Beaches · California
Best beaches in California
California’s coast runs the full range — we’ve mapped 27 of its best beaches, from scenic, family, surf, snorkel, wild shores. Find the vibe you want, then build the trip around it.
Baker BeachScenicGolden Gate Bridge views from wild Pacific sand at the Presidio edge.Carmel BeachScenicwhite sand and cypress at the foot of a storybook village.Coronado BeachFamilyglittering, mica-flecked sand below the grand Hotel del Coronado.Crystal Cove State ParkScenichistoric beach cottages, tide pools, and coves between Newport and Laguna.El Matador State BeachScenicsea caves, arches, and rock stacks below a Malibu bluff.Half Moon Bay State BeachScenicfour miles of cool Central Coast sand beneath rolling bluffs.Huntington BeachSurflong, consistent waves at the original "Surf City USA".La Jolla CoveSnorkelclear, protected water with sea lions, leopard sharks, and reef snorkeling.Laguna BeachSnorkelcoves, tide pools, and clear water in an artsy Orange County town.Leo Carrillo State ParkScenicMalibu tide pools, sea caves, reefs, and surf below coastal bluffs.Limantour BeachWilda long Point Reyes strand of dunes, shorebirds, and protected Drakes Bay water.Malibu Surfrider BeachSurfthe landmark right point break beside Malibu Pier and the lagoon.Manhattan BeachSurfa polished South Bay beach with a classic pier and volleyball courts.Moonstone BeachScenica boardwalk along bluffs strewn with sea-polished moonstones.Morro Strand State BeachScenicbroad Central Coast sand with Morro Rock framed across the bay.Natural Bridges State BeachScenica natural sea arch, tide pools, and monarch butterfly season on the Santa Cruz coast.Newport BeachFamilya classic Orange County beach with a pier, harbor, and Balboa Peninsula energy.Pfeiffer BeachScenicpurple-tinged sand and a sea arch that catches winter sunlight.Pismo BeachFamilya wide Central Coast beach with a pier and nearby dunes.Refugio State BeachFamilypalm-lined Santa Barbara coast with camping, kayaking, and a gentle cove.Salt Creek BeachSurfa bluff-backed Orange County surf beach below Monarch Beach.Santa Cruz Main BeachFamilyhome of the West Coast’s last beachfront amusement park and a famous surf point.Santa Monica State BeachFamilythe classic wide L.A. beach with the pier and Pacific Park.Stinson BeachFamilya three-mile sweep of sand just north of San Francisco.Torrey Pines State BeachScenica long sandy beach under red bluffs and rare Torrey pine reserve views.Venice BeachFamilythe boardwalk circus of street performers, Muscle Beach, and skaters.Zuma BeachSurfa long, wide Malibu beach with dependable waves.
Check local conditions, parking, and seasonal fees before you go — and always heed posted flags, rip-current warnings, and lifeguard guidance.