California’s Pacific Coast boasts 840 miles of shoreline making it the proper place for a street journey to get pleasure from its limitless stretches of sand. Whereas many individuals can title a couple 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 are usually not actually recognized and subsequently much less busy.
So, to introduce you to some locations you could not know, here’s a round-up of the most effective 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 gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean. We’ve lived in California for a 12 months, so we had sufficient time to find not solely the well-known touristy locations however some hidden gems, too. (This publish 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 situated 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 raise weights, and witnessing the various artists plying their commerce alongside this well-known stretch.
Venice Seaside itself is attractive so it’s no surprise it’s a favourite among the many locals within the space. A couple of of the issues that make it one among our favourite California seashores are the cool little outlets, nice cafes, and among the hippest espresso locations in L.A.
2. Manhattan Seaside – Los Angeles
There’s a motive that Manhattan Seaside is without doubt one of the costliest locations to reside in Los Angeles. Located completely on the Pacific Ocean, the vast sandy seaside is smooth and dotted with lovely homes, upscale eating places, stylish boutiques, and a few very costly lodges.
Weekends deliver out crowds of individuals together with some fairly good seaside volleyball gamers. Manhattan Seaside looks as if an odd title 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 true property alongside Manhattan Seaside is spectacular with house promoting for as much as $36 million {dollars}
Being situated 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 unquestionably one among 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 lovely seashores in California. Most individuals might be accustomed to Zuma Seaside, with its vast sandy seaside that stretches for two miles. Dotted with seaside volleyball nets, lifeguard stands, and many amenities it’s no surprise 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 environment than Zuma Seaside.
In case you are up for one thing distinctive, ensure that to take a look at the Malibu Seaside Inn which supplies you the possibility to spend a night on the “Billionaires Seaside” stretch of the coast. It is probably not low-cost but it surely offers 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 turn out to be fairly the vacation spot currently and for good motive. Positioned within the metropolis of Huntington Seaside (nicknamed Surf Metropolis) it boasts a fantastic 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 strive your hand at fishing.
Make sure that to get to the tip and take a look at Ruby’s Surf Metropolis Diner for some nice views and good meals.
Make sure that to go to downtown which has an amazing choice of bars, fabulous eating places, ice cream outlets, 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 situated within the well-known playground of the wealthy and delightful, Orange Nation.
This southern California seaside group boasts 5 miles of golden sand reaching out from the Newport Pier.
Not solely do you might 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 purchasing 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 group 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, mountain climbing trails, purchasing alongside the Third Seaside Preomenad, or biking alongside Marvin Braude Seaside Path.
Santa Monica Seaside can be house to glorious browsing identical 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.
Positioned on the Pacific Coast, there are many seashores to discover in Santa Barbara however it’s East Seaside situated proper on the town that makes it particular.
Santa Barbara has many seashores. Referred to 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 lovely sundown at Hendry’s Seaside.
8. Pfeiffer Seaside – Huge Sur
Positioned alongside the Pacific Coast Freeway, Pfeiffer Seaside is without doubt one of the most lovely settings in California.
Well-known for its keyhole arch situated offshore within the Pacific Ocean, Pfeiffer Seaside is a fantastic 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 Huge Sur State Park. It isn’t part of the State Park. drive down
There are tide swimming pools to be explored at low tide, excessive lookouts to view the limitless ocean, and rocks and bluffs. Learn extra concerning the Pacific Coast Freeway at Huge 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 situated simply throughout the bay from downtown San Diego and makes the record as one of many high 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 amazing place to cease for lunch if you’re not able to splurge on an evening.
This seaside is a hub for tide swimming pools the place you’ll be capable of see ocean life resembling starfish, crabs, and barnacles.
Swing by Del’s beachside café for fish tacos or head as much as the swank outside 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 situated in lovely San Diego. This seaside is great for exploring tide swimming pools and basking within the solar. Additionally it is 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 be a wonderful place for kayaking to La Jolla Sea Caves to discover the coastal formations.
11. Essential Seaside – Santa Cruz
Hit up Essential 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 count on to see off the coast of Portugal.
Pure Bridges State Seaside is known as for precisely what you suppose it’s, the pure bridge that’s situated offshore. There are mountain climbing trails, and tide swimming pools to discover at low tide.
Plus there’s a boardwalk and it is a crucial sanctuary for Monarch Butterflies migrating by the world from October to January. The panorama alone makes this probably the greatest 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 gear to the Pismo Seaside Catastrophe. I had all the time wished to go there ever since.
We had our likelihood when exploring the wine area of Santa Maria. Positioned midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Freeway, it is a lovely sandy seaside.
There are many issues to do round this small seaside city and whereas it is without doubt one of the greatest seashores for browsing, we hit the sand dunes for a severe dune buggy journey.
In case you are 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 unquestionably probably the greatest seashores in California and it’s simply a few minutes’ drive from Malibu. This slim seaside is within the shade of big cliffs and stairs led us down there from the parking zone.
We have 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 environment.
15. Seaside at Alamere Falls, Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
A seaside with a waterfall – how does that sound? No, we aren’t speaking of Huge Sur’s standard and magical McWay Falls this time, it’s one other one: Alamere Falls at Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.
We aren’t certain if this seaside has a reputation, really, it even ceases to exist at excessive tide, after which Alamere Falls flows instantly into the ocean. Nevertheless it positively exists at low tide and there’s a steep path main all the way down to it close to the highest of the falls.
Nonetheless, this distinctive seaside requires some mountain climbing, as a result of it may possibly solely be accessed through Coast Path from Palomarin Trailhead. This implies an 8 miles reasonable roundtrip which has simply turn out to be a day hike for us as we spent a lot time chilling out on the seaside.
- For those who love these take a look at extra Distinctive Seashores from Around the globe.
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 a neighborhood’s favourite in Orange County. And our favourite, too! With its clear and calm water is claimed to be probably the greatest swimming seashores and there may be 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 sizzling summer time. There are many seaside actions right here at Laguna Seaside effectively together with seaside volleyball courts, a motorbike 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 true behind the seaside.
There are a number of shorter trails within the marsh and they’re glorious for bird-watching. Pescadero State Seaside additionally has lovely (although normally windy and chilly) sunsets. Learn extra: Issues to do in San Mateo, California
19. Half Moon Bay State Seaside – San Francisco
Positioned a few half-hour from San Francisco is the group 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? Try our record of The Most Lovely Tropical Islands within the World
20. Andrew Molera State Seaside, Huge Sur
Once more, an adventurous seaside! It’s situated in Andrew Molera State Park in Huge 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 after we have been there, we may pleasantly stroll by it. Uhm… we may have executed it pleasantly if it wouldn’t have been so rattling chilly. Nevertheless it was nonetheless enjoyable.
Andrew Molera Seaside is on the mouth of Huge Sur River, it’s a protracted undeveloped seaside and we additionally liked mountain climbing on the great bluff mountain climbing trails above it. Learn extra: A information to the most effective campgrounds in Huge 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 environment to it. This places it proper up there as probably the greatest seashores in California.
Often, there are usually not many individuals on the seaside which can solely strengthen this environment.
One of the crucial particular hikes in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is Fern Canyon Path which took us again to Jurassic instances – really, some scenes of the Jurassic Park film have been filmed there.
It begins from Gold Bluffs Seaside – or ends on the seaside in case you begin at James Irvine Path as we did. The seaside itself can be accessible by automobile 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 excellent sandy seaside on a sand spit between Drakes Bay and the Limantour Estero estuary is one other gem of Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.
Due to the close by wetlands there’s a excessive likelihood 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 automobile and it has a pleasant massive parking zone. However in case you ask us it’s a lot nicer to park earlier alongside the street and hike there by pine forests and wetlands. We’ve executed the Laguna Path – Limantour Seaside – Muddy Hole Path – Bayview Path loop which was a fantastic various day hike.
23. Carmel Seaside Metropolis Park, Carmel-By-The-Sea
The group of gorgeous Carmel by the Sea additionally has probably the greatest California seashores. Positioned 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 avenue, tons of eating places with or with out ocean panorama, and naturally, a protracted, sandy seaside (that can be canine pleasant.) Discover it extra at The Greatest Stops on 17 Mile Drive
We liked 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 taking part in within the water and canine operating round, and naturally, the seaside volleyball that California is so well-known for.
Carmel Seaside is without doubt one of the few locations left on the California coast the place individuals can nonetheless collect round a fireplace to toast marshmallows and benefit from the environment 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 probably the greatest seashores in California is Cowell Ranch Seaside. Whereas driving south of Half Moon Bay State Seaside on California 1 we have been in search of a small parking zone by a yellow gate which indicated the trailhead for Cowell Ranch Seaside.
It’s simple to overlook it, but it surely’s price in search of, it rewarded us with a fantastic, 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 all the time a good suggestion on the California Central coast, however right here you might have an particularly good likelihood to watch seals. However, Cowell Ranch Seaside is dealing with 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 lovely 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 outside fanatics.
An 18-mile mountain climbing path can be out there for all. Whereas unleashed canine are usually not allowed on the seaside, they’re allowed on the path. Eating places and rooftop lounges are additionally out there that will help you wind down after a day on the seaside with iconic views of the sundown.
26. Sand greenback seaside – Huge 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 fantastic shoreline with a rocky panorama enclosed in a cove-like formation.
Whereas Sand Greenback Seaside may not be greatest for swimming, it’s an amazing picnic spot. The dramatic rock formation that encloses the seaside makes for an incredible place to loosen up as you admire nature in all its glory.
It’s a favourite spot amongst surfers in Huge Sur. Watch them experience waves all day. In low tide, you possibly can strive your luck at catching some crabs or muscle mass.
For those who’re up for it, you too can go looking for jade stones. Nonetheless, follow laws in your security.
27. Glass seaside – Fort Bragg
Positioned in Fort Bragg, the glass seaside is a real testomony to what nature can do. The seaside is filled with coloured stones that have 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 lovely 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 sizes and shapes. Widespread colours you’ll discover embody clear, brown, and inexperienced.
Children will particularly love visiting this seaside as they’re solely however a couple of glass seashores on the earth.
Years of holiday makers taking the glass stones has depleted the seaside and has resulted within the follow 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 situated 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 high 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 significant draw for guests.
To the east, you’ll discover the majestic Mount Tamalpais State Park, which provides mountain climbing and biking trails with breathtaking vistas. To the west, the Pacific Ocean gives a charming backdrop, full with rolling waves and scenic sunsets.
You possibly can swim within the ocean (though the water could be chilly), surf, boogie board, or just loosen up on the sand. The seaside can be standard for beachcombing, birdwatching, and kite flying. Close by Mount Tamalpais provides quite a few mountain climbing and biking trails that showcase the world’s gorgeous coastal and forested landscapes.
Ultimate Ideas on the Seaside Seashores in California
From Ocean Seaside in San Fransico with the most effective 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 certain, California is one among our favourite locations to go to in the USA.
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 shortly turn out to be hooked on nationwide parks, mountain climbing, and street journeys and began to imagine that they will reside their desires. Examine their adventures on their weblog Our Wanders. Comply with them additionally on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Fb!
