Inspired kids can test their skill at the generally calm Doheny State Park, where a breakwater keeps the waves gentle. For little kids, the lagoon at Newport Dunes Resort, a private RV camp, is perfect for safe splashing. If that doesn't make your purple-haired progeny feel like she's made the scene, then venture toward the L.A. area's Venice Beach, where the colorful street performers include jugglers, musicians, and Muscle Beach's bodybuilders. Combine biking with island exploring by taking your bikes aboard the ferry to Balboa Island or to popular Catalina Island. When visiting Catalina Island, take time for snorkeling.
Enthusiasts appreciate both the sea life and the generally calm waters.
Good places are the Corona del Mar Marine Life Refuge and Dana Point Harbor on a ranger-led tour. Pre-teens are especially fascinated by the neonlike glow of plankton, glowworms, and certain fish. On a daytime wildlife cruise, biologists talk about endangered birds and marine animals as you, hopefully, spot some. During the day, the Institute's touch tank is a good find for little kids, especially if they've never fingered a crab or sea star. If you know what you're doing, you can rent a small sail or motor boat in Newport Harbor, Balboa's Pavilion, or from Dana Point Harbor.