California’s Pacific Coast boasts 840 miles of shoreline making it the proper place for a street journey to get pleasure from its countless stretches of sand. Whereas many individuals can identify a number of of its extra well-known seashores like Venice Seaside, San Francisco’s Ocean Seaside, or San Diego’s Coronado Seaside, among the greatest seashores in California should not actually recognized 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 very best California Seashores that you just already know and love, and a few lesser-known gems across the state.
Greatest California Seashores
Seashores in California are nature’s unspoiled treasures they usually provide nice alternatives for solitude, wildlife watching, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. We’ve lived in California for a yr, 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 staff for 2023.)
1. Venice Seaside – Los Angeles
Venice Seaside is positioned in Los Angeles County and is a kind of locations that’s recognized extra for its bohemian really feel than for the seaside itself.
Most individuals who go to Venice Seaside stroll alongside the Venice Seaside Boardwalk, taking on the street performers, watching the bodybuilders carry weights, and witnessing the numerous artists plying their commerce alongside this well-known stretch.
Venice Seaside itself is beautiful so it’s no marvel it’s a favourite among the many locals within the space. Just a few of the issues that make it one in all our favourite California seashores are the cool little retailers, nice cafes, and among the hippest espresso locations in L.A.
2. Manhattan Seaside – Los Angeles
There’s a cause that Manhattan Seaside is likely one of the most costly locations to dwell in Los Angeles. Located completely on the Pacific Ocean, the broad sandy seaside is smooth and dotted with stunning homes, upscale eating places, stylish boutiques, and a few very costly inns.
Weekends deliver out crowds of individuals together with some fairly good seaside volleyball gamers. Manhattan Seaside looks as if an odd identify for a seaside in California, but it surely 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 actual property alongside Manhattan Seaside is spectacular with house 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 Sundown Strip. Manhattan Seaside is certainly one in all our favourite southern California seashores. Learn extra: 37 Greatest Issues To Do In Los Angeles In 2023 – By A Native
3. Malibu
Zuma Seaside
Malibu has among the most stunning seashores in California. Most individuals can be aware of Zuma Seaside, with its broad sandy seaside that stretches for two miles. Dotted with seaside volleyball nets, lifeguard stands, and plenty of amenities it’s no marvel this seaside is so standard.
Different seashores within the space like Paradise Seaside, Level Dume State Seaside, and Puerco Seaside are smaller and provide a extra household ambiance than Zuma Seaside.
If you’re up for one thing distinctive, be sure that to take a look at the Malibu Seaside Inn which provides you the possibility to spend a night on the “Billionaires Seaside” stretch of the coast. It will not be low cost but it surely provides you a glimpse into how the opposite half lives. Learn extra about Malibu: 20 Greatest Issues To Do In Malibu In 2023 By A Native
4. Huntington Seaside – Orange County
Huntington State Seaside has grow to be fairly the vacation spot currently and for good cause. Situated within the metropolis of Huntington Seaside (nicknamed Surf Metropolis) it boasts an attractive 2-mile-long sandy seaside that stretches from Seaside Boulevard to the Santa Ana River Channel.
This seaside has some nice breaks for surfers. The Huntington Seaside Pier is a superb place for leisurely stroll in addition to to attempt your hand at fishing.
Be sure that to get to the tip and take a look at Ruby’s Surf Metropolis Diner for some nice views and good meals.
Be sure that to go to downtown which has an excellent choice of bars, fabulous eating places, ice cream retailers, and boutiques. Huntington Seaside is a kind of locations that was made for a trip.
5. Newport Seaside – Orange County
With a whopping 10 miles of shoreline, Newport Seaside is positioned within the well-known playground of the wealthy and exquisite, Orange Nation.
This southern California seaside neighborhood boasts 5 miles of golden sand reaching out from the Newport Pier.
Not solely do you may have the lengthy sandy stretch of Newport Seaside, however there are additionally loads of points of interest for the entire household together with Balboa Enjoyable Zone amusement park, Lido Marina Village procuring heart, and nice browsing.
6. Santa Monica Seaside
Santa Monica Seaside is a spot for enjoyable within 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 seaside neighborhood is house to the wealthy and well-known.
Head out to the Seaside to benefit from the sand and solar, but additionally to discover the Santa Monica State Seaside Park, climbing trails, procuring alongside the Third Seaside Preomenad, or biking alongside Marvin Braude Seaside Path.
Santa Monica Seaside can also be house to wonderful 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 possibility to spend a few days exploring the world.
