SoCal might steal the spotlight with its sunny beaches, but if you're anything like me, you’ll be blown away by the coastal gems waiting up north. I used to think the perfect beach meant palm trees and packed boardwalks—until I found myself wandering the wild, awe-inspiring shores of Northern California.

I discovered long, sandy stretches perfect for quiet walks, wind-sculpted dunes that felt like something out of a dream, and powerful surf spots where the ocean showed off its wild side. If you're craving raw, natural beauty and a coastline that makes you feel small in the best way, I can’t recommend it enough. There’s something deeply grounding about these beaches—and I think you’ll feel that too.

Top picks for:

  • Whale-watching: Fort Funston Beach, Gualala Point Regional Park
  • Sea glass: Glass Beach
  • Families: Baker Beach

Unique Beaches

For families: Baker Beach

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For families: Baker Beach - Catch mellow waves near the bridge and enjoy panoramic Golden Gate views.                                     

For hikers: Black Sands Beach

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For hikers: Black Sands Beach - Surf remote beach breaks and explore the dramatic, rugged coastal cliffs.                                     

For beautiful coastal views: Caspar Headlands State Beach

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For beautiful coastal views: Caspar Headlands State Beach - Ride gentle surf breaks and explore forest trails above the shore.                                     

For photographers: Centerville Beach

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For photographers: Centerville Beach - Paddle into quiet waves and enjoy vast, windswept sandy stretches alone.                                     

For surfers: College Cove Beach (Humboldt County)

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For surfers: College Cove Beach (Humboldt County) - Surf secluded spots and explore hidden coves at low tide.                                     

For a private atmosphere: Shell Beach

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For a private atmosphere: Shell Beach - Paddle out for small waves and explore tide pools along rocky shores.                                     

For striking cliffs: Fort Funston Beach

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For striking cliffs: Fort Funston Beach - Surf wind-swept waves and watch hang gliders soar above the cliffs.                                     

For ocean-polished glass pebbles: Glass Beach

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For ocean-polished glass pebbles: Glass Beach - Explore colorful glass pebbles and surf nearby reef breaks carefully.                                     

For gray whale spotting: Gray Whale Cove (San Mateo County)

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For gray whale spotting: Gray Whale Cove (San Mateo County) - Surf peaceful swells and hike scenic bluffs above the cove.                                     

For kayakers: Greenwood State Beach

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For kayakers: Greenwood State Beach - Paddle into crisp ocean waves and explore historic remnants along the beach.                                     

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)