Beaches in California
California’s beaches are as diverse as the state itself, offering everything from golden sandy shores to dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific. Having explored coastlines near and far, I’ve found California’s beaches to be some of the most breathtaking and unforgettable places to enjoy the ocean. Whether it’s the laid-back surf towns, lively piers, or quiet coves tucked away from the crowds, there’s a stretch of sand here for every mood.
I discovered bustling boardwalks, peaceful natural escapes, and beaches perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply soaking in the views. From family-friendly spots to world-famous surf breaks and sunsets that light up the horizon, California’s coast truly has something for everyone. Here are the beaches I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Golden rhythms at Huntington State Beach
We drove south from Los Angeles in about an hour, the freeway opening into long coastal stretches where the Pacific came into view.
Huntington State Beach in Southern California has always been one of my favorite stretches of coastline. Located between Newport Beach and Huntington Beach proper, it offers miles of soft sand and steady waves that make it a classic spot for soaking up the Pacific vibe.
I love how spacious it feels here. The beach seems to go on forever, with plenty of room to spread out, whether we’re setting up for a full day in the sun or just stopping by for a quick walk along the shoreline. It’s a cool balance of activity and relaxation.
When we visit as a family, it’s always a joyful scene—kids running in and out of the surf, volleyball games happening nearby, and the smell of barbecues drifting from the picnic areas. It’s the kind of place that feels lively without being overwhelming.
One of my favorite things is watching the surfers. The steady waves here make it a spectacular spot to sit back and take in the action, even if I’m not the one paddling out. Sometimes we stay until evening, when the beach bonfires light up and the whole shoreline feels like a gathering place.
Sunsets at Huntington State Beach are unforgettable. The sky glows orange and pink over the Pacific, and I always find myself lingering a little longer than planned just to take it all in.
For me, Huntington State Beach is an underrated gem along the California coast—easy to access, full of energy, and always delivering those classic oceanfront memories.
2. Quiet beauty at Mandalay Beach - 90-minute drive from LA
We drove about an hour north from Los Angeles, the road hugging the coast before flattening into open farmland near Oxnard.
Mandalay Beach in Oxnard has quickly become one of my favorite spots on the California coast. Tucked between Oxnard Beach Park and Hollywood Beach, it feels a little quieter and more natural, which makes it such a refreshing escape from the busier stretches nearby.
I love how wide and open the shoreline is here. The sand seems endless, and with fewer crowds, there’s always plenty of room to walk, run, or just stretch out with a blanket. It’s the kind of place where I can breathe deeply and feel completely relaxed.
When we come as a family, it’s always joyful. The kids love playing in the sand dunes, chasing waves, and collecting shells, while we enjoy the calm, laid-back atmosphere that feels almost like a hidden retreat.
One of my favorite things about Mandalay Beach is how natural it feels. With protected dunes and a less developed backdrop, it has a spectacular beauty that’s rare for Southern California. Watching pelicans skim the waves or spotting dolphins offshore makes it even more special.
Sunsets here are absolutely unforgettable. The sky glows in layers of gold, pink, and purple, reflecting off the wide expanse of sand and water. It’s a cool, peaceful way to end the day and one I never get tired of.
For me, Mandalay Beach is an underrated gem—quiet, scenic, and wonderfully unspoiled. Every visit feels like stepping into a slower rhythm of coastal life that I always wish I could hold onto a little longer.
3. Sea glass stories at Glass Beach - 4-hour drive from San Francisco
We drove north along Highway 1 from Mendocino, the road winding between redwood groves and ocean cliffs before reaching Fort Bragg.
Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California, is one of the most unusual and fascinating beaches I’ve ever visited. The first time I walked onto the shoreline and saw the ground glittering with smooth, colorful glass pieces, I knew it was something truly unique.
I love the history behind it. Decades ago, this area was used as a dumping ground, and over time the ocean transformed discarded bottles and jars into tiny, polished jewels. Now, the beach sparkles with greens, blues, and browns that make every step feel like a discovery.
Exploring here is always a joyful experience. We wander slowly, crouching down to admire the pieces that glisten in the sun, and it feels almost like walking through a treasure trove made by nature and time. It’s spectacular to see how something discarded has turned into beauty.
One of my favorite things is the contrast between the rugged Northern California coastline and the shimmering glass at your feet. Waves crash against the rocks, seabirds circle overhead, and yet the beach itself sparkles with an unusual charm.
Since collecting glass is no longer allowed, I enjoy just being present in the moment, taking photos, and appreciating the magic of the place as it is. It’s a cool reminder of resilience—how the ocean can turn the past into something inspiring.
For me, Glass Beach is an absolute best stop along the Mendocino coast—an underrated gem that combines natural beauty, history, and a one-of-a-kind shoreline you won’t find anywhere else.
4. Buzz and balance at Santa Monica Beach
We drove west from downtown Los Angeles in about thirty minutes, the freeway giving way to palm-lined streets before the ocean came into view.
