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Hey, beach bums! I’m Jill Charpia, your snarky navigator through the sun-soaked shores of Southern California. If you’re like me, you’ve probably wasted too many weekends stuck in traffic, only to end up at an overcrowded beach where finding a spot to lay your towel feels like winning the lottery. Fear not because I’ve done the sandy legwork for you. Buckle up for our countdown of the 20 Best Beaches in Southern California, where you’ll find everything from tourist traps to hidden gems. Whether you’re in it for the surf, the sunburn, or the Instagram likes, we’ve got the perfect patch of sand for you. So, slather on the sunscreen because this list is hotter than a July afternoon in Malibu. Let’s dive in!
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Alright, folks, if you’re ready to dive into the quintessential SoCal experience, let’s kick things off with the granddaddy of them all, Santa Monica Beach. This place is the prom queen of Southern California beaches – always famous, crowded, and just a tad overrated, but hey, you have to see it at least once.
First up is the iconic Santa Monica Pier. It’s got everything: a Ferris wheel, an aquarium, and more overpriced food. Pro tip: ride the Ferris wheel for some killer Instagram shots, but maybe skip the mystery meat hot dogs unless you’re into culinary adventures that end in regret.
Santa Monica Beach is also home to Muscle Beach. No, it’s not where you get muscles by osmosis. But you can watch ripped dudes lift weights while you lift your spirits with a double scoop of ice cream. It’s a wonderful outing for us ladies! Grab your goodies and a sippy sip, and you can watch all day! Upppp-down. Upppp-down.
And let’s not forget the shopping and dining options. There’s something for everyone. From high-end boutiques to souvenir stands selling seashells and T-shirts with questionable slogans. Plus, you can dine at places ranging from gourmet restaurants to greasy spoon diners where the only fresh thing is the gossip.
Accommodation at Santa Monica Beach:
So, whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or just people-watch, Santa Monica Beach has you covered. Remember to bring your patience because the crowds here are thicker than LA traffic. Enjoy!
For more adventure and fun in your life, visit the best nude beaches around the globe. Check out our list of top nude beaches.
All right, our next stop on this tour of the best beaches in SoCal is Venice Beach. If Santa Monica is the prom queen, Venice Beach is the quirky art student who’s always drumming to their beat. Literally, there are probably drum circles happening somewhere as we speak.
Venice Beach is like a carnival by the sea, with its vibrant boardwalk serving up a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. You’ve got street performers juggling flaming torches (don’t try this at home, or do and video it 😉 Artists are selling everything from spray-painted masterpieces to questionable portraits of your dog, and there are enough funky shops to empty your wallet. I mean, faster than you can say, “hippie chic.”
Check out Muscle Beach, Venice’s outdoor gym. Here, fitness enthusiasts flex their muscles for an audience that’s either impressed or mildly confused. It’s like a free show of feats of strength, with a side of beach body envy, sunscreen, and a few cases of WTF is he doing?
Accommodation at Venice Beach:
And speaking of bodies, Venice Beach is a paradise for people-watching. From bronzed beach gods and goddesses to eccentric locals in tie-dye everything. You never know what—or who—you’ll encounter. It’s a beach experience that’s as entertaining as it is eclectic. So, welcome to Venice Beach!
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We’ve reached up the coast to Malibu Surfrider Beach. Here, the waves are as legendary as the surfers who ride them. If Santa Monica is where you go to see and be seen, and Venice is where you go to soak up the quirky vibes. Malibu is where you go when you want to catch some serious waves without the paparazzi snapping your photo.
Surfrider Beach is the holy grail for surfers, known for its consistent breaks and epic swells. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice still mastering the art of standing on a board without wiping out, this beach offers waves that’ll make you feel like a local surf legend or give you a good story to tell back home.
Beyond the surfing scene, Surfrider Beach boasts the historic Malibu Pier, where you can stroll, fish, or pretend to be in a vintage California postcard. The views here are Instagram-worthy, so get ready to rack up those likes faster than you can say, “Hang ten.”
Accommodation at Malibu Surfrider Beach:
And, of course, let’s not forget the laid-back vibes. Malibu Surfrider Beach is where you come to chill, soak in the sun, and maybe even spot a celebrity catching waves alongside you (no autographs, please).
After riding the waves at Malibu Surfrider Beach, let’s discover the tranquil beauty of El Matador Beach. It’s a hidden gem lodged in the cliffs of Malibu. If Santa Monica is where you battle crowds, and Venice is where you embrace the eccentric, El Matador is where you escape, finding some peace and Photo-perfect scenery.
El Matador Beach isn’t just a beach; it’s a natural wonderland waiting to be explored. Pro tip: bring your camera because every corner of this beach is a photo op begging to be shared with your jealous friends back home.
