Whether you’re taking a road trip through The Golden State or you’re simply looking for the right place to hit for some seaside relaxing, there is no shortage of gorgeous beaches in California. However, finding the best one for you is all about choosing the right vibe. Knowing which beach matches your needs can make or break your experience, so here are some of the best you might want to stay near.
Key Takeaways
- There are way more top-tier beaches in California than we’d be able to cover in one post, so don’t be afraid to do a little more research
- Your perfect beach is out there and, hopefully, we’ve helped you narrow the search some
Santa Monica Beach
If you’re looking for the iconic Southern Cali beach experience, then the perfect blend of natural beauty and lively crowds might make Santa Monica the place for you. The soft sands, bike paths, and volleyball courts of this beach are always popular, and the amusement park rides, arcade, and aquarium make the Santa Monica Pier definitely worth the trip as well.
La Jolla Shores
A little calmer than Santa Monica beach, this San Diego favorite offers some of the cleanest sands, not quite as rocky as many of the other popular spots. It’s also a great spot to play in the water, from offering a good beginning surf to excellent snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. It’s something of a community hub, so it’s always worth seeing the latest news in La Jolla for events. The perfect spot for both ocean exploration and laid-back beach days.
Pfieffer Beach
Many would say that a trip to California’s coast isn’t complete without checking out Big Sur. Perhaps one of the most iconic parts of this spot is Pfeiffer Beach, which has its purple-hued sands that are created by manganese garnet washing down from the surrounding hills.
It’s one of the most jaw-dropping spots thanks to huge rock formations like Keyhole Rock, where you can watch the waves crash through the arch at sunset. It’s also a little more secluded, so you don’t have to worry as much about crowds.
Huntington Beach
If you’re looking for the best places to surf in the state, then you have to head to one of the sport’s global capitals. Surf culture is the dominant force here, thanks to consistent waves, frequent international competitions, and no shortage of surf stores. However, the 8.5-mile stretch of sandy shoreline is also perfect for volleyball, jogging, or just lounging in the sun. There are plenty of beachfront bars and live music to create a great laid-back coastal vibe.
Coronado Beach
Another San Diego spot, this one is quite different from La Jolla due to its rather upscale atmosphere. This is thanks to its slightly less crowded nature, as well as the backdrop of the historic Hotel del Coronado, which brings a bit of Victorian-era charm to the view. It’s also a wide and flat beach, making it great for families, joggers, and dogwalkers.
Final Word
There are way more top-tier beaches in California than we’d be able to cover in one post, so don’t be afraid to do a little more research. Your perfect beach is out there and, hopefully, we’ve helped you narrow the search some.
