California’s Pacific Coast boasts 840 miles of shoreline making it the proper place for a highway journey to get pleasure from its countless stretches of sand. Whereas many individuals can title a number of of its extra well-known seashores like Venice Seaside, San Francisco’s Ocean Seaside, or San Diego’s Coronado Seaside, a few of the greatest seashores in California are usually not actually identified and subsequently much less busy.
So, to introduce you to some locations you might not know, here’s a round-up of the perfect California Seashores that you just already know and love, and a few lesser-known gems across the state.
Finest California Seashores
Seashores in California are nature’s unspoiled treasures they usually provide nice alternatives for solitude, wildlife watching, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. We’ve lived in California for a 12 months, so we had sufficient time to find not solely the well-known touristy locations however some hidden gems, too. (This publish was initially written by Csaba & Bea of Our Wanders and has been up to date by The Planet D workforce for 2023.)
1. Venice Seaside – Los Angeles
Venice Seaside is situated in Los Angeles County and is a type of locations that’s identified extra for its bohemian really feel than for the seashore itself.
Most individuals who go to Venice Seaside stroll alongside the Venice Seaside Boardwalk, taking on the street performers, watching the bodybuilders carry weights, and witnessing the numerous artists plying their commerce alongside this well-known stretch.
Venice Seaside itself is attractive so it’s no marvel it’s a favourite among the many locals within the space. A number of of the issues that make it one in all our favourite California seashores are the cool little outlets, nice cafes, and a few of the hippest espresso locations in L.A.
2. Manhattan Seaside – Los Angeles
There’s a cause that Manhattan Seaside is likely one of the most costly locations to stay in Los Angeles. Located completely on the Pacific Ocean, the extensive sandy seashore is tender and dotted with stunning homes, upscale eating places, fashionable boutiques, and a few very costly accommodations.
Weekends convey out crowds of individuals together with some fairly good seashore volleyball gamers. Manhattan Seaside looks as if an odd title for a seashore in California, but it surely was named after actual property developer Stewart Merrill who was from Manhattan New York.
It’s becoming that it’s named after a developer as a result of the actual property alongside Manhattan Seaside is spectacular with dwelling promoting for as much as $36 million {dollars}
Being situated so near downtown LA it’s a nice add-on to your day of visiting Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, or the Sundown Strip. Manhattan Seaside is certainly one in all our favourite southern California seashores. Learn extra: 37 Finest Issues To Do In Los Angeles In 2023 – By A Native
3. Malibu
Zuma Seaside
Malibu has a few of the most stunning seashores in California. Most individuals might be conversant in Zuma Seaside, with its extensive sandy seashore that stretches for two miles. Dotted with seashore volleyball nets, lifeguard stands, and many services it’s no marvel this seashore is so fashionable.
Different seashores within the space like Paradise Seaside, Level Dume State Seaside, and Puerco Seaside are smaller and provide a extra household environment than Zuma Seaside.
If you’re up for one thing distinctive, ensure that to take a look at the Malibu Seaside Inn which supplies you the possibility to spend a night on the “Billionaires Seaside” stretch of the coast. It might not be low cost but it surely provides you a glimpse into how the opposite half lives. Learn extra about Malibu: 20 Finest Issues To Do In Malibu In 2023 By A Native
4. Huntington Seaside – Orange County
Huntington State Seaside has develop into fairly the vacation spot currently and for good cause. Positioned within the metropolis of Huntington Seaside (nicknamed Surf Metropolis) it boasts a stupendous 2-mile-long sandy seashore that stretches from Seaside Boulevard to the Santa Ana River Channel.
This seashore has some nice breaks for surfers. The Huntington Seaside Pier is a superb place for leisurely stroll in addition to to strive your hand at fishing.
Make certain to get to the top and take a look at Ruby’s Surf Metropolis Diner for some nice views and good meals.
Make certain to go to downtown which has an incredible collection of bars, fabulous eating places, ice cream outlets, and boutiques. Huntington Seaside is a type of locations that was made for a trip.
5. Newport Seaside – Orange County
With a whopping 10 miles of shoreline, Newport Seaside is situated within the well-known playground of the wealthy and exquisite, Orange Nation.
