There’s no denying that California is home to some of the best beaches in the world. With its miles and miles of coastline, there’s a beach to suit every taste and preference. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a bustling beach town with plenty of activities, you’ll find it in California.
Some of the most popular beaches in California include Venice Beach, Santa Monica Beach, and Malibu Beach. Each one has its unique atmosphere and appeal. Venice Beach is well known for its vibrant Boardwalk, while Santa Monica Beach is a favorite spot for sunbathing and surfing. Malibu Beach is perfect for those who want to get away from it all and enjoy some quiet.
If you’re planning a trip to California, be sure to add a few days at the beach to your itinerary!
Here are some of the best beaches California has to offer.
The List of Best Beaches in California
Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur
Pfeiffer Beach is a breathtaking spot along the Pacific Coast Highway in Big Sur. Rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and beautiful sunsets make this beach a must-see for anyone visiting California. There are several ways to access Pfeiffer Beach. The most popular is from the Pfeiffer Beach parking lot, which is located just off of Highway 1.
From here, it is about a half-mile walk down to the beach. However, if you are looking for a more challenging hike, there is also an entrance from the Sykes Hot Springs trailhead. This trailhead is located about five miles north of Pfeiffer Beach on Highway 1.
The hike to the beach from here is about four miles and can be quite strenuous in places. Once you reach Pfeiffer Beach, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the rocky coast and waves crashing against the cliffs. Be sure to take some time to explore all that this beach has to offer before heading back up the trail or to your car.
Malibu Beach, California
Malibu Beach is one of the most popular beaches in California. It is located in Los Angeles County and is known for its warm weather and beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and more. The beach also has several restaurants and cafes where people can relax and grab a bite to eat. Whether you’re looking to spend a day in the sun or just want to take in the stunning views, Malibu Beach is worth a visit.
Malibu Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a day in the sun. The warm weather and beautiful scenery make it a popular destination for visitors from all over. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and more.
When you need a break from the action, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby where you can relax and grab a bite to eat. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day or just want to take in the stunning views, Malibu Beach is worth a visit.
Capitola Beach, California
Capitola Beach, California is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The sparkling ocean water and soft sand make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views. Visitors can also stroll along the pier, go for a swim, or explore the charming shops and restaurants nearby.
Visiting Capitola Beach, California is an unforgettable experience. The sparkling ocean water and soft sand make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views. Strolling along the pier, going for a swim, or exploring the charming shops and restaurants are all great ways to spend your time here.
No matter what you choose to do while visiting Capitola Beach, you’re sure to have an amazing time. Soak up the sun, relax in the sand, and enjoy everything this stunning beach has to offer!
Half Moon Bay Beach, California
The Half Moon Bay beach is one of the best beaches in California. It is well known for its surfing and bodyboarding. The beach is also a great place to go for a walk, relax, and enjoy the stunning view. The Half Moon Bay beach is located in Northern California, just south of San Francisco.
The beach is about an hour’s drive from Silicon Valley. Half Moon Bay is a small town with a population of about 11,000 people. The Half Moon Bay beach has been rated as one of the top 10 beaches in the United States by several different publications. In 2014, it was ranked as the number one surf spot in California by Surfer magazine.
The Half Moon Bay beach is a great place to visit if you are looking for a beautiful beach with great surfing and bodyboarding. The beach is also perfect for walks, relaxing, and enjoying the stunning view. If you are looking to visit Half Moon Bay Beach, it is located in Northern California just south of San Francisco. The best way to get there would be by car since it would only take about an hour to drive from Silicon Valley.
Once you arrive in Half Moon Bay, you will find that it is a small town with a population of around 11,000 people. Although it may be small, this town has one best places to visit in the United States according to different publications. In 2014, Surfer magazine ranked it as the number one surf spot in California which makes it a must-see spot for all surfers.
Manhattan beach, California
I had the pleasure of visiting Manhattan Beach, California recently and it did not disappoint. The beach was everything I hoped it would be and more.
The sand was soft and the water was just the right temperature. I could have spent all day there! In addition to the beach, Manhattan Beach has a lot to offer in terms of restaurants and shopping. I ate some amazing food while I was there and did some serious damage at the local boutiques! Overall, I had a great time and would recommend a visit to anyone who is looking for a fun place to vacation.
