Summer is almost here and the beach is calling! If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, Southern California has no shortage of gorgeous beaches. The region’s coastal beauty and warm climate draw many visitors to “The Golden State.” Here’s a list of its Top 10 Beaches including some famous tourist hot spots as well as best-kept secrets.
1. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, Malibu
The upscale oceanside city of Malibu has miles of pristine beaches, which is probably why so many celebrities and other wealthy people choose to build their houses along its shore. Malibu Lagoon State Beach, also called Malibu’s Surfrider Beach, is located where Malibu Creek enters the Pacific Ocean. It’s an extremely popular surfing beach and was designated as the first World Surfing Reserve Site in 2010. In addition to an amazing beach, the 110-acre site bordered by the Santa Monica Mountains also features wetlands, gardens, a picnic area, the Historic Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum.
While in Malibu, experience paragliding from the mountains to the beach with a professional instructor. Or, enjoy a two-hour tour of the stars’ homes and famous filming locations starting at Santa Monica Pier.
2. La Jolla Cove, San Diego
The stunning beach in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego has towering cliffs, an amazing cover and many resident seals. Sea lions relax on rocks and harbor seals nap on the nearby Children’s Beach. Be sure to check out La Jolla Cove—dubbed “The Most Photographed Beach in San Diego” and “The Jewel of San Diego.” Surfing and bodyboarding is not permitted in the cove’s ecologically-protected ocean waters but it is an ideal location for soaking up some sun and enjoying amazing views.
If you’re short on time, try a guided day tour from San Diego that starts in La Jolla before heading to Coronado Island and Old Town San Diego. There are also tours available from Los Angeles. Or, take a day trip to San Diego’s top beaches before heading to Torry Pines, a favorite golf destination for many pro golfers.
3. Huntington State Beach, Huntington Beach
This 3.5-mile long beach is one of the most famous Orange County beaches. Huntington Beach is one of California’s best beaches to surf and the city’s nicknames include “Surf City” and “The Surfing Capital of the World.” The beach hosts many surfing competitions throughout the year including the U.S. Open of Pro Surfing.
4. Coronado Beach, Coronado Island
The Coronado Island 1.5-mile long beach earned the top honor as “The Best Beach in America” by Dr. Beach, also known as coastal research expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman. With the breathtaking background of the Hotel Del Coronado, Coronado Beach often makes the list of The Travel Channel’s best beaches. Coronado Island is located a short ferry ride away from San Diego. You can also get here on a guided day trip that will take you to the island’s most famous sites.
5. Santa Monica State Beach, Santa Monica
Recognized around the world by its famous pier featuring Pacific Park, this beach located in the City of Santa Monica is a major tourist attraction. Santa Monica State Beach runs three miles along Pacific Coast Highway and was the original location of Muscle Beach. The state beach has a picnic area, beach volleyball nets and basketball courts. It’s also a great destination for a variety of fun excursions or joining a guided bicycle tour. Santa Monica is also home to many top restaurants. Try a walking tour that will take you some of the most delicious eateries along Main Street. Just a short walk from the beach, Third Street Promenade offers world-class shopping on a fun, pedestrian-only street.
6. Descanso Beach, Catalina Island
The tranquil beach located in Avalon on Catalina Island is the perfect spot to get away from it all and relax by the crystal blue waters. Descanso Beach Club provides dining options, restrooms, outdoor showers, cabana rentals and other services. Catalina Island is just a short boat ride from the Southern California coast!
7. Venice Beach, Los Angeles
One of the most well-known beaches in Los Angeles is bordered by the Ocean Front Walk lined with a unique group of eclectic individuals such as street performers, magicians, snake charmers, artists and bodybuilders. Aside from the boardwalk attractions, the beach is quite beautiful and its breakwater makes it popular with surfers. Located just south of Santa Monica, it’s a great destination to combine on a day trip to Santa Monica. Experience cycling tour that includes both iconic beaches. Or, visit Venice Beach as apart of a 48-hour hop-on hop-off tour of Los Angeles.
8. East Beach, Santa Barbara
The gorgeous stretch of sand is one of Santa Barbara’s most popular beaches and is known for volleyball being the site of many tournaments. East Beach is lined with the amazing Spanish Colonial style architecture that makes Santa Barbara so special. Its amenenities include a park, bathhouse, restaurant and restrooms. Stearn’s Wharf separates East Beach and West Beach.
Experience Santa Barbara from the water on a variety of coastal day cruises that include everything from live music to tasting the region’s renowned wines.
9. El Matador Beach, Malibu
A photographer’s dream, this rocky beach located in Malibu has stunning scenery with its extraordinary rock formations, large crashing waves and clear waters. El Matador Beach is more secluded and peaceful than most Southern California beaches giving visitors the opportunity to bask in its infinate beauty! The beach is part of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach along Pacific Coast Highway.
10. Victoria Beach, Laguna Beach
This beach like the Orange County city that it’s located is artistic and unique with white sand, turquoise waters and a one-of-a-kind Victorian tower. Victoria Beach’s beauty makes up for its remoteness and lack of parking or amenities. The beach does have volleyball courts and lifeguards. Its famous turret was built by a homeowner in 1926 to gain access to the beach.
Tourists should note that the beaches will be crowded and parking can be limited so it’s best to arrive at the beach early in the day. Also, wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water!
While its beaches are pretty amazing, the allure of Southern California doesn’t stop there. From its famous amusement parks and historic Hollywood sites to delicious dining and world-class shopping, there’s no shortage of fun. For more Southern California trip ideas, click here.
Great list! I love Coronado beach. It’s one of the most picturesque beaches in the country. And, during low tides, you can explore the marine life in the tide pools that are created.
Really interesting read! All the beaches mentioned by you are amazing. Another great beach in California is the Rodeo Beach. It has great short and long hikes, and perfect water for surfing.