California’s legendary coastline stretches over 800 miles and offers every beach imaginable, from dramatic cliffs and misty coves in the north to golden surf havens and palm-lined shores in the south. Whether you're seeking family-friendly sands, adventurous waves or postcard-perfect views, there’s a California beach for every traveler.
This guide covers the best beaches in California by region—Northern, Central, and Southern California—including top spots for families, couples, surfers, and travelers looking for unique scenery.
Top Beaches in California (At-A-Glance):
- Best overall: Pfeiffer Beach (Big Sur)
- Best near San Francisco: Baker Beach, Stinson Beach
- Best near Los Angeles: Venice Beach, Zuma Beach
- Best near San Diego: Coronado Beach
Best Beaches in Northern California (San Francisco & Beyond)
Northern California’s beaches are wild and rugged, where rocky headlands meet dramatic waves and misty forests line the shore.
1. Baker Beach, San Francisco – Best for Golden Gate Views and Photo Ops
Baker Beach offers one of the most iconic views in the state, with the Golden Gate Bridge framing the scene like a postcard. The beach is long and sandy and often wrapped in fog, which adds to the cinematic mood. It’s a great spot for photography, relaxing or watching the waves roll in from the Pacific.
2. Glass Beach, Fort Bragg – Best for Sea Glass Hunting and Tide Pooling
A former dumping site turned natural wonder, Glass Beach in Fort Bragg sparkles with colorful, wave-smoothed sea glass. Wander the shore to collect your own treasures and explore tide pools filled with starfish, crabs and anemones during low tide.
3. Stinson Beach, Marin County – Best for a Quiet Beach Day Near San Francisco
Just north of San Francisco, Stinson Beach is a peaceful retreat with wide sands and gently lapping surf. Surrounded by forested hills and hiking trails, it’s a favorite among locals looking to unwind away from the crowds.
Best Beaches on the Central Coast of California (Big Sur to Pismo)
The Central Coast blends dramatic Big Sur cliffs with laid-back beach towns, offering scenic beauty and a slower pace.
1. Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur – Best for Dramatic Cliffs and Purple Sand
Pfeiffer Beach feels like a secret, tucked away beneath towering cliffs in the heart of Big Sur. Its purple-tinged sand and iconic Keyhole Arch draw photographers at sunset when light passes directly through the rock. The setting is raw, elemental and unforgettable.
2. Avila Beach, San Luis Obispo – Best for Families and Calm Surf
Avila Beach is a hidden gem with a mellow vibe, gentle waves and a sunny microclimate. It’s ideal for young kids, paddleboarding and picnicking on the shore. The nearby promenade has cafés, wine tasting rooms and a small aquarium for post-beach fun.
3. Pismo Beach, Pismo Beach – Best for Beach Town Vibes and Dune Adventures
This classic beach town offers wide sandy shores, a historic pier and nearby Oceano Dunes where you can go off-roading by the sea. Surfers, sunset watchers and clam chowder lovers will all find something to enjoy in Pismo Beach.
Best Beaches in Southern California (Los Angeles & San Diego)
Southern California is famous for its sun-drenched beaches, where palm trees, surfers and lifeguard towers create the backdrop for classic coastal days.
1. Venice Beach, Los Angeles – Best for People-Watching and Boardwalk Energy
Venice Beach is more than just sand and surf. The boardwalk hums with life, from roller skaters and artists to musicians and fortune tellers. Relax on the beach, watch the skateboarders at the iconic park or soak in the electric vibe of LA’s most eclectic stretch of coast.
2. Zuma Beach, Malibu – Best for Wide Open Sands and Clear Water
Zuma Beach in Malibu is a favorite among locals for its clean sand, long shoreline and consistent waves. It’s great for sunbathing, boogie boarding or a beach volleyball match, with plenty of parking and lifeguards on duty.
3. Coronado Beach, San Diego – Best for Soft Sand and Historic Charm
Just across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Beach is known for its soft, silvery sand and the historic Hotel del Coronado. Families enjoy the calm surf, while couples can stroll along the shore framed by elegant Victorian architecture.
Quick List of Top Beaches by Traveler Type
- Best for families: Avila Beach, Coronado Beach, Stinson Beach
- Best for couples: Pfeiffer Beach, Glass Beach, Baker Beach
- Best for surfers: Zuma Beach, Pismo Beach, Venice Beach
- Best for unique scenery: Glass Beach, Pfeiffer Beach, Baker Beach
- Best for city access: Venice Beach, Baker Beach, Coronado Beach
FAQs About the Best Beaches in California:
1. What is the prettiest beach in California?
The prettiest beach in California is often considered to be Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur. Known for its purple-tinged sand and dramatic rock formations, it offers a stunning, otherworldly landscape. El Matador Beach in Malibu is another contender, with its golden cliffs, sea caves and romantic sunset views making it a favorite for photographers and couples alike.
2. What is the least crowded beach in California?
The least crowded beach in California is often Stinson Beach in Marin County, especially on weekdays or early mornings. Its location just north of San Francisco makes it accessible yet still peaceful. Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is another quiet option, thanks to its hidden entrance and remote setting.
3. What beach in California is best for families?
The best beach in California for families is Avila Beach. It offers calm waters, kid-friendly activities and sunny weather. Coronado Beach and Stinson Beach are also great options with clean sand and gentle surf.
4. What California beach is best for couples?
One of the best beaches in California for couples is Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur. Its purple sand and sunset views through Keyhole Arch create a romantic atmosphere. Glass Beach and Baker Beach also offer peaceful, scenic settings perfect for two.
5. What are the best beaches near Los Angeles?
The best beaches near Los Angeles include Venice Beach for its culture and people-watching, Zuma Beach in Malibu for its space and clean surf and Santa Monica Beach for its iconic pier and easy access to shops and dining.
6. Which California beaches have the clearest water?
Zuma Beach in Malibu and Coronado Beach in San Diego are known for their clear water and clean conditions. Both are excellent choices for swimming, body surfing and relaxing by the sea.
7. Are there calm beaches in California for swimming?
Yes, some calm beaches in California perfect for swimming include Avila Beach, Coronado Beach and La Jolla Shores. These beaches are protected from strong surf and ideal for floating, wading or swimming with kids.
