In addition to Florida and Hawaii, California rounds out the top three states renowned for its beach culture. The Pacific Oceanside state is the longest in the country and the most populated state with around 40 million people. There are 840 miles of gorgeous coastline, with over 420 public beaches to access. Add in the year-round mild climate, and you’ve got a prime destination for a beach holiday.
15 Best Beach Towns in California
Sun-kissed waves, long stretches of sand dotted with surfboards, and incredibly fresh seafood represent the culture in many California beach towns. This west coast state has some of the best coastal vibes in the country that people travel to from all over the world to witness for themselves. Golden State beaches are often featured in …
Top Beaches and Coastal Towns in CA
The Southern California (SoCal) coast is famous for its beaches from the Los Angeles area south to San Diego. Well-known beach towns include Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Oceanside, among many, many others. But even up north there are gorgeous spots, really wherever you go in Cali, there’s lovely scenery. With big coastal cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, there’s no shortage of culture and entertainment to round out your vacation.
Guide to Visiting the Beaches in California
You could travel the world, but nothing comes close to the golden coast. [Kate Perry]
California is famous for its long, pristine beaches and untamed Pacific coastline with picture-perfect sunsets. The 840 miles of shores in the state leave travelers and locals with much to explore, boasting treasured coastal villages and vast oceanfront areas for endless recreation.
The Golden State is the third biggest in the country in terms of landmass, home to bustling cities with large corporations and celebrities from several industries. Escaping to the ocean to unplug is a must-do for everyone who passes through or lives in California. There are so many of the best beach towns to visit or call home here.
SoCal is a hub of warm, sandy beaches featuring areas like San Diego’s Mission Beach and Los Angeles’ Huntington Beach. When craving to be surrounded by both salt water and woods, veer north towards Crescent Beach, situated by the region’s impressive redwood forest.
A first-timer to California might be surprised to discover that its beaches can be very diverse. From places like Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach to Shelter Cove’s Black Sands Beach, these shores seem more exotic than the rest. Strand Beach in Oceanside and Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas are less crowded than the big cities, and Avalon’s coastline is on an entirely separate island.
Whether you’re a surf junkie, a beach bum, a family of six, or a couple looking for a weekend getaway, California beaches can deliver experiences for all.
Climate
The Californian coast is pretty temperate, with yearly average temps hovering in the high 60s to low 70s. During the summer, it can be sweltering, especially in southern cities, and the humidity has the potential to be very intense. The Pacific Ocean’s waters are chilly most of the year and reach a high of 68℉ in the summertime.
To avoid the masses of crowds and fierce sun, visit the Golden State’s beaches in September or October. This time of year is calmer but still hot outside.
May through August is the busiest season and attracts tourists from around the globe, but it’s also deceivingly hot on the coast. Even if you find a spot to lay your towel on the beach, chances are parking will be difficult, and shops and restaurants will be packed.
Ocean Wildlife
Harbor seals, elephant seals, bluefin, sea lions, sea otters, killer whales, humpback, and gray whales are among the marine animals that may be found in California. Underwater, sea lions are the easiest to spot.
Many shark species, including the Great White, also live off the California coast. April through October is hunting season for these animals, which coincides with swimming season, so it’s essential to be vigilant while enjoying the ocean.
Accommodations
Lodging by California beaches is not scarce; there is every type of accommodation you could imagine. Large hotels, resorts, small boutique motels, vacation homes, condo rentals, and ocean cottages are a few.
Every established beach town takes advantage of providing places to stay for tourists. Especially when planning to visit during peak seasons, booking in advance will lock in better prices and options.
Activities
The Pacific Coast is a playground for water sports. California beaches offer ample opportunities for surfing, sea kayaking, sailing, fishing, paddleboarding, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Sunbathing on the powdery sands, beach volleyball, biking on waterfront pathways, and flying kites are fantastic land-side shore activities.
Don’t miss a chance to explore the beautiful, sandy western edges of the continental USA. See why the whole world dreams of flocking to California for fun in the surf and sun.