Situated on the Pacific Coast, there are many seashores to discover in Santa Barbara however it’s East Seaside positioned proper on the town that makes it particular.
Santa Barbara has many seashores. Often known as The American Riviera, you’ll really feel like a millionaire strolling alongside its sandy shores as palm bushes sway within the Pacific wind.
Go to Summerland Seaside for horseback driving, take a crusing journey, get pleasure from some kayaking alongside its shores or take within the stunning sundown at Hendry’s Seaside.
8. Pfeiffer Seaside – Large Sur
Situated alongside the Pacific Coast Freeway, Pfeiffer Seaside is likely one of the most stunning settings in California.
Well-known for its keyhole arch positioned offshore within the Pacific Ocean, Pfeiffer Seaside is an attractive lengthy sandy seaside recognized for its purple sand.
It’s a bit off the overwhelmed path making it one of the secluded seashores in California. To get to Pfeiffer Seaside, from Freeway 1, take the second flip one mile south of Pfeiffer Large Sur State Park. It’s 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. Learn extra concerning the Pacific Coast Freeway at Large Sur Highway Journey – The Greatest Viewpoints
9. Coronado Seaside – San Diego
Coronado Seaside homes the Silver Strand with seven miles of glowing sandy seaside. It’s positioned simply throughout the bay from downtown San Diego and makes the record as one of many prime seashores in California.
The long-lasting Resort Del Coronado on the beachfront of San Diego Coronado Island was the setting for the film Some Like It Sizzling. It’s an excellent place to cease for lunch in case you are not able to splurge on an evening.
This seaside is a hub for tide swimming pools the place you’ll be capable to see ocean life similar to starfish, crabs, and barnacles.
Swing by Del’s beachside café for fish tacos or head as much as the swank out of doors bar for sundown cocktails with a view. For extra on San Diego learn: A Native’s Information to the Greatest Issues to Do in San Diego
10. La Jolla Shores Seaside – San Diego
La Jolla Shores is positioned in stunning San Diego. This seaside is great for exploring tide swimming pools and basking within the solar. It is usually one of many wildest stretches of the Southern California coast housing the Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve.
For those who love seashores, you’ll additionally love La Jolla Cove the place sea lions bask within the solar. La Jolla Cove can also be a superb place for kayaking to La Jolla Sea Caves to discover the coastal formations.
11. Principal Seaside – Santa Cruz
Hit up Principal Seaside of Santa Cruz to get pleasure from this California seaside that is only one hour from San Francisco. Take a stroll alongside the mile-long Santa Cruz seaside boardwalk or go to the historic amusement park.
Santa Cruz Park is the oldest surviving amusement park in California. There are many seaside actions together with seaside volleyball courts, browsing, and kayaking. You’ll see sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, and even whales offshore.
12. Pure Bridges State Seaside – Santa Cruz
Pure Bridges State Seaside in Santa Cruz is one other must-visit seaside in California. The stone formation is one thing you’d anticipate to see off the coast of Portugal.
Pure Bridges State Seaside 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 among the finest seashores in California.
13. Pismo Seaside – San Luis Obispo
I’ll always remember watching Clueless within the Nineteen Nineties and questioning the place Pismo Seaside was. Cher donated her ski tools to the Pismo Seaside Catastrophe. I had at all times needed to go there ever since.
We had our probability when exploring the wine area of Santa Maria. Situated midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Freeway, this can be a stunning sandy seaside.
There are many issues to do round this small seaside city and whereas it is likely one of the greatest seashores for browsing, we hit the sand dunes for a critical dune buggy journey.
If you’re not 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 Seaside signal.
14. El Matador State Seaside, Malibu
El Matador Seaside is certainly among the finest seashores in California and it’s simply a few minutes’ drive from Malibu. This slim seaside is within the shade of giant cliffs and stairs led us down there from the parking zone.
We had been amazed by the attention-grabbing rock formations on the shore and within the water, and in addition by the proper ocean sundown this seaside provides. It’s probably not a seaside for swimming or browsing, but it surely’s a photographer’s and {couples}’ favourite due to its wild and romantic ambiance.
15. Seaside at Alamere Falls, Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
A seaside with a waterfall – how does that sound? No, we aren’t speaking of Large Sur’s standard and magical McWay Falls this time, it’s one other one: Alamere Falls at Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.
We aren’t positive if this seaside has a reputation, really, it even ceases to exist at excessive tide, after which Alamere Falls flows straight into the ocean. But it surely positively exists at low tide and there’s a steep path main right down to it close to the highest of the falls.
