California’s Pacific Coast boasts 840 miles of shoreline making it the right place for a highway journey to get pleasure from its countless stretches of sand. While many individuals can title a couple of of its extra well-known seashores like Venice Beach, San Francisco’s Ocean Beach, or San Diego’s Coronado Beach, a few of the greatest seashores in California will not be actually identified and due to this fact much less busy.
So, to introduce you to some locations it’s possible you’ll not know, here’s a round-up of the perfect California Beaches that you just already know and love, and a few lesser-known gems across the state.
Best California Beaches
Beaches in California are nature’s unspoiled treasures and so they supply nice alternatives for solitude, wildlife watching, and gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean. We’ve lived in California for a 12 months, so we had sufficient time to find not solely the well-known touristy locations however some hidden gems, too. (This submit was initially written by Csaba & Bea of Our Wanders and has been up to date by The Planet D crew for 2023.)
1. Venice Beach – Los Angeles
Venice Beach is positioned in Los Angeles County and is a kind of locations that’s identified extra for its bohemian really feel than for the seashore itself.
Most individuals who go to Venice Beach stroll alongside the Venice Beach Boardwalk, taking in the road performers, watching the bodybuilders elevate weights, and witnessing the numerous artists plying their commerce alongside this well-known stretch.
Venice Beach itself is attractive so it’s no marvel it’s a favourite among the many locals in the world. A couple of of the issues that make it considered one of our favourite California seashores are the cool little retailers, nice cafes, and a few of the hippest espresso locations in L.A.
2. Manhattan Beach – Los Angeles
There is a cause that Manhattan Beach is without doubt one of the costliest locations to reside in Los Angeles. Situated completely on the Pacific Ocean, the large sandy seashore is smooth and dotted with lovely homes, upscale eating places, stylish boutiques, and a few very costly inns.
Weekends convey out crowds of individuals together with some fairly good seashore volleyball gamers. Manhattan Beach looks as if an odd title for a seashore in California, however it was named after actual property developer Stewart Merrill who was from Manhattan New York.
It’s becoming that it’s named after a developer as a result of the true property alongside Manhattan Beach is spectacular with dwelling promoting for as much as $36 million {dollars}
Being positioned so near downtown LA it’s a nice add-on to your day of visiting Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, or the Sunset Strip. Manhattan Beach is certainly considered one of our favourite southern California seashores. Read extra: 37 Best Things To Do In Los Angeles In 2023 – By A Local
3. Malibu
Zuma Beach
Malibu has a few of the most lovely seashores in California. Most individuals might be acquainted with Zuma Beach, with its large sandy seashore that stretches for two miles. Dotted with seashore volleyball nets, lifeguard stands, and many services it’s no marvel this seashore is so well-liked.
Other seashores in the world like Paradise Beach, Point Dume State Beach, and Puerco Beach are smaller and supply a extra household ambiance than Zuma Beach.
If you’re up for one thing distinctive, ensure that to take a look at the Malibu Beach Inn which supplies you the prospect to spend a night on the “Billionaires Beach” stretch of the coast. It will not be low cost however it provides you a glimpse into how the opposite half lives. Read extra about Malibu: 20 Best Things To Do In Malibu In 2023 By A Local
4. Huntington Beach – Orange County
Huntington State Beach has turn into fairly the vacation spot these days and for good cause. Located in the town of Huntington Beach (nicknamed Surf City) it boasts an exquisite 2-mile-long sandy seashore that stretches from Beach Boulevard to the Santa Ana River Channel.
This seashore has some nice breaks for surfers. The Huntington Beach Pier is a good place for leisurely stroll in addition to to attempt your hand at fishing.
Make positive to get to the top and take a look at Ruby’s Surf City Diner for some nice views and good meals.
Make positive to go to downtown which has an incredible collection of bars, fabulous eating places, ice cream retailers, and boutiques. Huntington Beach is a kind of locations that was made for a trip.
5. Newport Beach – Orange County
With a whopping 10 miles of shoreline, Newport Beach is positioned in the well-known playground of the wealthy and delightful, Orange Country.
