Discovering California's Finest Beaches

Few things capture the essence of California quite like its stunning beaches. With a coastline that spans 840 miles, the state boasts over 400 public beaches (not to mention numerous hidden gems), offering everything from perfect surfing waves to picturesque wedding venues. While the typical SoCal vibe—think endless sunshine and ongoing volleyball games—defines the California beach scene, there's a rich diversity to explore across the state's shores, including hiking paths in the North Bay Area and unique purple sand at Big Sur. Familiarize yourself with California's top beaches and uncover what makes each one uniquely captivating.

Glass Beach

• Ideal for: An unforgettable day filled with Instagram-ready moments

You wouldn't typically expect a former trash dump to be featured among the best beaches, yet Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach is a top destination for sea glass enthusiasts in California. The pebbly shoreline is adorned with smooth, colorful remnants of shattered bottles, creating a stunning visual display. While visitors are encouraged not to take any pieces home, many still can't resist the allure of these ocean-shaped souvenirs. Although the beach now has less colored glass than in the past, it remains a breathtaking spot for both admiration and photography.

Bodega Bay Beach

• Ideal for: Film enthusiasts and seafood aficionados

It’s hard to talk about Bodega Bay Beach without mentioning Alfred Hitchcock. The legendary director filmed his classic movie The Birds in this quaint village just a few miles from the beach, making it a must-visit for Hollywood buffs. And yes, there are numerous bird-watching tours available for those who aren’t too traumatized by the film. After enjoying the local avian life, many visitors indulge in the region's renowned seafood, with freshly caught crab, salmon, rockfish, and more served at the Tides Wharf Restaurant (which was, of course, featured in The Birds).

Dillon Beach

• Perfect for: Dog lovers who can’t bear to leave their furry friends behind

Nestled at the northern tip of Marin County, this beach features Dillon Beach Resort (make sure to enjoy lunch at its Coastal Kitchen). As a private beach, parking comes at a fee, typical for many California shores. Known as one of the region’s most dog-friendly outdoor spots, Dillon Beach permits dogs to roam off-leash between the tide line and the water's edge. With nearby campgrounds and RV parks, it’s an ideal destination for road trippers, and the resort itself offers a range of dog-friendly cottages and cabins for those wanting a cozy retreat with their canine companions.

Stinson Beach

• Ideal for: Hikers who cherish nature and seek stunning views

Situated approximately 20 miles northwest of San Francisco, Stinson Beach is a pristine white-sand paradise for outdoor lovers eager to stay active while soaking in the scenery. The nearby towns of Stinson Beach and Bolinas offer charming boutique shops (don’t miss La Sirena Boutique for handmade treasures) and local dining options (Parkside Cafe is renowned for its freshly baked breads and pastries), but the beach itself remains the focal point for hikers, joggers, and even swimmers (though the chilly Northern California waters may not be for everyone). With a range of trails from easy strolls to challenging hikes, Stinson Beach is a dream for adventurers. Paths lead from the shore to natural attractions like Cataract Falls and Alpine Dam, guiding hikers through lush woods, open meadows, and steep hillsides. For the most adventurous, a 15-mile loop with over 3,500 feet of elevation gain awaits at Mount Tamalpais.

Muir Beach

• Ideal for: Viewing whales, butterflies, and birds

If you’re more interested in wildlife than just sunbathing on the beach, make your way to Muir Beach for the best up-close encounters. Located three miles west of the famous Muir Woods (one of the Bay Area’s last remaining redwood forests, home to towering trees that are around 1,000 years old), Muir Beach can be accessed via a 450-foot pedestrian bridge that offers fantastic views of whales, birds, and butterflies. The Overlook is a popular spot to witness marine mammals during their winter migration, and a nearby grove is the perfect location to observe thousands of monarch butterflies making their annual migration to the coast in late August and September. Those willing to explore the marshy wetlands might also catch sight of various shorebirds, including sandpipers, killdeer, and the marbled godwit.

Baker Beach

• Perfect for: Wowing visitors to the City by the Bay

While San Francisco’s Ocean Beach is stunning in its own way, the nearly constant fog can make it less appealing to tourists. However, just a short drive through the Richmond District leads both locals and visitors to the mile-long Baker Beach, which boasts a breathtaking panoramic view of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The slightly warmer microclimate makes the sand more inviting for sunbathers and those daring enough to take a dip in the waves on a rare hot day, but the view is the real highlight. Historically, the northern section of the beach has been recognized as clothing-optional, so be mindful if you wander too close to the bridge.

Ocean Beach (San Francisco)

• Ideal for: Skilled surfers honing their craft and enthusiastic spectators enjoying the show

Although the typically chilly climate at San Francisco’s renowned Ocean Beach often deters sunbathers (with average temperatures ranging from 40° to 65°F throughout the year), seasoned surfers can’t get enough of the wave-friendly waters. The -mile expanse of sand ensures that wave riders have plenty of space, but the strong rip currents and lengthy paddle-out distance make the waves suitable only for experts. However, that doesn’t mean the beach is exclusive. Many spectators park nearby and settle along the sidewalk above the sand to watch the professionals in action. Both the advanced surfers and their audience embrace the chill, dressed in weather-appropriate hoodies, puffer jackets, and long pants, while surfers gear up in wetsuits in the lot.