Unlike its more famous neighbors, El Matador tends to be less crowded, making it a prime spot for those seeking solitude mixed with profound beach beauty. Pack a picnic, bring a good book, or just listen to the waves crashing against the rocks. This is beach therapy at its finest.
Accommodation at El Matador Beach
Just remember, getting to the beach requires a bit of a hike and maneuvering through rocks, so you may want to leave stilettos at home.
Alright, after soaking in the tranquil beauty of El Matador, let’s kick things up a notch at Zuma Beach. If El Matador is where you go for solitude and stunning vistas, Zuma Beach is where you go for sun-soaked fun with the whole crew.
Stretching for what feels like miles, Zuma is the kind of beach that begs you to bring the entire beach kit:
The waves here are perfect for boogie boarding and body surfing, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts of all ages.
And speaking of ages, Zuma is one of those family-friendly spots where you’ll find people of all ages. From toddlers building sandcastles to grandparents perfecting their tan lines. There are lifeguards on duty, so you can rest assured that someone’s got your back while you focus on perfecting your beach bum status.
After a day of splashing in the waves and burying your friends in the sand (don’t worry, they’ll forgive you eventually), stick around for one of Zuma’s legendary sunsets. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day of beachside antics before returning to reality – or at least until your next beach adventure.
After Zuma, let’s take a detour to the picturesque shores of Crystal Cove State Park. Crystal Cove is where you get a little more adventurous, historical, and scenic.
Between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove is like a time capsule of old California. Complete with historic cottages that look like they popped out of a 1930s postcard. Fancy a stay? You can rent one of these charming cottages, but book early – they’re more popular than sunscreen on a summer day.
The beach is perfect for everything from sunbathing to snorkeling. Everything!! Dive into the crystal-clear waters and feel the vibrant tide pools overflowing with marine life. It’s like your aquarium, minus the admission fee and sticky-fingered children.
And let’s not forget the hiking trails. Crystal Cove’s trails offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean that make every step worthwhile. So, bring your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and prepare to fall in love with this hidden gem of Southern California.
Now If you’re a family or a group of friends searching for the best beaches, the upcoming beaches are tailored just for you.
Now, it’s time to head to the art haven of Laguna Beach. If Crystal Cove is for a slice of old California, Laguna Beach is where you bask in the artsy vibes and scenic coastline.
Laguna Beach is like stepping into a real-life painting (not just because of all the art galleries). With its coves, cliffs, and tide pools, this beach town offers views that could inspire even the most creatively challenged among us to pick up a paintbrush.
Stroll down the Main Beach Boardwalk, and you’ll find volleyball courts, basketball courts, and a crowd that looks like they have stepped out of a beachwear catalog. If you’re more into relaxing than sports, find a cozy spot to watch the surfers or dip your toes in the tide pools at Heisler Park.
And, of course, only a visit to Laguna Beach is complete with checking out its art scene. From the famous Pageant of the Masters to the quirky galleries lining the streets, this town is a feast for the eyes.
Newport Beach is like a bustling seaside playground where yacht clubs rub elbows with surfers catching early morning waves. The Balboa Peninsula is the heart of the action, with its funky shops, waterfront restaurants, and a Ferris wheel spinning forever (or at least since you were in flip-flops).
The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of room to spread out and catch some rays. Don’t forget to check out the Wedge, where daredevil surfers ride some of the gnarliest waves in SoCal. Just be sure to leave the wave-jumping to the pros.
At the end of the day, grab a bite at one of Newport’s seafood joints or indulge in a Balboa Bar (trust us, it’s a Newport Beach tradition).
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After the artsy vibes, let’s sail down the coast to the sparkling shores of Coronado Beach. This place is where you can enjoy classic California elegance (with a sandcastle competition).
Coronado Beach is the poster child for Pristine. Vast, golden sands, gentle waves, and the iconic Hotel del Coronado standing in the background like it’s auditioning for a postcard. The hotel itself is a Victorian masterpiece, and rumor has it that Marilyn Monroe stayed there. So you know it’s got some serious star power.
This beach is perfect for families, with calm waters ideal for swimming and sand so soft that you’ll be tempted to nap on your towel. Speaking about sand, Coronado’s is well known for its mica. It gives it a shimmering, almost magical quality. Because who doesn’t love a little extra sparkle in their life?
Take a bike ride along the boardwalk or bring your inner architect to one of the beach’s many sandcastle contests. Coronado Beach isn’t just a day at the beach. It’s a step into a sun-drenched fairy tale. So enjoy the elegance of Coronado.
Let’s talk about our next beach in SoCal, La Jolla Shores. If Coronado makes you feel the classic California, La Jolla Shores is its laid-back, adventure-loving cousin.
Located in the jewel of San Diego, this beach offers a mix of family-friendly enjoyment and ocean adventures. The beach is known for its gentle waves, making it the perfect spot for those who want to surf. Plus, this is your playground if you’ve ever wanted to kayak through sea caves or snorkel alongside leopard sharks (don’t worry, they’re harmless).