Venice Beach, California
Venice Beach is a world-famous destination for tourists and locals alike. With its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife, it’s no wonder why people flock to Venice year-round. While there’s plenty to do in Venice, here are some of the must-see attractions: The Venice Boardwalk is one of the most iconic features of the city.
Stretching over two miles long, the boardwalk is host to countless shops, restaurants, street performers, and more. No matter what time of day you visit, there’s always something going on. If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up some sun, look no further than Venice Beach itself. With crystal clear water and soft sand, it’s the perfect spot to spend an afternoon. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen!
When night falls, the party doesn’t stop in Venice. There are tons of bars and clubs lining the streets, so you’re sure to find somewhere that suits your style. Whether you want to dance all night or simply enjoy a few drinks with friends, you’ll have plenty of options.
hermosa beach, California
The first thing that strikes you about Hermosa Beach is its name. Hermosa means “beautiful” in Spanish, and the beach certainly lives up to its moniker. With its wide expanse of sand, gentle waves, and ample sunshine, Hermosa Beach is indeed a beautiful place to spend a day. But there’s more to Hermosa Beach than just its looks.
The beach is also well-known for its lively atmosphere. On any given day, you’ll find people playing volleyball, surfing, sunbathing, and strolling along the boardwalk. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby if you need to take a break from the sand and sea.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or a place to have some fun, Hermosa Beach is sure to please. So next time you’re in Southern California, be sure to add this spot to your list of places to visit.
Dana Point, Best Beaches California
Dana Point is a city located in southern Orange County, California. The city is situated on the coast, and there are several beaches located within its boundaries. Visitors to Dana Point can enjoy plenty of sun and surf, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants.
Today, Dana Point is known for its beautiful scenery and its many recreation opportunities. There are numerous parks and hiking trails in the area, and visitors can also go whale watching or take part in other water activities.
newport beach, California
Newport beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California. It is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and upscale shopping. Every year, millions of people visit Newport beach to enjoy the sun and sand. There are many things to do at Newport beach. Visitors can spend their days swimming, sunbathing, surfing, or fishing.
There are also several golf courses and tennis courts available for those who want to stay active while on vacation. In addition, there are numerous restaurants and cafes lining the shore, providing ample opportunity to relax and enjoy the view. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Newport Beach has something to offer everyone. So come on down and enjoy all that this sunny California destination has to offer!
Visiting laguna beach, California
There’s something special about Laguna Beach that keeps visitors coming back year after year. Located in Orange County, this coastal city is renowned for its pristine beaches, energetic nightlife, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or explore the local scene, Laguna Beach has something for everyone. One of the best things about Laguna Beach is its variety of beaches.
From family-friendly coves to secluded stretches of sand, there’s a beach here to suit every mood and activity level. Main Beach is one of the most popular spots in town, thanks to its central location and world-class facilities. For those looking for a more low-key experience, Aliso Creek Beach is a great option. This hidden gem is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of downtown and offers breathtaking ocean views. No trip to Laguna Beach would be complete without spending some time exploring its vibrant nightlife scene. There are tons of bars and clubs to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that fits your style.
If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere where you can grab a few drinks with friends, check out The Deck at Hotel Joaquin. For a more upscale experience, The Loft at Montage Laguna Beach offers stunning ocean views and an extensive wine list. No matter what kind of nightlife you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Laguna Beach.
La Jolla Cove Beach – Best Beaches California
The La Jolla Cove is one of the most beautiful places in the world to spend an afternoon. With its sparkling water and sandy shores, it’s no wonder this beach is one of the most popular in California. There are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained at La Jolla Cove. Swimming, sunbathing and exploring the tide pools are just a few of the things that can be enjoyed here.
Those who are looking for a more relaxing experience can take a stroll along the boardwalk or sit back and enjoy the stunning ocean views. No matter what you’re looking for, La Jolla Cove is sure to provide it. And while you are there. Why not experience some of the best hiking in San Diego.
huntington beach, California
Huntington Beach is one of the most popular beaches in California, and for good reason. The sand is soft and the water is warm, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views.