Santa Cruz Main Beach

• Perfect for: Those seeking classic amusement park charm

Anyone raised from Marin to Santa Barbara probably recalls the catchy Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk commercials set to the iconic tune of the Beach Boys’ “Surfin’ U.S.A.” Since its inception in 1907, this seaside amusement park has been a beloved family destination in California, offering free entry, summer fun, and a range of thrilling roller coasters. Notably, two rides here are recognized as National Historic Landmarks: the 1924 wooden Giant Dipper and the cherished Looff Carousel from 1911. Over the years, the park has evolved, now boasting a two-story miniature golf course and a laser tag arena, ensuring that both kids and adults have an action-packed day at the beach, even if they skip the ocean.

Carmel Beach

• Ideal for: Oceanfront weddings and special events that demand stunning scenery

While there are many beautiful wedding venues across the state, couples seeking a beachfront ceremony and those wanting to host a memorable celebration often choose Carmel Beach as their venue of choice. The mile-long stretch of soft white sand provides a breathtaking backdrop for barefoot weddings and unforgettable birthday parties. Guests can enjoy spectacular sunset views, with nearby dining options like Grasing’s and Little Napoli perfect for receptions and various celebrations. The Mediterranean and Spanish-style architecture in Carmel-by-the-Sea ensures that your photo album and Instagram feed will be filled with unique and picturesque shots, whether for a wedding or just a visit.

Pfeiffer Beach

• Perfect for: Total disconnection from the digital world

If the breathtaking rock arches and unique purple sand aren’t enough to entice visitors to put down their devices, the serene ambiance at Pfeiffer Beach makes it simple to relax and disconnect. Nestled in Big Sur, this renowned beach showcases natural wonders like the Keyhole Arch, a rock formation that allows waves and sunset light to filter through. The striking purple sand, derived from the manganese garnet rocks in the nearby cliffs, adds to the beach’s allure. Consider bringing a quality camera, but be sure to mute your notifications and log out of your email while you enjoy your time there.

Butterfly Beach

• Ideal for: Spotting celebrities

For those whose beach day revolves around people-watching, Santa Barbara’s renowned Butterfly Beach in the upscale village of Montecito is a must-visit. With Oprah Winfrey residing nearby and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as neighbors, there's a chance of encountering a celebrity. Beyond the possibility of spotting an A-lister, visitors to Butterfly Beach can enjoy activities that range from active pursuits like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking to refined experiences at the nearby Four Seasons Biltmore, which offers Italian-inspired cuisine paired with stunning ocean views.

El Matador State Beach

• Ideal for: An authentic rugged beach adventure

Tucked away from the main road, El Matador State Beach can be easily overlooked as you head north from Malibu. This small yet stunning beach boasts massive natural rock formations, enchanting seaweed-covered tunnels, and a variety of unique birds like loons and cormorants. A shaky staircase descends to the beach, where, at low tide, you can explore many rocky arches—keep an eye out for the occasional engagement photo shoot. Parking is scarce (with only 20 spots available in the beach's lot), so arrive early to claim a space and enjoy a nearly private beach experience all day long.

Will Rogers State Beach

• Ideal for: Enjoying sunny days with a renowned backdrop

Will Rogers State Beach served as the backdrop for the original series of Baywatch before its move to Hawai‘i. Situated in the upscale Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles, right across from the impressive Getty Villa museum and gardens, this beach offers a range of activities, from fishing and windsurfing to casual volleyball games. Just a short 10-minute drive away, Palisades Village features a variety of dining choices (including Blue Ribbon Sushi and McConnell’s Ice Cream) and high-end shops (such as Aesop and Chanel).

Santa Monica Beach

• Ideal for: Merging beach vibes with urban attractions

Santa Monica stands out as one of Southern California’s most emblematic beaches. Its vibrant atmosphere, beachfront bars like the Bungalow and Independence, alongside numerous oceanfront cafés and eateries, make it an essential destination. The iconic pier features a renowned Ferris wheel and hosts a free concert series in the fall, showcasing both emerging talents and established artists (notable past performers include Khalid, Lemaitre, Rufus du Sol, Borns, and Mavis Staples). Beachside parking is just $2 for a two-hour stay.

Huntington Beach

• Perfect for: Watching surfers and skaters—bring your dog along if you have one!

This continuous stretch of coastline is a paradise for surf and skate enthusiasts, featuring five beaches over a span of 10 miles. Huntington City Beach, home to the iconic pier, hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including skate competitions and the Vans U.S. Open of Surfing. Further south, Huntington State Beach features special events and festivals with performances from artists like Toby Keith and Blink-182.

For those new to surfing and eager to learn, Bolsa Chica State Beach offers gentler waves ideal for beginners. If you're bringing your furry friend, Huntington Dog Beach is the place to be, known for hosting a dog surfing competition and one of the largest corgi beach parties in the country. Main Street runs through the downtown area filled with restaurants, bars, and shops, leading directly to the Huntington City Beach pier.

La Jolla Cove

• Ideal for: Kayaking amidst a vibrant marine ecosystem

Situated within a marine reserve, San Diego’s La Jolla Cove teems with marine life, making it the perfect spot to spot sea turtles, dolphins, and seven-gill sharks. For the best views of these creatures, be sure to bring your scuba or snorkel gear, or rent equipment from one of the nearby beach shops. The stunning sapphire waters and dramatic cliffs create an atmosphere reminiscent of a Fijian paradise.

Michelle Konstantinovsky explored all the beaches from Glass Beach to Butterfly Beach, while Sarah Purkrabek covered those from El Matador to La Jolla Cove.