The 21 Best California Beaches

California’s coastline stretches for over 800 miles, offering an array of stunning beaches that attract visitors worldwide. From the wild and untamed shores to perfectly manicured sands, there is a beach for everyone, whether you’re a sunbather, surfer, or hiker.

Discovering the best sandy spots in California promises an unforgettable seaside adventure filled with sun, surf, and sand. Whether you want to unwind or dive into thrilling waves, these coastal gems set the stage for the quintessential California beach experience.

Santa Monica Beach

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Santa Monica Beach is a sun-drenched paradise with golden sand and glistening blue waves. Visitors can enjoy a lively boardwalk scene, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a thrilling bike ride. The historic Santa Monica Pier, with its iconic Ferris wheel, offers breathtaking views and entertainment.

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do. Surf the rolling waves or paddle along the coastline on a kayak. Families can picnic in one of the beach’s parks while kids play on the nearby playgrounds. Santa Monica Beach truly has something for everyone: the warm sun, friendly atmosphere, or exciting activities.

Malibu’s Zuma Beach

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Zuma Beach in Malibu is a sun-soaked paradise ideal for beach lovers. Spanning two miles, this vast stretch of golden sand offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding in the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

For those who love to stay active, Zuma Beach is perfect for a game of beach volleyball or a long stroll along the shore. Whale watching is also a popular activity during the migrating seasons. Plenty of parking makes it a convenient spot for families, making it one of Malibu’s top beach destinations.

La Jolla Shores

Our Rating: 9.5/10

La Jolla Shores is a sun-soaked haven perfect for families and adventure seekers. The wide, sandy beach stretches for a mile, offering ample space for sunbathing and beach games. The gentle waves make it ideal for swimming and surfing lessons. Kayakers can launch into the ocean and explore the stunning coastline and hidden coves.

If you’re a fan of underwater exploration, snorkeling, and scuba diving will introduce you to vibrant marine life and kelp forests. For those who prefer staying on land, the nearby grassy park is excellent for picnics, while the playground entertains young visitors. La Jolla Shores is a vibrant blend of relaxation and excitement.

Pfeiffer Beach

Our Rating: 9.2/10

Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is a hidden gem among California’s coastal treasures. Known for its stunning purple-hued sand, the beach offers a unique visual experience. Tucked at the end of Sycamore Canyon Road, it is perfect for those seeking a more secluded and magical spot.

Visitors can explore the striking rock formations that decorate the shoreline, where the famous Keyhole Arch is a natural masterpiece. Photographers and sightseers are treated to an unforgettable display as waves crash through the arch. With its remote location, Pfeiffer Beach provides a serene escape. Beachgoers can enjoy a quiet picnic or simply relax while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Half Moon Bay State Beach

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Half Moon Bay State Beach is a true gem along California’s coastline. It stretches over four miles and encompasses popular spots like Francis Beach, Venice Beach, Dunes Beach, and Roosevelt Beach. Each section offers its charm.

Visitors can enjoy long, peaceful walks along the sandy shore. The sound of crashing waves and the smell of the salty ocean air create a perfect backdrop for reflection or exploration. For those looking to stay close to nature, camping by the beach offers a unique experience. Wake up to the sound of the ocean and enjoy the vibrant sunset in the evening.

Carmel Beach

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Carmel Beach in California is a stunning destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and relaxation. Its white sand stretches along the Pacific Ocean, inviting strolls by the water’s edge.

Visitors can enjoy picnics under the backdrop of iconic cypress trees. The cool, sometimes misty weather uniquely charms this scenic spot. Surfers find the waves enticing, while others bring their dogs to romp in the sand. As evening falls, people gather for mesmerizing sunsets, turning the sky into a canvas of colors. Carmel Beach is a perfect escape to nature’s splendor.

Huntington City Beach

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Huntington City Beach, known as Surf City USA, is a vibrant hub for beach enthusiasts. Stretching along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, it’s perfect for surfers and sunbathers. The waves here are legendary, attracting both seasoned surfers and beginners looking to catch their first ideal wave.

Aside from surfing, visitors can enjoy lively beach volleyball games, drawing friends and strangers into exciting matches. The iconic Huntington Beach Pier offers a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls, where you can watch skilled fishermen casting their lines. For those traveling with furry companions, Huntington Dog Beach is a hit, providing a stretch of sand where dogs can frolic and swim freely.