La Jolla Shores is also the gateway to the famous La Jolla Underwater Park. The water park is a marine sanctuary and an aquatic Disneyland. So, enjoy an underwater aquatic world with marine life as well. Or you can stick to the surface and let the water and stunning view do the talking.
When you’re done playing Jacques Cousteau, walk down the sandy shores and soak in the sun. The vibe here is as chill as the clear water, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sea adventures.
We talked about the best beaches and family beaches in this blog above. Let’s start with our first adventurous beach, Huntington Beach, aka Surf City USA. Huntington is the beach where you bring out your inner surfer dude (or dudette).
Huntington Beach is the best place for all things surf. With waves that attract pros and beginners alike, this is the spot where the surf culture runs deep. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or like to watch from a safe, dry distance, Huntington Beach delivers the goods.
And it’s not just about the waves. The iconic Huntington Beach Pier stretches out into the Pacific like it’s trying to high-five Hawaii. Walk down the pier, grab a milkshake at Ruby’s Diner at the end, and enjoy the view of surfers catching waves and tourists catching sunburns.
If you’re visiting in the summer, you might catch the annual US Open of Surfing, where the beach transforms into a bustling festival of surf competitions, music, and more. It’s like the Super Bowl of surfing, without the commercials, with way more sand. So, Get Set, Surf!!
Let’s mellow out at Torrey Pines State Beach. Torrey Pines is where you get in touch with your inner nature lover (and maybe burn off those post-surfing milkshakes).
Torrey Pines State Beach isn’t just about the sand and surf. It’s the beach that meets the rugged cliffs of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The hiking trails here are legendary, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific worth every huff and puff on the way up. For those less inclined to hike, the beach is a serene escape. The waves are more laid-back, perfect for a casual swim or just bobbing around like a contented sea otter. Also, always look for the local wildlife. You never know when you’ll spot a dolphin pod cruising by or a pelican diving for dinner.
After a day of beach climbing and hiking, please take a moment to appreciate the unique Torrey pine trees that give this place its name. They’re a rare sight, just like you’ll be after conquering both the surf and the trails of SoCal. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with spectacular views.
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Ready for the Mission? Great, here it comes Mission Beach, for some classic San Diego fun in the sun. Mission Beach is like the playground of Southern California, with its iconic Belmont Park offering everything from old-school arcade games to adrenaline-pumping rides on the Giant Dipper roller coaster. Expert opinion, scream loud enough, and you might drown out the sound of your friends laughing at your terrified face.
The beach is a long stretch of sand, perfect for volleyball games. It’s more about dodging wayward Frisbees than actual scoring points. And speaking of games, if you’re into people-watching, Mission Beach is a prime spot for observing everyone from volleyball gods to tourists attempting to navigate the rental bikes without crashing into a palm tree.
Grab a fish taco from beachside eateries, find a spot on the sand, and enjoy the laid-back vibes.
Let’s keep the party with Pacific Beach, also known as PB. Pacific Beach is the best place to sip on a cocktail, people-watch, and maybe even catch a sunset bonfire.
PB is like the laid-back cousin of Mission Beach, with a boardwalk perfect for morning jogs and afternoon strolls that always end at a beachfront bar. Grab a mimosa or a craft beer (because you’re in California, and that’s practically the law) and settle in for some prime beachfront lounging.
The beach stretches out for miles, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, beach volleyball tournaments, and impromptu beach soccer games that may or may not devolve into chaos. And speaking of chaos, the nightlife in PB is legendary. Rooftop parties to dive bars with solid drinks and the dance floors packed.
If you’re here to catch waves, catch rays, or catch a buzz, Pacific Beach has you covered. The place is so good that it gives so many chances to make extraordinary memories.
Manhattan Beach, a place where you can blend in with the locals and pretend you’re a part-time surfer. Nice right? So lemme tell you more.
Manhattan Beach embodies that quintessential California cool. This is where you might spot a celebrity jogging by with their perfectly groomed dog or an aspiring filmmaker setting up a time-lapse of the sunset that’ll make you question your photography skills. Mine was too Bad!
The waves here are perfect for surfing if you’ve got the skills or the confidence to paddle out and attempt to look like you know what you’re doing. For those less willing to hang ten, there’s plenty of room to spread out, catch some rays, and maybe even build a sandcastle that would make even the most severe architect nod in approval.
Now, at the end, head to the Manhattan Beach Pier for stunning ocean views and a casual dinner at one of the local eateries. Enjoy;)
Alright, soaking in the California cool of Manhattan Beach now, don’t be a dead human being. Let’s kick up the energy at Hermosa Beach, where the sun, surf, and laid-back vibes collide. Please don’t get bored; we are talking about the best beaches. We’ll obviously include the sun, surf, and cozy vibes in every para.
