Imagine walking hand-in-hand on soft golden sand while the Pacific waves whisper beside you, the sky turning orange as the sun melts into the ocean. This is not a dream — this is the California coastline.
Do you enjoy spending your vacation on the beach with your loved one? If so, there’s no better place than the best beaches in California along the California coastline. Do you love surfing? If yes, then let me tell you that California is home to some of the world’s most famous surfing spots, which you absolutely must visit.
This beautiful Pacific coastline in the United States is the perfect place for romance and relaxation. In fact, the California coastline has become one of the best destinations for a romantic weekend getaway with your partner.
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Wondering which are the best beaches in California? If this question is on your mind, don’t worry — because I’m going to share some lesser-known information about the most beautiful beaches in California. So, read this article completely and decide which California beach you’d like to visit.
Before you choose a beach randomly, read this carefully — because each beach in California offers a completely different experience.
1) Santa Monica Beach: one of the best beaches in California
Location: Santa Monica, Los Angeles County
If you want to experience the true essence of classic California, Santa Monica Beach in Southern California is the perfect place for you. It is also considered one of the best beaches in California for its iconic pier and beautiful sunset views.Before you visit, keep in mind that the boardwalk here is usually very crowded, so expect large crowds during peak seasons and on weekends.
Some of California’s most famous piers are located here, and they’re definitely worth a visit (Santa Monica Pier Official Site). If you visit Santa Monica Beach, don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sunset with your loved one — it’s truly spectacular. In short, if you love natural beauty, you absolutely must visit Santa Monica Beach.
Why should you visit Santa Monica Beach?
- This beach is home to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll find a giant Ferris wheel. I strongly recommend that you and your family or partner take a ride on it to enjoy the beautiful and breathtaking view of Santa Monica Beach — one you’ve probably never seen before.
- A special highlight of this beach is the beautiful oceanfront promenade, where you can stroll hand-in-hand with your loved one while enjoying the stunning ocean views. You can also cycle along the promenade, which is a lot of fun.
- The fresh seafood served in the restaurants along Santa Monica Beach is incredibly delicious — don’t miss trying it!
- If you’re an early riser, make sure you don’t miss the amazing sunrise over this tranquil beach.
2) Zuma Beach, Malibu: Explore a Stunning California Beach
Location: Malibu, Los Angeles County
Would you like to spend a romantic weekend with your partner at one of the best beaches in California that offers a serene and romantic atmosphere? (Malibu Official Tourism) If so, Zuma Beach in Malibu is the perfect place for you. This beach is famous for its wide, sandy shoreline, and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore is truly soothing.
The rugged cliffs and coastal paths offer breathtaking views — no doubt about it. I would advise you not to visit Zuma Beach on weekends, as it becomes extremely crowded during weekends and holiday seasons. If you want to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of this beach, visit during the week when it’s less crowded.
Why you should visit this beach:
- If you are a surfing enthusiast, you must visit Zuma Beach.
- Do you enjoy bodyboarding? If so, you won’t find better waves for bodyboarding anywhere else.
- If you are planning a family vacation, this is the perfect place, as the stunning ocean views will amaze you.
- This is one of the best picnic spots in California — perfect for enjoying time with your family.
3) La Jolla Shores: A Family-Friendly Beach in California
Location: San Diego
Are you looking for a family-friendly beach in California?[best travel backpacks for women] La Jolla Shores is considered one of the best beaches in California for families, with lifeguard patrols. Playing in the soft sand with your family while watching the gentle waves is an experience you’ll never forget.
Why you should visit this beach:
- Do you love snorkelling? If so, this beach is a paradise for you! Snorkelling or scuba diving among the colourful fish and kelp forests is an unforgettable experience — I promise.
- If you’re visiting with your family and children, be sure to visit the nearby La Jolla Underwater Park. This protected marine sanctuary is home to a variety of fascinating marine life that your family will love.
- Do you enjoy kayaking? If so, kayaking through the sea caves here is an incredibly exciting experience.
- There are also various activities and playgrounds for your family to enjoy, ensuring everyone has a great time.
4) Coronado Beach: Romantic Beach Getaway in California
Location: Coronado Island, San Diego
Do you want to spend your romantic weekend at one of the best beaches in California that will add more romance to your relationship? If yes, then Coronado Beach, located on Coronado Island, is the perfect choice for you. The experience of kissing your partner while watching the calm waves of the ocean will be unforgettable.
Walking hand-in-hand on the soft sand of this beach will surely strengthen your bond — I promise! This beach is considered one of the best beaches in America (Coronado Beach Info). The Hotel del Coronado, located on this beach, is a historic and incredibly beautiful hotel where you should definitely stay to enjoy a romantic getaway with your partner. The ocean view from this hotel is truly breathtaking, without a doubt.
Why you should visit this beach:
- This beach is considered one of the best places for a romantic stroll hand-in-hand with your partner.
- Experience the serene atmosphere of the beach with your partner and enjoy some quality time together.
- Do you enjoy collecting seashells? If so, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so at this beach.
- Stay overnight at the historic Hotel del Coronado on this beach to experience a view of the ocean that you’ve probably never seen before.
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5) Huntington Beach: California’s Famous Surfing Beach
Location: Orange County
Do you love surfing? Huntington Beach is known as one of the best beaches in California for surfing enthusiasts. Playing with family or friends on the miles of golden sand at this beautiful beach is a truly delightful experience. Even on regular days, the beach is crowded, so I recommend avoiding weekends or holidays, as the overcrowding can prevent you from fully enjoying its beauty.
Surfers from all over the world come to this beach, which is famous throughout California for its waves (Huntington Beach Official). It’s so renowned for surfing that people even call it “America’s Surfing City.”
Why should you visit this beach?
- The sunset view from this beach is absolutely stunning, and it’s a delight to watch with your partner.
- Famous surfers from around the world come here to surf. If you enjoy watching or surfing yourself, you’ll have the chance to see and even meet world-famous surfers.
- The breakfast served at the beachside cafés is delicious and worth trying. The experience of enjoying breakfast with your family or friends while watching the ocean waves will be a lifelong memory.
- If you’re visiting with friends, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a sunset bonfire.
- You should also attend the annual beach festival — it’s a lot of fun. During this time, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the thrilling U.S. Open of Surfing, a truly unforgettable experience.
6) Carmel Beach: The Most Dog-Friendly Beach in California
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey Peninsula
Do you want to take your dog to one of the best beaches in California that’s known for being dog-friendly? If so, Carmel Beach in California is the perfect place for you and your furry friend. The soft golden sand stretching along the turquoise water makes it even more inviting.
Did you know that Carmel Beach is considered one of California’s most attractive and charming beaches? (Carmel-by-the-Sea Official) Most tourists visit not with their partners or families but with their dogs, as the environment here is exceptionally dog-friendly. There’s no doubt your dog will enjoy this beach just as much as you do.
Why should you visit this beach?
- You should visit this beach if you have a dog, as most visitors come here to walk and play with their pets.
- The sunset views from this beach are just as beautiful as any other along the California coast.
- The joy of playing with your dog on the soft sand will become a lifelong memory.
- If you’re visiting with your dog, don’t miss exploring the charming nearby town of Carmel-by-the-Sea — you’ll have a wonderful time there.
- If you’re planning a visit with your partner or family, bring a blanket, some wine, and snacks so you can relax and enjoy a picnic while watching the waves roll in.
- Don’t forget to enjoy a sunset bonfire on the beach — it’s an unforgettable experience.