This southern California seashore group boasts 5 miles of golden sand reaching out from the Newport Pier.
Not solely do you will have the lengthy sandy stretch of Newport Beach, however there are additionally loads of points of interest for the entire household together with Balboa Fun Zone amusement park, Lido Marina Village purchasing heart, and nice browsing.
6. Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach is a spot for enjoyable in the solar. With the well-known Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park amusement park and its Ferris wheel, and historic carousel, that is a kind of seashores in California that’s enjoyable for the entire household.
This California seashore group is dwelling to the wealthy and well-known.
Head out to the Beach to benefit from the sand and solar, but in addition to discover the Santa Monica State Beach Park, climbing trails, purchasing alongside the Third Beach Preomenad, or biking alongside Marvin Braude Beach Trail.
Santa Monica Beach can also be dwelling to glorious browsing similar to so many seashores in California.
7. Santa Barbara
We by no means thought we’d have the chance to go to Santa Barbara however whereas working with California tourism on their advisory board, we had the prospect to spend a few days exploring the world.
Located on the Pacific Coast, there are many seashores to discover in Santa Barbara however it’s East Beach positioned proper in city that makes it particular.
Santa Barbara has many seashores. Known as The American Riviera, you’ll really feel like a millionaire strolling alongside its sandy shores as palm timber sway in the Pacific wind.
Visit Summerland Beach for horseback using, take a crusing journey, get pleasure from some kayaking alongside its shores or take in the gorgeous sundown at Hendry’s Beach.
8. Pfeiffer Beach – Big Sur
Located alongside the Pacific Coast Highway, Pfeiffer Beach is without doubt one of the most lovely settings in California.
Famous for its keyhole arch positioned offshore in the Pacific Ocean, Pfeiffer Beach is an exquisite lengthy sandy seashore identified for its purple sand.
It’s slightly off the overwhelmed path making it one of the vital secluded seashores in California. To get to Pfeiffer Beach, from Highway 1, take the second flip one mile south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. It is just not part of the State Park. drive down
There are tide swimming pools to be explored at low tide, excessive lookouts to view the countless ocean, and rocks and bluffs. Read extra concerning the Pacific Coast Highway at Big Sur Road Trip – The Best Viewpoints
9. Coronado Beach – San Diego
Coronado Beach homes the Silver Strand with seven miles of glowing sandy seashore. It is positioned simply throughout the bay from downtown San Diego and makes the listing as one of many high seashores in California.
The iconic Hotel Del Coronado on the beachfront of San Diego Coronado Island was the setting for the film Some Like It Hot. It’s an incredible place to cease for lunch if you’re not able to splurge on an evening.
This seashore is a hub for tide swimming pools the place you’ll be capable to see ocean life equivalent to starfish, crabs, and barnacles.
Swing by Del’s beachside café for fish tacos or head as much as the swank outside bar for sundown cocktails with a view. For extra on San Diego learn: A Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in San Diego
10. La Jolla Shores Beach – San Diego
La Jolla Shores is positioned in lovely San Diego. This seashore is great for exploring tide swimming pools and basking in the solar. It can also be one of many wildest stretches of the Southern California coast housing the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
If you’re keen on seashores, you’re going to additionally love La Jolla Cove the place sea lions bask in the solar. La Jolla Cove can also be a wonderful place for kayaking to La Jolla Sea Caves to discover the coastal formations.
11. Main Beach – Santa Cruz
Hit up Main Beach of Santa Cruz to get pleasure from this California seashore that is only one hour from San Francisco. Take a stroll alongside the mile-long Santa Cruz seashore boardwalk or go to the historic amusement park.
Santa Cruz Park is the oldest surviving amusement park in California. There are loads of seashore actions together with seashore volleyball courts, browsing, and kayaking. You’ll see sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, and even whales offshore.
12. Natural Bridges State Beach – Santa Cruz
Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz is one other must-visit seashore in California. The stone formation is one thing you’ll count on to see off the coast of Portugal.
