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California is home to stunning beaches that are perfect for fun, relaxation, and everything in between. Some of the best beaches in California have golden sands, rocky cliffs, and so much to discover. Whether you’re spending time with family, taking a solo break, or just craving some peace by the water, these beaches have it all. You can ride the waves, go for a walk, or just sit back and enjoy the ocean. Every beach has its own vibe, making it a place to relax, recharge, and create moments you’ll never forget.
Top 10 Beaches In California
California’s beaches are iconic and diverse which offers amazing landscapes and memorable experiences. Here’s a list of the top 10 beaches in California:
1. Santa Monica Beach
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons
Santa Monica Beach is one of the best beaches in California, blending fun, relaxation, and a touch of nostalgia. The wide sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, or taking a leisurely walk by the water. The iconic Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement park and Ferris wheel, offers incredible views and plenty of entertainment in this place. Cyclists love the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, while the nearby Third Street Promenade is a great spot for shopping and dining.
Things To Do: Stroll on the pier, biking, swimming
Location: Santa Monica, California
How To Reach: Easily accessible by car or public transportation from Los Angeles
2. Venice Beach
Photo: ogwen / Wikimedia Commons
Venice Beach is a famous beach in California, buzzing with energy and creativity. The boardwalk is always alive with street performers, local artists, and unique shops that make for a one-of-a-kind experience. The golden sands invite you to relax, while the Venice Skatepark and Muscle Beach gym offer exciting activities for fitness enthusiasts and skaters. If you’re craving some quiet time, a walk through the Venice Canals is a peaceful escape. Venice Beach combines ocean views, a vibrant atmosphere, and an artistic vibe that travellers won’t forget.
Things To Do: Visit the boardwalk, skate park, Muscle Beach gym
Location: Venice, California
How To Reach: Accessible by car or public transit from Los Angeles
3. Malibu’s Zuma Beach
Photo: Gurong Shen / Wikimedia Commons
Zuma Beach in Malibu is one of the best beaches in California, offering clean waters, soft sands, and a relaxed vibe. Surfers head here for its consistent waves, while families love the spacious shorelines and lifeguard-patrolled waters, making it safe for kids. Whether you’re playing volleyball, enjoying a picnic, or just sitting back to listen to the waves, Zuma Beach is the perfect spot to unwind. The nearby food trucks make grabbing a snack easy, and the surrounding Malibu hills add to the breathtaking scenery.
Things To Do: Surfing, sunbathing, beach volleyball
Location: Malibu, California
How To Reach: By car via the Pacific Coast Highway
4. Laguna Beach
Photo:Don Ramey Logan / Wikimedia Commons
Laguna Beach is a famous beach in California, which is known for its quiet charm and artistic vibe. The tide pools are popular with families and nature lovers, giving them a chance to see marine life up close. Heisler Park is perfect for a scenic walk, with trails and overlooks that showcase beautiful ocean views. The town itself is full of art galleries, local boutiques, and cosy cafes that give it a unique character.
Things To Do: Explore tide pools, hiking, visit art galleries
Location: Laguna Beach, California
How To Reach: By car from Los Angeles or San Diego
5. Coronado Beach
Photo: Antony-22 / Wikimedia Commons
Coronado Beach is one of the best beaches in California, offering a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful, soft sands. This beach is located near the historic Hotel del Coronado, and is a favourite spot for families, thanks to its gentle waves and flat terrain. The visitors can swim, enjoy a picnic, or simply take a relaxing stroll along the shore. There is also Coronado Village located nearby, which is perfect for exploring shops and grabbing a bite to eat after spending a day at the beach.
Things To Do: Swimming, picnicking, beachcombing
Location: Coronado, California
How To Reach: Accessible by car via the Coronado Bridge from San Diego
6. Pfeiffer Beach
Photo: Robert Brett / Wikimedia Commons
Pfeiffer Beach is a popular tourist destination located in Big Sur.Its purple sands and dramatic rock formations make it a favourite for photographers and anyone who loves unique, natural beauty. The sunsets here are magical, with golden light spilling across the rugged coastline. While the waves are too strong for swimming, it’s perfect for a peaceful walk or simply taking in the view.
Things To Do: Photography, sunset viewing, exploring rock formations
Location: Big Sur, California
How To Reach: By car via Highway 1, followed by a short hike
7. Huntington Beach
Photo: DHN / Wikimedia Commons
Huntington Beach, is also known as “Surf City, USA,” and it captures everything fun about California beach life. Surfers love the consistent waves, while the sandy shores are great for volleyball or just soaking up the sun. The iconic Huntington Beach Pier is a perfect spot for fishing and offers some of the best ocean views. There is also a downtown area nearby which is buzzing with life, full of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Things To Do: Surfing, dining at the pier, beach volleyball
Location: Huntington Beach, California
How To Reach: By car from Los Angeles or Orange County
8. El Matador Beach
Photo: Steven Lek / Wikimedia Commons
El Matador Beach is a very famous beach located in Malibu. With its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and peaceful coves, it is a great spot for couples and photographers. The tide pools and rock formations invite exploration, while the sunsets create unforgettable moments. The steep hike to reach the beach is a bit of a challenge, but the breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere make it worth every step.
Things To Do: Photography, tide pooling, romantic walks
Location: Malibu, California
How To Reach: By car via the Pacific Coast Highway
9. Monterey’s Carmel Beach
Photo: njbateman526 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Monterey’s Carmel Beach, in the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, is a quiet and peaceful spot. The soft, white sand and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean make it stand out from other beaches of California. It is a less crowded place, which gives it a calm and relaxing feel. You can take a stroll along the shore, enjoy the sunset, or just sit back and admire the scenery. Carmel Beach is a perfect place to escape the busy world and enjoy some quiet time by the ocean.
Things To Do: Dog walking, picnicking, sunset viewing
Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
How To Reach: Accessible by car from Monterey or San Francisco
10. Manhattan Beach
Photo: Pedro Szekely / Wikimedia Commons
Manhattan Beach brings together the best of beach fun and city energy. The sandy shores are perfect for relaxing or enjoying a game of volleyball, while the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier offers stunning ocean views and a peaceful spot for fishing. The lively downtown area nearby is packed with trendy shops, coffee spots, and restaurants, making it a hub for both locals and visitors.
Things To Do: Beach volleyball, fishing, shopping downtown
Location: Manhattan Beach, California
How To Reach: By car or public transportation from Los Angeles
The beaches in California offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, exciting activities, and peaceful getaways, making them a must-visit for all kinds of travellers. Whether you’re drawn to the lively vibe of Huntington Beach or the quiet serenity of Carmel Beach, there’s a spot waiting for you. Start planning your next coastal escape today with TripXL and explore the very best of California’s breathtaking beaches.
Cover Photo: Cédric Dhaenens / Unsplash
