TOP 30 Best Sandy spots for picnics in California

Willow Creek Picnic Area and Beach is a charming park and tourist attraction located in Big Sur, California, United States. Nestled along the stunning coastline, this scenic spot offers visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking ocean views. Perfect for a relaxing picnic or a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, Willow Creek Picnic Area and Beach is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, enjoy a meal with loved ones, or simply unwind in a serene setting, this idyllic spot is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Vista Lago Beach and Picnic Area is a serene park located in Arroyo Grande, California, United States. This beautiful waterfront destination offers stunning views of the lake and a sandy beach perfect for relaxing or taking a refreshing swim. The park also features picnic areas with tables and grills, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a gathering with friends. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, enjoy a leisurely picnic, or simply unwind in nature, Vista Lago Beach and Picnic Area provides the perfect setting for a peaceful day outdoors.

Welcome to Crescent Beach Picnic Area, a serene and picturesque park nestled along the stunning coastline of Crescent City, California. Located at 3000 Bluff Rd, our park offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as you enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the waves. Crescent Beach Picnic Area provides well-maintained picnic tables and shaded areas, making it an ideal spot for gatherings, casual outings, or simply unwinding in nature's embrace. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach, explore the nearby tide pools, or watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues.

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.

Welcome to Point Reyes Beach North, a breathtaking natural feature located in the heart of California's stunning coastal landscape. Nestled within the Point Reyes National Seashore, this pristine beach offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Known for its expansive sandy shores and dramatic ocean views, Point Reyes Beach North is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're here to enjoy a peaceful walk along the shoreline, capture the perfect photograph of the sun setting over the Pacific, or simply bask in the tranquility of the surroundings, Point Reyes Beach North promises an unforgettable experience. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including harbor seals and a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife watchers.

Elk Head & College Cove Trailhead is a scenic park located in Trinidad, California, United States. This beautiful trailhead offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking. Visitors can explore the diverse landscape, including rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush forests. The park is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of northern California and is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Pebble Beach at Bean Hollow State Beach is a picturesque park located in Pescadero, California, United States. This stunning coastal destination offers visitors the chance to explore a beautiful stretch of beach scattered with smooth pebbles, perfect for beachcombing and enjoying the peaceful sound of the ocean waves. The park provides a serene setting for picnics, leisurely walks, and nature photography, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, watch for wildlife, or simply soak in the natural beauty of this hidden gem along the California coast. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or a place to connect with nature, Pebble Beach at Bean Hollow State Beach is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

Arroyo Laguna Beach is a stunning natural feature located in San Simeon, California, United States. This picturesque beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with golden sandy shores and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Visitors can also enjoy hiking along the rugged coastline, birdwatching, and picnicking in the peaceful surroundings. Arroyo Laguna Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of the California coast.

Dana Strands Beach is a picturesque park located in Dana Point, California, United States. This serene beachfront destination offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular spot for picnics, sunbathing, and leisurely walks along the sandy shore. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball at Dana Strands Beach. With its convenient location and beautiful surroundings, this park is the perfect place to relax and unwind by the sea.

Fletcher Cove Beach Park is a picturesque natural feature located in Solana Beach, California, United States. This stunning beach park offers visitors a peaceful retreat where they can relax and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. With its sandy shores, gentle waves, and scenic views, Fletcher Cove Beach Park is the perfect spot for picnics, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls along the shoreline. Whether you're looking to unwind with a book or take a refreshing dip in the ocean, Fletcher Cove Beach Park is the ideal destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

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.

Terramar Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline located in Carlsbad, California, United States. This picturesque institution offers visitors a serene and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views, Terramar Beach is the perfect destination for beach lovers and sun seekers alike. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take a leisurely stroll along the shore, or simply unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Terramar Beach has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem on the California coast.

Limantour Beach is a stunning natural feature located in the heart of California's scenic coastline, at the address California 94956, United States. Nestled within the Point Reyes National Seashore, this pristine beach offers visitors a serene escape with its expansive sandy shores and breathtaking ocean views. Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Limantour Beach provides opportunities for peaceful walks, birdwatching, and picnics against the backdrop of rolling dunes and gentle waves. Whether you're looking to relax by the sea, explore the diverse wildlife, or enjoy a peaceful day with family and friends, Limantour Beach is a must-visit destination that captures the beauty and tranquility of the California coast.

Welcome to Seabright Beach, a scenic coastal park located at 21 East Cliff Drive in the beautiful city of Santa Cruz, California. Nestled along the stunning Monterey Bay, Seabright Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational fun for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking to relax under the sun, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, our beach provides the ideal setting for a memorable day out. Seabright Beach is renowned for its expansive sandy shores, gentle waves, and breathtaking views, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The beach is easily accessible and offers ample parking, ensuring a hassle-free visit. Enjoy beachcombing, building sandcastles, or simply soaking up the sun in this tranquil oasis.

Welcome to Camp Pendleton Beach, a serene coastal park located in the heart of Oceanside, California. Nestled within the picturesque landscape of Camp Pendleton, our beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy a pristine stretch of sandy shoreline, where the gentle waves of the Pacific Ocean create a soothing backdrop for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Whether you're looking to unwind with a good book, build sandcastles with the family, or take a refreshing swim, Camp Pendleton Beach provides the perfect setting for all your favorite seaside activities.