The pier is also a great place to take a stroll, fish, or just enjoy the sunset. There are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby if you need a break from the sun. And the whole area has a fun, laid-back vibe that makes it perfect for a family vacation.
pismo beach, California
Pismo beach is one of the most popular beaches in California. Every year, millions of people visit this beautiful beach to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. The Pismo beach pier is a great place to walk, fish, or just enjoy the view. A boardwalk is also a great place for to people watch or get some exercise.
There are many shops and restaurants along the boardwalk, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visiting Pismo Beach is a truly unique experience. The combination of the sun, sand, and surf makes it a perfect destination for any beach lover. And with so many things to do, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
So whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or get active on the pier or boardwalk, Pismo Beach is sure to have something for you!
Thousands Steps Beach, California
The beach is located in Orange County, California. It is a very popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The sand is white and the water is crystal clear. There are plenty of things to do in the area, including swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, and more.
The beach gets its name from the thousands of steps that lead down to the shoreline. The stairs are made of concrete and they wind their way down the cliffside. The view from the top is stunning and it’s worth making the trek down to the beach. Once you reach the bottom, there are plenty of places to relax on the sand or go for a swim.
If you’re looking for a beautiful California beach to visit, be sure to check out Thousands Steps Beach. You won’t be disappointed!
coronado beach, California
Looking for a place to enjoy the sun and some waves? Check out Coronado Beach in San Diego, California. This beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its stunning sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, or windsurfing, Coronado Beach has something for everyone. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area if you need to refuel after a long day in the sun.
victoria beach, California
Victoria Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Southern California. Every year, thousands of people come to enjoy the beautiful scenery and perfect weather. The beach is well-known for its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and stunning views. Visitors can spend hours swimming, sunbathing, fishing, or hiking.
There are also some restaurants and cafes nearby for those looking to grab a bite. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Victoria Beach is worth a visit and one of the best beaches in California.
morro bay Beach, California
Morro Bay is a small coastal town located in central California. The town is situated on a Morro, a volcanic peak that rises from the ocean. Morro Bay is a popular tourist destination due to its mild climate, scenic views, and abundance of outdoor activities. Visitors to the area can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. The town also has many shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
Morro Bay is a great place to visit if you are looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation. The town has a beautiful setting, with the Morro Rock looming over the bay. The beaches in Morro Bay are also great for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. If you are looking for something to do, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, or you can go on a hike or bike ride.
shelter cove beach, California
Looking for a breathtaking beach destination in California? Look no further than Shelter Cove beach. This secluded spot is located just north of San Francisco. And features dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and sandy beaches. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature.
There are plenty of things to do in the area, including hiking and biking trails, fishing, and kayaking. Or, you can simply relax and enjoy the stunning views. When you’re ready for a bite to eat, there are many restaurants and cafes nearby.
moonstone beach, California
Moonstone Beach is one of the most popular beaches in California. It’s located in Cambria, about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The beach gets its name from the moonstones that are found there. These beautiful stones have an opalescent sheen and come in many colors.
They’re often used in jewelry and other arts and crafts projects. Moonstone Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, and more. The scenery is breathtaking, and the atmosphere is truly unique. If you’re looking for a place to get away from it all, Moonstone Beach is worth considering.
5 More Best Beaches California You Can’t Miss
Carmel beach, California
The Carmel Beach experience will stay with you long after you leave. The combination of the stunning scenery, friendly people, and relaxed atmosphere makes it a truly special place. Carmel Beach is located on the Monterey Peninsula in California and is renowned for its beautiful white sand and clear blue waters.
It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the incredible views. There’s plenty to do in Carmel Beach, whether you want to take a swim, go for a walk or simply sit back and soak up the atmosphere. There are also plenty of great places to eat and drink, so you can fuel up before exploring this amazing coastline.
Catalina island beach, California
This gorgeous beach is one of the most popular destinations in Southern California, and it’s easy to see why. With its gentle waves, sandy shores, and stunning views, Catalina Island Beach is a true paradise. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sun. Or take part in some of the many activities available, there’s something for everyone at this beloved beach. One of the best things about Catalina Island Beach is that it’s so easy to get to.
