California’s Pacific Coast boasts 840 miles of shoreline making it the proper place for a street journey to take pleasure in its infinite stretches of sand. Whereas many individuals can identify just a few of its extra well-known seashores like Venice Seashore, San Francisco’s Ocean Seashore, or San Diego’s Coronado Seashore, a number of the greatest seashores in California aren’t actually identified and due to this fact much less busy.
So, to introduce you to some locations it’s possible you’ll not know, here’s a round-up of one of the best California Seashores that you simply already know and love, and a few lesser-known gems across the state.
Greatest California Seashores
Seashores in California are nature’s unspoiled treasures and so they provide nice alternatives for solitude, wildlife watching, and gorgeous 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 staff for 2023.)
1. Venice Seashore – Los Angeles
Venice Seashore is situated in Los Angeles County and is a kind of locations that’s identified extra for its bohemian really feel than for the seaside itself.
Most individuals who go to Venice Seashore stroll alongside the Venice Seashore Boardwalk, taking on the street performers, watching the bodybuilders carry weights, and witnessing the various artists plying their commerce alongside this well-known stretch.
Venice Seashore itself is beautiful so it’s no marvel it’s a favourite among the many locals within the space. Just a few of the issues that make it considered one of our favourite California seashores are the cool little outlets, nice cafes, and a number of the hippest espresso locations in L.A.
2. Manhattan Seashore – Los Angeles
There’s a motive that Manhattan Seashore is among the costliest locations to reside in Los Angeles. Located completely on the Pacific Ocean, the vast sandy seaside is smooth and dotted with lovely homes, upscale eating places, fashionable boutiques, and a few very costly resorts.
Weekends deliver out crowds of individuals together with some fairly good seaside volleyball gamers. Manhattan Seashore looks like an odd identify for a seaside 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 true property alongside Manhattan Seashore is spectacular with residence 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 Seashore is unquestionably considered one of our favourite southern California seashores. Learn extra: 37 Greatest Issues To Do In Los Angeles In 2023 – By A Native
3. Malibu
Zuma Seashore
Malibu has a number of the most lovely seashores in California. Most individuals shall be acquainted with Zuma Seashore, with its vast sandy seaside that stretches for two miles. Dotted with seaside volleyball nets, lifeguard stands, and many services it’s no marvel this seaside is so fashionable.
Different seashores within the space like Paradise Seashore, Level Dume State Seashore, and Puerco Seashore are smaller and provide a extra household ambiance than Zuma Seashore.
If you’re up for one thing distinctive, ensure that to take a look at the Malibu Seashore Inn which provides you the prospect to spend a night on the “Billionaires Seashore” 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 Greatest Issues To Do In Malibu In 2023 By A Native
4. Huntington Seashore – Orange County
Huntington State Seashore has grow to be fairly the vacation spot these days and for good motive. Positioned within the metropolis of Huntington Seashore (nicknamed Surf Metropolis) it boasts a fantastic 2-mile-long sandy seaside that stretches from Seashore Boulevard to the Santa Ana River Channel.
This seaside has some nice breaks for surfers. The Huntington Seashore Pier is a good place for leisurely stroll in addition to to strive your hand at fishing.
Ensure to get to the top and take a look at Ruby’s Surf Metropolis Diner for some nice views and good meals.
Ensure to go to downtown which has an awesome choice of bars, fabulous eating places, ice cream outlets, and boutiques. Huntington Seashore is a kind of locations that was made for a trip.
5. Newport Seashore – Orange County
With a whopping 10 miles of shoreline, Newport Seashore is situated within the well-known playground of the wealthy and delightful, Orange Nation.
This southern California seaside neighborhood boasts 5 miles of golden sand reaching out from the Newport Pier.
Not solely do you have got the lengthy sandy stretch of Newport Seashore, however there are additionally loads of sights for the entire household together with Balboa Enjoyable Zone amusement park, Lido Marina Village buying middle, and nice browsing.
6. Santa Monica Seashore
Santa Monica Seashore 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 kind of seashores in California that’s enjoyable for the entire household.
This California seaside neighborhood is residence to the wealthy and well-known.
Head out to the Seashore to benefit from the sand and solar, but additionally to discover the Santa Monica State Seashore Park, mountaineering trails, buying alongside the Third Seashore Preomenad, or biking alongside Marvin Braude Seashore Path.
