The ultimate guide to the 7 best beaches in California

California's coastline is home to some of the best beaches, with diverse terrains, amenities, and experiences for all types of beachgoers. Families love spending the day on the sandy shores of Main Beach before heading to the legendary Santa Cruz Boardwalk that abuts the beach.

The clear waters beneath the cliffs at La Jolla Cove are optimal for snorkeling. The purple sand shore and massive stone keyhole arch at Pfeiffer Beach astound nature lovers, while nude bathers fancy the views of the Sierra Nevada mountains at Secret Cove Beach. Whatever your preferences, this is your guide to California's best beaches.

Choosing the best beach in California

Best beach for families: Main Beach, Santa Cruz

Most beautiful beach: La Jolla Cove, San Diego

Best beach for swimming and snorkeling: La Jolla Cove, San Diego

Clothing-optional beach: Secret Cove Beach, near Lake Tahoe

Beach with the best sunset view: Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur

1. Main Beach, Santa Cruz

Best beach for families

Main Beach is easily one of the best beaches in California for families, thanks to its massive sandy shore and adjacent boardwalk. Nicknamed "Boardwalk Beach" for spanning the entire length of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, the wide sandy shore is ideal for building sandcastles, picnics, and heading out for a swim.

Know before you go

This is a highly popular beach that gets packed in the summer, so prepare for crowds. Lifeguards are only on duty daily throughout the summer and on weekends during the spring and fall. Also, check with lifeguards for water conditions and other safety updates. After your swim, enjoy rides, games, mini golf, laser tag, arcades, food, drinks, and all your boardwalk favorites.

Address

Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM

2. Huntington State Beach, Huntington Beach

Best beach for surfing

Located in a town called Surf City USA, Huntington State Beach attracts surfers from all over the world looking for the perfect wave. But there are plenty of other things to do at the 121-acre state park near the beach.

Parkgoers enjoy swimming, fishing, birdwatching, or getting cozy around a bonfire. Those who want to stay active can jog the 8.5-mile beachside trail or hit one of the courts for a game of volleyball or basketball.

Know before you go

The waves here get rough, and the currents can be dangerous. It's not ideal for new surfers. Swimmers must be very cautious and stay close to the shore and lifeguard towers. Chilly ocean breezes can catch you off guard, too. Also, if you go there by car, you must pay a parking fee.

Address

21601 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92646

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM (gates close at 9:00 PM)

3. La Jolla Cove, San Diego

Best beach for snorkeling

Encircled by palm-tree-topped sandstone cliffs, this cozy inlet is an oft-photographed, must-see scenic stop known for its magnificent natural beauty. The tame, crystal-clear waters of La Jolla Cove offer excellent visibility, ranking it among the best beaches in California for snorkeling.

On some days, you can see up to 30 feet below the shoreline, where a colorful ecosystem of marine life lies. This beach is part of the La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, which helps its bountiful flora and fauna to flourish.

Know before you go

You can book a La Jolla Cove snorkeling tour or rent snorkeling gear from one of the nearby shops. While the beach is always open, lifeguards aren't on duty 24-7. Only venture into the water if lifeguards are on duty.

Address

San Diego, CA 92037

Opening hours

Open daily 24 hours.

4. Main Beach, Laguna Beach

Best beach for swimming and recreation

Once ranked among the top three cleanest beaches in the U.S., this iconic California beach consistently receives high scores for water quality. Swimmers enjoy the smooth seafloor — except in the north end— and warm water suitable for swimming and body surfing. As Laguna Beach's largest and most lively beach, lifeguards regularly patrol for optimal safety.

Know before you go

In addition to being one of the best beaches in California for swimming, Main Beach is packed with amenities. It's got bathrooms, outdoor showers, and a playground. Work up a sweat on the half-basketball or volleyball courts. Stroll down the boardwalk to admire the creations of the ample local art community. Parking spots close to the beach fill up fast, so arrive early or be prepared to walk.

