20 Best Beaches in California USA

California has the most attractive beaches in the United States, with each beach in CA presenting a remarkable combination of natural magnificence, amusement, and peace. Whether you’re pursuing a peaceful getaway or a vibrant adventure, California’s coastline has something for everyone. From the sandy seasides to the rugged cliffs, the sort of beaches in this state are fantastic. Among California’s best beaches is Malibu’s Zuma Beach, well-known for its extensive sweep of golden sand and excellent surfing prerequisites. This beach draws locals and travelers, presenting scenic viewpoints and crystal-clear waters. It’s ideal for those looking to relish the sun, surf, or a picnic by the coast. Families, surfers, and sunbathers can all uncover something to adore here.

Santa Monica Beach is another top preference for those desiring the best beaches in CA. Its iconic harbor, enthusiastic atmosphere, and extensive sandy stretch make it a famous place for leisure and amusement. Visitors can discover the busy boardwalk, ride the Ferris wheel, or soak up the sun. The beach is also near many restaurants and shops, making it a fortunate spot for a full day of fun. La Jolla Cove in San Diego is a must-see for the best beaches known for their scenic cliffs and clear waters. This beach presents fantastic snorkeling and nature viewing options. Sea lions, seals, and colorful marine life are usually spotted near the beach, making it famous among wildlife enthusiasts. The area is also perfect for kayaking and discovering nearby sea caves.

Laguna Beach often completes the list when exploring for the best beach in California. This beach town is famous for its clean shores, artistic society, and stunning coastal viewpoints. Tourists can relish a day at the beach, observed by a walk through the town’s art museums and boutiques. Laguna Beach shows an ideal blend of magnificence, civilization, and peace. Whether you’re looking for adventure or tranquility, best California beaches have everything. With such a vast range of choices, there’s no lack of incredible beaches to dig along the shore of the Golden State.

List of 20 Best California Beaches

1. Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is one of the best beaches in California, offering three miles of sandy shores and a lively pier. The beach attracts visitors year-round with its vibrant atmosphere, iconic Ferris wheel, and excellent swimming and surfing conditions. Whether strolling along the boardwalk or exploring the many restaurants and shops nearby, this beach is a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment. Families can enjoy the playgrounds, while active beachgoers appreciate the sports courts and bike paths. Located just minutes from Los Angeles, Santa Monica Beach is easily accessible and remains a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the true essence of California’s coastal charm.

2. Malibu Beach

Malibu Beach is the epitome of a beautiful beach in California, with its pristine sands and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its surf-friendly waves and celebrity homes, Malibu offers a tranquil escape from city life. The beach is dotted with hidden coves and scenic rock formations, perfect for photography, beach climbing, and long walks. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, also known as Surfrider Beach, is a favorite for surfers due to its consistent waves. Whether sunbathing or catching a sunset, Malibu Beach provides a serene and picturesque getaway that showcases the natural beauty and laid-back luxury of California’s best beach experiences.

3. Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach is one of the most famous beaches in California, celebrated for its stunning coastal scenery, art scene, and tide pools. It is located in Orange County and boasts seven miles of soft sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can explore numerous coves, ideal for snorkeling and kayaking, or visit Heisler Park for breathtaking cliffside views. Known for its artistic community, the city surrounding Laguna Beach hosts various art galleries and festivals, such as the famous Sawdust Art Festival. Whether you’re an art lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Laguna Beach offers diverse experiences that make it one of California’s finest beach destinations.

4. Coronado Central Beach

Coronado Central Beach is a top beach in California located near the historic Hotel del Coronado. Known for its vast stretch of golden sand, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. The gentle waves and stunning views of the Pacific make it ideal for families, while its dog-friendly areas attract pet lovers. The nearby village of Coronado offers charming shops, restaurants, and bike rentals, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring the area. Whether relaxing under the California sun or strolling along the shore, Coronado Central Beach provides a quintessential beach experience in a beautiful and welcoming setting.

5. Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in California, renowned for its unique purple sand and rugged coastal beauty. Nestled in the Big Sur region, this hidden gem is known for its dramatic rock formations and iconic Keyhole Rock, which creates stunning photography opportunities at sunset. The beach’s secluded nature and awe-inspiring landscape make it a favorite among nature lovers and those seeking a quieter, more tranquil beach experience. The strong winds and currents make it less ideal for swimming but perfect for a peaceful stroll along the shore. Pfeiffer Beach is an unforgettable destination showcasing California’s coastline’s untamed beauty.

6. Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach is considered one of the best beaches in California for its striking white sand and dramatic ocean views. Located in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this dog-friendly beach is perfect for visitors looking to relax, explore, and enjoy stunning sunsets. The soft sand and moderate waves make it ideal for families and surfers. Scenic walking trails surround Carmel Beach and sit just a short distance from the picturesque town, where visitors can find boutique shops and gourmet restaurants. Whether enjoying a day at the beach or exploring nearby cultural attractions, Carmel Beach offers an unforgettable coastal experience in one of California’s most scenic areas.

7. Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore is a good beach in California that offers visitors a combination of rugged natural beauty and a serene beachfront. With miles of unspoiled coastline, this destination is ideal for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking to escape the crowds. The expansive beaches here provide opportunities for whale watching, birdwatching, and exploring tide pools. Known for its dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, Point Reyes is home to Drakes Beach and Limantour Beach, each offering stunning views of the Pacific. Whether hiking along the scenic bluffs or relaxing by the ocean, Point Reyes National Seashore provides an unparalleled nature experience along California’s coast.

8. Zuma Beach

Zuma Beach is one of the top beaches in California, known for its wide sandy shores and clear waters. It is located in Malibu and offers ample parking, lifeguards, and great swimming conditions, making it perfect for families. Zuma Beach is also popular for surfing, beach volleyball, and long walks along the coast. With fewer crowds than nearby beaches, it offers a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific. Whether planning a full day of beach activities or just catching the sunset, Zuma Beach remains a top choice for anyone visiting the California coastline.

9. Mission Beach

Mission Beach in San Diego is one of the best California beaches for those seeking a fun and lively atmosphere. Famous for its boardwalk, which stretches for miles, this beach is perfect for rollerblading, biking, or walking along the oceanfront. Mission Beach is home to Belmont Park, a historic amusement park featuring rides and attractions, including the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster. The beach itself offers great opportunities for surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball. With plenty of nearby shops, restaurants, and bars, Mission Beach is a favorite spot for locals and tourists looking to enjoy the sun, sand, and vibrant coastal culture.

10. Newport Beach

Newport Beach is one of California’s best beaches, renowned for its upscale coastal charm and wide array of water activities. Stretching over 10 miles, it’s perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and sailing. The Newport Pier and Balboa Fun Zone provide plenty of entertainment options for families and visitors of all ages. The beach is also known for its luxurious waterfront homes and proximity to Fashion Island, an upscale shopping destination. Newport Beach offers something for everyone, with a mix of pristine sands, family-friendly attractions, and plenty of restaurants. It’s a must-visit for those seeking the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure on the California coast.

11. Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, often called “Surf City USA,” is one of the top beaches in California for surfers and beachgoers alike. Its 8.5 miles of sandy coastline make it perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, and beach bonfires. Huntington Beach is famous for its consistent surf and hosts numerous competitions, including the US Open of Surfing. The iconic Huntington Beach Pier is an excellent spot for fishing, taking a stroll, or enjoying the sunset. With various beachside restaurants and shops, plus a lively nightlife scene, Huntington Beach offers a classic Southern California beach experience, appealing to families, surfers, and those seeking a vibrant coastal vibe.

12. Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of the most famous beaches in California, known for its eclectic boardwalk, street performers, and lively atmosphere. This iconic beach offers more than just sun and sand—it’s a cultural hub where art, fitness, and creativity meet the ocean. Visitors can explore Muscle Beach, watch skateboarders at the Venice Skate Park, or shop at quirky beachfront stores. The wide, sandy beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. With its unique bohemian charm and California beach culture, Venice Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a different side of the state’s coastal offerings.

