Stephanie is a cherished member of the Sampling America writing team, dedicated to crafting captivating narratives that transport readers to thrilling adventures across the country and beyond.
California is one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. It has something to offer everyone: warm weather, stunning houses, even mountains and skiing in Big Bear or rainy days in San Francisco.
But if you want to find the best beaches in California, read our list and discover the best sandy escapes.
Half Moon Bay
If you’re looking for a stunning beach stretching for miles, it’s the perfect place to bring your dog and let them run free on a long walk.
Half Moon Bay State Beach is the perfect California beach town; it sits 30 miles south of San Francisco. Hike along the California Coastal Trail through the old redwood forest for the best views of the beach and the rocky cliffs.
Monterey
Monterey is located in the Big Sur region of California. It’s a rugged stretch of the central coastline between Carmel and San Simeon.
Drive along the well-known Ocean View Boulevard or the incredible 17-Mile Drive to pass by these private pockets of beaches. This area has a tiny population, so finding a beach all to yourself isn’t rare.
This location is perfect for quiet beaches and scenic drives through the stunning California coastline.
Laguna Beach
Orange County’s Laguna Beach is best known for the reality TV shows set there in the early aughts, Laguna Beach, and many others. Because of the popularity of this show, the beach boomed in popularity. It became a stunning destination on par with Venice Beach.
However, it’s still a stunning beach to visit. A collection of coves of beaches sits along the coast between Los Angeles and San Diego. The rocky cliffs dotted with palm trees and huge waves make this beach a surfer’s paradise.
Pfeiffer Beach
This stunning beach is a popular location on Highway 1 in California’s Big Sur. Known as one of the most photogenic areas, the beach has several stunning landmarks, including colossal rock formations with keyhole paths.
Visit this beach at sunset to get the full effect of the Keyhole rock and explore the tide pools.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel is a quintessential beach town in central California, beloved by locals. The sparkling white sand, turquoise water, and stunning cypress trees make this location a unique destination.
One of this breathtaking beach’s biggest draws is it’s dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome to explore the beach off-leash at all times. So be sure to take your furry companion on a long walk along one of the best West Coast beaches.
El Matador State Beach
Malibu is one of California’s greatest treasures. Beyond the million-dollar vacation houses on the beach, the coastline offers several stunning parks and beaches for the public to enjoy.
Stop by El Matador State Beach to walk through the enormous rock formations or Zuma Beach to sunbathe on the white sand. These huge cliffs will be sure to impress you on your next California vacation.
Pismo Beach
Pismo is a tiny town off Highway 1. It’s a stunning spot to stop as it’s one of the most scenic places in all of California.
This beach town offers many fun outdoor activities: hiking, kayaking, surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball. You can even head to Dinosaur Cave Park to ride dune buggies on the dunes.
Oceanside
Oceanside is just 40 miles north of San Diego and remarkably less crowded. The beach is more than a mile long and hosts a walking path perfect for cycling, jogging, or walking with a loved one.
This scenic beach hosts the Oceanside Pier, one of the best tourist destinations in the area. Be sure to visit this unique beach if you’re trying to find the best seaside oasis California offers.
Crystal Cove State Park
Located between Laguna and Newport Beach, Crystal Cove State Park is considered one of the most extensive natural shorelines in Orange County.
The beach has been undeveloped by houses or stores and remains a fantastic place to relax, swim or surf in nature. The park has over 18 miles of natural hiking trails and over 2,400 acres of wilderness.
La Jolla
One of San Diego’s most stunning neighborhoods also hosts the best shoreline in California. The waters here are calm, making them less popular with the younger surfing crowds.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk along the rocky shoreline and duck into the natural caves. La Jolla also sees several unique types of wildlife, such as purple starfish and seals.
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