21 Best Beaches in California to Visit This Year

El Matador State Beach, Malibu

Undoubtedly one of Malibu's most beautiful landscapes, El Matador State Beach boasts incredible ocean views from the rugged cliffs above. You'll have no choice but to scale them, as the beach can be accessed only by a steep trail leading down to the shore. The magnificent cliffs, unique rock structures, and hidden sea caves make you feel like you're in a scene straight out of Game of Thrones.

Here, you'll be able to witness one of the most mesmerizing sunsets in the world, and if you come during the off-season (anytime but summer), you may even get the beach all to yourself. After a long day of hiking, swimming, and exploring, head to Malibu Seafood for fish taquitos and fresh ceviche — just don't forget to bring a cold six-pack at this laid-back, BYOB seafood joint.

Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur

Pfeiffer Beach California — Getty Images/iStockphoto

This Big Sur beach is regularly mentioned as one of California's best. The real attractions here are the purple sand, Instagram-worthy sunsets, and unique rock structures, which are reminiscent of many Croatian beaches. The most famous is Keyhole Arch, a natural archway that frames the sunset if you're standing in the right spot. Make basecamp at one of the luxury cabins at Glen Oaks Big Sur, only a 15-minute drive from Pfeiffer Beach.

Thousand Steps Beach, Laguna Beach

Surfer on Thousand Steps beach — Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

Find yourself mesmerized by the beauty of Orange County at Thousand Steps Beach, best known for its sea caves and aqua tide pools. (Though accessing those tide pools might require walking on private property.) The beach gets its name from the stairs that lead to the shore, and jogging up and down these stairs is actually a popular pastime for exercise enthusiasts. Thousand Steps Beach is rarely crowded and great for surfing. It boasts a variety of opportunities for explorers looking for hidden gems — or just the perfect photo.

Santa Monica State Beach

Santa Monica Pier in California — Getty Images

Just west of Los Angeles, this highly frequented destination draws in millions of tourists a year with its iconic pier, fantastic beach, and stunning sunsets. The pier, as well as its famous roller coaster, is a must-do after a long day at the beach. Go right as the sun descends into the Pacific for an epic view from the top of the tracks. In a city with so many fabulous hotel options, choosing one can be hard, so opt for one of the luxury bungalows at the Fairmont Miramar. They come with private patios, and the hotel rents out beach cruisers to guests.

Coronado Beach, San Diego

Coronado Beach Sand Diego — Getty Images/Moment RM

The long stretch of white sand that makes up Coronado Beach is one of San Diego's most beautiful. The shore is as smooth as they come, and the water is ideal for both surfing and swimming. But the real standout here is the famed Hotel del Coronado, a National Historic Landmark best known for its stunning Victorian architecture. The hotel is also one of the largest wooden structures in the U.S. If you're coming to San Diego, "The Del" is a must-visit. Just beware: the property is just as famous for its history of hauntings as it is for its top-notch interiors and amenities.

Manhattan Beach, Los Angeles

Manhattan Beach pier — Amanda Blackard/Travel + Leisure

This family-friendly beach has sand so soft that Hawaiian beaches have actually been known to import it. The watersports are aplenty: you can try body surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, or if that's not your thing, set up shop under an umbrella and people-watch until the sun sets. Where to stay? Try the Shade Hotel, which boasts a rooftop pool with gorgeous ocean views, or opt for an Airbnb rental right on the beach.

East & West Beach, Santa Barbara

Stearns Wharf California — Getty Images/iStockphoto

Paddleboard at either of these two beaches, separated by the historic Stearns Wharf, to find yourself up close and personal with the seals that are known to laze upon the harbor's buoys. Both beaches are enshrouded by palm trees and make for a perfect lazy day at the beach during summer, but fall in Santa Barbara is just as magnificent. Don't forget to stroll along the iconic wharf, where you can pick up everything from local souvenirs to fish and chips to homemade ice cream.

Santa Cruz Beach

Santa Cruz Boardwalk California — Rebecca Stunell/Alamy Stock Photo

Just an hour and a half's drive south of San Francisco, you can escape the fog and enjoy the sunshine at Santa Cruz's historic boardwalk. Since its 1907 opening, the boardwalk has transformed into one of the most well-known seaside amusement parks in California. Spend the day riding the roaring 1924 roller coaster, eating caramel apples on the boardwalk, and lounging on the beach. Or, for the full California experience, show off your surfing skills.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel-by-the-Sea

Point Lobos state park — Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

In the small, fairytale-like city of Carmel-by-the-Sea lies Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a beautiful area to visit for wildlife-watching, water activities (such as kayaking and snorkeling), and most of all, hiking. Yes, you can swim here, but depending on the season, the temperatures could be quite cold and the waters a bit rough. However, this is one of the best spots for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy all the natural beauty Central California has to offer.

Pacific Beach, San Diego

A surfer walking down Pacific Beach — Kelly Griffin/Travel + Leisure

The beach is an excellent choice for those looking to surf, eat burritos, and people-watch. The near-constantly perfect weather seems almost suspicious, though the frequently reported beach parties and music-blasting day drinkers have given it a reputation for hosting a younger crowd. If you're looking for a lively atmosphere, join in on a volleyball game or explore the boardwalk bar scene.

