The 30 Best California coastal hiking trails in California

Gaviota Peak Trailhead is a popular starting point for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the scenic trails of Gaviota Park in Goleta, California. Located at the park boundary, this institution offers easy access to a variety of hiking and biking trails that wind through the beautiful coastal landscape of the area. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Gaviota Peak Trailhead has something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque park setting.

One Thousand Steps is a stunning natural feature located in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This unique landmark consists of a series of beautifully crafted stone steps that wind their way down a steep cliffside to a secluded beach below. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastline as they make their way down the one thousand steps. This hidden gem offers a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, making it the perfect spot for a quiet retreat or a scenic hike. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking for a peaceful place to unwind, One Thousand Steps is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Will Rogers State Beach is a popular tourist attraction located in Los Angeles, California. Situated at 17000 California 1, this picturesque beach offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a favorite spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. Named after the famous actor and humorist, Will Rogers, this beach is known for its wide sandy shores and gentle waves, making it a great destination for families and beachgoers of all ages. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, surfing, and biking along the nearby Marvin Braude Bike Trail. With its beautiful scenery and range of recreational activities, Will Rogers State Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Southern California's coastline.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, located at 12600 North Torrey Pines Road in California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for its unique natural beauty. The reserve is home to the rare Pinus torreyana pine tree, found only in this area and on Santa Rosa Island. Visitors can explore trails through wind-sculpted pines, high cliffs, and deep ravines overlooking the ocean. The reserve also boasts one of the last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in Southern California. The picturesque visitor center, housed in a pueblo-style building, offers interpretive displays for guests to learn more about the park's rich plant community and wildlife. Picnicking and camping are not allowed in the reserve, but visitors can enjoy the nearby Torrey Pines State Beach accessible by trail. The park's popularity means that parking can be a challenge, especially during peak hours, so it is recommended to plan visits accordingly. Admission fees range from $12-$25 per vehicle, and camping is not permitted. Gates open at 7:15 am and close at sunset, with the visitor center opening daily at 9:00 am. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse plant and animal life, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Rockpile Beach is a stunning park located at 375 Cliff Drive in Laguna Beach, California. This picturesque beach offers visitors a tranquil and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Rockpile Beach is the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a leisurely picnic. Whether you're looking to unwind with a book in hand or take a refreshing dip in the ocean, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty of Rockpile Beach for yourself!

Shaws Cove is a picturesque natural feature located in California, United States. This secluded cove boasts crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning rock formations, making it a popular destination for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in this tranquil and scenic setting. Shaws Cove is the perfect place to relax and unwind while taking in the beauty of the California coastline.

Crescent Bay Beach is a stunning park located on Crescent Bay Drive in Laguna Beach, California. This beautiful beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the sandy shores, taking a dip in the crystal clear waters, or exploring the tide pools and rock formations. Crescent Bay Beach is the perfect spot for a day of sun, sand, and sea in the picturesque coastal town of Laguna Beach.

South Strand Conservation Park is a serene and picturesque park located in Dana Point, California. This beautiful park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with stunning views of the South Strand coastline. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the trails, birdwatching, and picnicking amidst the natural beauty of the park. The park is dedicated to preserving and protecting the local environment, making it a great place for nature lovers to explore and appreciate the diverse wildlife and flora of the area. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out in nature or a place to connect with the outdoors, South Strand Conservation Park is the perfect destination.

Leo Carrillo State Park, located at 35000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Dogs are welcome in day-use areas, the campground, and North Beach, but are not allowed on backcountry trails or South Beach. Visitors can make same-day reservations for campsites and lodging, with bookings available based on availability and the Park's maximum stay rules. The park features 1.5 miles of beach for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing, as well as tidepools, coastal caves, and reefs to explore. Giant sycamores provide shade in the main campgrounds, and back-country hiking is also available. Junior Rangers and campfire programs are offered in the summer, while school field trips are available during the school year.

Baker Beach, located at 1300 Scenic Drive in Trinidad, California, is a beloved institution dedicated to providing public access to the stunning Trinidad coast while also preserving its natural beauty. From Little River to Big Lagoon, visitors can enjoy the picturesque views and pristine beaches that make this stretch of the Humboldt County Coast so special. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or simply soak in the breathtaking scenery, Baker Beach offers a peaceful and idyllic retreat for all to enjoy.

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.

Stinson Beach - National Park Service is a picturesque coastal park located on California 1 in Stinson Beach, California. This institution is managed by the National Park Service and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area, including sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and stunning ocean views. The park provides a range of recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, Stinson Beach - National Park Service is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the California coast.

Pescadero Rockside is a scenic park located in Pescadero, California, United States. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the rocky coastline and the Pacific Ocean, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the rugged cliffs, picnicking on the grassy meadows, or simply relaxing and taking in the breathtaking surroundings. Pescadero Rockside is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse oneself in the peaceful and natural beauty of the California coast.

