The coastline of California, known as the Golden State, is arguably its most renowned geographical feature, with relaxing beach towns stretching along the shore from north to south.
There are 123 towns and 21 villages in the US state of Florida. There are 411 local administrations altogether ( Source).
Various of these towns are among the prime destinations in California, and there’s something for everybody whether you want to construct sandcastles, stay in waterfront rental houses, or hike adjacent to jagged ocean cliffs.
Here are the beach towns you can’t miss!
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23 Best Beach Towns in California
La Jolla, San Diego
Stay in luxurious hotels with stunning waterfront views and easy beach access.
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La Jolla, just a short drive from downtown San Diego, is full of charming restaurants and dimly lit bars ideal for date nights or quiet evenings. The aquarium also makes for a fun outing with family to enjoy the nearby beaches like La Jolla Cove. This California coastal community is especially renowned for its scenic shorelines
Planning to stay in La Jolla? The beaches are within walking distance of La Jolla’s top waterfront hotels, saving visitors the hassle of finding parking and providing easy access to the beach to catch the best waves locally.
There are numerous activities to engage in in La Jolla, but I highly recommend visiting the local sea lions along the rugged coastline.
Newport Beach
Rent a beachfront residence for an unforgettable beach experience in this popular family-friendly coastal town.
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The sunbathing prospects are endless at Newport Beach, one of the best beaches in California. The enormous Newport Beach area has fire pits, volleyball nets, and a grassy soccer/picnic field beside the ocean.
Take a roll down the walkway along the beach, which will guide you all the way to Huntington Beach. Or stroll down the pier to watch anglers catch an evening meal. Don`t miss the classic Ruby`s Diner at the end of the Balboa Pier – it attracts beach-goers with the aroma of golden fries and juicy burgers.
You’re in luck if you’d prefer spending the day browsing rather than relaxing on Newport’s shore. Fashion Island is one of the largest shopping centers in Southern California and is the most visited attraction in Newport.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Discover California’s most mythical seaside village.
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Carmel-by-the-Sea resides on California’s central coast and it represents one of the most unique coastal communities in California.
There are numerous attractions in Carmel despite the town`s one-square-mile size. Go to Carmel Beach to view a breathtaking sunset over the storybook village against the ocean view. Experience the rest of this charming city by visiting the boutiques, wineries, and art galleries lining the downtown village.
Huntington Beach
Experience gigantic wave conditions or observe skilled surfers twist and turn on the foam-capped ocean swells.
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Large crowds are expected at Huntington which is among the most renowned beaches along Southern California. Huntington has miles of golden sandy beaches and is a hotspot for watersports, included among the top activities in Huntington Beach.
Huntington Beach is the most popular beach for young adults because it has an array of bars and downtown clubs, making the nightlife superb. Visitors also flock to Huntington for the famous U.S. Open of Surfing competition each summer.
Be sure to thoroughly review our beach packing list before your beach getaway. Don`t forget to bring essential beach equipment like your surfboard, skimboard, boogie board, or snorkeling gear to allow maximum time enjoying the coastal landscape.
Santa Barbara
Be part of history when you tour the Old Santa Barbara Mission.
One of the most popular and trustworthy names in this area is The Lifestraw Filtered Water Bottle. Lifestraw has been used by thousands of travelers worldwide. You simply fill up the water bottle and let the heavy-grade filter remove bacteria and parasites as you drink.
Santa Barbara offers much more than renowned universities. This coastal paradise hosts some of the best surf breaks in the Pacific Ocean and is among one of the prime locations to reside in California.
Spend time at the shore, enjoy the city’s fascinating artistic scene or indulge in some delicious nutrition and wine. History fans should visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History to learn about local story and culture and check out the Old Santa Barbara Mission which dates back to 1786.
Laguna Beach
Dine at celebrated restaurants with views of the coastline.
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Cities including Idaho Falls and Twin Falls located far away do impact the park’s night sky despite distance. However, the immediate region’s rugged terrain has deterred substantial development, helping to preserve the dark skies.
Laguna Beach is an prominent Orange County location with a thriving artistic community. Visit during the summer months to attend the annual Sawdust Art Festival which hosts over 1,000 local artists.
Laguna’s beaches are consistently maintained and appealing, but don’t neglect its many excellent dining choices. Renowned restaurants like The Loft and Sapphire make Laguna worth visiting for food lovers and people who enjoy the beach.
Monterey Bay
Look for marine creatures on a whale-watching cruise.
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Monterey is a highly acclaimed Northern California coastal city. Enjoy the breathtaking coastline on one of Monterey’s numerous hiking paths — the scenic views are without equal.
Monterey Bay is rich with wildlife. Take a guided whale-watching cruise to explore the harbor searching for the majestic animals. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of California`s most highly-rated aquariums. It features marine animals such as dolphins, sea lions, and orcas.
Morro BayÂ
Relax on Morro Rock Beach under the hot California sun.
