The 30 Best Beach trips in California

Montara State Beach, located at 8150 Cabrillo Highway in Montara, California, is a beautiful park popular for sunbathing, strolling, nature study, and surfing. The beach features high bluffs, a sandy shore, and stunning views of Montara Mountain. The park does not offer camping but is a great spot for a day trip. Nearby towns provide restaurants and grocery stores for convenience. The beach is dog-friendly, as long as pets are kept on a leash. Visitors are reminded not to collect shells or driftwood, and beach fires are not allowed. The park is also home to the Point Montara Lighthouse, which offers overnight accommodations through Hosteling International. McNee Ranch, part of the park, offers winding trails and coastal views. Permits are required for events and weddings, and a photography permit is needed for commercial photography. The park is supported by the Coastside State Parks Association and the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks. Visitors can join the mailing list to stay informed about events and activities at the park.

Rockaway Beach is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 100 Rockaway Beach Avenue in Pacifica, California. This stunning beach offers visitors a serene escape with its pristine sandy shores and breathtaking ocean views. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or catch some waves, Rockaway Beach has something for everyone. With its convenient location in the beautiful coastal town of Pacifica, Rockaway Beach is the perfect destination for a day of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Scott Creek County Beach is a picturesque tourist attraction located in Davenport, California, United States. This beautiful beach offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for beachgoers looking to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing on the sandy shores, exploring the tide pools, and even catching a glimpse of the local wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day by the water, Scott Creek County Beach is the perfect place to escape and enjoy the natural beauty of the California coast.

Lighthouse Field State Beach, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction. This area, also known as Point Santa Cruz, offers stunning views of Monterey Bay and is one of the last open headlands in any California urban area. Visitors can enjoy surfing, bird watching, and even spot sea lions on the offshore rocks. The park is also home to the rare Black Swift and wintering Monarch butterflies. One unique feature of Lighthouse Field State Beach is the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse on West Cliff Drive. This museum showcases over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz with photographs, surfboards, and other interesting items.

Four Mile Beach, located at 3810 Coast Road in Santa Cruz, California, is a natural feature offering visitors a chance to explore the stunning Santa Cruz coastline. With 7,000 acres of land, visitors can hike along more than 35 miles of trails, venture into the Santa Cruz Mountains, or walk along the coastal bluffs. The park features historic buildings from the late 1800s, including a Victorian home, a water-powered machine shop, and a rodeo arena. Visitors can also learn about California's early ranching history through guided tours on weekends. Although the Wilder Ranch Park Store is currently closed due to flooding, visitors can still enjoy the park and pay for parking fees using the Yodel app on their smartphones. The park is Crumb Clean, meaning visitors can help protect the endangered marbled murrelet bird that nests in the park. Various activities and events are offered at Four Mile Beach, including free public ranch tours on weekends, horseback riding, and camping.

Santa Maria Beach is a beautiful park located at 80 23rd Avenue in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This institution offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and sandy shores for visitors to enjoy. Whether you want to relax on the beach, go for a swim in the ocean, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, Santa Maria Beach is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. With its picturesque location and serene atmosphere, this park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Come and experience the natural beauty of Santa Maria Beach for yourself.

Del Monte Beach is a picturesque natural feature located in Monterey, California, United States. With its pristine sandy shores and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, this beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking. Del Monte Beach is also a great spot for watching the sunset or taking a leisurely stroll along the water's edge. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active in the water, Del Monte Beach offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Monterey State Beach, located in Monterey, California, United States, is a natural feature that offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The beach is a favorite spot for surfers, tidepool watchers, and fishermen. It is also popular among scuba divers, kayakers, kite-flyers, and volleyball players. The flat beach is perfect for walking or jogging. The beach is divided into three separate areas, approximately a mile apart, shared by the cities of Monterey and Seaside. The underwater area of the park is part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach from the Roberts parking lot south, but not from the Seaside parking lot north.

Malpaso Creek Beach is a picturesque and secluded stretch of coastline located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. With its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs, this beach offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, and exploring the tide pools along the shore. The beach is also a popular spot for surfers looking to catch some waves. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the ocean or an adventurous outdoor experience, Malpaso Creek Beach has something for everyone.