Nonetheless, this distinctive seaside requires some climbing, as a result of it might probably solely be accessed by way of Coast Path from Palomarin Trailhead. This implies an 8 miles reasonable roundtrip which has simply grow to be a day hike for us as we spent a lot time chilling out on the seaside.
- For those who love these try extra Distinctive Seashores from All over the world.
16. Rodeo Seaside, Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space
Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space is simply north of San Francisco and it provides a number of good coastal hikes, some with a shocking panorama of Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay.
Rodeo Seaside is a superb seaside for hikers as it’s the place to begin of a number of shorter and longer hikes and in addition a pleasant seaside itself bounded by a lagoon. Its darkish, pebbly sand is exclusive in California.
It’s a well-liked browsing seaside, however swimming is harmful due to the robust currents. We loved strolling on the seaside, doing among the coastal hikes, and getting amazed by the wild ocean.
17. Laguna Seaside, Orange County
Laguna Seaside is an area’s favourite in Orange County. And our favourite, too! With its clear and calm water is alleged to be among the finest swimming seashores and there’s additionally scuba diving within the space. However we warn you the water is way from heat even in the summertime – simply as wherever else alongside the coast.
It was a pleasant refreshing cease although in South California’s scorching summer season. There are many seaside actions right here at Laguna Seaside effectively together with seaside volleyball courts, a motorcycle path, and basketball courts.
18. Pescadero State Seaside – San Mateo County
Pescadero is a protracted, quiet, wild seaside 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 Pure Protect is correct behind the seaside.
There are a number of shorter trails within the marsh and they’re wonderful for bird-watching. Pescadero State Seaside additionally has stunning (although normally windy and chilly) sunsets. Learn extra: Issues to do in San Mateo, California
19. Half Moon Bay State Seaside – San Francisco
Situated a few half-hour from San Francisco is the neighborhood of Half Moon and is a well-liked California seaside escape from the town. It homes Half Moon Bay State Seaside, Dunes Seaside, and Francis Seaside.
Take a hike alongside the California Coastal Path for panoramic views of the shoreline. Dreaming of an island getaway? Take a look at our record of The Most Lovely Tropical Islands within the World
20. Andrew Molera State Seaside, Large Sur
Once more, an adventurous seaside! It’s positioned in Andrew Molera State Park in Large Sur alongside the Pacific Coast Freeway. Accessing Andrew Molera State Seaside requires a brief stroll from the 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 Highway Journeys. 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 had been there, we may pleasantly stroll by way of it. Uhm… we may have carried out it pleasantly if it wouldn’t have been so rattling chilly. But it surely was nonetheless enjoyable.
Andrew Molera Seaside is on the mouth of Large Sur River, it’s a protracted undeveloped seaside and we additionally beloved climbing on the good bluff climbing trails above it. Learn extra: A information to the very best campgrounds in Large Sur
21. Gold Bluffs Seaside, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Gold Bluffs Seaside is a part of Northern California’s Redwood Nationwide and State Parks and the foggy redwoods within the background give a mystic ambiance to it. This places it proper up there as among the finest seashores in California.
Often, there should not many individuals on the seaside which is able to solely strengthen this ambiance.
One of the vital particular hikes in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is Fern Canyon Path which took us again to Jurassic occasions – really, some scenes of the Jurassic Park film had been filmed there.
It begins from Gold Bluffs Seaside – or ends on the seaside if you happen to begin at James Irvine Path as we did. The seaside itself can also be accessible by automotive and there’s a small campground on the parking zone. Learn: 7 Epic Locations to Go to in Northern California
22. Limantour Seaside, Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
This lengthy and ideal sandy seaside on a sand spit between Drakes Bay and the Limantour Estero estuary is one other gem of Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.
Because of the close by wetlands there’s a excessive probability to identify seabirds. Harbor seals additionally just like the shallow water of Drakes Bay and they’re typically seen mendacity on the shore.
Limantour Seaside is accessible by automotive and it has a pleasant massive parking zone. However if you happen to ask us it’s a lot nicer to park earlier alongside the street and hike there by way of pine forests and wetlands. We’ve carried out the Laguna Path – Limantour Seaside – Muddy Hole Path – Bayview Path loop which was an attractive various day hike.
23. Carmel Seaside Metropolis Park, Carmel-By-The-Sea
The neighborhood of gorgeous Carmel by the Sea additionally has among the finest California seashores. Situated proper on Central California’s Monterey Peninsula Carmel is a superb base for exploring the Pacific Coast Freeway.
