20 Best Beaches to Visit in California This Year
Thinking of hitting the beaches in California, but aren't sure where to start? There are many different beaches you can visit, depending on your location and what kind of activities you are looking for. In this article, travel enthusiast Sarah McDonagh shares all you need to know about the perfect California beach vacation!
Last updated: April 11, 2024
10 min read
Contents
The state of California is home to some of the best beaches across the United States. Southern California beaches are well known for west coast waves, and family-friendly beach days. Northern California beaches are known for their breathtaking backdrops, and iconic landmarks.
Whether you live in the Golden State, or are visiting on vacation, there is plenty of coastline to visit and enjoy the picturesque views of the pacific ocean. From the sandy beaches of southern California to the stunning rolling hills of the Lost Coast, here are some of the most incredible beaches to visit along the western coast.
Coronado Beach Island, San Diego
Activities
Historic Hotel Del Coronado, Pristine Beach, Biking, Bayshore Views, Museums, and More
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
This historical beach is situated on Coronado Island just across the bay from downtown San Diego. The wide sandy beach has been ranked as one of the best in the United States, and has breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline and Point Loma.
I love visiting this beach for it’s access to the Hotel del Coronado or “the Del”. The iconic beachfront resort is absolutely stunning to walk through, and even if you are not staying at the resort you can still take advantage of the gorgeous hotel restaurant or beach bar.
If you are staying for the entire day, you can also rent bikes nearby and cruise along the length of the beach and through the charming nearby neighborhoods. If you do decide to head into the quaint downtown area, don’t miss out on a cone from MooTime creamery.
Black’s Beach, La Jolla
Activities
Coastal Cliffs, Nude Sunbathing, Hiking, Surfing, Tide Pools
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Just up the coast and tucked into the secluded cliffs of La Jolla, you’ll find the serene Black’s Beach. This beach is only accessible via a fairly steep bluff path making it more difficult to access, but it is a gorgeous area to explore if you are looking for a short hike followed by a dip in the Pacific Ocean.
The beach has gained notoriety for being one of the few nudist beaches in the area, but it is not required by any means. My favorite part of this beach is that it is situated below the Torrey Pines Gliderport. The gliderport is open to the public and from there you can sit in the grass or enjoy food from a small cafe and watch people paraglide off the cliffs and soar over the beach below.
Even if you don’t want to take the hike down to the actual beach, I highly recommend stopping by the gliderport above just to enjoy the view and people watch. If you’re feeling adventurous you can take a chance at paragliding yourself!
The Trestles, San Clemente
Activities
Surf, Hike San Onofre, Explore Trails, Marine Life, Culture, Water Sports
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Weather
The Trestles in San Clemente, California, is renowned as a world-class surfing destination. It’s not a singular beach but rather a collection of surf spots stretching along the coast. It holds a significant place in California’s surfing history and has been a popular surf spot since the 1930s.
It’s a bit of a walk to get to the beach, but well worth the trek once you get there. Even if you’re not a surfer it’s a cool spot to just watch some of the best surfers in the world. The nearby San Clemente also has many great restaurants and shops as well as some of the best taco shops along the coast.
Thousand Steps Beach, Laguna
Activities
Scenic Stairs, Sunbathing, Swimming, Tide Pools, Coastal Hikes, Stunning Sunsets
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Although you don’t have to endure a full 1000 steps, this beach gets it’s name from the very real 223 steps leading down (and back up) from the cove nuzzled into the South Laguna bluffs. Some of the most stunning sunsets I have seen in California were at this beach, and there is something special about earning your beach after working up a slight sweat!
It feels like you are on your own island once you reach the sand, and there is also a large cave at the southern end of the beach that you can explore at low tide. When it’s really low you can actually walk through it to the neighboring Totuava Beach, just keep an eye on the tides so you don’t get stuck!
Venice Beach, Venice
Activities
Boardwalk, Muscle Beach, Skate Park, Canals, Ocean Front Walk
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Hotels
One of the most famous beaches in California, you’ll likely recognize this beach from the pedestrian walkway that is adorned with a lively and eclectic mix of street performers, vendors, and artists. The absolute best people watching in the area is found here, and you could spend a few hours just standing at the skatepark and watching locals.
On the south end of the beach you’ll find the historic outdoor gym Muscle Beach that gained fame for being a popular workout spot for bodybuilders, including Arnold Schwarzenegger. There are dozens of restaurants and shops along the beach to pop into, as well as several finer dining options off of the beach or along the nearby Abbot Kinney Blvd.
For anyone looking to learn how to surf, this is also a great beach to try as the waves tend to be a bit more manageable than the nearby beaches of El Porto or Malibu.
Santa Monica Beach, Santa Monica
Activities
Pier Attractions, Pacific Park, Shopping, Beach Cycling, Seafood, Water Sports, Sunset Views
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Another historic beach, this one sits below the iconic Santa Monica pier at the end of the old route 66. The boardwalk is adorned with a ferris wheel, rollercoaster and many arcade games as well as iconic seafood restaurants and bars. No visit to Los Angeles is complete without a visit to this famous spot for at least a photo.