Palm Beach State Park, located at 2660 Beach Road in Watsonville, California, offers visitors the opportunity to reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance. California State Parks Backpacking Adventures also offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer. Sunset State Beach, within the park, features a peaceful campground under the pines, picnicking on the beach, and stunning views of Monterey Bay. A $10 vehicle day-use fee applies, with additional fees for bus parking. Alcohol is not permitted on the beach or in the day-use area, and dogs are not allowed on Sunset State Beach except for service animals. Drones are also prohibited in the park to protect wildlife and cultural resources. Visitors can arrange interpretive talks or guided experiences for organized community groups. Join the mailing list to stay updated on events and activities at the park. Funds to support educational programs and projects at the park are provided by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.

Seal Rock Creek Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located at 3105 17 Mile Drive in Del Monte Forest, California. This picturesque beach offers visitors a serene escape with its pristine sandy shores and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The highlight of Seal Rock Creek Beach is the opportunity to see adorable seals basking in the sun on the rocks along the shoreline. Whether you're looking to relax and soak up the sun or explore the tide pools teeming with marine life, Seal Rock Creek Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.

Fisherman's Beach is a charming and intimate beach located in San Luis Obispo, California. As the smallest of beaches in Avila and Port San Luis Harbor, it offers a peaceful retreat for couples and families looking to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing splash in the waves, play a leisurely game of Frisbee, or simply soak up the sun on the sandy shore. One of the highlights of Fisherman's Beach is the opportunity to use small, hand-carried gas or propane BBQs with on/off controls, perfect for a beachside picnic or sunset gathering. However, please note that dogs and alcohol are not permitted on the beach.

Jalama Beach County Park is a stunning coastal park located at 9999 Jalama Road in Lompoc, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a picturesque setting with sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking ocean views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, picnicking, and camping. The park also features amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a convenience store. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the beach or an adventurous camping trip, Jalama Beach County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Hammond's Beach is a picturesque natural feature located in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This stunning beach offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, soak up the sun, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean. Surrounded by lush coastal vegetation and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Hammond's Beach is the perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you're looking to unwind with a book or explore the tide pools, this idyllic beach has something for everyone to enjoy.

Little Corona del Mar Beach is a charming hidden gem located in Newport Beach, California. This picturesque tourist attraction is nestled along Buck Gully Drive and offers visitors a serene and secluded escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and stunning ocean views, Little Corona del Mar Beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea. Whether you're looking to sunbathe, swim, or simply take in the natural beauty of the surroundings, this beach is sure to impress. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this tranquil oasis on your next trip to Newport Beach.

San Onofre State Beach, located in San Clemente, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful sandy beaches, surf breaks, and diverse recreational activities. With almost 2.5 million visitors annually, it is one of the top five most-visited state parks in California. The beach offers camping facilities at the San Onofre Bluffs and San Mateo Campground, as well as day-use access to the famous surf break at San Onofre Surf Beach. Visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, sunbathing, camping, kayaking, bird-watching, fishing, and biking. The beach is also a great spot for whale, dolphin, and sea lion sightings. The park has three distinct areas: the San Onofre Bluffs, the San Mateo Campground, and the San Onofre Surf Beach.

Latigo Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located in Malibu, California, United States. This picturesque beach offers beautiful sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can relax on the beach, go for a swim, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Latigo Beach is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun while taking in the natural beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a fun day out with family and friends, Latigo Beach is a must-visit destination in Malibu.

Diver's Cove in Laguna Beach, California, USA, is a picturesque natural feature located along the stunning coastline of Laguna Beach. This popular spot is a favorite among divers and snorkelers, offering crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life to explore. The cove is surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're an experienced diver or just looking to relax on the beach, Diver's Cove is a must-visit destination in Southern California.

Precision Concrete Cutting is a general contractor located at 335 Beach Road in Burlingame, California, United States. Our main focus is on trip hazard and sidewalk repair, aiming to eliminate liability and ensure safe sidewalks for our clients. Our proven technique is efficient, effective, clean, and affordable, making us the best choice for fast and thorough trip hazard removal. Unlike grinders that may leave trip hazards in place, our patented technology allows us to fully remove uneven sidewalks, concrete paths, footpaths, and handicap access ramps. We guarantee satisfaction with our superior repairs, which are faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective than traditional methods.

MacKerricher Beach, located at 24100 MacKerricher Park Road in Fort Bragg, California, is a beautiful state park offering a variety of habitats including beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest, and wetland. Visitors can explore tide pools, spot seals along the coastline, and observe over 90 species of birds at Cleone Lake. The park is popular for activities such as hiking, jogging, horseback riding, and biking, with a wheelchair accessible nature trail available. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, subject to availability and park rules. The park is three miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1, near Cleone, and offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby headlands, making it a great spot for whale watching during winter and spring.

