Long Beach

Free Outdoor Movies in Orange County

Nothing says summer like warm temps after sunset, a blanket on the grass, homemade popcorn and a movie on a giant outdoor screen. There are plenty of places in Orange County where you can catch a free outdoor movie; whether it be on the sand or at a community park.

So grab a blanket and pack some snacks and check out these summer movie hot spots!

Newport Dunes: Movies on the Beach


Photo credit: Newport Dunes

Newport Dunes Resort is a 110-acre resort located in Newport Beach at the entrance to the Back Bay Nature Preserve and the Newport Bay Conservancy. During July and August, they are offering free movies on the beach on their new huge outdoor screen." 

  • When: Movies start at dusk (around 8 p.m.)
  • Cost: Admission is free, but there is a parking fee ($10 per car for 1-3 hours and" $12 for 3-5 hours). There are concessions available for purchase." 
  • What to bring: Blankets, lawn chairs and jackets, as it can get chilly.
  • Some of the movies being shown include classics like 'Home Alone,' 'Star Wars,' and 'E.T.' See the full list of the movies being shown here." 

Long Beach: Moonlight Movies on the Beach


Photo credit: AlfredosBeachClub.com

Just outside the Orange County lines, Alfredo's Beach Club at Granada Beach (5101 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803) and 'Mother's Beach' (5825 E Appian Way, Long Beach, CA 90803) both offer free movies on the beach May-August." 

  • When: Movies start at dusk (around 8 p.m.)
  • Cost: Admission and parking are free and there is dinner, snacks and popcorn available for purchase." 
  • Some of the movies being shown include 'When Harry Met Sally,' 'The Lorax,' and 'The Goonies.' See the full list of movies here.

Placentia: Movies in the Park


Photo credit: City of Placentia

Outdoor movies are shown on Friday nights from July 12-August 23 at the Placentia Champions Sports Complex (505 N. Jefferson, Placentia, CA 92870)." 

  • When: Movies begin at dusk" 
  • Cost: Admission is free." 
  • What to bring: Spectators are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket for comfortable viewing." 
  • Some of the movies being shown include 'The Lorax,' 'The Lion King' and 'Madagascar 3.' See the full list of movies being shown here.

Costa Mesa: Movies at Arts Plaza


Photo credit: WhereLA.com

Segerstrom Center" offers Free Movie Mondays held on their 46,000-square-foot Arts Plaza from July 8-August 5." 

  • When: Movies begin at dusk (around 8 p.m.), but there will be pre-performance contests beginning at 7:30 p.m. for all movie-goers. Past contests have included trivia games and dancing competitions, and prizes are handed out! Set-up begins at 5:30 p.m.
  • Cost: Admission is free, but parking is not.
  • What to bring: Bring your pillows, beach chairs, picnic blankets and picnic foods. Concessions are available for purchase.
  • Some of the movies being shown include 'The Wedding Singer' and 'The Lion King.' See the full list of movies being shown here.