Natural Bridges State Beach is called for precisely what you suppose it’s, the pure bridge that’s positioned offshore. There are climbing trails, and tide swimming pools to discover at low tide.
Plus there’s a boardwalk and it is a vital sanctuary for Monarch Butterflies migrating by way of the world from October to January. The panorama alone makes this the most effective seashores in California.
13. Pismo Beach – San Luis Obispo
I’ll always remember watching Clueless in the Nineteen Nineties and questioning the place Pismo Beach was. Cher donated her ski tools to the Pismo Beach Disaster. I had at all times wished to go there ever since.
We had our likelihood when exploring the wine area of Santa Maria. Located midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Highway, it is a lovely sandy seashore.
There are loads of issues to do round this small seashore city and whereas it is without doubt one of the greatest seashores for browsing, we hit the sand dunes for a severe dune buggy journey.
If you aren’t up for an journey, take a stroll alongside the boardwalk and pier, discover the close by wineries or take a selfie in entrance of the Pismo Beach signal.
14. El Matador State Beach, Malibu
El Matador Beach is certainly the most effective seashores in California and it’s simply a few minutes’ drive from Malibu. This slim seashore is in the shade of giant cliffs and stairs led us down there from the car parking zone.
We have been amazed by the fascinating rock formations on the shore and in the water, and in addition by the right ocean sundown this seashore affords. It’s probably not a seashore for swimming or browsing, however it’s a photographer’s and {couples}’ favourite due to its wild and romantic ambiance.
15. Beach at Alamere Falls, Point Reyes National Seashore
A seashore with a waterfall – how does that sound? No, we aren’t speaking of Big Sur’s well-liked and magical McWay Falls this time, it’s one other one: Alamere Falls at Point Reyes National Seashore.
We will not be positive if this seashore has a reputation, truly, it even ceases to exist at excessive tide, after which Alamere Falls flows straight into the ocean. But it positively exists at low tide and there’s a steep path main right down to it close to the highest of the falls.
However, this distinctive seashore requires some climbing, as a result of it might solely be accessed by way of Coast Trail from Palomarin Trailhead. This means an 8 miles reasonable roundtrip which has simply turn into a day hike for us as we spent a lot time chilling out on the seashore.
If you’re keen on these try extra Unique Beaches from Around the world.
16. Rodeo Beach, Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Golden Gate National Recreation Area is simply north of San Francisco and it affords a number of good coastal hikes, some with a shocking panorama of Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay.
Rodeo Beach is a good seashore for hikers as it’s the place to begin of a number of shorter and longer hikes and in addition a pleasant seashore itself bounded by a lagoon. Its darkish, pebbly sand is exclusive in California.
It’s a well-liked browsing seashore, however swimming is harmful due to the sturdy currents. We loved strolling on the seashore, doing a few of the coastal hikes, and getting amazed by the wild ocean.
17. Laguna Beach, Orange County
Laguna Beach is a neighborhood’s favourite in Orange County. And our favourite, too! With its clear and calm water is claimed to be the most effective swimming seashores and there’s additionally scuba diving in the world. But we warn you the water is way from heat even in the summer time – simply as wherever else alongside the coast.
It was a pleasant refreshing cease although in South California’s scorching summer time. There are loads of seashore actions right here at Laguna Beach effectively together with seashore volleyball courts, a motorcycle path, and basketball courts.
18. Pescadero State Beach – San Mateo County
Pescadero is a protracted, quiet, wild seashore in Central California with nice wildlife-watching alternatives. We’ve seen tons of harbor seals resting on the cliffs close to the shore and Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve is correct behind the seashore.
There are a number of shorter trails in the marsh and they’re glorious for bird-watching. Pescadero State Beach additionally has lovely (although normally windy and chilly) sunsets. Read extra: Things to do in San Mateo, California
19. Half Moon Bay State Beach – San Francisco
Located a couple of half-hour from San Francisco is the group of Half Moon and is a well-liked California seashore escape from the town. It homes Half Moon Bay State Beach, Dunes Beach, and Francis Beach.