If you want to avoid the crowds, head up the pedestrian ramp to Ocean Ave where you’ll find Palisades Park which is a small park that lines the street above giving you a panoramic view of the pier, beach and Malibu coast. It’s a fantastic spot for viewing sunset, and you’ll also find many more dining options and shopping along this upper stretch and the nearby Promenade.
Leo Carrillo Beach, Malibu
Activities
Explore Tide Pools, Surf, Hike, Picnic, Observe Wildlife, Camp at Leo Carrillo
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Situated in Malibu, this beach is a popular spot for surfing, tide pooling and enjoying a sunset over the Pacific. It tops my list due to it’s proximity to the nearby Leo Carrillo Campground. This large campground is great for families given it has many facilities and a small store with beach toys, snacks, beer and a shack with ready to order food during the summer months.
From the campground you can take a short path under the PCH, and you have immediate access to the beach without having to get in a car. It’s a great spot to camp year round if you want a more rustic beach vacation that is more affordable than renting an airbnb in the area (and more fun!).
Arroyo Burro Beach, Santa Barbara
Activities
Sandy Shores, Scenic Walks, Picnics, Paddleboarding, Kayaking, Tide Pool Exploration, Hiking
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Anywhere in Santa Barbara is absolutely stunning, but my favorite beach to visit is Arroyo Burrow Beach, also known as Hendry’s beach. Just a few miles north of the wharf, this dog friendly beach is easily accessible and has a decent sized parking lot as well as many adjacent hiking trails making it a great place to bring your furry one.
There is also a fantastic restaurant called The Boathouse which is situated right on the sand. It can be a long way at times, but it’s well worth putting your name in and then soaking up the sun while you wait for your table.
While there is no clear bike path, you can also rent bikes in Santa Barbara and it’s a fairly easy ride up to the beach (just be warned of the final hill down to the beach which is always a fun surprise).
Morro Bay Beach, San Luis Obispo
Activities
Morro Rock, Scenic Boat Tours, Waterfront Dining, Shopping, Water Activities, Bird-Watching
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
Weather
The most prominent feature of Morro Bay Beach is Morro Rock, a 576-foot volcanic plug standing at the harbor’s entrance. It’s one of the Nine Sisters, a series of ancient volcanic peaks that stretch from San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay. Morro Rock is a designated bird sanctuary, and its presence adds a dramatic backdrop to the beach.
If you like to kayak or paddle board, this is the best beach in the area to do so as the waters are often calm and you can enjoy getting close to wildlife floating around the bay. The area is usually clouded in fog during the early mornings and most of the off season, but I personally love these times as it makes Morro Rock even more dramatic.
McWay Beach, Big Sur
Activities
McWay Falls, Ewoldsen Trail, Partington Cove, Bixby Bridge, State Parks, Pfeiffer Beach
Peak Season
Year-Round
Weather
Hotels
Big Sur has no shortage of stunning beaches along it’s coast, but McWay beach remains one of (if not the most) scenic beach along this gorgeous stretch with a waterfall that cascades down the cliffs edge into a small cove that feels like paradise. I still remember how inspired I felt the first time I pulled off here, a moment that solidified I may never leave the West Coast.
Sadly the path all the way down to the beach has been closed for quite some time, but there is a chance it lifts again soon. Regardless, it is worth a visit just to see the view from above where you can still walk down a dirt path to a lookout above.
It can get a bit crowded during the busy months, so I recommend going early in the morning to try to capture a moment alone in this spot.
Capitola Beach, Santa Cruz
Activities
Explore Capitola Beach, Paddle in Soquel Creek, Dine Waterfront, and Enjoy Festivals
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
Weather
Just 10 minutes south of Santa Cruz, you’ll fine the charming Capitola beach which is renowned for it’s wide stretch of golden sand and a coastline adorned with colorful buildings and seaside cottages.
It’s a postcard-worthy setting, and you’ll feel like you are transported to a small mediterranean seaside town with the vibrant and laid back feel. The nearby Capitola village also offers many unique shops, art galleries and seaside restaurants.
Santa Cruz Beach, Santa Cruz
Activities
Boardwalk, Wharf, Main Beach, Natural Bridges, Seymour Marine Center, Wilder Ranch
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Combining classic beach fun with a historic amusement park, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a lively destination with a sandy beach, thrilling rides, and carnival games. You may recognize this iconic beach from various shows and movies, and it’s worth the visit as there is so much to do and see here.
The pier is walking distance to the downtown area of Santa Cruz, which has dozens of shops and restaurants. This is a great beach town for a family vacation or for a day trip from the Bay Area.