It’s a kind of typical Central California seashores with a stunning strolling road, tons of eating places with or with out ocean panorama, and naturally, a protracted, sandy seaside (that can also be canine pleasant.) Discover it extra at The Greatest Stops on 17 Mile Drive
We beloved strolling on Carmel Seaside and in addition on the scenic street above the seaside. The seaside was filled with households having a picnic, children swimming or enjoying within the water and canine working round, and naturally, the seaside volleyball that California is so well-known for.
Carmel Seaside is likely one of the few locations left on the California coast the place folks can nonetheless collect round a fireplace to toast marshmallows and benefit from the ambiance of a seaside bonfire. Learn extra: Issues to do in Carmel by the Sea, California
24. Cowell Ranch Seaside, Half Moon Bay
Probably the most hidden seaside and among the finest seashores in California is Cowell Ranch Seaside. Whereas driving south of Half Moon Bay State Seaside on California 1 we had been in search of a small parking zone by a yellow gate which indicated the trailhead for Cowell Ranch Seaside.
It’s straightforward to overlook it, but it surely’s price in search of, it rewarded us with an attractive, barely recognized seaside. The seaside 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 seaside 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 may have an particularly good probability to watch seals. However, Cowell Ranch Seaside is going through 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 stunning 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 excellent for out of doors lovers.
An 18-mile climbing path can also be obtainable for all. Whereas unleashed canine should not allowed on the seaside, they’re allowed on the path. Eating places and rooftop lounges are additionally obtainable that can assist you wind down after a day on the seaside with iconic views of the sundown.
26. Sand greenback seaside – Large Sur
Don’t let the steep stroll down the seaside deter you as you’ll be rewarded with one of the scenic seashores in California. A gorgeous shoreline with a rocky panorama enclosed in a cove-like formation.
Whereas Sand Greenback Seaside won’t be greatest for swimming, it’s an excellent picnic spot. The dramatic rock formation that encloses the seaside makes for an incredible place to chill out as you admire nature in all its glory.
It’s a favourite spot amongst surfers in Large Sur. Watch them trip waves all day. In low tide, you possibly can attempt your luck at catching some crabs or muscle mass.
For those who’re up for it, it’s also possible to go looking for jade stones. Nonetheless, persist with rules in your security.
27. Glass seaside – Fort Bragg
Situated in Fort Bragg, the glass seaside is a real testomony to what nature can do. The seaside is filled with coloured stones that had been as soon as dumped items of glass choking the life out of the ocean. Mom nature in flip broke down the rubbish and turned it into stunning 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 totally different styles and sizes. Widespread colours you’ll discover embrace clear, brown, and inexperienced.
Children will particularly love visiting this seaside as they’re solely however a number of glass seashores on the planet.
Years of tourists taking the glass stones has depleted the seaside and has resulted within 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.
Keep in mind to maintain your flip flop on always as you stroll alongside the seaside as among the stones are sharp.
28. Marin County Stinson Seaside
Stinson Seaside 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 seaside is a prime choose for its smooth sand and crescent form.
Stinson Seaside boasts a large expanse of sandy shoreline that stretches for about three and a half miles. The pure magnificence surrounding Stinson Seaside is a serious draw for guests.
To the east, you’ll discover the majestic Mount Tamalpais State Park, which provides climbing and biking trails with breathtaking vistas. To the west, the Pacific Ocean gives a fascinating backdrop, full with rolling waves and scenic sunsets.
You may swim within the ocean (though the water will be chilly), surf, boogie board, or just chill out on the sand. The seaside can also be standard for beachcombing, birdwatching, and kite flying. Close by Mount Tamalpais provides quite a few climbing and biking trails that showcase the world’s beautiful coastal and forested landscapes.
Last Ideas on the Seaside Seashores in California
From Ocean Seaside in San Fransico with the very best view of the Golden Gate Bridge to the Southernmost Seaside in California – Imperial Seaside close to San Diego, there are numerous seashores in California. You might also like these Greatest Seashores in Florida
We barely scratched the floor of all of the sandy locations in California. One factor is for positive, California is one in all our favourite locations to go to in the US.
About Our Wanders: Csaba and Bea are passionate vacationers, hikers, and passion photographers. They left their small house nation, Hungary nearly 2 years in the past and moved to a a lot larger one, the US the place they’ve rapidly grow to be hooked on nationwide parks, climbing, and street journeys and began to imagine that they’ll dwell their desires. Examine their adventures on their weblog Our Wanders. Observe them additionally on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Fb!
