The best beaches in California

California’s 840-plus miles of coastline include some of the most stunning beaches in the U.S. There’s something for every type of beachgoer, from sun worshipper to nature lover to adventure junkie.

What you’ll learn:

• California offers hundreds of popular beach destinations along its coastline.

• The best beach for you depends on who you’re traveling with and what kind of experience you’re looking for.

• Some beaches to consider visiting in California are Santa Monica Beach, Laguna Beach and Carmel Beach. 

• Eligible cardholders can earn elevated rewards when they use Capital One Travel to book trips to California’s best beaches and beyond.

The Golden State boasts more than 420 public beaches, each offering visitors a different experience. If you’re planning a trip to the West Coast, here are 10 California beaches you can consider checking out.

Fifteen miles west of Los Angeles is the seaside town of Santa Monica, with more than 3 miles of beach. In the center of the beach is the Santa Monica Pier, a world-famous destination with a family-friendly amusement park, aquarium, Ferris wheel and more. Santa Monica also has a thriving cultural scene. Over 170 murals line the streets, and the Bergamot Station complex houses more than 20 art galleries.

Road-trippers along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway could make a stop at the beach town of Malibu. It’s home to celebrities, athletes and several glorious beaches, including Surfrider Beach. The beach formally known as Malibu Lagoon State Beach draws surfers from all over the world. You can watch them riding the waves as you fish, dine or shop on Malibu Pier.

Halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach in Orange County is a dreamy city with 7 miles of coves and beaches. Nature lovers can surf, whale watch and explore tide pools and trails. Foodies can take in breathtaking sunsets while enjoying fresh seafood. And art lovers can mingle with makers at one of the city’s many art festivals and events.

Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is known for its purple sand and rocky shoreline. Photographers congregate there every winter to capture the sunset glowing through the imposing Keyhole Arch. Pfeiffer Beach is a bit of a hidden gem, located deep within the Los Padres National Forest. But its otherworldliness repays the effort it can take to get there.

A popular destination for tourists and locals, Pismo Beach is halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Adventure seekers and nature lovers can check out amazing views from the hiking trails on the Pismo Preserve or go kayaking in Dinosaur Caves. If you’re in the mood to relax, there’s no shortage of renowned local winemakers where you can sample a glass of red or white.

This vast, sandy beach in San Diego is nearly 2 miles long and offers stunning views of the iconic Hotel del Coronado, a National Historic Landmark. With its peaceful setting, expansive shoreline and calmer waves, Coronado Beach is perfect for both fun-seeking families and couples looking for a romantic getaway. Away from the beach, you can hop on an electric bike or the Old Town Trolley to take in the downtown views.

Venice Beach is known for its bohemian vibes and lively atmosphere. The famous Venice Beach Boardwalk is Southern California’s second-largest tourist attraction after Disneyland, according to the local chamber of commerce. You can stroll for 2 miles, taking in street performances, shopping at local vendors and eating at an array of local restaurants. Enjoy the views at the waterfront skate park or get in a workout at Muscle Beach Gym, where some of the biggest names in bodybuilding and film have trained.

Carmel Beach boasts scenic views, silky white sand and crystal-blue waters. Surfers flock here hoping to catch the perfect wave. The sunsets are glorious, so bring a picnic or a grill and stay for the show. And it’s dog-friendly, so your furry friend can enjoy it all with you.

Huntington Beach’s legendary waves and vibrant surfing culture have earned it the nickname of Surf City, USA. With 10 miles of uninterrupted coastline, there’s room on the beach for novice wave chasers and pros. Speaking of pros, visitors in August can watch them in action during the annual U.S. Open of Surfing. The International Surfing Museum houses some of the sport’s most significant artifacts, including what it says is the world’s largest surfboard.

La Jolla Shores in San Diego is a mile-long beach with sweeping ocean views. It’s known as an excellent surfing locale even though the waters are comparatively calmer than other coastlines in the area, making it a popular place for novice scuba divers too. Just up the road, the Birch Aquarium brings the deep sea to you, with over 500 species of ocean creatures.

For family adventure, head over to La Jolla Children’s Pool to see seals and sea lions sunbathing on the sand. Depending on the tide, you can walk or paddle your way to nearby La Jolla Cove, a local favorite where you might spot bright orange Garibaldi fish and other local marine life.

Pack up your swimsuit and get ready for the California sun, sand and surf. Whether you like sunbathing, wildlife spotting, wave riding or people watching, you can find it at a California beach. 

Once you’ve picked a California beach to visit, it’s time to plan your vacation. 

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