Best California Beaches

California’s Pacific Coast boasts 840 miles of shoreline, making it the perfect place for a road trip to enjoy its endless stretches of sand. While many beachgoers can name a few famous beaches like Venice Beach, San Francisco’s Ocean Beach, or San Diego’s Coronado Beach, there are many hidden gems that offer beautiful experiences away from the crowds.

In this article, we introduce you to both beloved and lesser-known California beaches, providing a range of scenic locations and activities for you to explore.

1. Venice Beach – Los Angeles

Venice Beach is located in Los Angeles County and is known more for its bohemian atmosphere than for the beach itself. Visitors can stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, enjoying street performances and watching bodybuilders at work.

The wide sandy beach is a local favorite, thanks to its unique shops, tasty cafes, and vibrant coffee spots.

2. Manhattan Beach – Los Angeles

Manhattan Beach is one of the most desirable places to live in Los Angeles, featuring an expansive sandy beach framed by upscale homes and trendy shops. On weekends, the beach attracts crowds and beach volleyball enthusiasts.

This beach was named after real estate developer Stewart Merrill, but its gorgeous scenery and lively atmosphere make it a pivotal stop on your California journey.

3. Malibu

Home to breathtaking beaches, Malibu is famous for Zuma Beach, which boasts two miles of sandy shoreline and numerous recreational options. Smaller beaches like Paradise Beach and Point Dume State Beach offer quieter, family-friendly environments.

For a unique experience, stay at the Malibu Beach Inn, located on the iconic “Billionaires Beach.”

4. Huntington Beach – Orange County

Renowned as “Surf City,” Huntington State Beach features a stunning two-mile beach popular among surfers. The Huntington Beach Pier is perfect for relaxing strolls or fishing. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at downtown Huntington Beach, with its excellent dining and nightlife.

5. Newport Beach – Orange County

Stretching over 10 miles along the pristine coastline, Newport Beach embodies the coastal elegance of Orange County, offering golden sands and a variety of activities including surfing, shopping, and family attractions such as the Balboa Fun Zone amusement park.

6. Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is renowned for its lively atmosphere, best exemplified by the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Families can enjoy rides and games at Pacific Park amusement park, and explore numerous dining and shopping options along the lively Third Street Promenade.

7. Santa Barbara

Often referred to as “The American Riviera,” Santa Barbara features beautiful beaches like East Beach, which offers a blend of relaxation and activity. Enjoy horseback riding, sailing, or a peaceful sunset stroll along the shore.

8. Pfeiffer Beach – Big Sur

Pfeiffer Beach along the Pacific Coast Highway is noteworthy for its striking keyhole arch and soft purple sand. The beach is somewhat secluded and ideal for those seeking an escape amidst stunning landscapes and tide pools to explore.

9. Coronado Beach – San Diego

Located just across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Beach is famous for its seven miles of golden sands and charming beachfront. The historic Hotel Del Coronado offers a perfect lunch stop amidst the sandy surroundings.

10. La Jolla Shores Beach – San Diego

La Jolla Shores is excellent for sunbathing and exploring the fascinating tide pools. Nearby, La Jolla Cove provides opportunities to see sea lions and enjoy kayaking to the scenic La Jolla Sea Caves.

11. Main Beach – Santa Cruz

Main Beach in Santa Cruz is just an hour from San Francisco, featuring a mile-long boardwalk and an historic amusement park. Numerous beach activities, including beach volleyball and surfing, are available to visitors.

12. Natural Bridges State Beach – Santa Cruz

This beach is known for the Natural Bridge rock formation and serves as an important sanctuary for monarch butterflies. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, tide pools, and beautiful shoreline views.

13. Pismo Beach – San Luis Obispo

Pismo Beach is a stunning coastal destination known for its sandy shores and opportunities for dunes adventures. Visitors can explore nearby wineries or take a leisurely walk along the Pier.

14. El Matador State Beach, Malibu

This secluded beach features dramatic cliffs and beautiful rock formations, making it a perfect spot for photography. Though swimming is not recommended, its romantic atmosphere attracts couples and nature lovers alike.

15. Beach at Alamere Falls, Point Reyes National Seashore

This unique beach features Alamere Falls flowing directly into the ocean. Access requires a hearty hike, but the pristine scenery and the chance to view the waterfall are well worth the effort.

16. Rodeo Beach, Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Located north of San Francisco, Rodeo Beach is a popular starting point for hiking trails. Its dark pebbly sand and stunning ocean views create a spectacular setting for a beach day.

17. Laguna Beach, Orange County

Laguna Beach is celebrated for its clean waters and vibrant atmosphere. It is ideal for swimming, scuba diving, and numerous beach activities, offering a refreshing retreat on hot summer days.

18. Pescadero State Beach – San Mateo County

This tranquil beach is known for its wildlife and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities in the nearby marshlands. The sunsets are particularly breathtaking here.

19. Half Moon Bay State Beach – San Francisco

Half Moon Bay is a popular escape from the city, featuring three beautiful beaches. Visitors can hike along the California Coastal Trail for panoramic views of the coastline.

20. Andrew Molera State Beach, Big Sur

Accessible through Andrew Molera State Park, this beach offers a scenic and tranquil retreat. The hike includes a river crossing and leads to a long undeveloped beach perfect for a peaceful stroll.

21. Gold Bluffs Beach, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Gold Bluffs Beach features stunning foggy redwoods and incredible natural beauty. The Fern Canyon Trail leads from the beach into lush scenery that made it famous in the film “Jurassic Park.”

22. Limantour Beach, Point Reyes National Seashore

This long sandy beach is surrounded by wetlands, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. The scenic views and tranquility make it a must-visit.

23. Carmel Beach City Park, Carmel-By-The-Sea

This charming beach offers beautiful walking paths and quaint shops along the coast. Families often gather here for picnics and beach activities, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

24. Cowell Ranch Beach, Half Moon Bay

Accessible by a short hike, Cowell Ranch Beach is a hidden gem perfect for observing wildlife. It offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a peaceful atmosphere to unwind.

25. Crystal Cove State Park – Orange County

This state park features a stunning coastline and diverse landscapes. Beachgoers can explore tide pools, hiking trails, and enjoy dining options near the shore.

26. Sand Dollar Beach – Big Sur

Described as one of the most scenic beaches in California, Sand Dollar Beach is known for its dramatic coastal views and opportunities for picnicking and beachcombing.

27. Glass Beach – Fort Bragg

Famous for its colorful glass stones that were transformed from trash over decades, Glass Beach is a unique destination that delights visitors with its stunning coastal scenery.

28. Marin County Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach is celebrated for its soft sands and gorgeous views. Visitors often engage in swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing in this picturesque setting.

Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches in California

From Ocean Beach with its breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the tranquil shores of Imperial Beach, California offers countless beaches worth exploring. While this guide captures just a snapshot of the state’s stunning coastal destinations, it’s easy to see why California is a beloved getaway for beach enthusiasts.