California is known for a lot of thing, but one of the most prominent is the Pacific Ocean. Being one of the five states boarding the Pacific, this might be the best state for taking a dip in the ocean.
With around 1,000 miles touching the ocean, there are going to be options when it comes to beach trips. Depending on what you’re looking for, you will find a beach to visit. Each one has its own character and appeals to different demographics. Yet the beach bums will never be disappointed, because all of them have the essentials: sand, sun, and swells.
It’s hard to rank the California beaches from best to worst because they all offer something different. Still, these are some of the best in the state and all worthy of a visit.
Huntington Beach
Perhaps the quintessential Southern California beach, Huntington Beach has miles of sand, plenty of space, and lots of outdoors activities. If you’re a surfer, you’ve certainly heard of this beach. Even you prefer biking, walking, or running you can also find trails to explore. There’s a traditional boardwalk and pier alone with many places to stay if you’re visiting while on vacation.
Coronado Beach
Coronado jets off of the San Diego mainland and provides plenty of beach to visit. There’s plenty of white sand for activities and a beach town to explore if you’d like. Hidden in the town in a lot of history, mostly starting with the Hotel Del Coronado. While this Hotel might be out of most price ranges, there’s free artwork and shops for any tourist. From the beach you can see naval ships and the bridge connecting to the island, creating a relaxing and uniquely SoCal environment.
Newport Beach
Newport Beach is a perfect representation of Orange County. With plenty of sand, it’s easy to find a spot to relax for the day. It’s also a great surfing location and hand many opportunities to stay active. This is also a beach where you’ll be able to go boating if you’d like, and even if you don’t have a boat, you’ll see plenty while you’re visiting.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is just as good for a day on the beach as it is for a day by the beach. Its most recognizable feature is its board walk, with rides and shops extending over the ocean. Of course there’s the water, but there’s also plenty to see just across the street. There you’ll find stores, restaurants, and clubs if that’s more your scene.
Venice Beach
Just a couple miles south of Santa Monica lies Venice Beach. Perhaps the waters are similar to Santa Monica, but the feel is very different. What Santa Monica has in tourist attractions, Venice Beach has in unique groups of people. Here, you’ll find the bodybuilders, surfers, and skaters. There may be fewer shops and restaurants, but there are still plenty of places to see a visit.
Laguna Beach
Directly next to Newport Beach lies Laguna Beach. Known for miles of sand, it hosts multiple smaller beaches (some private). This means there’s plenty of sand, but the nature surrounding the area is equally impressive. If you’re looking for a relaxing environments where you can spend time by the ocean then go for a scenic walk, Laguna Beach is right up your alley.
La Jolla
Known for its super scenic views, La Jolla is one of the best places you can go for a stroll by the water. There are plenty of smaller beaches to visit, and some people enjoy kayaking, but there’s one main attraction here: seal! Tourists enjoy getting to see seals and sea lions up close, but just be careful. You can look, but never touch them. After you see the aquatic life, there are plenty of shops to visit and restaurants to try.
Carpinteria Beach
Carpinteria Beach is known as the “world’s safest beach.” While this may not necessarily be true, it earns the reputation for its relaxed atmosphere and small surf. This makes it great for families and looking to get away as well as people who want to stay active without being too serious about it. Nestled in Santa Barbara, Carpinteria is certainly worth a visit.
Carmel Beach
Like the other beaches, Carmel Beach offers the surfs, sports and plenty of sand. However, it’s unique for two reasons. Firstly the scenery is unique. It offer plenty of green life and bird watching. It is also one of the most dog-friendly beaches you can find. You can take your dog off the leash so long as it is under voice command. Anyone closer to Northern California should stop by Carmel Beach. If not to see the birds, definitely to see the dogs.
Santa Cruz Beach
In the Bay Area, Santa Cruz offers some of the best beaches. While you’re certain to find on that meets your taste, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk offers the Bay Area what Santa Monica gives Los Angeles. There’s plenty of attractions to visits, rides to experience, and restaurants to taste. Want to actually hit the sand? There’s plenty of that too, enough to fill a whole week.