Santa Monica Seashore can be residence to glorious browsing identical 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 prospect 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 Seashore 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 bushes sway within the Pacific wind.
Go to Summerland Seashore for horseback driving, take a crusing journey, take pleasure in some kayaking alongside its shores or take within the lovely sundown at Hendry’s Seashore.
8. Pfeiffer Seashore – Huge Sur
Positioned alongside the Pacific Coast Freeway, Pfeiffer Seashore is among the most lovely settings in California.
Well-known for its keyhole arch situated offshore within the Pacific Ocean, Pfeiffer Seashore is a fantastic lengthy sandy seaside identified for its purple sand.
It’s a little bit off the overwhelmed path making it one of the secluded seashores in California. To get to Pfeiffer Seashore, from Freeway 1, take the second flip one mile south of Pfeiffer Huge Sur State Park. It isn’t part of the State Park. drive down
There are tide swimming pools to be explored at low tide, excessive lookouts to view the infinite ocean, and rocks and bluffs. Learn extra concerning the Pacific Coast Freeway at Huge Sur Highway Journey – The Greatest Viewpoints
9. Coronado Seashore – San Diego
Coronado Seashore homes the Silver Strand with seven miles of glowing sandy seaside. It’s situated simply throughout the bay from downtown San Diego and makes the checklist as one of many high seashores in California.
The long-lasting Resort Del Coronado on the beachfront of San Diego Coronado Island was the setting for the film Some Like It Scorching. It’s an awesome place to cease for lunch if you’re not able to splurge on an evening.
This seaside is a hub for tide swimming pools the place you’ll be capable to see ocean life akin to starfish, crabs, and barnacles.
Swing by Del’s beachside café for fish tacos or head as much as the swank out of doors bar for sundown cocktails with a view. For extra on San Diego learn: A Native’s Information to the Greatest Issues to Do in San Diego
10. La Jolla Shores Seashore – San Diego
La Jolla Shores is situated in lovely San Diego. This seaside is superb for exploring tide swimming pools and basking within the solar. It is usually one of many wildest stretches of the Southern California coast housing the Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve.
When you love seashores, you will additionally love La Jolla Cove the place sea lions bask within the solar. La Jolla Cove can be a superb place for kayaking to La Jolla Sea Caves to discover the coastal formations.
11. Primary Seashore – Santa Cruz
Hit up Primary Seashore of Santa Cruz to take pleasure in this California seaside that is only one hour from San Francisco. Take a stroll alongside the mile-long Santa Cruz seaside boardwalk or go to the historic amusement park.
Santa Cruz Park is the oldest surviving amusement park in California. There are many seaside actions together with seaside volleyball courts, browsing, and kayaking. You’ll see sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, and even whales offshore.
12. Pure Bridges State Seashore – Santa Cruz
Pure Bridges State Seashore in Santa Cruz is one other must-visit seaside in California. The stone formation is one thing you’ll count on to see off the coast of Portugal.
Pure Bridges State Seashore is known as for precisely what you suppose it’s, the pure bridge that’s situated offshore. There are mountaineering trails, and tide swimming pools to discover at low tide.
Plus there’s a boardwalk and it is a crucial sanctuary for Monarch Butterflies migrating by way of the world from October to January. The panorama alone makes this top-of-the-line seashores in California.
13. Pismo Seashore – San Luis Obispo
I’ll always remember watching Clueless within the Nineties and questioning the place Pismo Seashore was. Cher donated her ski tools to the Pismo Seashore Catastrophe. I had at all times wished 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, this can be a lovely sandy seaside.
There are many issues to do round this small seaside city and whereas it is among 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 Seashore signal.
14. El Matador State Seashore, Malibu
El Matador Seashore is unquestionably top-of-the-line seashores in California and it’s simply a few minutes’ drive from Malibu. This slender seaside is within the shade of big cliffs and stairs led us down there from the car parking zone.
We have been amazed by the fascinating rock formations on the shore and within the water, and likewise by the proper ocean sundown this seaside affords. It’s not likely a seaside for swimming or browsing, but it surely’s a photographer’s and {couples}’ favourite due to its wild and romantic ambiance.
15. Seashore at Alamere Falls, Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
A seaside with a waterfall – how does that sound? No, we aren’t speaking of Huge Sur’s fashionable and magical McWay Falls this time, it’s one other one: Alamere Falls at Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.