Address

Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM

5. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur

Best beach for couples

Hold your loved one close and watch the Pacific Ocean waves crash against dramatic cliffs on this secluded purple sand beach. Walk hand-in-hand on the shore or enjoy a picnic for two at this intimate locale ranked as one of the best beaches in California for couples.

Pfeiffer Beach is a hidden gem of Northern California located in Big Sur's Los Padres National Forest. Its famous Keyhole Rock, a stunning waterlogged rock archway, is a fantastic spot for a romantic photoshoot.

Know before you go

The purple sand — which is Manganese garnet that washes down from the hillside — is most visible after it rains. Parking is paid and fills up quickly. The road to the lot is prone to traffic. Check the park's website for alerts before heading over.

Address

California 93920

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 9:00 AM–8:00 PM

6. Secret Cove, Carson City

Best beach nude sunbathing

Strip off your skivvies and sun your bun on at Secret Cove Beach, one of the top beaches near California for nude sunbathing. Secret Cove Beach is on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe just over the California border along Highway 28. The views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and clear bright blue lake are stunning from this small sandy cove nestled by massive granite boulders.

Know before you go

Like most clothing-optional beaches, you'll have to hike a bit to get here. Park at the Secret Harbor Parking areas and walk the access road until you reach the trailhead. The trail to the beach is steep so wear appropriate shoes. Space on the shore becomes limited when the water level rises so arrive early for a good spot.

Address

Carson City, NV 89703

Opening hours

Open daily from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October (weather pending)

7. Limantour Beach, Point Reyes National Seashore

Best beach for natural beauty

Limantour Beach boasts a 4-mile-wide, soft sand coast ideal for observing local wildlife and the unspoiled nature of the Point Reyes National Seashore ecological sanctuary. The beach's gentle waves make it a popular place for families to spend the day splashing around.

Know before you go

The water at this beach can get extremely cold. Visitors without wetsuits are advised to spend only a short time in the water to avoid hypothermia. Be on guard for rip currents and unexpected wave surges. Be sure to check the park's website for alerts and closures. Point Reyes National Seashore is one of the California national parks that doesn't have entry or parking fees unless you're camping.

Address

California 94956

Opening hours

Monday-Sunday, 6:00 AM–12:00 AM

FAQ

Generated with the help of AI

Where can you find the clearest water beach in California?

La Jolla Cove is famous for its exceptionally clear waters. The cove's protected location ensures warmer, clearer water, with underwater visibility up to 30 feet. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, offering a stunning view of marine life.

Which beach in California is the most beautiful?

California boasts many stunning beaches, each with its unique charm. La Jolla Shores in San Diego is known for its scenic views and gentle waves, while Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach offers a picturesque setting with tide pools and trails. Butterfly Beach in Santa Barbara is a favorite for sunset views. Carmel City Beach in Carmel is famous for its white sands, and College Cove in Trinidad provides a secluded feel. Manchester State Park Beach in Mendocino County, Sunset State Beach in Santa Cruz, and Stinson Beach in Marin County are also top contenders.

Which beach is considered the nicest in California?

California boasts many stunning beaches, each with its own charm. Some popular choices include Seacliff State Beach, known for its local vibe, and Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur, famous for its unique purple sand. Huntington Beach is a favorite for surfers, while El Matador State Beach in Malibu offers dramatic cliffs. Sonoma Coast State Park provides rugged beauty, and Baker Beach in San Francisco has iconic views. The Lost Coast is perfect for solitude, and Tourmaline Beach in La Jolla is ideal for water sports enthusiasts.

How many beaches can be found in California?

California boasts over 420 public beaches along its 840-mile coastline. Visitors can explore a diverse range of beach experiences, from sandy shores to rocky coastlines, and from bustling, sunny spots to more secluded, foggy retreats.

What activities can you enjoy on California beaches besides swimming?

California beaches offer many activities beyond swimming, including surfing, beach volleyball, and paddleboarding. Many beaches have designated areas for picnicking and barbecuing. Tide pooling is widespread in places like La Jolla, and some beaches, like Pismo Beach, allow for ATV riding on the sand dunes. Beachcombing and sunbathing are also popular activities, along with exploring coastal trails for hiking and biking.