This southern California seashore neighborhood boasts 5 miles of golden sand reaching out from the Newport Pier.
Not solely do you may have the lengthy sandy stretch of Newport Seaside, however there are additionally loads of points of interest for the entire household together with Balboa Enjoyable Zone amusement park, Lido Marina Village buying heart, and nice browsing.
6. Santa Monica Seaside
Santa Monica Seaside is a spot for enjoyable within the solar. With the well-known Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park amusement park and its Ferris wheel, and historic carousel, that is a type of seashores in California that’s enjoyable for the entire household.
This California seashore neighborhood is dwelling to the wealthy and well-known.
Head out to the Seaside to benefit from the sand and solar, but in addition to discover the Santa Monica State Seaside Park, mountain climbing trails, buying alongside the Third Seaside Preomenad, or biking alongside Marvin Braude Seaside Path.
Santa Monica Seaside can also be dwelling to glorious browsing similar to so many seashores in California.
7. Santa Barbara
We by no means thought we’d have the chance to go to Santa Barbara however whereas working with California tourism on their advisory board, we had the possibility to spend a few days exploring the world.
Positioned on the Pacific Coast, there are many seashores to discover in Santa Barbara however it’s East Seaside situated proper on the town that makes it particular.
Santa Barbara has many seashores. Often called The American Riviera, you’ll really feel like a millionaire strolling alongside its sandy shores as palm timber sway within the Pacific wind.
Go to Summerland Seaside for horseback using, take a crusing journey, get pleasure from some kayaking alongside its shores or take within the stunning sundown at Hendry’s Seaside.
8. Pfeiffer Seaside – Massive Sur
Positioned alongside the Pacific Coast Freeway, Pfeiffer Seaside is likely one of the most stunning settings in California.
Well-known for its keyhole arch situated offshore within the Pacific Ocean, Pfeiffer Seaside is a stupendous lengthy sandy seashore identified for its purple sand.
It’s slightly off the crushed path making it some of the secluded seashores in California. To get to Pfeiffer Seaside, from Freeway 1, take the second flip one mile south of Pfeiffer Massive Sur State Park. It’s not part of the State Park. drive down
There are tide swimming pools to be explored at low tide, excessive lookouts to view the countless ocean, and rocks and bluffs. Learn extra in regards to the Pacific Coast Freeway at Massive Sur Street Journey – The Finest Viewpoints
9. Coronado Seaside – San Diego
Coronado Seaside homes the Silver Strand with seven miles of glowing sandy seashore. It’s situated simply throughout the bay from downtown San Diego and makes the listing as one of many prime seashores in California.
The long-lasting Lodge Del Coronado on the beachfront of San Diego Coronado Island was the setting for the film Some Like It Sizzling. It’s an incredible place to cease for lunch in case you are not able to splurge on an evening.
This seashore is a hub for tide swimming pools the place you’ll be capable to see ocean life corresponding to starfish, crabs, and barnacles.
Swing by Del’s beachside café for fish tacos or head as much as the swank outside bar for sundown cocktails with a view. For extra on San Diego learn: A Native’s Information to the Finest Issues to Do in San Diego
10. La Jolla Shores Seaside – San Diego
La Jolla Shores is situated in stunning San Diego. This seashore is great for exploring tide swimming pools and basking within the solar. Additionally it is one of many wildest stretches of the Southern California coast housing the Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve.
When you love seashores, you’re going to additionally love La Jolla Cove the place sea lions bask within the solar. La Jolla Cove can also be a wonderful place for kayaking to La Jolla Sea Caves to discover the coastal formations.
11. Fundamental Seaside – Santa Cruz
Hit up Fundamental Seaside of Santa Cruz to get pleasure from this California seashore that is only one hour from San Francisco. Take a stroll alongside the mile-long Santa Cruz seashore boardwalk or go to the historic amusement park.
Santa Cruz Park is the oldest surviving amusement park in California. There are many seashore actions together with seashore volleyball courts, browsing, and kayaking. You’ll see sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, and even whales offshore.
12. Pure Bridges State Seaside – Santa Cruz
Pure Bridges State Seaside in Santa Cruz is one other must-visit seashore in California. The stone formation is one thing you’d anticipate to see off the coast of Portugal.
