California’s coastline is legendary, with over 800 miles of stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world.
Whether you’re a local looking for your next beach escape or a traveler planning a West Coast adventure, California’s beaches offer something for everyone.
From iconic surf spots like Huntington Beach and Santa Monica, to hidden gems like McWay Falls and Glass Beach, the state’s diverse beaches cater to every type of beachgoer.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the Top 50 Beaches in California, each offering its own unique charm and unforgettable experience. Grab your sunscreen, pack your beach towel, and let’s dive into the best beach destinations that California has to offer!
Top 50 Beaches in California
Here’s a list of the Top 50 Beaches in California, from iconic surf spots to serene getaways along the stunning coastline.
1. Huntington Beach
Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach is famous for its consistent surf and vibrant atmosphere.
It has a beautiful, wide stretch of sand, great for beach volleyball, sunbathing, and people-watching, not to mention the iconic Huntington Beach Pier.
2. Malibu Beach
Malibu is home to some of the most picturesque and upscale beaches in California.
Zuma Beach and El Matador Beach are especially known for their scenic beauty, perfect for beachgoers and photographers alike.
3. Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica is one of California’s most iconic beaches, known for its pier with a ferris wheel, shopping, and family-friendly atmosphere.
The expansive beach offers plenty of space to soak up the sun.
4. Venice Beach
A cultural hotspot, Venice Beach is famous for its eclectic boardwalk, street performers, and vibrant murals. It’s also a great spot for cycling, rollerblading, and watching the sunset.
5. Pismo Beach
A beautiful coastal town known for its golden sand and charming pier, Pismo Beach is ideal for families and beach lovers. You can go horseback riding along the beach or explore the nearby Pismo Preserve.
6. Coronado Beach
Located near San Diego, Coronado Beach is famous for its sparkling sand (due to the high mica content), the Hotel Del Coronado, and calm waters, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
7. La Jolla Cove
Nestled in San Diego, La Jolla Cove offers crystal-clear waters, beautiful cliffs, and opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and spotting seals and sea lions basking on the rocks.
8. Carmel Beach
Located in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Beach is a romantic and dog-friendly spot with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Its white sandy shores and rugged cliffs provide the perfect backdrop for a peaceful getaway.
9. Big Sur – McWay Falls Beach
One of the most photographed beaches in California, McWay Falls Beach is located in Big Sur and features an 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach below.
10. Point Reyes National Seashore
Known for its dramatic cliffs, Point Reyes offers a rugged and beautiful landscape. Drakes Beach and Chimney Rock Beach are must-see spots in this coastal national park.
11. Glass Beach (Fort Bragg)
Famous for its colorful sea glass, Glass Beach in Fort Bragg offers a unique beachcombing experience. It’s a great place to find small treasures while enjoying the stunning scenery.
12. Stinson Beach
Located in Marin County, Stinson Beach is one of the most popular spots in the Bay Area for a quiet day by the ocean. It’s known for its long stretches of sand and family-friendly atmosphere.
13. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
One of the oldest amusement parks in California, Santa Cruz Beach offers both beach fun and a nostalgic experience. You can enjoy a day on the beach and then head to the boardwalk for classic carnival rides.
14. Moonstone Beach (Cambria)
Located on the Central Coast, Moonstone Beach is known for its rocky shoreline and scenic boardwalk that offers stunning views of the Pacific. It’s a peaceful spot for a quiet walk and a great place for tide pooling.
15. Bodega Bay
Located on the Sonoma Coast, Bodega Bay offers wild, dramatic coastal scenery and is famous for its role in Alfred Hitchcock’s film The Birds. The beach is perfect for nature walks, fishing, and exploring the surrounding area.
16. Muir Beach
Just north of San Francisco, Muir Beach is a smaller, quieter beach located near the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It’s great for picnics, hiking, and exploring the tide pools.
17. Rodeo Beach (Marin Headlands)
A unique pebbly beach with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Rodeo Beach in the Marin Headlands offers a dramatic coastal setting and is great for hiking, picnicking, and photography.
18. Malibu’s Point Dume State Beach
Known for its stunning cliffs and secluded coves, Point Dume offers a quieter alternative to Malibu’s more popular beaches. It’s a fantastic spot for hiking, birdwatching, and taking in the breathtaking coastal views.
19. Ocean Beach (San Francisco)
Ocean Beach in San Francisco is a long, wild stretch of sand, perfect for those who prefer a quieter beach experience. It’s often windy and foggy, offering a different coastal experience from the typical sunny California beaches.
20. Baker Beach (San Francisco)
Located just below the Golden Gate Bridge, Baker Beach offers incredible views of the bridge and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a popular spot for photography and picnics.
21. Torrey Pines State Beach
Located near San Diego, Torrey Pines is known for its rugged cliffs, scenic views, and hiking trails. The beach is quieter and less crowded than some other San Diego beaches, making it a great spot for a relaxing escape.
22. Pacific Beach (San Diego)
One of the most popular beaches in San Diego, Pacific Beach offers great spots for surfing, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife make it a favorite among young people.
23. Huntington Dog Beach
For dog lovers, Huntington Dog Beach is the perfect spot to let your pup run free. The wide beach allows dogs to roam off-leash, and it’s a popular place for dog owners and families.
24. Point Loma (San Diego)
Point Loma is a rocky beach with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Old Point Loma Lighthouse. It’s an ideal spot for walking, sightseeing, and exploring tide pools.
