California is the beach state as much as the Golden State, where are the top ones? If you're looking to swim, spend a day with family, soak up the sun in your cutest bikini, or find the bluest water on the Best Coast, the best beaches up and down the Southern and Central Coast, from a born-and-raised local.
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1. Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach
This is the one beach in California that looks like how people expect every beach to look - with sandy coves and the clearest, bluest water anywhere in Southern California. This is my favorite beach, and it's worth the drive down to Orange County. Located below the Montage Laguna Beach resort, Treasure Island is beautifully maintained and easy to access with restrooms, showers, and easy paths. In addition to a cave leading to another cove, tide pools, turquoise water, seal and dolphin sightings, and walking paths, there is even pretty easily accessible free parking in the neighborhood above the beach.
Where To Stay Nearby: Montage Laguna Beach - A beachfront splurge above Treasure Island, with ocean-view pools and easy access to the coves below.
What To Do Nearby: Private Laguna Beach Kayak Tour - Paddle Laguna's coves and kelp beds with a private guide; confirm the launch location and availability with the operator before booking.
Related reading: Los Angeles Photo Guide: 39 Best Photo Spots in LA (From a Local)
2. McWay Falls, Big Sur
Located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur, McWay Falls is a spectacular coastal viewpoint. There is no beach or ocean access at McWay Falls. As checked on October 13, 2026, California State Parks lists the Waterfall Overlook Trail as closed for a retaining-wall project. Check the park’s current trail notices and Highway 1 conditions before planning this stop.
Where To Stay Nearby: Big Sur Lodge - Stay in a cottage among the redwoods at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, north of the McWay Falls viewpoint.
What To Do Nearby: Private Big Sur Coastal Tour - Let a guide handle the coastal drive from Monterey or Carmel, with scenic stops depending on the selected route and current road access.
3. Point Dume, Malibu
A scenic headland at the northern end of Malibu, Point Dume is part of a state preserve with hiking trails, lookout points, and a hidden beach accessed via a rocky path. Located off Cliffside Drive, the area has limited parking, but the reward is panoramic views of Santa Monica Bay and, on clear days, Catalina Island. You can even spot whales during their migration season, typically from December to April. This is another beach with a very casual, local vibe.
Where To Stay Nearby: Malibu Country Inn - This relaxed inn near Zuma and Westward beaches has an outdoor pool and free parking for a Malibu beach weekend.
What To Do Here: Point Dume Rock Climbing - Try a small-group climbing session beside the ocean at Point Dume, with an instructor and all climbing equipment included.
4. Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica
Santa Monica is the beach that everyone knows - I lived in Santa Monica for 5 years, and no matter where I was in the world, everyone knew the city when I would say. But this is not the beach the locals actually go to.
The Pier is iconic, buzzing with activity, from the historic pier’s amusement park to its endless stretch of sand. The beach bike path is ideal for biking - you can easily go all the way to Venice and beyond - and people-watching. Santa Monica has plenty of parking garages, a walkable downtown, and tons of restaurants within blocks of the beach.
Where To Stay Nearby: Shore Hotel - Stay steps from the pier at this modern Ocean Avenue hotel with a pool and an easy walk to downtown Santa Monica.
What To Do Nearby: Santa Monica & Venice Electric Bike Tour - Cruise the beachfront and Venice canals on a guided electric bike ride departing from Pier Avenue in Santa Monica.
See my local's guide to Santa Monica here!
5. Will Rogers State Beach, Pacific Palisades
Now this is the beach that the Santa Monica locals actually go to. Just north of the Santa Monica Pier, Will Rogers State Beach has a more relaxed and hang-out-for-the-day atmosphere. It’s less crowded and much less of a scene than the Santa Monica Pier, but you can still sprawl out on the wide sand expanse, get fruit and ice cream from local carts. For a meal with your feet in the sand, Back on the Beach Cafe is farther south in Santa Monica, at the Annenberg Community Beach House. We would always bike down from our neighborhood, but there are a good number of paid parking lots, as well as surprisingly clean bathrooms.
Where To Stay Nearby: Huntley Santa Monica Beach - A polished Santa Monica base with a rooftop restaurant, a short drive south of Will Rogers State Beach.
What To Do Nearby: Santa Monica & Venice Electric Bike Tour - Head south to Santa Monica for a guided electric bike ride along the beachfront and through Venice.
6. Montaña de Oro State Park, Los Osos
Located south of Morro Bay, this park spans over 8,000 acres of cliffs, tide pools, and remote beaches. Spooner’s Cove is the most accessible beach in the park, with a parking lot and basic amenities. Hikers will love Bluff Trail for its views of rocky coves and coastal wildflowers in spring.
Where To Stay Nearby: Sea Pines Resort - This laid-back Los Osos resort has a golf course and hot tub, with an easy drive to the park's coves and trails.
What To Do Nearby: Morro Bay Whale Watching - Take a boat trip from nearby Morro Bay Harbor to look for whales, dolphins and other coastal wildlife.