Take a hike alongside the California Coastal Trail for panoramic views of the shoreline. Dreaming of an island getaway? Check out our listing of The Most Beautiful Tropical Islands in the World
20. Andrew Molera State Beach, Big Sur
Again, an adventurous seashore! It’s positioned in Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur alongside the Pacific Coast Highway. Accessing Andrew Molera State Beach requires a brief stroll from the car parking zone.
This scenic stretch of freeway is 2 hours and thirty minutes south of San Francisco and makes for one of many nice California Road Trips. The stroll features a river crossing as effectively if the seasonal bridge is eliminated.
The crystal clear river was not deep in any respect once we have been there, we might pleasantly stroll by way of it. Uhm… we might have achieved it pleasantly if it wouldn’t have been so rattling chilly. But it was nonetheless enjoyable.
Andrew Molera Beach is on the mouth of Big Sur River, it’s a protracted undeveloped seashore and we additionally beloved climbing on the good bluff climbing trails above it. Read extra: A information to the perfect campgrounds in Big Sur
21. Gold Bluffs Beach, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Gold Bluffs Beach is a part of Northern California’s Redwood National and State Parks and the foggy redwoods in the background give a mystic ambiance to it. This places it proper up there as the most effective seashores in California.
Usually, there will not be many individuals on the seashore which can solely strengthen this ambiance.
One of probably the most particular hikes in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is Fern Canyon Trail which took us again to Jurassic occasions – truly, some scenes of the Jurassic Park film have been filmed there.
It begins from Gold Bluffs Beach – or ends on the seashore in the event you begin at James Irvine Trail as we did. The seashore itself can also be accessible by automobile and there’s a small campground on the car parking zone. Read: 7 Epic Places to Visit in Northern California
22. Limantour Beach, Point Reyes National Seashore
This lengthy and ideal sandy seashore on a sand spit between Drakes Bay and the Limantour Estero estuary is one other gem of Point Reyes National Seashore.
Thanks to the close by wetlands there’s a excessive likelihood to identify seabirds. Harbor seals additionally just like the shallow water of Drakes Bay and they’re usually seen mendacity on the shore.
Limantour Beach is accessible by automobile and it has a pleasant giant car parking zone. But in the event you ask us it’s a lot nicer to park earlier alongside the highway and hike there by way of pine forests and wetlands. We’ve achieved the Laguna Trail – Limantour Beach – Muddy Hollow Trail – Bayview Trail loop which was an exquisite numerous day hike.
23. Carmel Beach City Park, Carmel-By-The-Sea
The group of lovely Carmel by the Sea additionally has the most effective California seashores. Located proper on Central California’s Monterey Peninsula Carmel is a good base for exploring the Pacific Coast Highway.
It’s a kind of typical Central California seashores with a beautiful strolling avenue, tons of eating places with or with out ocean panorama, and naturally, a protracted, sandy seashore (that can also be canine pleasant.) Explore it extra at The Best Stops on 17 Mile Drive
We beloved strolling on Carmel Beach and in addition on the scenic highway above the seashore. The seashore was filled with households having a picnic, youngsters swimming or enjoying in the water and canine working round, and naturally, the seashore volleyball that California is so well-known for.
Carmel Beach is without doubt one of the few locations left on the California coast the place individuals can nonetheless collect round a hearth to toast marshmallows and benefit from the ambiance of a seashore bonfire. Read extra: Things to do in Carmel by the Sea, California
24. Cowell Ranch Beach, Half Moon Bay
The most hidden seashore and the most effective seashores in California is Cowell Ranch Beach. While driving south of Half Moon Bay State Beach on California 1 we have been searching for a small car parking zone by a yellow gate which indicated the trailhead for Cowell Ranch Beach.
It’s simple to overlook it, however it’s value searching for, it rewarded us with an exquisite, barely identified seashore. The seashore is accessible by a brief bluff path with picket stairs on the finish and it took us about quarter-hour to get there.