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Coastal scenery blends with rolling hills at Morro Bay. The most prominent feature, Morro Rock, provides the backdrop of this tranquil fishing village.
Spend time along the 3-mile stretch of Morro Strand State Beach for windsurfing, fishing, and jogging during your stay. After a fulfilling day exploring the coast, sample fresh seafood at one of Morro Bay’s waterfront restaurants such as The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar.
Downtown also has enjoyable Morro Bay activities like vintage shopping, a movie theater, and local bars
Venice Beach
Witness people and work out at this lively coastal town.
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Venice Beach draws a diverse array of characters, creating an engaging environment for observing people.
Bring your skateboard to Venice Skate Park or pump iron at Muscle Beach for some fun physical movement. Visitors can also glide or cycle down the boardwalk from downtown Venice region to the Santa Monica Pier.
Experience a true Los Angeles feel at the High Rooftop Lounge. You’ll feel like a celebrity lounging on the open-air deck as you delight in food and customized cocktails, and listen to the daily live DJ.
Shelter Cove
Explore both rugged coast and dense redwood forest in the same day.
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Shelter Cove sits on California’s Lost Coast in Humboldt County, where giant redwood trees frame the rugged coastline of this small seaside town.
Investigate tidepools or wander down the dark sandy beaches of Shelter Cove. Campers can spend the night on the beach and luxury travelers can book a stay at an oceanfront rental.
This small community is one of the most isolated in California. Jagged peaks and mossy cliffs entice visitors to explore this untouched beauty as they escape the modern world.
San Clemente
Appreciate the Spanish architectural style at this elegant coastal town.
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San Clemente is known as the “Spanish Village by the Sea” and lives up to expectations of picturesque sandy beaches and beautiful colonial-style architecture.
San Clemente has expansive coastlines welcoming beachgoers as well as hiking and cycling paths along the shore. The iconic pier attracts many visitors hoping to try seafood freshly caught. Anglers can try their luck reeling in a wild-caught meal.
Avenida del Mar is San Clemente`s primary shopping square. It`s simply a brief walk from the pier, so visitors can conveniently check out the various eateries, boutiques, galleries, and vineyards.
Moonstone Beach
Spend the night camping by the seaside or go sightseeing at the renowned Hearst Castle.
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The sandy coves along Cambria`s Moonstone Beach make it a mandatory visit. A wooden walkway spans one mile along the coastline, bringing visitors to the top attractions.
Participate in thrilling aquatic experiences at Moonstone Beach like boating, surfing, and jet skiing. Search for marine organisms during the day and unwind during sunset with a relaxing glass of wine in a waterside restaurant.
A stimulating day excursion from Moonstone Beach is Hearst Castle, one of the largest and most lavish palaces across the whole United States.
Pebble Beach
Golf on award-winning courses on a cliffside overlooking the ocean.
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You must visit Pebble Beach if you enjoy golfing. Not only does Pebble Beach have a renowned public golf course, it also offers world-class lodging and extraordinary cuisine.
Go horseback riding through wildflowers on the edge of rugged ocean cliffs in Pebble Beach. Prefer to solely focus on relaxation? Head to one of Pebble Beach’s spa sanctuaries to get all the pampering needed.
Crystal Cove
Camp in backcountry seaside wilderness.
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Crystal Cove is a Pacific Ocean oasis spanning 12 acres along the coast. There is no shortage of beaches to lounge on here.
Crystal Cove State Beach encompasses 2,400 acres of remote wilderness and offers an assortment of hiking, biking, and horse routes. It is also home to some of the top camping spots near San Diego.
The main attractions of the state park include unbelievable surfing and ideal conditions for scuba diving. Crystal Cove is a stunning natural haven that sharply contrasts an urban landscape.
Santa Cruz
Have thrilling experiences on rides at the arcade found at the Santa Cruz boardwalk.
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Discover Santa Cruz where the woodland meets the sea. Santa Cruz has hundreds of attractions from the beach boardwalk to the downtown art walk and gift shops.
The amusement park situated on Santa Cruz Pier is worth a visit. Ride rollercoasters, indulge in a large sugary snack, or test your luck winning prizes at fun carnival games.
Venture into the surrounding redwood forests for a Santa Cruz experience away from the crowds if desired. Camp under the tree canopy or go on a scavenger hunt to find famous Santa Cruz banana slugs.
DavenportÂ
Catch sight of migrating humpback whales bound for Baja Mexico.
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Davenport is a coastal retreat 11 miles north of Santa Cruz. Davenport Beach and Shark Fin Cove are the resident beaches of this coastal town. At both, you’ll find tidepools and plenty of surfers cresting the Pacific Ocean waves.
Find refuge from the sun under the prominent beach rock architectures as you watch windsurfers glide across the waves. One of the best aspects about Davenport is that its beaches are dog-friendly, so you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind this time!