7. Victoria Beach, Laguna Beach
Known for its iconic Pirate Tower built into the cliffside, Victoria Beach is one of the most scenic spots in Orange County. The beach is mostly used by locals and accessed by a steep staircase off Victoria Drive. During low tide, you can walk to the tower and discover tide pools - and at sunset, you are likely to stumble onto a photoshoot. There’s no official parking lot, so street parking can be tricky, especially on weekends, so for some it is best to look into beach vacation packages.
Where To Stay Nearby: Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa - A hillside boutique hideaway with a pool and spa, close to Victoria Beach and its famous Pirate Tower.
What To Do Nearby: Laguna Beach Surf Lesson - Practice catching waves with an instructor and equipment included, meeting on Gaviota Drive north of Victoria Beach.
8. La Jolla Shores, San Diego
This wide, flat beach is part of the upscale La Jolla neighborhood. It’s perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and beginner surf lessons. La Jolla Shores Park has parking (though it fills up fast on weekends), and it's just a few minutes from La Jolla Cove, where sea lions lounge and snorkelers explore the rocky reefs. Nearby hotels and cafes make it a great base for exploring more of San Diego.
Where To Stay Nearby: La Jolla Shores Hotel - This beachfront favorite puts you directly on the sand, with a heated pool for a family-friendly La Jolla stay.
What To Do Here: La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour - Paddle from La Jolla Shores with a guide to explore the sea caves and marine reserve, with cave access dependent on ocean conditions.
9. Santa Claus Lane, Carpinteria
Named after a now-defunct Christmas-themed amusement park, Santa Claus Beach is calm, shallow, and ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Located near Padaro Lane, it’s a favorite among families and locals - for Santa Barbarans, this is one of the most popular beaches for full beach days. Free parking is limited, but nearby paid lots exist, and always be careful when crossing the active train tracks (I grew up here, and teen deaths were an all too regular occurrence.) There are few amenities, so bring snacks and gear.
Where To Stay Nearby: Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn - A practical Carpinteria base with a leafy courtyard, pool and free parking, a short drive from Santa Claus Lane.
What To Do Nearby: Santa Barbara Surf Lesson - Book an instructor-led session with a board and wetsuit included, with the Santa Barbara-area beach chosen to suit the day's conditions.
10. Morro Rock Beach, Morro Bay
Morro Rock, a 576-foot volcanic plug, dominates the shoreline. The beach is wide and sandy, with moderate waves and frequent fog, giving it an eerie, otherworldly feel. Located right off Highway 1, it’s easy to find with free parking, restrooms, and a nearby marina.
Where To Stay Nearby: Inn at Morro Bay - Stay beside the estuary in Morro Bay State Park, with a pool and a short drive to Morro Rock Beach.
What To Do Nearby: Morro Bay Whale Watching - Set out from the Embarcadero for a wildlife cruise with views of Morro Rock and a chance to spot whales and dolphins.
11. Under Bixby Bridge, Big Sur
Hidden beneath one of California’s most photographed landmarks, Bixby Creek Bridge, this small and secluded beach is only accessible by steep, unmarked trails and is often considered dangerous to reach. Located along Highway 1, just 15 minutes south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the beach is flanked by cliffs and pounded by strong Pacific waves. It’s not for swimming, but the rugged beauty is unmatched, especially in the golden light of late afternoon.
Where To Stay Nearby: Hyatt Carmel Highlands - An ocean-view retreat north of Bixby Bridge, with a scenic restaurant and a convenient starting point for the Big Sur drive.
What To Do Nearby: Private Big Sur Coastal Tour - Explore Big Sur's coastal viewpoints with a private guide from Monterey or Carmel, without attempting the steep descent beneath the bridge.
12. Thousand Steps Beach, Laguna Beach
Despite the name, the staircase has about 200 steps - but the climb back up is worth it. Located off 9th Avenue in South Laguna, this beach has a large sea cave that’s only accessible during low tide. Visitors should check tide charts and wear shoes with grip for exploring the cave. The City of Laguna Beach lists a Thousand Steps restroom facility; check current beach and facility notices before your visit.
Where To Stay Nearby: The Ranch at Laguna Beach - This canyon resort pairs a pool and golf course with a short drive to South Laguna's beaches.
What To Do Nearby: Dana Point Whale & Dolphin Safari - Drive south to Dana Point Harbor for a catamaran wildlife trip with underwater viewing pods.
13. El Matador Beach, Malibu
One of the most dramatic and romantic beaches in Southern California is El Matador in Malibu, or as I have always referred to it, "Photoshoot Beach." Come here any day at sunset, and you are very likely to see people taking engagement or maternity photos, family portraits, and often a full-scale professional production. Located off Pacific Coast Highway, it's accessible via a steep dirt path and staircase that winds through sea cliffs and rock formations. The beach features massive sea stacks, hidden caves, and breathtaking photo ops at sunset. Parking is limited to a small lot and shoulder spots along PCH.
Where To Stay Nearby: Malibu Country Inn - An easygoing base near Zuma Beach, with a pool and free parking a short drive east of El Matador.
What To Do Nearby: Malibu Surf Lesson - Add a surf lesson elsewhere along the Malibu coast, with equipment provided and the meeting beach confirmed when booking.