Santa Monica Beach has always been one of my favorite places to soak in that classic Southern California vibe. Just west of Los Angeles, it stretches for miles with soft sand, lively energy, and the iconic pier anchoring it all—it feels like the absolute best mix of city life and coastal fun.
I love how much there is to do here. We can swim, surf, or just relax on the sand, and then wander up to the pier for rides, arcade games, or a quick bite. That blend of beach and boardwalk makes every visit exciting in a way that few places can match.
When we come as a family, it’s always joyful. The kids love the Ferris wheel and cotton candy, while I enjoy simply sitting back and watching the sunset cast golden light over the water and mountains in the distance. It’s spectacular every single time.
One of my favorite things is riding bikes along the paved path that winds down the beach. Pedaling with the ocean breeze and endless shoreline beside me feels cool and refreshing, and it’s a fun way to see more than just one stretch of sand.
Even with the crowds, Santa Monica Beach never loses its magic. It’s lively, full of energy, and yet still offers peaceful moments if you find the right spot to sit and watch the waves roll in.
For me, Santa Monica Beach is an underrated gem of the California coast—a place where city and sea come together to create unforgettable memories every time we visit.
5. Golden calm at Carlsbad State Beach - 40-minute drive from San Diego
We drove north from San Diego in about forty minutes, the highway running close to the water before dropping us into town.
Carlsbad State Beach in North County San Diego has always been one of my favorite coastal escapes. Just off the Pacific Coast Highway, it feels both easy to reach and wonderfully relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a laid-back California beach day.
I love how clean and inviting the shoreline is here. The sand is soft, the waves are steady, and the whole beach has a cool, mellow vibe that makes it spectacular for swimming, surfing, or just lounging with a good book.
When we come as a family, it’s always joyful. The kids love running in and out of the surf while we set up umbrellas and a picnic. Everything about it feels simple, affordable, and fun in that timeless California way.
One of my favorite things about Carlsbad State Beach is the blufftop walkway. Taking a stroll with ocean views stretching endlessly beside me always feels refreshing, and the sunsets from up there are absolutely unforgettable.
We’ve also camped at the nearby sites, and waking up to the sound of waves crashing below is a spectacular experience that makes the whole trip feel even more special. It’s the kind of place where every detail adds to the charm.
For me, Carlsbad State Beach is an underrated gem on the Southern California coast—relaxed, scenic, and filled with the kind of coastal beauty that keeps me coming back again and again.
6. Elegance in the sand at Coronado Beach - 15-minute drive from downtown San Diego
We drove across the tall San Diego–Coronado Bridge in less than fifteen minutes, the bay glittering below and the city skyline fading behind us.
Coronado Beach in San Diego has always been one of my favorite coastal escapes. Just across the bay from downtown, it feels like a world away the moment I step onto its wide stretch of golden sand. With the historic Hotel del Coronado as a backdrop, the whole scene feels spectacular.
I love how soft and sparkling the sand is here. Thanks to tiny mica minerals, the beach seems to shimmer in the sunlight, giving it a cool and almost magical quality that makes every visit feel special. It’s the kind of detail that never gets old no matter how many times I return.
When we come as a family, the beach feels joyful and easy. The waves are gentle enough for wading and swimming, the sand is perfect for building castles, and the wide shoreline means there’s always room to spread out and relax.
One of my favorite things is walking along the edge of the surf at sunset. The sky glows pink and orange, the hotel lights begin to twinkle, and the view feels like something straight out of a postcard. It’s an underrated reminder of just how beautiful San Diego’s coast can be.
We’ve also enjoyed biking along the flat, scenic paths nearby, stopping for ice cream or grabbing a casual dinner in the charming village afterward. That mix of activity and relaxation makes the whole day feel complete.
For me, Coronado Beach is an absolute best Southern California destination—beautiful, family-friendly, and always delivering the kind of memories that linger long after the day ends.
Conclusion
California’s beaches are as diverse and unforgettable as the state itself. From the lively energy of Santa Monica to the quiet, underrated charm of Mandalay, every stretch of shoreline offers something unique. I love how each visit brings a different experience—surfing steady waves, wandering along rugged cliffs, or simply sinking into soft sand with the sound of the Pacific all around.
For families, couples, or solo travelers, there’s always a joyful option, whether it’s bonfires at Huntington, tide-pooling near Carlsbad, or marveling at the unusual sparkle of Glass Beach. Sunsets, of course, are spectacular across the coast—painting the horizon in golds, pinks, and purples that make every day feel special.
What I appreciate most is how California’s beaches combine natural beauty with accessibility. You can find cool, quiet escapes tucked beside lively boardwalks, or hidden gems just a short drive from bustling cities. That blend makes them feel both exciting and restorative, no matter the setting.
For me, exploring California’s coast is about more than just sand and surf—it’s about the memories created along the way. Each beach holds its own story, and together they form a spectacular collection of coastal experiences that remind me why this state’s shoreline is truly the absolute best.
Booking Checklist
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