Baker Beach, San Francisco

People on Baker beach on a sunny day — Melissa Zink/Travel + Leisure

Many would argue that the best way to enjoy the Golden Gate Bridge is by strolling along Baker Beach during the sunset. At this particular time of day, the golden glow pairs well with fantastic views of the bridge bearing the very name of this shade of light. Baker Beach is a great option for picnicking with your family or taking a hike with your dog, as there's a lovely trail along the cliffs that connects to the beach.

Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles

Hermosa Beach is named after the small Los Angeles beachfront city it lies within. Great for après-beach debauchery, this coastal spot is known for its abundance of beach activities, like volleyball, paddleboarding, and surfing. After a long day, head straight to the famous paved path known as The Strand (less commonly but officially called the Marvin Braude Bike Trail), where you can eat, drink, and shop your heart out.

Limantour Beach, Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes Beach California — Getty Images/Flickr RF

The Point Reyes National Seashore is made up of almost a dozen gorgeous beaches well worth visiting. Limantour Beach, however, makes our list due to its seemingly never-ending hiking trails and plethora of wildlife (birds, seals, and even whales are commonly spotted along the shorelines). As an important nature preserve, the Point Reyes National Seashore is protected by the U.S. National Park Service, so don't forget to read up on the regulations regarding camping, boating, and drinking alcohol before planning a trip to Limantour Beach.

Huntington Beach, Orange County

Huntington Beach California — Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

One of SoCal's most famous beaches, this iconic stretch of sand is best known for its famed pier and surfing culture. It's literally nicknamed "Surf City USA." Whether you want to learn how to ride waves yourself, or just recreate Baywatch's opening scenes (the series was filmed on this very beach), Huntington Beach is the place. It's often deemed one of the best beaches in Southern California.

Venice Beach, Los Angeles

A park in Venice Beach — Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

This list wouldn't be complete without the iconic Venice Beach. It's best known for its bohemian vibes, tattoo parlors, skateboarders, and local hippies selling all sorts of crafts on the promenade that runs along to the beach. Here, you can find all sorts of eccentricities, food, booze, and some of L.A.'s best under-the-radar shopping spots. Moon Juice is one of them, selling a unique variety of beauty and wellness products like edible tonics, dusts, and cosmic provisions as well as cold-pressed juices and healthy snacks.

Monterey State Beach, Seaside

Houghton M. Roberts Beach on a Cloudy Day — LifeImagesbyGloria/Getty Images

Fish, surf, or explore tide pools at this state beach, which is comprised of three separate beaches between the coastal cities of Monterey and Seaside. With miles of flat, wide sand, Monterey State Beach is a popular spot for walking or jogging long stretches of coast and playing volleyball. But the fun isn’t just on the shore. Scuba dive beneath the waves to explore the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Or, take to the sky for some paragliding, which is also popular at this location.

Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo County

Located on California’s Central Coast, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Pismo Beach is probably best-known for its Monarch Butterfly Grove, which sees more than 10,000 butterflies every year, between late October and February. That's when they migrate south for winter and cover the beach in their bright-orange hues. Pismo is also a great spot for dune riding, surfing, fishing, horseback riding, and sipping the day away at one of the nearby wineries. If you’re looking to stay, Pismo Beach is home to the stylish Vespera Resort and the boutique Inn at the Pier.

Redondo Beach, Los Angeles

Redondo Beach, California, United States — Jose Amaral Jr/Getty Images

Redondo Beach is in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, along Santa Monica Bay. Find all the classic beach activities — fishing, boating, swimming, and surfing — at this quintessentially California locale. Head to the horseshoe-shaped Redondo Beach Pier for even more activities, shopping, and plenty of outdoor dining and drinking.

Descanso Beach, Catalina Island

Descanso Beach on Catalina Island — Matthew Micah Wright/Getty Images

Known for its sweeping, colorful views, Avalon is home to the Descanso Beach Club, the only beachfront restaurant and bar on this side of Catalina Island. Take in the beautiful ocean vistas from a private cabana, chaise lounge, beach towel, or table. The Presidential Cabanas include a beach butler and complimentary snacks and drinks, while the Hillside Cabanas are situated over the beach for even better views. The beach club also hosts events and beach parties for guests to enjoy once the sun has set in the summer. And when you’re finished on the shore, head to the iconic Catalina Casino located nearby.

La Jolla Shores, San Diego

Aerial Drone Photograph Of Sandy Beaches In La Jolla — Ryan Szot/EyeEm/Getty Images

Known as "the jewel" of San Diego, La Jolla offers something for any kind of beachgoer, from cliffs to reefs to quiet coves. We suggest traipsing down to the mile-long crescent known as La Jolla Shores. This beach is home to the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier, which serves as a research center for the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. It's a popular swimming, diving, and surfing spot as well as a great place to launch a kayak. Keep the beach party going once the sun has set with a summer bonfire.

Dunes Beach, Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay's wildflowers bloom in all their glory — Erica Davis/Getty Images

Part of Half Moon Bay State Beach, Dunes Beach is a beautiful place to sunbathe the day away, with sandstone bluffs and, of course, spectacular dunes. There are good running, walking, and biking opportunities, and you can even take the Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail along the shore to Poplar Beach a few miles south. There are also plenty of dining options and luxe accommodations nearby. Check in to The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay or the Seal Cove Inn, both just a stone’s throw from the beach.

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