Just a short ferry ride from Los Angeles, it’s the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. And once you’re on the island, there are plenty of ways to get around – from renting a golf cart to taking a stroll down Main Street. No matter how you choose to spend your time here, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Catalina Island Beach – it’s sure to be your new favorite spot!
Catalina island are famous, and some of the best beaches California has to offer.
Huntington city beach, California
When visiting Huntington City Beach, there are plenty of things to do. For starters, the beach itself is a great place to relax and soak up some sun. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops in the area for visitors to enjoy. And if you’re looking for something a bit more active, there are also plenty of activities like surfing and stand-up paddle boarding available.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Huntington City Beach, there are several museums. And historic sites in the area that are worth checking out.
The Huntington Beach Historical Society Museum is a great place to start. As it contains exhibits on the city’s Surf City days, as well as its role in World War II.
There are also several murals and sculptures around town that depict the city’s history, which makes for great photo ops. And finally, no trip to Huntington City Beach would be complete without taking advantage of its proximity to some of California’s best theme parks. Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Universal Studios Hollywood. They are all just a short drive away from Huntington City Beach, making it the perfect place to stay when visiting Southern California.
Santa Monica pier, California
The Santa Monica Pier is a historic landmark located in Santa Monica, California. The pier features a wide range of shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it a popular tourist destination. Visitors to the pier can enjoy activities such as fishing, playing in the arcade, or riding on the famous Santa Monica Carousel. The pier also offers a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean and is home to one of the oldest roller coasters in America, the Pacific Park Roller Coaster.
shell beach in California
I had the pleasure of visiting Shell Beach in California last week. It was breathtaking! The cliffside views were stunning, and the beach itself was so beautiful. I definitely recommend visiting if you ever have the chance. There were so many people there enjoying the sun and the waves. It was great to see so many people out and about, enjoying the day.
There were also a lot of people fishing off the pier, which was really cool to see. Overall, it was a great experience and I would definitely go back. If you’re ever in the area, I highly suggest you check it out for yourself! You won’t be disappointed.
What do you think! Which of these best beaches California would you want to visit first.
Your Questions on the Best Beaches in California Answered
What is the prettiest southern california beach?
The prettiest southern California beach is definitely Laguna Beach. The water is always so clean and clear, and the sand is always white and soft. I love spending time at Laguna Beach, whether I’m swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing on the shore. Another beautiful southern California beach is Newport Beach. Like Laguna Beach, Newport Beach has clean water and soft sand.
However, what makes Newport Beach unique is that it also has a large pier that you can walk out on to get a better view of the ocean. Finally, no list of the prettiest beaches in southern California would be complete without mentioning Santa Monica beach. Santa Monica beach is famous for its stunning sunsets, which you can enjoy from the comfort of the sandy shoreline.
What are the cleanest of the Best beaches in california?
The cleanest beaches in California are definitely worth a visit! From the crystal clear waters of Laguna Beach to the secluded coves of Carmel, there is something for everyone. Here are just a few of the many options available: Laguna Beach: Located in Orange County, this beach is well known for its clear waters and beautiful scenery.
There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and more. Carmel: This beach is located in Monterey County and is perfect for those looking for a more secluded experience. The area is also great for hiking, biking, and picnicking. San Diego: San Diego’s beaches are some of the most popular in the state. With nearly 70 miles of coastline to explore, there is no shortage of things to do. Swimming, surfing, sunbathing, fishing, and boating are all popular activities here.
What’s the best beach California if I had to choose one?
There are so many great beaches in California, it’s hard to choose just one! However, some people believe that the best beach in California is Venice Beach. This beach is located in Los Angeles and is known for its incredible atmosphere. The boardwalk is full of different performers and there are plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy. Venice Beach is definitely a great choice if you’re looking for a fun and lively beach experience.
Another fantastic option when it comes to beaches in California is Santa Monica Beach. This beach has everything you could want, from stunning views to plenty of activities. There’s a pier where you can go fishing or take a walk, and the sand is always perfect for lounging around.
Santa Monica Beach is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water. If you’re looking for an epic surfing experience, then Trestles Beach is the place for you. This beach has some of the best waves in all of California, making it a hotspot for surfers from all over the world. even if you don’t surf, Trestles Beach is still a great place to hang out and enjoy the incredible views.