Hop Aboard: Your 2025 Guide to Coastal OC’s Free Summer Trolleys

Summer in Orange County means golden sunsets, salty breezes, and yes — packed parking lots. But what if you could soak up all the coastal charm without circling for a spot or feeding a meter? Good news: you can!

From Newport Beach to Dana Point, the free summer trolley systems are back in 2025 and better than ever. They’re convenient, scenic, and totally free to ride. Whether you’re beach-hopping, brunching, or browsing art galleries, these trolleys are your local insider pass to summer done right.

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Newport Beach – Balboa Peninsula Free Summer Trolley

• Dates: Weekends & select holidays from May 24 to September 1, 2025

• Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

• Route: 22 scenic stops along the Balboa Peninsula, including the Balboa Pier

• Parking: Free at the Avon Street Parking Lot (near Tustin Avenue)

• Good to Know: Wheelchair accessible and ready for your bikes and beach bags

  
  

Whether you’re meeting friends at the Fun Zone or taking in a sunset from the pier, this trolley lets you skip the peninsula parking struggle. Enjoy the view instead!

Even better? Newport Beach is currently considering expanding the route to include Balboa Island and Corona del Mar. This potential extension would grant locals and visitors even more access to coastal favorites — no parking pass required.

Getting around coastal Orange County just got easier, & free! The City Trolley's are back for the summer, offering locals and visitors a scenic, no-cost ride through town. Don't miss the opportunity to explore without the parking hassle.

Laguna Beach Free Summer Trolley

• Summer Season: June 27 – September 1, 2025

• Hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

• Friday – Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

• Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

• Routes:

• Coastal Route: Heisler Park to the Ritz-Carlton in Dana Point

• Canyon Route: Act V Parking Lot to Downtown

• Summer Breeze: Free parking in Irvine (16355 Laguna Canyon Rd) with trolley to downtown and the art festivals

• Frequency: Every 20–40 minutes

  
  

Art, ocean views, and zero stress. Laguna’s trolley system makes it easy to see the best of the city without ever touching your car keys. Take your time exploring the beautiful coastal vistas.

Dana Point Free Summer Trolley

• Dates: May 23 – September 1, 2025

• Hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

• Friday: 12:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

• Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

• Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

• Holidays: 10:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

• Route: North and South Loops serving beaches, Dana Point Harbor, and connections to Laguna Beach and San Clemente trolleys

• Frequency: Every 15 minutes

• Live Tracking: Use the Dana Point Trolley Tracker App

  
  

Want to cruise the coast or hop over to San Clemente for lunch? Dana Point's trolleys make it a breeze. This is a fantastic way to experience the stunning coastal area.

Laguna Niguel Free Summer Trolley

• Dates: May 22 – September 1, 2025

• Route:

• North Line: Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Metrolink Station to Crown Valley Park

• South Line: Crown Valley Park to Salt Creek Beach

• Connections: Transfer between lines at Crown Valley Park

• Live Tracking: Use the PassioGO! app (also works for Dana Point, San Clemente, and San Juan Capistrano trolleys)

  
  

If you’re looking for a more low-key way to get to the beach or just want to explore a new part of town, Laguna Niguel’s trolley system is a fun, family-friendly option. Enjoy leisurely rides and quality time with loved ones.

Enjoy the Coastal Lifestyle

Free, scenic, and incredibly convenient — these trolleys are one of the best-kept secrets for living your best OC summer. Whether you're a local trying to avoid beach traffic or a visitor wanting to see it all, you can't beat this kind of access.

Imagine taking in the gorgeous sights while leaving your car parked and worrying about a meter. This summer, experience the difference that these free trolleys make.

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