The Top 20 Lakes around Irvine
Looking to visit the best lakes around Irvine? After all, there’s nothing better than the serenity of the lakeshore — or a quick dip when the weather’s warm. So, browse our list of Irvine’s top lakes below as recommended by the komoot community, and experience more on your next adventure!
Last updated: November 13, 2025
Back Bay Drive – Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Road with little traffic running by (through) the Upper Newport Ecological Reserve. Very nice to ride.
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San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary
Highlight • Natural
San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Irvine, encompasses 300 acres of restored coastal freshwater wetlands. A haven for birdwatchers, it hosts diverse bird species and offers educational programs.
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Back Bay Loop Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
The Back Bay Loop Trail offers a 10.5-mile scenic route around Upper Newport Bay. The well-signed trail passes through landmarks like Upper Castaways Park, Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center, …
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Back Bay Loop Trail (Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve)
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
This is a smooth paved section of the Back Bay Loop Trail, approximately 2 miles (3.2k) in length along the north side of the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve.
Running …
Running …
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Woodbridge North Lake Path
Highlight • Cycleway
Cycleway alongside the North Lake and through the neighborhood in Woodbridge. Crosses Barranca Parkway over a bridge.
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Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Upper Peters Canyon Reservoir also known as Little Peters Canyon Lake was built in 1931 for flood control, and for water conservation. The water storage helped orange groves grow in the canyon.
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Corona Del Mar Beach and Coast Guard Moorings - Newport Bay
Highlight • Beach
Sandy beach on the protected, calm Newport Bay, safer swimming than on the open pacific ocean beaches nearby.
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Laguna Niguel Lake
Highlight • Lake
Laguna Niguel Lake, formerly known as Sulphur Creek Reservoir, is a 44-acre recreational lake that was created by the Sulphur Creek Dam. The fee to access the park and lake …
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Talbert Nature Preserve
Highlight • Forest
There are fantastic wildflowers and river views along the packed dirt trails that navigate the park. You get nice scenic views of Victoria Pond as you venture near the bikeway.
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Lake Mission Viejo
Highlight • Lake
Enjoy spectacular city and mountain views while exploring Lake Mission Viejo's scenic 3-mile paved trail. Spot local wildlife like herons and turtles along the shimmering waters of Lake Mission Viejo.
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Mile Square Regional Park
Highlight • Parking
As the name suggests, Mile Square Park is approximately one mile on each side. Completing the square takes you on a four mile loop along tree-lined sidewalks with views of the golf course, lake, and sports fields.
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Still not found your perfect lake around Irvine? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
Huntington BeachSanta AnaCosta MesaFountain ValleyNewport BeachGarden GroveTustinAnaheimWestminsterSeal BeachRossmoorLos AlamitosBuena ParkFullertonLaguna BeachStantonYorba LindaOrangeLaguna WoodsLaguna HillsNorth TustinPlacentiaLa PalmaLa HabraCypressBreaLake ForestAliso ViejoVilla ParkSanta Ana MountainsMidway CityMission ViejoLaguna NiguelSilveradoPeters Canyon Regional Park
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