Pure Bridges State Seaside is known as for precisely what you suppose it’s, the pure bridge that’s situated offshore. There are mountain climbing trails, and tide swimming pools to discover at low tide.
Plus there’s a boardwalk and it is a vital sanctuary for Monarch Butterflies migrating by means of the world from October to January. The panorama alone makes this probably the greatest seashores in California.
13. Pismo Seaside – San Luis Obispo
I’ll always remember watching Clueless within the Nineties and questioning the place Pismo Seaside was. Cher donated her ski gear to the Pismo Seaside Catastrophe. I had at all times needed to go there ever since.
We had our probability when exploring the wine area of Santa Maria. Positioned midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on the Pacific Coast Freeway, it is a stunning sandy seashore.
There are many issues to do round this small seashore city and whereas it is likely one of the greatest seashores for browsing, we hit the sand dunes for a critical dune buggy journey.
If you’re not up for an journey, take a stroll alongside the boardwalk and pier, discover the close by wineries or take a selfie in entrance of the Pismo Seaside signal.
14. El Matador State Seaside, Malibu
El Matador Seaside is certainly probably the greatest seashores in California and it’s simply a few minutes’ drive from Malibu. This slim seashore is within the shade of giant cliffs and stairs led us down there from the parking zone.
We had been amazed by the fascinating rock formations on the shore and within the water, and in addition by the proper ocean sundown this seashore gives. It’s probably not a seashore for swimming or browsing, but it surely’s a photographer’s and {couples}’ favourite due to its wild and romantic environment.
15. Seaside at Alamere Falls, Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
A seashore with a waterfall – how does that sound? No, we aren’t speaking of Massive Sur’s fashionable and magical McWay Falls this time, it’s one other one: Alamere Falls at Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.
We’re not positive if this seashore has a reputation, truly, it even ceases to exist at excessive tide, after which Alamere Falls flows straight into the ocean. However it undoubtedly exists at low tide and there’s a steep path main all the way down to it close to the highest of the falls.
Nevertheless, this distinctive seashore requires some mountain climbing, as a result of it may solely be accessed by way of Coast Path from Palomarin Trailhead. This implies an 8 miles average roundtrip which has simply develop into a day hike for us as we spent a lot time chilling out on the seashore.
When you love these try extra Distinctive Seashores from Around the globe.
16. Rodeo Seaside, Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space
Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space is simply north of San Francisco and it gives a number of good coastal hikes, some with a shocking panorama of Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay.
Rodeo Seaside is a superb seashore for hikers as it’s the start line of a number of shorter and longer hikes and in addition a pleasant seashore itself bounded by a lagoon. Its darkish, pebbly sand is exclusive in California.
It’s a preferred browsing seashore, however swimming is harmful due to the robust currents. We loved strolling on the seashore, doing a few of the coastal hikes, and getting amazed by the wild ocean.
17. Laguna Seaside, Orange County
Laguna Seaside is a neighborhood’s favourite in Orange County. And our favourite, too! With its clear and calm water is alleged to be probably the greatest swimming seashores and there’s additionally scuba diving within the space. However we warn you the water is way from heat even in the summertime – simply as anyplace else alongside the coast.
It was a pleasant refreshing cease although in South California’s scorching summer time. There are many seashore actions right here at Laguna Seaside properly together with seashore volleyball courts, a motorbike path, and basketball courts.
18. Pescadero State Seaside – San Mateo County
Pescadero is a protracted, quiet, wild seashore in Central California with nice wildlife-watching alternatives. We’ve seen tons of harbor seals resting on the cliffs close to the shore and Pescadero Marsh Pure Protect is true behind the seashore.
There are a number of shorter trails within the marsh and they’re glorious for bird-watching. Pescadero State Seaside additionally has stunning (although often windy and chilly) sunsets. Learn extra: Issues to do in San Mateo, California
19. Half Moon Bay State Seaside – San Francisco
Positioned a few half-hour from San Francisco is the neighborhood of Half Moon and is a well-liked California seashore escape from town. It homes Half Moon Bay State Seaside, Dunes Seaside, and Francis Seaside.