We aren’t positive if this seaside has a reputation, truly, it even ceases to exist at excessive tide, after which Alamere Falls flows straight into the ocean. Nevertheless it positively exists at low tide and there’s a steep path main right down to it close to the highest of the falls.
Nevertheless, this distinctive seaside requires some mountaineering, as a result of it will possibly solely be accessed by way of Coast Path from Palomarin Trailhead. This implies an 8 miles reasonable roundtrip which has simply grow to be a day hike for us as we spent a lot time chilling out on the seaside.
- When you love these try extra Distinctive Seashores from World wide.
16. Rodeo Seashore, Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space
Golden Gate Nationwide Recreation Space is simply north of San Francisco and it affords a number of good coastal hikes, some with a shocking panorama of Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay.
Rodeo Seashore is a good seaside for hikers as it’s the start line of a number of shorter and longer hikes and likewise a pleasant seaside itself bounded by a lagoon. Its darkish, pebbly sand is exclusive in California.
It’s a preferred browsing seaside, however swimming is harmful due to the sturdy currents. We loved strolling on the seaside, doing a number of the coastal hikes, and getting amazed by the wild ocean.
17. Laguna Seashore, Orange County
Laguna Seashore is an area’s favourite in Orange County. And our favourite, too! With its clear and calm water is claimed to be top-of-the-line 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 wherever else alongside the coast.
It was a pleasant refreshing cease although in South California’s scorching summer season. There are many seaside actions right here at Laguna Seashore effectively together with seaside volleyball courts, a motorbike path, and basketball courts.
18. Pescadero State Seashore – San Mateo County
Pescadero is an extended, quiet, wild seaside 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 correct behind the seaside.
There are a number of shorter trails within the marsh and they’re glorious for bird-watching. Pescadero State Seashore additionally has lovely (although normally windy and chilly) sunsets. Learn extra: Issues to do in San Mateo, California
19. Half Moon Bay State Seashore – San Francisco
Positioned a couple of half-hour from San Francisco is the neighborhood of Half Moon and is a well-liked California seaside escape from town. It homes Half Moon Bay State Seashore, Dunes Seashore, and Francis Seashore.
Take a hike alongside the California Coastal Path for panoramic views of the shoreline. Dreaming of an island getaway? Take a look at our checklist of The Most Stunning Tropical Islands within the World
20. Andrew Molera State Seashore, Huge Sur
Once more, an adventurous seaside! It’s situated in Andrew Molera State Park in Huge Sur alongside the Pacific Coast Freeway. Accessing Andrew Molera State Seashore requires a brief stroll from the car 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 Highway Journeys. The stroll features a river crossing as effectively if the seasonal bridge is eliminated.
The crystal clear river was not deep in any respect once we have been there, we may pleasantly stroll by way of it. Uhm… we may have performed it pleasantly if it wouldn’t have been so rattling chilly. Nevertheless it was nonetheless enjoyable.
Andrew Molera Seashore is on the mouth of Huge Sur River, it’s an extended undeveloped seaside and we additionally cherished mountaineering on the great bluff mountaineering trails above it. Learn extra: A information to one of the best campgrounds in Huge Sur
21. Gold Bluffs Seashore, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Gold Bluffs Seashore is a part of Northern California’s Redwood Nationwide and State Parks and the foggy redwoods within the background give a mystic ambiance to it. This places it proper up there as top-of-the-line seashores in California.
Often, there aren’t many individuals on the seaside which is able to solely strengthen this ambiance.
One of the crucial particular hikes in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is Fern Canyon Path which took us again to Jurassic instances – truly, some scenes of the Jurassic Park film have been filmed there.
It begins from Gold Bluffs Seashore – or ends on the seaside should you begin at James Irvine Path as we did. The seaside itself can be accessible by automobile and there’s a small campground on the car parking zone. Learn: 7 Epic Locations to Go to in Northern California
22. Limantour Seashore, Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore
This lengthy and excellent sandy seaside on a sand spit between Drakes Bay and the Limantour Estero estuary is one other gem of Level Reyes Nationwide Seashore.
Due to 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 typically seen mendacity on the shore.
Limantour Seashore is accessible by automobile and it has a pleasant massive car parking zone. However should you ask us it’s a lot nicer to park earlier alongside the street and hike there by way of pine forests and wetlands. We’ve performed the Laguna Path – Limantour Seashore – Muddy Hole Path – Bayview Path loop which was a fantastic various day hike.
