SoCal is famous for its sunny beaches, but what travelers may have overlooked in their quest for the perfect beach getaway are the gorgeous beaches of Northern California. Fort Funston Beach offers incredible whale watching opportunities in the springtime. Glass Beach is an iconic Northern California beach known for abundant sea glass. Beach goers looking for clothing optional beaches will find them at Black Sands Beach, Marshall Beach, and Gray Whale Cove. There are long, sandy leisure beaches, sand dune beaches, and beaches favored by surfers.
- Please support our journalism through affiliate links. Affiliate Disclosure
Map:
Plan Your Trip
Get Ready to Go!
- Search flights and stays nearby.
- Book your car rental.
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.