Venice Beach

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Venice Beach is a lively and colorful destination known for its unique vibe and artistic spirit. Visitors are often drawn to the famous boardwalk, which generates energy from street performers and artists showcasing their talents. It’s a place where creativity comes alive, inviting everyone to explore and enjoy.

Walking along the beach, you’ll find an array of interesting spots. Skateboarders practice their tricks in the skate park, while fitness enthusiasts work out at Muscle Beach, where the equipment is always buzzing with activity. Venice Beach offers a glimpse into a free-spirited lifestyle that is hard to resist. Outdoor dining spots and shops line the streets, offering tasty bites and unique souvenirs.

Laguna Beach

Our Rating: 8.9/10

Laguna Beach offers stunning cove beaches like Thousand Steps, Crescent Bay, and Victoria Beach. Each spot boasts crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming or snorkeling. The soft sands and gentle waves make it perfect for families and adventurers.

Main Beach is the heart of Laguna’s social scene. With its grassy lawns and volleyball courts, it’s a hotspot for both relaxation and active play. Nearby, enjoy delightful shops and restaurants that cater to every taste. For dog lovers, several beaches welcome furry friends. Visitors can explore with their pets during specific hours throughout the year. This freedom adds to Laguna’s charm, making it a favored destination for many.

Coronado Beach

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Coronado Beach, located in sunny San Diego, is a classic Southern California destination. Its vast stretch of sparkling sand draws visitors from all over. The sand glimmers thanks to mica, a mineral that creates a magical shine under the sun. Popular activities include sunbathing and beachcombing. The gentle waves make it great for swimming.

Families often enjoy picnicking along the shore while kids build sandcastles nearby. Surfers might find the waves mild, but they’re perfect for beginners. The nearby Hotel del Coronado offers stunning historical architecture and easy access to shopping and dining. Walking or biking along Ocean Boulevard provides breathtaking views and plenty of Instagram-worthy spots.

Newport Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Newport Beach is a gem in Southern California with miles of golden sand and beauty. The bustling Balboa Peninsula offers adventures where visitors can enjoy surfing or strolling along the iconic boardwalk. The charming Balboa Island provides delightful shops and eateries for those seeking a laid-back vibe.

Crystal Cove State Park is perfect for hiking and swimming. The park’s rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters attract nature lovers and photographers. At The Wedge, thrill-seekers can experience some of California’s biggest waves, ideal for bodyboarding. Newport Beach offers a delightful mix of relaxation and excitement, making it a standout coastal destination.

Pismo Beach

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Pismo Beach is a sun-kissed haven for beach lovers. The wide sandy shores near the Pismo Beach Pier offer a perfect spot for sunbathing and family fun. Visitors can stroll along the soft sand and enjoy the calming waves. The area is known for its pleasant climate, which is ideal for yearly beach outings.

Adventure seekers can explore the famous dunes. Adventurous souls may ride ATVs across the dunes, creating thrilling memories. For a quieter experience, the nearby coves provide serene settings for exploration. It’s a vibrant mix of relaxation and excitement, ensuring every visitor finds their slice of paradise by the sea.

Santa Cruz Main Beach

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Santa Cruz Main Beach is a hotspot for beachgoers looking to indulge in a lively seaside atmosphere. Its vast sandy stretches make it perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles. The beach is known for its vibrant Boardwalk, where visitors can enjoy thrilling rides or grab a quick bite.

Beach volleyball is a key attraction here, drawing enthusiasts of all skill levels. The courts are often bustling with activity, offering a fun way to engage in friendly competition. During summer nights, live concerts bring the area to life with music and dancing, creating a festive vibe by the shore.

Seal Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Seal Beach, a charming coastal town between Long Beach and Huntington Beach, offers sun-drenched days and lively energy. Visitors can stroll along the vibrant pier extending into the sparkling Pacific, perfect for sipping an ice-cold drink while watching waves crash below.

Surfing enthusiasts flock to the area, drawn by its powerful swells and friendly atmosphere. Nearby, quaint shops and cozy cafes invite exploration, promising delightful discoveries and tasty treats. The warm sandy stretch is ideal for beach picnics, kite flying, or simply lounging under the sun with a good book. Families enjoy nearby playgrounds, ensuring little ones stay entertained while parents relax.