Davenport serves as a wildlife sanctuary. Visit here to see migrating gray and humpback whales as they journey to and from Baja Mexico. You may also spot dolphins, sea lions, and sea otters.
Carpinteria City Beach
Vacate the hefty crowds in Santa Barbara with a visit to this distant community.
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The broad sandy beaches of Carpinteria City Beach are ideal for beachfront mansions, making your stay in this coastal town an extravagant one.
The state beach provides volleyball courts, picnic tables, and a campground.
Go for a walk in Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park to see rare plants and birds in their natural habitats. Carpinteria is only a 10-minute drive from Santa Barbara and the light crowds make it well worth the trip.
Santa Catalina Island
Enjoy the relaxing island vibes of Catalina while sipping a cocktail at the beach.
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Visiting Santa Catalina Island feels like taking a respite within your travels. It`s only accessible via boat or ferry. Leave urban troubles behind to discover an aquatic, coastal town developed on a secluded, yet magnificent, island.
Catalina Island is a Southern California paradise with a Mediterranean aesthetic, cobblestone streets, and Spanish-style buildings. Although it’s just 22 miles long, there is no shortage of activities like scuba diving, parasailing, and bar hopping available for exploring Santa Catalina Island.
Dana Point
Sample fresh, wild-caught seafood at waterfront eateries in Dana Point.
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You aren`t able to visit Dana Point without participating in a whale watching tour. This activity is the most popular thing to do in the local community and Dana Point is among the best places in California for whale sightings.
The Dana Point Harbor has dozens of specialty shops, wine-tasting rooms, and waterfront restaurants that all supply fresh, wild-caught seafood. Admire the town’s street art or go for a ride on one of many nearby mountain bicycle trails.
⛰️ Further Reading: 15 Premier Mountain Towns in California
Pismo Beach
Be a part of the monarch butterfly migration by visiting Pismo Beach in the wintertime.
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Pismo Beach is known for its wineries and monarch butterfly sanctuaries. This town is a stop along the famous monarch migration route and a trip to Pismo during the winter may lead to encountering hundreds of these beautiful winged creatures.
Active visitors can work on their fitness through top-quality golf or riding ATVs across the sandy shoreline.
The Pismo Beach Premium Outlets also attract a reasonable portion of visitors each year. Shop until it’s time for dinner at a high-class waterfront restaurant for the perfect experience.
Malibu
Get lucky spotting a celebrity in the cliffside town of Malibu.
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Malibu is renowned for its numerous celebrity homes and possible celebrity sightings, so visitors are always keeping an eye out for prominent figures from film, television and sports while there. Besides the potential surprise encounters, Malibu is also an exciting town with Spanish architectural styles and views of the Santa Monica Mountains.
Relax on the beach or hike to canyons and waterfalls in the Santa Monica Mountains during your stay in Malibu. The beach town has an upscale feel and appeals to visitors looking for a 4 or 5-star escape.
There are endless things to do in Malibu, but I recommend exploring the beach coves and dining at organic eateries during your stay for an unforgettable experience.
Mendocino
Appreciate the local wineries in Mendocino.
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Traverse the cliffside trails and craggy beaches in the scenic Mendocino State Park located in Mendocino, California. This town is considered one of the most beautiful places in the Golden State.
Enjoy exploring the oceanfront Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens to learn about native plant species local to the area. You can also go wine tasting or rent a bike to ride through the whole seaside town, fully experiencing the region.
This coastal town just outside the San Francisco Bay area is worth visiting for its highly rated wineries.
Crescent City
The gateway to Redwood National Park.
Getting around the three towns without a vehicle is possible. However, you may want to rent a car to explore farther afield. Additionally, if staying in Breckenridge where lodging tends to be more spread out, a vehicle is particularly helpful for easier access beyond public transportation routes.
Crescent City is the perfect mix of redwood forest and California coast. The crescent-shaped sandy beach of this seaside town attracts many visitors each year.
Crescent City is among Humboldt County’s gateway towns serving as an entry point for guests staying near Redwood National Park. An abundance of wildlife can be seen in the dramatic landscapes of Crescent City, so bring binoculars and be cautious of black bears.
The rocky Crescent City Beach has a picturesque lighthouse with an old-fashioned feel. If you are road-tripping throughout the state’s coastal towns, this will likely be your endpoint.
🛣️ Further Reading: Ultimate Itinerary for a California Road Trip
FAQs About Beach Towns in California
What is the most beautiful beach town in California?
Mendocino is among the most lovely beach towns in California. It is renowned for its picturesque seaside cottages and charming atmosphere.
What is the warmest coastal town in California?
What is the most affordable beach town in California?
Yosemite National Park, located approximately 4.5 hours inland from the San Francisco Bay Area by vehicle, is likely the most popular of California`s national parks.
What is the safest beach town in California?
Carpinteria is renowned as the most secure beach town in California.
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Have fun exploring these awesome Californian coastal towns! Check out the top places in California to explore other small and large towns in the state.