Sandholdt Beach is a picturesque and serene institution located in Castroville, California, United States. This beautiful beach offers visitors stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding and enjoying the sun. The soft sand and gentle waves make Sandholdt Beach an ideal spot for beachgoers looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the shore. With its tranquil surroundings and scenic vistas, Sandholdt Beach is the perfect destination for a day of fun and relaxation by the sea.

Sand Dollar Day Use Beach is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located along California 1 in Big Sur, California, United States. This stunning beach offers visitors the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. With its sandy shores, clear waters, and breathtaking views, Sand Dollar Day Use Beach is an ideal destination for a day of sun, surf, and fun. Whether you're looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply take in the natural beauty of the California coast, this beach has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem on your next trip to Big Sur.

Carpinteria City Beach is a stunning natural feature located in Carpinteria, California, United States. This beautiful beach offers visitors a picturesque setting with golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're looking to relax on the shore, take a leisurely stroll along the coastline, or enjoy water activities such as swimming and surfing, Carpinteria City Beach has something for everyone. With its convenient location and serene atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun on California's central coast.

Santa Claus Beach is a luxurious spa located in the beautiful coastal town of Carpinteria, California. Nestled along the stunning shores of the Pacific Ocean, this tranquil oasis offers a wide range of rejuvenating treatments and services to help you relax and unwind. From massages and facials to body wraps and scrubs, our expert therapists are dedicated to providing you with a truly indulgent experience. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or simply treat yourself to some pampering, Santa Claus Beach is the perfect destination for a blissful retreat. Come and experience the ultimate relaxation at our serene spa in Carpinteria.

Cleo Street Beach is a picturesque natural feature located in California, United States. This stunning beach offers pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the refreshing ocean, or explore the nearby coastal trails. Cleo Street Beach is the perfect destination for a peaceful day by the sea, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Carlsbad City Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline located at 3001 Ocean Street in Carlsbad, California, United States. This popular beach destination offers pristine sandy shores, sparkling blue waters, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and picnicking. The beach is also equipped with amenities such as restrooms, showers, and fire pits, making it the perfect spot for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun. Whether you're looking to catch some waves, explore tide pools, or simply unwind by the water, Carlsbad City Beach is the ideal place to soak up the beauty of the California coast.

Leo Carrillo State Beach, located at 35000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, is a stunning natural feature that offers visitors a variety of activities and amenities. With 1.5 miles of beach, visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing. The beach also features tidepools, coastal caves, and reefs for exploration. The park is named after Leo Carrillo, an actor, preservationist, and conservationist who played Pancho in the 1950s TV series "The Cisco Kid." Leo Carrillo State Beach offers camping options with same-day reservations available, as well as backcountry hiking and Junior Ranger programs during the summer.

Leo Carrillo State Beach is a stunning institution located in Malibu, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing along the 1.5 miles of beautiful beach. The beach also features tidepools, coastal caves, and reefs for exploration. Giant sycamores provide shade in the main campgrounds, and back-country hiking is available for outdoor enthusiasts. Named after actor, preservationist, and conservationist Leo Carrillo, the park offers Junior Ranger and campfire programs during the summer, as well as school field trips during the school year. Leo Carrillo State Beach is a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

MacKerricher Beach, located in Fort Bragg, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction offering a variety of habitats including beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest, and wetland. Visitors can explore tide pools, spot seals off the coastline, and observe over 90 species of birds near Cleone Lake. The park is also a great spot for whale watching during winter and spring. Hikers, joggers, equestrians, and bicyclists will enjoy the park's trails, including a wheelchair accessible nature trail. The park's unique history includes being part of the Mendocino Indian Reservation and the Union Lumber Company's timber and shipping operations. Accessibility improvements are ongoing, with facilities like a beach wheelchair available for use. Educational field trips are offered for school groups, and reservations can be made in advance. Visitors can also reserve campsites and lodging in advance. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes and wildlife at MacKerricher Beach.

Paradise Beach Park is a stunning waterfront park located at 3450 Paradise Drive in Tiburon, California. This picturesque park offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy picnicking on the grassy lawns, swimming in the calm waters, or simply relaxing on the sandy beach. The park also features walking trails, playgrounds, and barbecue areas, making it the perfect spot for a day of outdoor fun with family and friends. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun or take in the natural beauty of the Bay Area, Paradise Beach Park is the ideal location for a peaceful and enjoyable day by the water.