Be it sunbathing, surfing, or hiking, there’s something for everyone at these California beaches.
Explore our favorites below to find out which California beach is right for you.
If you want to spend a few days exploring the quaint downtown, the upscaleStilwell Hotelis an excellent option.
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Since its 1907 opening, the boardwalk has transformed into one of the best-known seaside amusement parks in California.
Or, for the full California experience, show off your surfing skills.
Seasonal Wellness Weekends bring an extra level of zen to this already chill spot.
Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images
During low tide, large rock-like balls sit on top of the sand in near-perfect rows.
After your day at the beach, head north a few miles to the quaint town of Point Arena.
Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur
ThisBig Surbeach is regularly mentioned as one of California’s best.
Getty Images/Flickr RF
When you’re ready for a meal, head toNepentheto enjoy the cliffside coastal views from the terrace.
Parking is limited to metered spots along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Trinidad is full of charming bed-and-breakfasts if you want to stay for a few nights.
Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure
Riding the pier’s famous roller coaster is a must-do after a long day at the beach.
Hop aboard as the sun descends into the Pacific for an epic view from the top of the tracks.
The luxury bungalows at theFairmont Miramarcome with private patios, and the hotel rents out beach cruisers to guests.
Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure
The shore is as smooth as they come, and the water is ideal for both surfing and swimming.
Coronado is a “tied island,” connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of beach.
Getting there from San Diego is easy via the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, or hop aboard a ferry.
Rebecca Stunell/Alamy Stock Photo
This practice was stopped in the 1960s.
Signs ask visitors not to take the glass to preserve it for future visitors.
Both beaches are lined with palm trees and are perfect options for a lazy day any time of year.
Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure
There’s a lovely trail along the cliffs that connects to the beach.
Just be aware that clothing-optional sunbathers frequently congregate on the northernmost portion of the beach.
If you want to stay overnight, check out theCrystal Pier Hotel and Cottages.
Getty Images
These uber-popular accommodations are located on Crystal Pier, which jets out over the beach into the Pacific Ocean.
Go to sleep to the sound of crashing waves and enjoy your morning coffee on your private deck.
But the fun isnt just on the shore.
Getty Images/iStockphoto
Scuba dive beneath the waves to explore theMonterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Or, take to the sky for some paragliding, which is also popular at this location.
If you want to stay right on the beach, book a room at theMonterey Beach Hotel.
Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure
Listen to live music and the waves crashing nearby as you enjoy a drink around one of the firepits.
For the best clam chowder in town,Splash Cafeis your spot.
For shopping and outdoor dining, head to the horseshoe-shapedRedondo Beach Pier.
Westend61 / Getty Images
TheSeaside Lagoonis a fun option if you’re visiting Redondo Beach in the summer.
This enclosed saltwater pool has small waterslides and no waves, perfect for little swimmers.
There’s a fee to enter the lagoon area, which helps to prevent overcrowding.
Getty Images
The beach is more rocky than sandy, so water shoes are recommended.
We suggest traipsing down to the mile-long crescent known as La Jolla Shores.
Monthly free public tours are available, but must be reserved well in advance.
Getty Images/Moment RM
Keep the beach party going once the sun has set with a summer bonfire.
They’re big enough to share and perfect for a beachside picnic.
Check in toThe Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bayor theSeal Cove Inn, both just a stones throw from the beach.
Getty Images
The area is great to explore on a bike, which you might rent fromRedwood Rides.
When you’ve worked up an appetite, theHouse of Jambalayais a local favorite.
Amanda Blackard/Travel + Leisure
Getty Images/iStockphoto
Melissa Zink/Travel + Leisure
Kelly Griffin/Travel + Leisure
Getty Images
LifeImagesbyGloria/Getty Images
swalls/Getty Images
Jose Amaral Jr/Getty Images
Matthew Micah Wright/Getty Images
Ryan Szot/EyeEm/Getty Images
Erica Davis/Getty Images
Bhanu Krishnamurthy / Getty Images