13. Baker Beach

Baker Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in California, offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the rugged cliffs of San Francisco. Located just west of the Golden Gate, this mile-long stretch of sandy shore is ideal for scenic walks, photography, and picnics. While the water is too cold and rough for swimming, the breathtaking landscape and the serene atmosphere make Baker Beach a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The northern end of the beach is known for being clothing-optional, but the jaw-dropping views of the bridge make Baker Beach an unforgettable part of any trip to San Francisco.

14. Pismo Beach

Pismo Beach is one of the best beaches in California, located on the Central Coast. Known for its classic pier, this beach is a haven for surfers, clammers, and beachgoers. The nearby sand dunes offer opportunities for off-roading, ATV rentals, and horseback riding, making it a versatile destination for adventure seekers. Pismo Beach is also famous for its Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of butterflies gather in winter. With family-friendly accommodations and plenty of seaside restaurants, Pismo Beach provides a perfect blend of relaxation and fun activities for all ages, making it a favorite for vacationers and locals alike.

15. La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores is a nice beach in California, particularly for families and water enthusiasts. It is located just north of San Diego and boasts gentle waves, soft sand, and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Nearby, La Jolla Underwater Park offers incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities to encounter colorful marine life. A grassy park with picnic areas, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, backs the beach. With its charming nearby village filled with boutiques and restaurants, La Jolla Shores is one of California’s most picturesque and welcoming beaches for visitors of all ages.

16. Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park is one of California’s best beaches, offering an untouched, natural coastline in Orange County. Spanning 3.2 miles of sandy beaches and rocky tidal pools, it’s perfect for hiking, beachcombing, and exploring marine life. The nearby historic district features vintage beachfront cottages, adding to the beach’s nostalgic charm. Crystal Cove is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of backcountry trails for hikers and mountain bikers. Whether snorkeling in the coves or enjoying a sunset picnic, this beach provides a peaceful retreat from the busier beaches while showcasing California’s stunning coastal beauty in its purest form.

17. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay, a quaint coastal town just south of San Francisco, boasts one of the best beaches in CA. The expansive shoreline is perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and beachcombing. Known for its powerful surf, especially at Mavericks, a world-famous big wave surf spot, Half Moon Bay draws surfers and nature lovers alike. Visitors can also explore nearby tide pools, hike the scenic bluffs, or enjoy horseback riding along the coast. With its rugged beauty, fresh seafood restaurants, and charming downtown, Half Moon Bay is a top choice for a coastal escape that combines natural splendor with a laid-back, small-town feel.

18. Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach is among the top beaches in California for its pristine sands, high-end homes, and lively beachfront. It’s a favorite spot for beach volleyball, surfing, and sunbathing in Los Angeles County. The Manhattan Beach Pier is a local landmark, offering stunning coastline views and an aquarium at the end. The beach is clean, well-maintained, and often less crowded than nearby spots like Santa Monica, making it ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. With an array of upscale shops, restaurants, and cafes nearby, Manhattan Beach is the perfect destination for active beachgoers and those seeking a more refined coastal experience.

19. Dillon Beach

Dillon Beach is a good beach in California for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back experience. Located in Northern California, this hidden gem is known for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic views, and dog-friendly policy. The beach is perfect for long walks, beachcombing, and even bonfires in designated areas. The nearby village offers a small general store and café, but the main attraction is the natural beauty and tranquility of the beach itself. The mild waves and spacious shoreline make it a great spot for families, while the surrounding hills and bluffs offer hiking opportunities with stunning ocean views. Dillon Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination that captures the essence of Northern California’s rugged coastline.

20. Seal Beach

Seal Beach, located in Orange County, is one of California’s nice beaches, offering a more relaxed vibe than its neighboring beaches. It features a long pier, ideal for fishing and enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific. The beach is popular for its wide sandy shores and friendly, small-town feel. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball, with nearby Main Street offering quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. Seal Beach is also home to a wildlife refuge, where visitors can observe various bird species. Whether seeking a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, Seal Beach provides a peaceful and welcoming coastal retreat.