Take a hike alongside the California Coastal Path for panoramic views of the shoreline. Dreaming of an island getaway? Take a look at our listing of The Most Stunning Tropical Islands within the World
20. Andrew Molera State Seaside, Massive Sur
Once more, an adventurous seashore! It’s situated in Andrew Molera State Park in Massive Sur alongside the Pacific Coast Freeway. Accessing Andrew Molera State Seaside requires a brief stroll from the parking zone.
This scenic stretch of freeway is 2 hours and thirty minutes south of San Francisco and makes for one of many nice California Street Journeys. The stroll features a river crossing as properly if the seasonal bridge is eliminated.
The crystal clear river was not deep in any respect once we had been there, we may pleasantly stroll by means of it. Uhm… we may have achieved it pleasantly if it wouldn’t have been so rattling chilly. However it was nonetheless enjoyable.
Andrew Molera Seaside is on the mouth of Massive Sur River, it’s a protracted undeveloped seashore and we additionally beloved mountain climbing on the good bluff mountain climbing trails above it. Learn extra: A information to the perfect campgrounds in Massive Sur
21. Gold Bluffs Seaside, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Gold Bluffs Seaside is a part of Northern California’s Redwood Nationwide and State Parks and the foggy redwoods within the background give a mystic environment to it. This places it proper up there as probably the greatest seashores in California.
Often, there are usually not many individuals on the seashore which can solely strengthen this environment.
Probably the most particular hikes in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is Fern Canyon Path which took us again to Jurassic occasions – truly, some scenes of the Jurassic Park film had been filmed there.
It begins from Gold Bluffs Seaside – or ends on the seashore in the event you begin at James Irvine Path as we did. The seashore itself can also be accessible by automobile and there’s a small campground on the parking zone. Learn: 7 Epic Locations to Go to in Northern California
22. Limantour Seaside, Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
This lengthy and excellent sandy seashore on a sand spit between Drakes Bay and the Limantour Estero estuary is one other gem of Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.
Because of the close by wetlands there’s a excessive probability to identify seabirds. Harbor seals additionally just like the shallow water of Drakes Bay and they’re usually seen mendacity on the shore.
Limantour Seaside is accessible by automobile and it has a pleasant massive parking zone. However in the event you ask us it’s a lot nicer to park earlier alongside the highway and hike there by means of pine forests and wetlands. We’ve achieved the Laguna Path – Limantour Seaside – Muddy Hole Path – Bayview Path loop which was a stupendous numerous day hike.
23. Carmel Seaside Metropolis Park, Carmel-By-The-Sea
The neighborhood of lovely Carmel by the Sea additionally has probably the greatest California seashores. Positioned proper on Central California’s Monterey Peninsula Carmel is a superb base for exploring the Pacific Coast Freeway.
It’s a type of typical Central California seashores with a beautiful strolling road, tons of eating places with or with out ocean panorama, and naturally, a protracted, sandy seashore (that can also be canine pleasant.) Discover it extra at The Finest Stops on 17 Mile Drive
We beloved strolling on Carmel Seaside and in addition on the scenic highway above the seashore. The seashore was stuffed with households having a picnic, youngsters swimming or enjoying within the water and canines operating round, and naturally, the seashore volleyball that California is so well-known for.
Carmel Seaside is likely one of the few locations left on the California coast the place individuals can nonetheless collect round a hearth to toast marshmallows and benefit from the environment of a seashore bonfire. Learn extra: Issues to do in Carmel by the Sea, California
24. Cowell Ranch Seaside, Half Moon Bay
Essentially the most hidden seashore and probably the greatest seashores in California is Cowell Ranch Seaside. Whereas driving south of Half Moon Bay State Seaside on California 1 we had been in search of a small parking zone by a yellow gate which indicated the trailhead for Cowell Ranch Seaside.
It’s straightforward to overlook it, but it surely’s price in search of, it rewarded us with a stupendous, barely identified seashore. The seashore is accessible by a brief bluff path with picket stairs on the finish and it took us about quarter-hour to get there.