Hermosa Beach is like the cool cousin who always knows where the best parties are. The Strand, a paved path alongside the beach, is where you’ll find rollerbladers zipping by, cyclists dodging pedestrians, and joggers trying to look effortless while secretly gasping for air. I’m so tired even watching them.
The beach is a haven for volleyball enthusiasts(Obviously), with courts perpetually occupied by teams who take the game seriously enough to warrant matching uniforms. If you’re not into sports, fear not! There’s plenty of space to sprawl out on the sand, watch the action, or enjoy the sun and wonder if you should’ve applied more sunscreen.
After a day, hit up for a post-sunset bite or a drink at one of the many bars transforming Hermosa Beach into a nightlife hotspot. Remember, don’t get too drunk unless you have to make the night rocking.
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If Hermosa is where you go to catch waves and cocktails, Redondo Beach is where you see a breath and maybe a seafood feast. This Beach is like your quiet friend who surprises you with their hidden talents. In this case, we have seafood. The pier here isn’t just for walking; it’s for sampling some of the freshest fish tacos and clam chowder on this coast. Pro-tip by the expert: the seagulls might give you a run for your money, so guard your lunch on your own.
The Beach mixes sand, shops, and sunsets, turning the sky into a watercolor masterpiece. You can rent a kayak, paddle into the harbor, and pretend to explore unknown waters.
And let’s not forget the marina. Redondo’s King Harbor Marina is home to everything from luxury yachts to humble fishing boats, so whether you’re dreaming of sailing the open seas or just snapping envy-inducing photos for Instagram, you’re in the right place.
Leo Carrillo State Park is a gem along the Malibu coastline, named after the actor who was a passionate conservationist. The beach here is famous for its tide pools, sea caves, and rugged cliffs that give it a wild, untamed feel, like stepping onto the set of a pirate movie without the peg legs and parrots.
Hiking trails wind through coastal sage scrub and offer scenic views of the Pacific Ocean, making every uphill slog worth it for the Instagram-worthy photo ops. You might spot some wildlife, from dolphins dancing in the waves to pelicans swooping for an afternoon snack.
Leo Carrillo offers campsites among the trees for those into camping, providing a rustic retreat steps from the beach. Imagine falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves and waking up to the scent of salty sea air. It’s nature’s version of a five-star hotel. So, I wanted to do the thing. Right? Let’s move on to the next beach.
Our next beach is Carpinteria Beach. This place is perfect to unwind with a side of small-town charm.
Carpinteria Beach is the kind of beach where you can spread out your towel, crack open a book, and pretend you’re in your private paradise. At least until someone starts blasting music from their Bluetooth speaker.
The beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, so you’ll find everything from sandcastle-building competitions to families picnicking under colorful umbrellas. And speaking of umbrellas, if you forgot yours, don’t worry. There are plenty of local shops where you can pick up a souvenir beach hat that says, “I’m a tourist, but I’m trying to blend in.”
After you’ve had your sun and sand, walk through Carpinteria’s charming downtown. You’ll find boutiques, ice cream parlors, and maybe even a surf shop where you can pretend you know the difference between a longboard and a shortboard.
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Alright, my beach lovers, we’ve come a long way through the best of Southern California’s beaches, From the laid-back vibes of Carpinteria to the rugged beauty of Leo Carrillo. Now, let’s wrap up our beach adventure with a visit to Cabrillo Beach. It is where history meets marine life for a perfect coastal send-off.
Cabrillo Beach, near San Pedro in Los Angeles, offers serene waters and a rich maritime heritage. Named after explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, this beach isn’t just about sunbathing and sandcastles, although those are highly recommended activities too.
One of the star attractions is the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, where you can get up close with colorful sea creatures and perhaps even touch a starfish or two.
The beach is family-friendly, with calm waves that are perfect for swimming and water sports. Anglers also flock to the Cabrillo Beach Pier, swapping fish tales and trying their luck with the local catch.
After exploring tide pools, visiting the aquarium, or simply lounging on the sand, you can see Point Fermin Park for breathtaking coastal views and a relaxing end to your beach day.
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Southern California’s beaches offer diverse experiences, from bustling boardwalks to tranquil coves. Whether you are seeking adventure, family fun, or relaxation, these top 20 beaches provide the perfect backdrop for your coastal escape. Pack your beach gear and explore the best beaches in Southern California! So, till then, it’s your captain, Jill Charpie, signing off now. We will meet in our next blog. Till then, explore new places and travel till you drop.
Hi, Jill Here
Hi! I’m Jill, a Dallas, Texas girl traveling the world. After a career in the Air Force and touring over 50 countries later, my need to explore keeps going! It’s time to rock & roll and find all those places I never knew I was missing.
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