14. Malibu Pier, Malibu
This historic pier sits next to Surfrider Beach, one of the most popular surf spots in LA County. The pier comes with fishing, shopping, and dining at spots like Malibu Farm. Parking is available in nearby lots and along the PCH. It’s a great stop for people watching, catching the sunset, or just soaking in that old-school Malibu vibe.
Where To Stay Nearby: The Surfrider Malibu - This intimate coastal hotel sits across the highway from the pier, with a rooftop deck overlooking Surfrider Beach.
What To Do Nearby: Malibu Surf Lesson - Build confidence on the waves with a Malibu surf instructor and included equipment, checking the lesson's meeting location before booking.
15. Pismo Beach Sand Dunes
The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area lets vehicles drive directly onto the beach; located just south of Pismo Beach proper, it’s one of the only beaches in California where this is possible. ATVs, dune buggies, and sandboards are popular here, and camping is allowed with a permit. The endless, wind blown sand dunes always make for amazing pictures - who needs to go all the way to Dubai or Morocco?
Where To Stay Nearby: Sandcastle Hotel on the Beach - Stay on the oceanfront near Pismo Pier, then drive south to explore the Oceano Dunes.
What To Do Here: Oceano Dunes Buggy Rental - Explore the designated Oceano Dunes riding area with a self-drive buggy rental, including an orientation before you head onto the sand.
16. Half Moon Bay, Central Coast
About 45 minutes south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay has a series of beaches including Poplar, Venice, and Mavericks (home to the legendary big wave surf break). The town has a charming main street with restaurants and shops, and coastal trails come with dramatic ocean views year-round, and the hills and golf course at the Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay look like you could be in Scotland.
Where To Stay Nearby: Beach House Half Moon Bay - These waterfront suites beside Pillar Point Harbor make a cozy base for exploring Half Moon Bay's coastal trails and beaches.
What To Do Here: Half Moon Bay Guided E-bike Tour - Join a guided ride from downtown Half Moon Bay to explore coastal trails and ocean viewpoints.
17. Carlsbad State Beach
Located in North County San Diego, Carlsbad State Beach is known for its long stretch of sand bordered by coastal cliffs. Walks along the paved path above the beach come with panoramic views, while stairs and access points connect down to the water. It’s a favorite for surfing, sunbathing, and family days out. The nearby Carlsbad Village has restaurants, boutiques, and laid-back charm just off the 5 freeway. I like to prep for a beach this glamorous with a natural-looking glow from goGLOW Sunless Tanning.
Where To Stay Nearby: Tamarack Beach Resort Hotel - Stay across from the beach at this relaxed hotel with a pool and an easy walk to Carlsbad Village.
What To Do Nearby: Carlsbad Village Food Tour - Pair a beach day with a guided stroll through Carlsbad Village, stopping for tastings at local food spots.
18. Ventura Promenade and Fairgrounds
While I often gripe that Ventura doesn't have the best beaches and doesn't do the kind of beach grooming like LA County does, I have to give me hometown credit here - where else can you ride a Ferris wheel overlooking the ocean? Set right on the sand, the Ventura County Fairgrounds host the Ventura County Fair every August, complete with rides, concerts, and fried everything - all with Pacific views. As a kid it was always to game to see if you could get stopped on the top of the Ferris Wheel when the nightly fireworks went off - there was nothing more magical to an 8 year old. The rest of the year the promenade is a popular spot for long walks, the famous surf break C Street, and local beach days. Located just off the 101 and a short walk from downtown Ventura, this is one of the only places in California where carnival lights reflect on ocean waves.
Where To Stay Nearby: Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach - This oceanfront hotel opens onto the promenade, with a heated pool and downtown Ventura within walking distance.
What To Do Nearby: Ventura Surf Lesson - Head north to Mondos Beach for a private surf lesson with a board, wetsuit and instructor included.
19. Kirby Cove, San Francisco
The best view of the Golden Gate Bridge isn't in San Francisco proper - it's just across the bay looking back at the city from the Marin Headlands. A 1-mile downhill hike leads to a secluded beach with views of the bridge from below. There’s a swing (sometimes) and limited camping with reservations.
Where To Stay Nearby: Cavallo Point - A scenic Fort Baker lodge beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, with a spa and a short drive to the Marin Headlands.
What To Do Nearby: Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise - Sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge on a catamaran departing from Pier 39 in San Francisco, across the bridge from Kirby Cove.
20. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur
Known for its purple sand and dramatic rock formations, Pfeiffer Beach is a lesser-known gem located at the end of Sycamore Canyon Road in Big Sur. It’s not well-marked, but the payoff is huge: massive sea stacks, crashing waves, and sunsets that glow through the famous Keyhole Arch. This was also where Brandon and I got engaged, but that doesn't add much to anyone besides us. Parking is limited and requires a small fee, but it's well worth the winding drive down.
Where To Stay Nearby: Big Sur Lodge - Sleep among the redwoods at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a convenient base for the drive down to Pfeiffer Beach.
What To Do Nearby: Big Sur Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour - Download an audio guide for the Highway 1 drive and explore coastal viewpoints at your own pace.
Click here to download all of these places on Google Maps
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