Are you searching for the perfect place to spend your summer getaway?
With so many stunning beaches in California, it can be quite challenging to determine which ones are worth exploring. That’s why we have put together a comprehensive guide featuring the 10 most amazing beaches California has to offer!
Our selection is based on user reviews and ratings from different sources, guaranteeing each beach offers something special. From breathtaking sunsets to crystal clear waters and soft white sand, this guide will give insight into what makes them unique while providing maps for easy navigation.
So why bother trying to find that ideal beach when we make picking one simpler?
Let’s take a look at the top 10 must-visit beaches in California!
Best Beaches in California
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is well-known and possibly one of the best beaches in California. Not only is it a great place to get some sun, but it also has lots of attractions that make it unique.
Take a stroll or bike ride along the coast and grab an ice-cold shake from one of the many vendors. For those who love books, be sure to check out Small World Books for a book lover’s paradise.
The Oceanfront Walk is another great attraction – it’s a concrete boardwalk filled with interesting stores and flea markets, where you can find all kinds of treasures!
Consider staying at nearby Marina del Rey for comfortable accommodations after your day exploring Venice Beach. No matter what you’re looking for – sights, sounds, food, or fun – Venice Beach has something special in store for everyone!
Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is a stunning beach located in California and has been named one of the best beaches in the United States in 2016. It extends from Beach Boulevard to the Santa Ana River Channel, providing plenty of room for exploration.
A continuous parking lot runs along the beach, close to Pacific Coast Highway for easy access. This location is popular among surfers due to its great waves, as well as visitors who love to cook their own barbecues with Huntington’s fire rings.
However, be warned: this place can get crowded on weekends so consider visiting during weekdays if possible!
Newport Beach
One of the most picturesque beaches in California, Newport Beach is a stunning place to watch a breathtaking sunset. With five miles of soft golden sand stretching from Newport Pier to Balboa Pier, it’s the ideal spot for an invigorating walk along the shoreline or just soaking up some rays.
Adrenaline-seekers will love watching daring surfers and bodyboarders as they ride the waves – truly a sight to behold!
For those looking for something more cultural, be sure to check out the historic pier and lifeguard stands which feature beautiful architecture reminiscent of days gone by.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Newport Beach has something special in store for everyone! Relax by the shoreline or explore some history, Newport Beach is definitely worth visiting!
Leo Carrillo Beach
Leo Carrillo Beach is located off the Pacific Coast Highway in the Santa Monica area, and provides 1.5 miles of sand for visitors to enjoy activities such as windsurfing, exploring tidal pools and caves, or admiring the giant sycamore trees that line the beach.
This stunning beach also offers camping opportunities just off the beach in designated areas – making it one of California’s best camping beaches! There is a parking fee of around $12 for those who wish to visit this beautiful spot throughout the day.
McWay Cove
McWay Cove is a beautiful beach located in Venice Beach, California. It can get quite busy during peak season but you can avoid the crowds by visiting early in the morning. Unfortunately, access to this beach may be limited during March due to unsafe conditions.
If you’re looking for something else to do while in Venice Beach, consider visiting Partington Cove for its amazing hiking trails or Andrew Molera Beach if you’re interested in watching a stunning sunset.
La Jolla Beach
La Jolla beach is a magnificent crescent-shaped stretch of sand tucked away between towering, golden sandstone cliffs. The views of the dramatic California coastline are breathtaking and it’s a great spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming.
Not to mention that La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores nearby provide plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, surfing, and fun in the waves. With so many restaurants, bars, shops, galleries and other attractions in the area – there’s something for everyone who visits this beautiful part of California!
So if you’re looking for some restful relaxation on an exquisite beach or an exciting aquatic adventure – make sure you add La Jolla to your list!
Coronado Beach
Coronado Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline that offers so many activities to enjoy, making it one of California’s best beaches.
From learning how to surf at the Surfing Academy, strolling through the Coronado Heritage Walk, and renting surreys along Ocean Boulevard, there is always something to do!
Watch sand sculptors create stunning works of art or take in the views from Coronado Island – you may even be able to spot whales between December and February with your binoculars!
Don’t forget to grab an ice cream while soaking up some sun rays too. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, make sure Coronado Beach is on your list of must-visit beaches in California.
Stinson Beach
The sandy shores of Stinson Beach are the perfect destination for a day trip from San Francisco.
Not only is it renowned as one of California’s best swimming beaches, but there’s something for everyone to do here. Take a dive in the ocean and explore its depths or go hiking on the trails leading up to Mount Tamalpais State Park.
You can also participate or watch USA’s oldest trail race – The 7.4-mile Dip Sea Race which takes place every June (it will be both fun and exhausting!).
Enjoy your stay at Hotel Triton, boasting comfortable amenities and convenient access to all that Stinson Beach has to offer! Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore beautiful Marin County; head over to Stinson Beach today!
Capitola Beach
Capitola Beach is the perfect destination for some much-needed R&R. With its vibrant seaside atmosphere, you’ll never be bored. Rent a boogie board from one of the locals and spend the day paddling around in turquoise waves or just soaking up the sun on golden sands.
And when you’re done with your beach activities, make sure to stop by Paradise Beach Grill — their generous portions are sure to satisfy any appetite! Not only that, but its quaint decor will instantly transport you into a cozy vacation mood.
Don’t miss out on this hidden gem; Capitola Beach will provide an unforgettable experience during your California trip!
Pfeiffer Beach – Our Choice
Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is known for its stunning sands and breathtaking rock formations, some of which are so tall they seem to touch the sky.
One unique feature of this beach is its purple sands, caused by rainwater runoff from nearby cliffs. It’s considered one of California’s most beautiful beaches and a photographer’s dream due to the incredible landscape that can be captured here.
Unfortunately, swimming isn’t allowed at Pfeiffer Beach; however, it’s the perfect place for hiking over rugged terrain and taking in all the views. Be aware that it is a two-mile walk to Highway 1 if you’re looking to go further than just exploring the beach area.
If you’re hoping to stay overnight near Pfeiffer Beach, consider booking one of Glen Oaks Big Sur’s luxury wooden cabins located only 15 minutes away from the beachfront – don’t miss out on experiencing this natural beauty!