25. Redondo Beach
With its long pier, Redondo Beach offers a relaxed vibe with plenty of restaurants, shopping, and activities. It’s perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to experience Southern California’s classic beach life.
26. Malibu’s Zuma Beach
A spacious and family-friendly beach with calm waters and picturesque scenery, Zuma Beach is a favorite spot in Malibu for both locals and tourists. The beach is less crowded than other Malibu spots and offers ample parking.
27. Carmel River State Beach
Carmel River Beach is perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Known for its stunning views and wildlife, it’s a great place for bird watching and taking long walks along the beach.
28. San Gregorio State Beach
A peaceful and scenic beach in San Mateo County, San Gregorio State Beach offers a quieter, less crowded spot perfect for relaxing, picnicking, or taking in views of the rugged cliffs and ocean.
29. Carpinteria State Beach
This small beach in Carpinteria is known for its calm waters, making it perfect for families with children. It’s also a great spot for tidepooling and picnicking under the shade of trees.
30. Shell Beach (Pismo Beach)
Shell Beach in Pismo Beach is a unique spot with exposed tide pools, rocky outcrops, and spectacular sunsets. The beach is a hidden gem for those who enjoy a quieter beach experience.
31. Silver Strand State Beach
Located in Coronado, Silver Strand State Beach offers a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of sand for sunbathing. The beach is also great for walking, biking, and wildlife watching.
32. Half Moon Bay
Located just south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is a beautiful stretch of coast known for its scenic beauty, agricultural fields, and nearby hiking opportunities. It’s perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway.
33. McAbee Beach
Nestled in the quaint town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, McAbee Beach is a hidden gem for visitors seeking a quiet, scenic spot. It’s great for swimming and enjoying the views of the rugged coastline.
34. Crescent Beach (Redwood National Park)
Located in Redwood National Park, Crescent Beach is surrounded by towering redwood trees and stunning cliffs. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those wanting to experience both the forest and the beach.
35. Sunset Beach (Huntington Beach)
Sunset Beach is a quieter spot just north of Huntington Beach, offering great views of the sunset and plenty of sand for relaxation. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the crowds.
36. Point Mugu State Park
This park features several beautiful beaches, including Mugu Beach, which is perfect for hiking, beachcombing, and picnicking. The dramatic cliffs and rocky coastline make it a photographer’s paradise.
37. North Beach (Santa Cruz)
A beautiful spot in Santa Cruz, North Beach offers golden sand, gentle surf, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great family beach with plenty of picnic areas and close to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
38. Pacific Grove (Lovers Point)
With its calm waters and scenic location near Monterey Bay, Lovers Point is a great beach for swimming, picnicking, and watching the sunset. The nearby bike trail offers great views along the coast.
39. Victoria Beach (Laguna Beach)
A secluded, picturesque spot in Laguna Beach, Victoria Beach features a unique tower and dramatic cliffs. It’s a bit more remote, offering a peaceful retreat for those who enjoy a quieter beach experience.
40. Baker Beach (San Francisco)
Baker Beach offers some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands. It’s perfect for a relaxed picnic or beach stroll.
41. Dockweiler State Beach
Located near LAX, Dockweiler State Beach is known for its wide, open spaces and great weather. It’s ideal for hang gliding, jogging, or simply lounging on the sand.
42. Santa Barbara Beach
Santa Barbara’s beaches are consistently beautiful. East Beach and Butterfly Beach are perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, and swimming, offering stunning views of the Channel Islands.
43. Carmel-by-the-Sea
With its white sandy beach and fairy-tale cottages, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a magical, old-world charm. It’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches in California.
44. Sequoia Beach (Big Sur)
A remote beach in Big Sur, Sequoia Beach offers secluded beauty with towering cliffs and ocean views. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet solitude.
45. Dockweiler Beach
With its wide open space and often less crowded atmosphere, Dockweiler Beach in Southern California is great for picnics, sunbathing, and walking along the coast.
46. Pescadero Beach
A quiet beach located along the San Mateo County coast, Pescadero Beach offers stunning views of the Pacific and is great for a peaceful retreat, hiking, and exploring tide pools.
47. Ocean Beach (San Diego)
A laid-back beach in San Diego, Ocean Beach is known for its local charm and wide, sandy shorelines. It’s perfect for walking, surfing, and enjoying the relaxed beach culture.
48. Bixby Creek Bridge Beach
Located near the Bixby Creek Bridge in Big Sur, this beach is incredibly scenic and offers one of the most photographed bridges in California. It’s a great stop for photos and a peaceful escape.
49. Santa Cruz Main Beach
The classic beach experience in Santa Cruz, Main Beach is a great spot for families, offering fun boardwalk activities and wide, sandy stretches perfect for games and relaxation.
50. Sunset Beach (San Mateo)
Located in San Mateo County, Sunset Beach is a peaceful spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the ocean views. It’s perfect for families and those seeking a quiet beach day.
This list of the Top 50 Beaches in California spans the entire coastline and provides something for every kind of beachgoer, from surfers to sunbathers to nature lovers. California’s coastline offers an incredible range of experiences, so there’s always a perfect beach for you to discover!
Conclusion
From the vibrant and bustling beaches of Southern California to the quiet, rugged coastlines of Northern California, there’s no shortage of breathtaking spots to explore along the Golden State’s coast.
With so many amazing options, you can never have too many beach days! So, next time you’re planning your coastal getaway, be sure to check out these Top 50 Beaches in California for the perfect beach experience. Ready to feel the sand between your toes? The best beaches in California are waiting for you!