23. Carmel Seashore Metropolis Park, Carmel-By-The-Sea
The neighborhood of gorgeous Carmel by the Sea additionally has top-of-the-line California seashores. Positioned proper on Central California’s Monterey Peninsula Carmel is a good base for exploring the Pacific Coast Freeway.
It’s a kind of typical Central California seashores with a stunning strolling road, tons of eating places with or with out ocean panorama, and naturally, an extended, sandy seaside (that can be canine pleasant.) Discover it extra at The Greatest Stops on 17 Mile Drive
We cherished strolling on Carmel Seashore and likewise on the scenic street above the seaside. The seaside was filled with households having a picnic, youngsters swimming or enjoying within the water and canine working round, and naturally, the seaside volleyball that California is so well-known for.
Carmel Seashore is among the few locations left on the California coast the place individuals can nonetheless collect round a hearth to toast marshmallows and benefit from the ambiance of a seaside bonfire. Learn extra: Issues to do in Carmel by the Sea, California
24. Cowell Ranch Seashore, Half Moon Bay
Essentially the most hidden seaside and top-of-the-line seashores in California is Cowell Ranch Seashore. Whereas driving south of Half Moon Bay State Seashore on California 1 we have been in search of a small car parking zone by a yellow gate which indicated the trailhead for Cowell Ranch Seashore.
It’s simple to overlook it, but it surely’s price in search of, it rewarded us with a fantastic, barely identified seaside. The seaside 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 seaside 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 have got an particularly good probability to watch seals. Then again, Cowell Ranch Seashore 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 lovely 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 good for out of doors fans.
An 18-mile mountaineering path can be accessible for all. Whereas unleashed canine aren’t allowed on the seaside, 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 seaside with iconic views of the sundown.
26. Sand greenback seaside – Huge Sur
Don’t let the steep stroll down the seaside deter you as you’ll be rewarded with one of the scenic seashores in California. A phenomenal shoreline with a rocky panorama enclosed in a cove-like formation.
Whereas Sand Greenback Seashore may not be greatest for swimming, it’s an awesome picnic spot. The dramatic rock formation that encloses the seaside makes for an incredible place to chill out as you admire nature in all its glory.
It’s a favourite spot amongst surfers in Huge Sur. Watch them experience waves all day. In low tide, you possibly can strive your luck at catching some crabs or muscle groups.
When you’re up for it, you may also go trying to find jade stones. Nevertheless, keep on with rules on your security.
27. Glass seaside – Fort Bragg
Positioned in Fort Bragg, the glass seaside is a real testomony to what nature can do. The seaside is filled with coloured stones that have 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 lovely 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 totally different styles and sizes. Frequent colours you’ll discover embody clear, brown, and inexperienced.
Children will particularly love visiting this seaside as they’re solely however just a few glass seashores on this planet.
Years of holiday makers taking the glass stones has depleted the seaside and has resulted within the observe being declared unlawful. A strict measure that helps to make sure that there are glass stones left for future guests to take pleasure in.
Keep in mind to maintain your flip flop on always as you stroll alongside the seaside as a number of the stones are sharp.
28. Marin County Stinson Seashore
Stinson Seashore 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 seaside is a high choose for its smooth sand and crescent form.
Stinson Seashore boasts a large expanse of sandy shoreline that stretches for about three and a half miles. The pure magnificence surrounding Stinson Seashore is a serious draw for guests.
To the east, you’ll discover the majestic Mount Tamalpais State Park, which affords mountaineering and biking trails with breathtaking vistas. To the west, the Pacific Ocean supplies a charming backdrop, full with rolling waves and scenic sunsets.
You may swim within the ocean (though the water could be chilly), surf, boogie board, or just chill out on the sand. The seaside can be fashionable for beachcombing, birdwatching, and kite flying. Close by Mount Tamalpais affords quite a few mountaineering and biking trails that showcase the world’s gorgeous coastal and forested landscapes.
Remaining Ideas on the Seashore Seashores in California
From Ocean Seashore in San Fransico with one of the best view of the Golden Gate Bridge to the Southernmost Seashore in California – Imperial Seashore close to San Diego, there are numerous seashores in California. You may additionally like these Greatest Seashores in Florida
We barely scratched the floor of all of the sandy locations in California. One factor is for positive, California is considered one of our favourite locations to go to in the US.