There’s one other seashore south of the path which isn’t accessible as a result of it’s a seal protect. Binoculars are at all times a good suggestion on the California Central coast, however right here you may have an particularly good probability to look at seals. Then again, Cowell Ranch Seaside is dealing with completely west, so it’s a peaceable getaway for sundown lovers.
25. Crystal Cove State Park – Orange County
Crystal cove state park is a real gem with its stunning landscapes and scenic views. The park boasts a 3-mile shoreline one of many largest uninterrupted pure seashores in California. It additionally options a number of seashores, tide swimming pools, and an underwater park excellent for outside lovers.
An 18-mile mountain climbing path can also be accessible for all. Whereas unleashed canines are usually not allowed on the seashore, they’re allowed on the path. Eating places and rooftop lounges are additionally accessible that will help you wind down after a day on the seashore with iconic views of the sundown.
26. Sand greenback seashore – Massive Sur
Don’t let the steep stroll down the seashore deter you as you may be rewarded with some of the scenic seashores in California. An exquisite shoreline with a rocky panorama enclosed in a cove-like formation.
Whereas Sand Greenback Seaside won’t be greatest for swimming, it’s an incredible picnic spot. The dramatic rock formation that encloses the seashore makes for a tremendous place to calm down as you admire nature in all its glory.
It’s a favourite spot amongst surfers in Massive Sur. Watch them experience waves all day. In low tide, you’ll be able to strive your luck at catching some crabs or muscle mass.
When you’re up for it, you may as well go trying to find jade stones. Nevertheless, keep on with laws on your security.
27. Glass seashore – Fort Bragg
Positioned in Fort Bragg, the glass seashore is a real testomony to what nature can do. The seashore is filled with coloured stones that had been as soon as dumped items of glass choking the life out of the ocean. Mom nature in flip broke down the rubbish and turned it into stunning items of frosted glass, a course of that takes about 30 – 100 years to finish.
The fixed pounding of the ocean waves breaks and softens the glass turning it into completely different styles and sizes. Widespread colours you’ll discover embody clear, brown, and inexperienced.
Youngsters will particularly love visiting this seashore as they’re solely however a number of glass seashores on the planet.
Years of holiday makers taking the glass stones has depleted the seashore and has resulted within the follow being declared unlawful. A strict measure that helps to make sure that there are glass stones left for future guests to get pleasure from.
Bear in mind to maintain your flip flop on always as you stroll alongside the seashore as a few of the stones are sharp.
28. Marin County Stinson Seaside
Stinson Seaside is situated alongside the scenic shoreline of Marin County, simply north of San Francisco. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the rugged slopes of Mount Tamalpais, the seashore is a prime decide for its tender sand and crescent form.
Stinson Seaside boasts a large expanse of sandy shoreline that stretches for roughly three and a half miles. The pure magnificence surrounding Stinson Seaside is a serious draw for guests.
To the east, you’ll discover the majestic Mount Tamalpais State Park, which gives mountain climbing and biking trails with breathtaking vistas. To the west, the Pacific Ocean offers a charming backdrop, full with rolling waves and scenic sunsets.
You’ll be able to swim within the ocean (though the water will be chilly), surf, boogie board, or just calm down on the sand. The seashore can also be fashionable for beachcombing, birdwatching, and kite flying. Close by Mount Tamalpais gives quite a few mountain climbing and biking trails that showcase the world’s beautiful coastal and forested landscapes.
Remaining Ideas on the Seaside Seashores in California
From Ocean Seaside in San Fransico with the perfect view of the Golden Gate Bridge to the Southernmost Seaside in California – Imperial Seaside close to San Diego, there are numerous seashores in California. You may additionally like these Finest Seashores in Florida
We barely scratched the floor of all of the sandy locations in California. One factor is for positive, California is one in all our favourite locations to go to in the US.
About Our Wanders: Csaba and Bea are passionate vacationers, hikers, and passion photographers. They left their small dwelling nation, Hungary virtually 2 years in the past and moved to a a lot greater one, the US the place they’ve rapidly develop into hooked on nationwide parks, mountain climbing, and highway journeys and began to imagine that they will stay their desires. Examine their adventures on their weblog Our Wanders. Observe them additionally on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Fb!