the sites is a bit narrow, so if your towable is on the long side, you might have to work a bit to back it in. The maximum length is 38."
Amenities assessment: Stone Villa RV Park offers spacious sites for larger rigs. "Good place to rv stay. Back in sites with HUGE additional spots for extra vehicle. No tables. Full hook ups. All paved spots which is great because no dust getting into your rig," reports Brittney C.
Location advantages: RV glamping near Sunset Beach provides access to both natural and urban settings. Geoffrey R. says of Newport Dunes, "My favorite RV resort. Located in the back bay of Newport Harbor ND has it all. Bike trails for the kids and Balboa Island is just right down the way."