There’s one other seashore south of the path which isn’t accessible as a result of it’s a seal protect. Binoculars are at all times a good suggestion on the California Central coast, however right here you will have an particularly good likelihood to watch seals. On the opposite hand, Cowell Ranch Beach is dealing with completely west, so it’s a peaceable getaway for sundown lovers.
25. Crystal Cove State Park – Orange County
Crystal cove state park is a real gem with its lovely landscapes and scenic views. The park boasts a 3-mile shoreline one of many largest uninterrupted pure seashores in California. It additionally options a number of seashores, tide swimming pools, and an underwater park good for outside fans.
An 18-mile climbing path can also be obtainable for all. While unleashed canine will not be allowed on the seashore, they’re allowed on the path. Restaurants and rooftop lounges are additionally obtainable that can assist you wind down after a day on the seashore with iconic views of the sundown.
26. Sand greenback seashore – Big Sur
Don’t let the steep stroll down the seashore deter you as you can be rewarded with one of the vital scenic seashores in California. A phenomenal shoreline with a rocky panorama enclosed in a cove-like formation.
While Sand Dollar Beach may not be greatest for swimming, it’s an incredible picnic spot. The dramatic rock formation that encloses the seashore makes for an incredible place to loosen up as you admire nature in all its glory.
It’s a favourite spot amongst surfers in Big Sur. Watch them experience waves all day. In low tide, you may attempt your luck at catching some crabs or muscle mass.
If you’re up for it, it’s also possible to go trying to find jade stones. However, keep on with laws in your security.
27. Glass seashore – Fort Bragg
Located in Fort Bragg, the glass seashore is a real testomony to what nature can do. The seashore is filled with coloured stones that have been as soon as dumped items of glass choking the life out of the ocean. Mother nature in flip broke down the rubbish and turned it into lovely items of frosted glass, a course of that takes about 30 – 100 years to finish.
The fixed pounding of the ocean waves breaks and softens the glass turning it into completely different sizes and styles. Common colours you’ll discover embrace clear, brown, and inexperienced.
Kids will particularly love visiting this seashore as they’re solely however a couple of glass seashores in the world.
Years of holiday makers taking the glass stones has depleted the seashore and has resulted in the apply being declared unlawful. A strict measure that helps to make sure that there are glass stones left for future guests to get pleasure from.
Remember to maintain your flip flop on always as you stroll alongside the seashore as a few of the stones are sharp.
28. Marin County Stinson Beach
Stinson Beach is positioned alongside the scenic shoreline of Marin County, simply north of San Francisco. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the rugged slopes of Mount Tamalpais, the seashore is a high choose for its smooth sand and crescent form.
Stinson Beach boasts a large expanse of sandy shoreline that stretches for about three and a half miles. The pure magnificence surrounding Stinson Beach is a serious draw for guests.
To the east, you’ll discover the majestic Mount Tamalpais State Park, which affords climbing and biking trails with breathtaking vistas. To the west, the Pacific Ocean supplies a fascinating backdrop, full with rolling waves and scenic sunsets.
You can swim in the ocean (though the water could be chilly), surf, boogie board, or just loosen up on the sand. The seashore can also be well-liked for beachcombing, birdwatching, and kite flying. Nearby Mount Tamalpais affords quite a few climbing and biking trails that showcase the world’s gorgeous coastal and forested landscapes.
Final Thoughts on the Beach Beaches in California
From Ocean Beach in San Fransico with the perfect view of the Golden Gate Bridge to the Southernmost Beach in California – Imperial Beach close to San Diego, there are numerous seashores in California. You may additionally like these Best Beaches in Florida
We barely scratched the floor of all of the sandy locations in California. One factor is for positive, California is considered one of our favourite locations to go to in the United States.
About Our Wanders: Csaba and Bea are passionate vacationers, hikers, and passion photographers. They left their small dwelling nation, Hungary nearly 2 years in the past and moved to a a lot greater one, the US the place they’ve rapidly turn into hooked on nationwide parks, climbing, and highway journeys and began to imagine that they’ll reside their goals. Read about their adventures on their weblog Our Wanders. Follow them additionally on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook!