Beaches in California

Location:

Huntington State Beach, 21601 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, California, USA

Recommended For:

Surfers, couples, volleyball players, birdwatchers, and beachgoers looking for a vibrant yet ecologically protected coastal park.

What we Love:

The two-mile stretch of golden sand, the sunset bonfires in designated fire rings, and the wildlife sanctuaries for endangered and threatened shorebirds.

• Visit Huntington State Beach, a 121-acre oceanfront park offering prime Southern California beach recreation with environmental significance.
• Surf or swim along this popular coastal stretch with consistent waves and year-round lifeguard protection.
• Enjoy activities like fishing, beach volleyball, and basketball in a clean, spacious setting.
• Light up an evening bonfire in one of the beach’s many fire rings, perfect for a romantic or family-friendly coastal night.
• Protect and observe native wildlife—endangered California least terns and western snowy plovers nest here in spring and summer.

Cost:

Day-use parking fee required. Fire rings and courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Best time to visit:

Late spring to early fall for the best weather and water activities. Sunset hours are especially magical for beach walks and bonfires.

Local tips:

Fire rings fill up quickly in the evening—arrive early or bring your own firewood. Stay out of posted bird nesting areas to protect local species.

Distance:

Located directly on the Pacific Coast Highway—easily accessible from both Newport Beach and the city of Huntington Beach.

How to Get to Huntington State Beach:

From Beach Boulevard or the Santa Ana River Trail, follow signs to Pacific Coast Highway. Parking lots are available near beach entrances on both ends of the park.

Location:

Mandalay Beach, 1601 S Harbor Blvd, Oxnard, California, USA

Recommended For:

Families, surfers, cyclists, beachcombers, and anyone looking for a scenic and activity-rich beach getaway with stunning Channel Island views.

What we Love:

The soft sands and quiet surf-friendly waves, the playground and picnic-friendly park amenities, and the connection to the Pacific Coast Bicycle Route for added adventure.

• Visit Mandalay Beach in Oxnard, a 60-acre beach park that blends natural dunes with recreational amenities.
• Sunbathe with views of Channel Islands National Park or explore the beach while shell collecting or fishing from shore.
• Surf or kayak year-round, or bring the kids to enjoy the playground and wide sandy areas perfect for family games and picnics.
• Cycle or skate along bike paths that form part of the 1,800-mile Pacific Coast Bicycle Route, right through the beach.
• Refuel at numerous nearby restaurants after a day on the sand or trail.

Cost:

Affordable cash-only parking available for both short visits and full-day stays.

Best time to visit:

Spring through fall for warm sunshine, water sports, and ideal biking weather. Early mornings offer peaceful views and quieter beaches.

Local tips:

Bring cash for parking and a camera for sunset views over the dunes. Be mindful of dune restoration areas and help protect the beach’s natural habitat.

Distance:

Located in Oxnard along the coast—about 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles, roughly a 90-minute drive.

How to Get to Mandalay Beach:

From Highway 101, exit Victoria Avenue south, then turn west on Wooley Road to S Harbor Blvd. Follow signs to the beach entrance and parking area.

Recommended Tour in Oxnard, California:

• Ventura: Rail Bike Guided Tour with Farm Stand Stop – Explore on a 2-person pedal-powered and electric-assisted rail bike. Price: From $249 per group up to 2.

Location:

Glass Beach, Elm Street & Glass Beach Drive, Fort Bragg, Mendocino Coast, California, USA

Recommended For:

Beachcombers, photographers, nature lovers, and curious travelers drawn to quirky, colorful coastal treasures and dramatic ocean views.

What we Love:

The sparkling sea glass pebbles covering the shoreline, the history of transformation by nature, and the cliffside trail leading to a truly one-of-a-kind beach.

• Visit Glass Beach, part of MacKerricher State Park, where decades of discarded glass were naturally polished by the ocean into tiny colorful gems.
• Marvel at the jewel-toned shoreline, made up of sea glass once tossed as trash—now a remarkable natural treasure.
• Walk the cliffside trails that descend to the beach for close-up exploration and coastal views.
• Respect the park rules: take only photos, not the glass, to help preserve this unique beach for future generations.

Cost:

Free public access. Parking available nearby along Elm Street or at the official trailhead.

Best time to visit:

Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and smallest crowds. Low tide offers better visibility of sea glass and tide pools.

Local tips:

Wear sturdy shoes for the short but steep trail down to the beach. Bring a camera or macro lens for close-up shots of the colorful glass.

Distance:

Located in Fort Bragg, approximately 180 miles north of San Francisco—about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive via Highway 1 or US-101.

How to Get to Glass Beach:

From Main Street in Fort Bragg, turn west onto Elm Street and follow signs to the Glass Beach Trailhead. A short walk leads to the scenic overlook and access path to the beach below.

Romantic Beaches in California:

Location:

Santa Monica Beach, Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica, California, USA

Recommended For:

Surfers, families, cyclists, beachgoers, and first-time California visitors looking for the classic SoCal beach experience with endless amenities.

What we Love:

The expansive 3.5-mile stretch of soft sand, the vibrant Santa Monica Pier with rides and attractions, and the iconic oceanfront bike path stretching for 22 miles.

• Visit Santa Monica Beach, one of California’s most famous and photographed beaches, just west of downtown Los Angeles.
• Swim, surf, or sunbathe on the well-maintained sands, with rentals available for lounge chairs and umbrellas at Perry’s at the Beach.
• Play beach volleyball, jog along the shoreline, or bike The Strand, a 22-mile coastal bike trail leading south to Torrance Beach.
• Explore the Santa Monica Pier, featuring an amusement park, aquarium, restaurants, and one of the best sunset views on the Pacific Coast.
• Surf off Bay Street, a popular break for beginners and intermediate surfers with nearby rental shops and lessons available.

Cost:

Beach access is free. Paid parking is available at lots along the beach and pier area.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, though late spring through early fall offers the warmest water and best beach weather. Early mornings and sunset hours are less crowded.

Local tips:

Bring a bike or rent one locally to experience The Strand. Stop by Perry’s for equipment and beach bites, and don’t miss the evening light show from the Pacific Wheel on the pier.

Distance:

About 15 miles west of downtown Los Angeles—roughly a 30–40 minute drive depending on traffic.

How to Get to Santa Monica Beach:

Take I-10 west to the Pacific Coast Highway and follow signs to Santa Monica Pier or beachfront parking lots. The beach is easily walkable from downtown Santa Monica hotels and public transit.

Location:

Carlsbad State Beach (Tamarack Beach), Carlsbad Blvd & Hwy 101, Carlsbad, California, USA

Recommended For:

Families, swimmers, surfers, walkers, and sunset lovers looking for a scenic and activity-rich beach in North San Diego County.

What we Love:

The broad sandy shoreline great for water sports, the picturesque four-mile Carlsbad Seawall path, and the sunset views from the coastal bluff.

• Visit Carlsbad State Beach, affectionately known as Tamarack Beach, for a classic Southern California beach day filled with sun, surf, and strolls.
• Swim, surf, fish, kayak, or scuba dive along the well-loved coastline between Tamarack Avenue and Carlsbad Village Drive.
• Relax at the picnic area with tables and benches, making this an ideal beach for family outings and beachside meals.
• Walk, jog, or skate along the Carlsbad Seawall, a popular paved path that stretches for four miles along the scenic coastline.
• Catch the sunset from the bluff at the beach’s southern end—a quiet favorite among locals and photographers.

Cost:

Free beach access; paid parking available at lots and street meters nearby.

Best time to visit:

Spring through fall for warm water and clear skies. Early mornings are peaceful for walking, while evenings offer dramatic sunsets.

Local tips:

Bring your bike or rollerblades for the seawall. Arrive early on weekends for better parking and less crowded surf zones. The nearby Carlsbad Village offers great dining options post-beach.

Distance:

Located in Carlsbad, about 35 miles north of downtown San Diego—approximately a 40-minute drive via I-5.

How to Get to Carlsbad State Beach:

From I-5, exit Carlsbad Village Drive or Tamarack Avenue and head west. Look for parking along Carlsbad Blvd or adjacent streets near the beach access points.

Family Beaches in Thailand:

Location:

Coronado Municipal Beach, Coronado Island, San Diego, California, USA

Recommended For:

Families, couples, dog owners, beachcombers, and anyone seeking a sparkling, peaceful, and postcard-perfect California beach experience.

What we Love:

The glittering mica-rich sand, the calm, kid-friendly surf, and the four distinct beach zones offering recreation for everyone.

• Visit Coronado Municipal Beach, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. for its scenic charm and warm Pacific waters.
• Explore all four beach areas: Coronado City Beach, Glorietta Bay Park, Tidelands Park, and Centennial Park, each offering a unique atmosphere.
• Play at Glorietta Bay and Tidelands Parks, where you’ll find grassy picnic spots, playgrounds, and safe spaces for families to relax and unwind.
• Stroll along the expansive shorelines, perfect for long walks, kite flying, and beach games, especially during the golden hour before sunset.
• Bring your pup to the dog-friendly northern stretch of the beach where leashed pets are welcome to enjoy the waves too.

Cost:

Free beach access. Paid parking available nearby or free residential parking if you arrive early.

Best time to visit:

Year-round. Summer and fall offer the warmest water and clearest skies. Mornings are quieter; evenings offer spectacular sunsets.

Local tips:

The shimmer in the sand comes from natural mica, not gold—but it still makes for magical photos! Stop by the Hotel del Coronado for food and history, just steps from the sand.

Distance:

About 7 miles from downtown San Diego—approximately a 15-minute drive across the Coronado Bridge.

How to Get to Coronado Municipal Beach:

From downtown San Diego, take the Coronado Bridge west to Orange Avenue. Follow signs to any of the four beach access points along the island’s shoreline.

Location:

Crystal Cove State Park, 8471 Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, California, USA

Recommended For:

Hikers, swimmers, scuba divers, history lovers, and anyone seeking a balance of coastal beauty, recreation, and preserved natural spaces.

What we Love:

The three miles of pristine beach and coastal cliffs, the historic beach cottages in the Crystal Cove Historic District, and the diverse marine and inland ecosystems ripe for exploration.

• Visit Crystal Cove State Park for a classic California coastline experience with a mix of beach recreation and rugged inland hiking.
• Swim, surf, or dive in the clear waters of the Marine Conservation Area, which protect both reef life and shoreline habitats.
• Wander the tidal pools and sandy coves or enjoy horseback riding and beachcombing along the packed-sand shoreline.
• Explore 17 hiking trails that weave through chaparral canyons and coastal bluffs, offering sweeping ocean views.
• Step back in time at the Crystal Cove Historic District, where rustic 1930s beach cottages evoke a bygone era of Southern California life.

Cost:

Day-use parking fee required. Additional fees for camping or cottage rentals in the historic district.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall offer the best balance of pleasant temperatures and lighter crowds. Summer is ideal for water activities and ranger-led tidepool tours.

Local tips:

Book historic cottage rentals well in advance. Pack reef-safe sunscreen and hiking shoes if you plan to explore inland trails or tidepools.

Distance:

About 50 miles south of Los Angeles—roughly a 1-hour drive depending on traffic along the Pacific Coast Highway.

How to Get to Crystal Cove State Park:

Located off Pacific Coast Highway (Hwy 1) between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. Look for signed parking areas with shuttle service to the Historic District and beach access trails.

If you are a photographer, don't miss:

Location:

Dog Beach, Point Loma, Ocean Beach, San Diego, California, USA

Recommended For:

Dog owners, pet lovers, surfers, and anyone who enjoys a vibrant, playful atmosphere by the sea—canine companion optional!

What we Love:

The historic status as California’s first off-leash dog beach, the welcome mix of playful pups and laid-back locals, and the beautiful stretch of sand along the San Diego River mouth.

• Visit Dog Beach, a pioneering off-leash coastal haven for dogs and one of the most celebrated pet-friendly beaches in the U.S.
• Let your pup run free across the wide, sandy beach, splash in the surf, and make furry friends in a relaxed, leash-free zone.
• Enjoy the Ocean Beach vibe, where locals, surfers, and visitors come together in a lively, inclusive coastal setting.
• Surf or watch the waves—surfers and dogs share the beach in this uniquely San Diego scene.
• Observe dog park etiquette: clean up after your pet, ensure vaccinations are current, and only bring well-socialized dogs.

Cost:

Free public access. Street parking and nearby lots available.

Best time to visit:

Early morning or late afternoon for cooler sand and more playful pups. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.

Local tips:

Bring towels, water, and a leash for the walk to and from your car. There are rinse stations nearby and plenty of pet-friendly cafes and shops in Ocean Beach.

Distance:

About 8 miles northwest of downtown San Diego—roughly a 15-minute drive via I-8 West.

How to Get to Dog Beach:

Take I-8 West to the end and follow signs toward Ocean Beach. Dog Beach is located at the north end of Ocean Beach, where the San Diego River meets the Pacific Ocean.

Location:

Moonstone Beach, Cambria, California, USA

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, beachcombers, photographers, wildlife watchers, and travelers seeking a peaceful and scenic Central Coast escape.

What we Love:

The smooth, gem-like pebbles lining the shore, the rugged cliffs and dramatic scenery, and the elevated boardwalk that offers a mile-long coastal stroll.

• Visit Moonstone Beach, a wild and serene shoreline along California’s Central Coast, far from the bustle of Southern California beaches.
• Walk the scenic boardwalk that runs more than a mile along the cliff edge, offering unforgettable views of surf and sky.
• Beachcomb for driftwood, tide pools, and polished moonstones—a relaxing and meditative way to explore the shore.
• Watch sea otters at play just offshore, scan the horizon for gray whales during migration season, and spot seabirds in flight or nesting in the nearby cliffs.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Street and lot parking available near the boardwalk entrance.

Best time to visit:

Fall and spring offer mild weather and ideal wildlife viewing. Early mornings are quiet and perfect for photography or a tranquil walk.

Local tips:

Bring binoculars for whale watching and a camera for tidepool and pebble photography. Dress in layers—the coastal breeze can be brisk even in summer.

Distance:

About 35 miles north of San Luis Obispo—roughly a 45-minute drive along scenic Highway 1.

How to Get to Moonstone Beach:

From Highway 1, exit at Cambria and follow signs to Moonstone Beach Drive. Access points and parking areas are clearly marked along the shoreline.

Location:

El Matador Beach, 32350 El Matador Beach Rd, Malibu, California, USA

Recommended For:

Photographers, sunbathers, tidepool explorers, and beach lovers seeking dramatic scenery and secluded coves along the Pacific Coast Highway.

What we Love:

The sweeping cliffside views and sea caves, the steep descent that feels like an adventure, and the romantic rock arches and kelp-filled waters below.

• Visit El Matador Beach, one of Malibu’s most iconic and visually stunning shorelines, nestled below coastal bluffs along Highway 1.
• Descend the steep dirt trail and stairs to access the narrow stretch of sand framed by giant boulders and sea stacks.
• Sunbathe on the golden sand or swim and surf with views of crystal-clear water and kelp forests.
• Explore the sea caves and natural rock arches at the north end of the beach—best visited during low tide for safe access.
• Picnic at one of the tables atop the bluff before your descent—ideal for taking in Malibu’s dramatic coastal panoramas.

Cost:

Paid parking lot located above the bluff. Limited street parking available along PCH.

Best time to visit:

Weekdays for fewer crowds. Low tide is ideal for cave and rock formation exploration. Sunset offers spectacular lighting for photography.

Local tips:

Wear sturdy shoes for the descent, and check tide charts before heading to the caves. Bring water—there are no amenities or restrooms on the beach.

Distance:

About 10 miles west of Malibu Pier—roughly a 20-minute scenic drive on Pacific Coast Highway.

How to Get to El Matador Beach:

Take Pacific Coast Highway west from Malibu. Look for the clearly marked El Matador Beach sign and entrance. The trail begins at the top parking area on El Matador Beach Road.