Solana Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Solana Beach, a gem on the California coastline, offers more than just stunning views. Fletcher Cove Park invites visitors to enjoy picnics by the shore with the backdrop of rocky cliffs. It’s an ideal spot for catching amazing beachside sunsets, giving the perfect end to a day of exploration.

Surfing enthusiasts will find a haven at Seaside Beach with its thrilling waves at the Seaside Reef. It’s a favorite for locals and tourists, offering a vibrant surfing scene. Tide Beach Park beckons for exploration during low tide, revealing tide pools teeming with sea creatures—perfect for curious adventurers of all ages.

Glass Beach

Our Rating: 9.0/10

Glass Beach in Fort Bragg is a must-see gem nestled in Mendocino County. Once a dumping ground, nature has transformed its discarded glass into vibrant sea glass treasures. Visitors can stroll along the shoreline and marvel at the colorful glass fragments that sparkle under the sun.

The beach offers a one-of-a-kind adventure for those who love collecting. Beachcombers can hunt for unique sea glass pieces, each with its own story. The shoreline invites leisurely walks and exploration, inviting guests to lose themselves in the stunning beauty of each tide’s new array of glass jewels. Whether one is an avid collector or simply enjoys the enchanting scenery, Glass Beach provides an unforgettable coastal experience.

Pebble Beach

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Pebble Beach is a coastal gem with stunning ocean views and pristine beaches. Visitors can enjoy the famous 17-mile Drive, which offers breathtaking coastline vistas and lush golf courses. It’s a paradise for golf lovers.

The area boasts several world-renowned golf courses, ideal for those looking to tee off with a view. Nature enthusiasts can explore scenic trails and watch the waves crash against rugged cliffs. Whether you’re a golfer or a nature lover, Pebble Beach provides a memorable experience.

El Matador State Beach

Our Rating: 9.2/10

Nestled along the stunning Malibu coast, El Matador State Beach is a hidden gem. Its dramatic sea stacks and rocky cliffs provide a breathtaking backdrop for visitors. The sandy shores are perfect for picnicking and sunbathing. Low tide reveals hidden sea caves and tide pools, inviting exploration by curious adventurers.

Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of inspiration here. The unique landscape makes for stunning shots, especially during sunrise and sunset. Be prepared for a hike; the beach is accessed by descending two long stairs. But the effort is well worth it. Whether relaxing or exploring, El Matador promises an unforgettable coastal experience.

Butterfly Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Butterfly Beach offers a tranquil escape in the charming area of Montecito, just south of Santa Barbara. This hidden gem is perfect for those who crave a more secluded beach experience. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the sandy shore or unwind while watching the waves gently lap the coastline.

For those seeking adventure, the beach is ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. The calm waters make it suitable for all skill levels. Catch a stunning sunset with the Santa Ynez Mountains as a backdrop, creating a picturesque view that is truly breathtaking. This serene beach is the quintessential relaxing spot for appreciating nature’s beauty.

Moonstone Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Moonstone Beach in Cambria, California, captures the heart with its stunning scenery. The smooth pebbles, which give the beach its name, add to the charm and provide a unique backdrop for photographs. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque boardwalk, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and captivating ocean views.

This beach is perfect for those who love to explore. Beachcombers can scour the sands for hidden treasures among the stones. Outdoor enthusiasts often visit Shamel Park, located nearby, for picnics or a relaxing afternoon in the sun. The area provides a serene setting ideal for unwinding and enjoying nature’s beauty.

Hermosa Beach

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Hermosa Beach, a gem in Los Angeles County, offers sun-kissed shores perfect for lounging and people-watching. The lively Hermosa Beach Pier invites visitors to enjoy ocean views and fresh sea breezes. Outdoor enthusiasts delight in the Strand, a scenic path for walking, biking, or skating alongside the beach.

The area is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and diverse dining venues. Pacific Coast Highway and Pier Avenue boast restaurants for every palate, from fresh seafood to cozy cafes. Surfers and volleyball players flock to the waves and courts, capturing the essence of Southern California’s laid-back lifestyle. With so much to explore, Hermosa Beach promises endless fun and relaxation.

Whether you’re surfing the waves of Malibu, lounging on the golden sands of Laguna Beach, or enjoying a family day at Santa Monica, California’s beaches offer something special for everyone. Each visit promises unforgettable memories and the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.