Rincon Point is a stunning natural feature located at 172 Rincon Point Road in Carpinteria, California, United States. This picturesque spot offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers alike. With its pristine sandy beaches and rugged coastline, Rincon Point is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking to catch some waves or simply relax and take in the scenery, Rincon Point is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Sacred Cove Beach is a hidden gem located along the Sacred Cove View Trail in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. This serene park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect spot for a peaceful retreat or a leisurely stroll along the coastline. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, explore the tide pools, or simply take in the beauty of the surrounding cliffs and sea caves. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, Sacred Cove Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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.

Rodeo Beach is a picturesque park located at 11050 Mitchell Road in Mill Valley, California. This stunning beach offers visitors a unique blend of rugged cliffs, sandy shores, and crashing waves, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, go for a swim, or explore the surrounding hiking trails, Rodeo Beach has something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the distance. Plan your visit to Rodeo Beach for a day of fun and relaxation in the beautiful California sunshine.

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.

Dan Blocker Beach, located in Malibu, California, is a popular tourist attraction along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway. Named after the actor known for his role as "Hoss" Cartwright on the television show Bonanza, this beach offers visitors a picturesque setting for relaxing and enjoying the sun and surf. With its sandy shores and clear blue waters, Dan Blocker Beach is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Whether you're looking to unwind with a book or take a refreshing dip in the ocean, this beach is the ideal destination for a day of fun in the California sun.

Abalone Cove Shoreline Park, located at 5970 Palos Verdes Drive South in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, is a beautiful coastal park with two beaches, tidepools, bluff top viewing areas, and hiking trails. The park is home to a State Ecological Preserve where protected animals and marine life are off-limits. Visitors can access the park through a parking lot off Palos Verdes Drive South, with a long trail leading to Abalone Cove Beach. To reach Sacred Cove, visitors can walk along Palos Verdes Drive South to one of two trails between Portuguese and Inspiration Points. Lifeguards are present at Abalone Cove Beach during summer hours and weekends. The park offers stunning views of the ocean and Catalina Island, but barbeques and fires are not allowed. Dogs are not permitted on the beach, but on-leash dogs are allowed in the upper picnic area and on designated trails.

Clam Beach County Park is a beautiful coastal park located on Clam Beach Drive in McKinleyville, California. Just 7 1/2 miles north of Arcata, this park is easily accessible off Highway 101 (exit Clam Beach Park off-ramp). With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs, Clam Beach County Park is a popular destination for picnicking, beachcombing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Northern California coast. Visitors can explore the tide pools, watch for whales and seabirds, or simply relax and soak up the sun. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an outdoor adventure, Clam Beach County Park offers something for everyone.

Wilson Creek Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located in Klamath, California, United States. This picturesque beach offers visitors a peaceful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its pristine sandy shores and crystal clear waters, Wilson Creek Beach is the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and birdwatching while taking in the beautiful coastal scenery. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the ocean or a fun-filled beach adventure, Wilson Creek Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

Mad River Beach is a stunning natural feature located at 40 California 124 in Ione, California, United States. This picturesque beach offers breathtaking views of the Mad River and surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a day of relaxation, sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking in this tranquil setting. The beach is a popular spot for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and connect with the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or a fun day out with family and friends, Mad River Beach is the perfect destination for a memorable experience.

Myrtle Beach is a picturesque park located on Willow Street in Crescent City, California, United States. This beautiful institution offers a serene setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With its sandy shores, gentle waves, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Myrtle Beach is the perfect destination for a day of sunbathing, picnicking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun day out with family and friends, Myrtle Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Clam Beach County Campground is a picturesque campground located at Clam Beach Drive in McKinleyville, California, United States. Situated just 7 1/2 miles north of Arcata, near McKinleyville, this campground offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With easy access from HWY 101 (exit Clam Beach Park off-ramp), guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as camping, lodging, and exploring the surrounding park. Whether you're looking to relax by the beach, go for a hike, or simply unwind in nature, Clam Beach County Campground is the perfect destination for a memorable outdoor experience.

Centerville Beach County Park is a stunning natural feature located on Centerville Road in Ferndale, California, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a picturesque setting with sandy shores, rolling waves, and breathtaking ocean views. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, sunbathing, picnicking, or beachcombing, Centerville Beach County Park is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the natural beauty of the California coast, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Russian Gulch Beach Parking is a convenient parking area located in Mendocino, California, United States. This tourist attraction provides easy access to the stunning Russian Gulch Beach, known for its picturesque cliffs, sandy shores, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can enjoy a day of sunbathing, swimming, hiking, and picnicking in this beautiful natural setting. With ample parking spaces available, Russian Gulch Beach Parking is the perfect starting point for a memorable day at the beach.

Manchester State Park is a beautiful coastal park located at 44500 Kinney Road in Manchester, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including camping, hiking, and beachcombing. Dogs are allowed in the campground, but not on the beach or trails. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, based on availability and the park's maximum stay rules. The park features nearly 18,000 feet of ocean frontage, with a gently curving beach line that collects driftwood.

Spring Ranch Nature Preserve is a peaceful and picturesque park located in Little River, California, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with lush forests, meandering streams, and stunning coastal views. The park is a haven for wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring the many trails that wind through the preserve. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a fun day out in nature, Spring Ranch Nature Preserve is the perfect destination.