Montara Beach, Half Moon Bay
Activities
Historic Point Montara Lighthouse, Water Activities, Fresh Seafood, and Charming Half Moon Bay
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Nestled between Pacifica and Half Moon Bay, Montara State Beach is a pristine stretch of coastline with sandy shores, scenic cliffs, and the imposing presence of Montara Mountain in the background.
Gherkin’s sandwich shop just up the street has a great selection of affordable sandwiches that you can easily pack up and bring to the beach for a picnic. If you go make sure you try the dutch crunch bread, a bay area specialty that you won’t regret.
Pacifica State Beach, Pacific
Activities
Coastal Walks, Surfing, Beachcombing, Picnicking, Birdwatching, Sunset Views
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Just south of San Francisco off of Highway 1 you’ll find this gorgeous beach which is popular amongst surfers. While it seems out of place, this beach is iconic because of the Taco Bell that’s situated right on the sand with stunning views and an outdoor deck.
If you’re a Taco Bell fan it’s a bucket list item, especially since they are one of the few locations that sells alcoholic Baja Blasts.
Baker Beach, San Francisco
Activities
Golden Gate Views, Sandy Walks, Picnics, Sunset Photos, Historical Battery Chamberlin
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
Weather
There are many amazing spots to see the Golden Gate Bridge, but Baker Beach remains my absolute favorite spot for viewing the iconic landmark and the Marin Headlands in the distance.
Parking is a bit limited here, but you can access on foot or by bike or uber as it’s right in the city. In the warmer months you can spend all day here soaking up the sun, and during the windier days it’s a great spot to just go on a sunset stroll with one of the best views in the city.
Stinson Beach, Marin County
Activities
Surf the Pacific, Hike Mount Tamalpais, Stroll Boardwalk, Discover Local Shops
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Tucked away in Marin County, Stinson Beach provides a laid-back coastal experience with its long sandy stretch and views of Mount Tamalpais. The beach is a popular spot for locals seeking a relaxing getaway as well as surfers from the Bay Area.
The beach is also set next to a charming small town which exudes a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, with a small number of local businesses, cafes, and shops. Breakers Café is a nautical themed family owned joint that is great for grabbing a bite after the beach or for a weekend brunch.
Drakes Beach, Point Reyes National Seashore
Activities
Lighthouse, Chimney Rock Trail, Elephant Seal Overlook, Sandy Shores, Earthquake Trail
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Hotels
Known for its dramatic white cliffs and expansive shoreline, Drakes Beach offers a different landscape from the typical California beach and is great for picnicking and wildlife watching. The drive to the beach is absolutely stunning, and there are lot’s of hiking trails nearby if you are looking to explore the area more.
A visit to the West Marin Culture Shop in Point Reyes Station is a must on the way there. Here you can try dozens of delicious local cheeses as well as other local goods and wine. They also have some incredible sandwiches you can order and take to the beach for a picnic (including multiple gourmet grilled cheeses).
Glass Beach, Fort Bragg
Activities
Lighthouse, Chimney Rock Trail, Elephant Seal Overlook, Sandy Shores, Earthquake Trail
Peak Season
Late Summer to Early Fall (August to October)
Weather
Hotels
Set amongst the Mendocino Coast in MacKerricher State Park, this beach’s distinctive feature is the result of decades of trash dumping in the early to mid-20th century. Over time, the glass, pottery, and metal dumped into the ocean were broken down and smoothed by the waves, creating a shoreline covered in colorful sea glass.
While it’s not the most comfortable beach for sunbathing due to the rocky shores, it is a unique experience and worthwhile to visit for photo opportunities as well as optimal tidepooling.
Bowling Ball Beach, Mendocino
Activities
Bowling Ball Beach, Tidepooling, Photography, Hiking, Point Arena Lighthouse, Fort Bragg
Peak Season
Spring and Summer
Weather
This extraordinary California beach stands as a testament to geological wonders as the beach is covered in large rocks that have become perfectly rounded over the years from erosion giving the beach it’s name. Nestled at the northern fringe of Schooner Gulch State Beach, the near flawless symmetry of these formations comes to life during low tide, providing a captivating spectacle.
Mattole Beach, Humboldt County
Activities
Explore Mattole Beach, Hike Lost Coast Trail, Marvel at Rugged Coastline, Camp, Birdwatch
Peak Season
Summer (June to August)
Weather
Located along the scenic and rugged Lost Coast in Northern California Mattole Beach is known for its unspoiled beauty. You will truly not find a more remote experience than the Lost Coast, but it’s worth the trek to make it to this untamed coastline.
The beach is surrounded by dramatic coastal cliffs, rocky outcrops, and rolling hills and there is a very wild and untouched quality to this area of the coast given it is entirely undeveloped. If you are looking for a more rugged coastal experience this is the spot for you, and you can actually camp right on the beach at Mattole Campground.
If you are looking for an even bigger adventure, you can actually obtain a permit and hike the 25.3-mile Lost Coast trail from Mattole down to Black Sand Beach. The journey usually takes about three days and will require you to backcountry camp but you will have unmatched access to this coastline.