Tilden Regional Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 2501 Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Orinda, California, United States. The park is open daily from 5am to 10pm, offering a range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. From picnicking and swimming at Lake Anza to exploring the Botanic Garden and riding the carousel at the Merry-Go-Round, Tilden Park has something for everyone. The park spans over 2,000 acres and provides plenty of opportunities to experience nature and wildlife. Named after Charles Lee Tilden, the park features various facilities such as the Environmental Education Center, Little Farm, and the Steam Trains. The park is easily accessible from different entrances off Wildcat Canyon Road and Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Berkeley. Visitors can also enjoy wheelchair-accessible attractions such as the Steam Train, Merry-Go-Round, and the Botanic Garden.

Lovers Point Park is a stunning waterfront park located at 631 Ocean View Boulevard in Pacific Grove, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a favorite spot for couples and families alike. Visitors can enjoy picnicking on the grassy lawns, strolling along the scenic walking paths, or taking a dip in the calm waters of the bay. The park also features a sandy beach, playgrounds, and barbecue areas, making it the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and fun by the sea.

Treasure Island Park is a stunning coastal park located in Laguna Beach, California. Situated along the iconic Coast Highway, this park is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and towering cliffs. Visitors can enjoy picnicking on the grassy areas, exploring the tide pools, or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches. The park's unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters make it a photographer's paradise. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a scenic spot to watch the sunset, Treasure Island Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.

Fletcher Cove Beach Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 111 South Sierra Avenue in Solana Beach, California, United States. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect spot for picnics, sunbathing, and enjoying the ocean breeze. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach or explore the nearby shops and restaurants. With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Fletcher Cove Beach Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.

Sonoma Coast State Park, located in Bodega Bay, California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for its long sandy beaches, rugged coastline, natural arches, and secluded coves. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beachcombing, fishing, picnicking, and tide pooling at various beaches within the park. The park spans 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Dogs are allowed on specified beaches within the park, while equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through designated areas. Campsites and lodging can be reserved up to six months in advance, and day use areas are open to the public. Facilities such as bathrooms and picnic tables are available at most locations.

Asilomar State Beach, located on Sunset Drive in Pacific Grove, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the rocky coastline and sandy beach. Dogs are allowed on the beach, trails, and conference grounds, but not in conference buildings. The beach does not have camping facilities, but there are lodges on-site for overnight stays. Asilomar State Beach is part of the Asilomar Marine Reserve, where marine animals and features are protected. The Asilomar Coast Trail provides access to the rocky coastline and pocket beaches for visitors to explore. Restrooms are available at the Phoebe Hearst Social Hall, and parking is provided along Sunset Drive. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and bonfires are not allowed on the beach. Camping is not permitted at Asilomar State Beach, but there are nearby campgrounds in Big Sur and Santa Cruz.

Cable Car Beach is a popular tourist attraction located in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is known for its iconic cable car that runs along the beach. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking on the sandy shores, or take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk. The beach is also a great spot for surfing and other water sports. With its picturesque setting and relaxed atmosphere, Cable Car Beach is the perfect destination for a fun day out by the sea.

Moonstone Beach County Park is a picturesque park located in Trinidad, California, United States. This stunning coastal destination is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and its abundance of moonstones scattered along the shoreline. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the sandy beach, explore tide pools, and watch the sunset over the ocean. The park is a perfect spot for picnics, beachcombing, and relaxation amidst the natural beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking to unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere or simply take in the stunning scenery, Moonstone Beach County Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Salmon Creek State Beach is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located along California 1 in Bodega Bay, California, United States. This stunning beach offers visitors a serene escape with its sandy shores, rolling waves, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is perfect for picnicking, sunbathing, beachcombing, and even surfing. With its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Salmon Creek State Beach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Bean Hollow State Beach is a beautiful park located on New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California. This park offers a one mile stretch of San Mateo Coast shoreline with two parking lots: Pebble Beach and Bean Hollow Beach. Pebble Beach is known for its rounded, ocean-polished rocks, while Bean Hollow Beach features a small sandy cove and rocky tide pools. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, picnicking, and beachcombing, but collecting of any kind is prohibited. The park also offers the Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail, which connects the two beaches and features interpretive panels for a self-guided tour. Swimming is not recommended at this beach due to cold water, rip currents, and heavy surf. Dogs are allowed on leashes, but beach fires, collecting, fireworks, and drones are not permitted. Camping is not available at this park, but nearby state park campgrounds include Half Moon Bay State Beach and Butano State Park.

Strawberry Beach, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction. With its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and sandy shores, Strawberry Beach is the perfect destination for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, swimming, surfing, and beachcombing in this beautiful coastal setting. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, Strawberry Beach offers a little slice of paradise in the heart of California.

Morro Bay Dog Beach is a picturesque park located in Cayucos, California, United States. This institution is a haven for canine companions and their owners to enjoy a day of fun in the sun. With its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, the Morro Bay Dog Beach is the perfect spot for dogs to run, play, and swim to their hearts' content. Visitors can relax and soak up the beautiful coastal views while their furry friends frolic in the waves. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, Morro Bay Dog Beach is a must-visit destination for any dog lover.

Soter's Point - Marina Park is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 2950 Pierpont Boulevard in Ventura, California, United States. This waterfront park offers stunning views of the marina and is the perfect spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. With its lush greenery, sandy beaches, and convenient amenities, Soter's Point - Marina Park is a must-visit destination for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the surrounding area, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

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.

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.