California’s beaches are renowned, yet those who visit the coast of the Golden State in search of beaches like in the Caribbean are often disappointed when they arrive at the Pacific Ocean, which is generally considered to be for surfing than swimming.
And yet, among the famous and cool California sandy beaches, if you know where to look, you can find wonderful desolate and unspoiled coastlines and many of them have crystal clear water. Let’s find out which are the best beaches in California.
Contents
La Jolla Cove: In Search of Garibaldi
Located in the refined seaside community of La Jolla, the renowned La Jolla Cove is a small cove and a protected marine reserve with beautiful transparent waters and sea caves, which make it ideal for those who love snorkeling.
While you dive, try to spot the orange glow of Garibaldi, the state marine fish of California. If you want to visit La Jolla Cove, get there early because the few parking spaces available fill up very quickly. See our article about attractions in La Jolla.
Find accommodations near La Jolla Cove
Coronado Beach: the Best Beach in San Diego
We are in San Diego County, and we are talking about one of the most admired beaches in California, winner of several awards as the best beach and praised by experts like Dr. Beach. To formulate his highly esteemed judgments, Dr. Beach measures parameters such as the cleanliness of the sand, the water, and the accessibility of the location.
The beach is about 1.5 miles long and is frequented by families and surfers, and the characteristics that make it unique are its almost subtropical vegetation, a temperate climate and the historic Hotel del Coronado, a Victorian building with pointed towers that is bizarre and magnificent at the same time. While it was built 120 years ago, it still retains all its charm and it is complemented by the natural surroundings. Spending a night here on the ocean is incredible!
Parking lots on this beach also fill up quickly, which is why many prefer to get there from downtown San Diego using public transportation.
Find accommodations near Coronado
Pfeiffer Beach, the Purple Beach of Big Sur
Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is a beautiful pristine beach that is very popular among locals and not well known to tourists. In addition to the beautiful views of rock formations and stacks, the beach’s special feature is its unusual violet-colored sand, which comes from manganese particles sliding down the hill. The further north you go, the richer the purple color of the sand.
The spectacular natural landscape will allow you to take magnificent pictures, especially at sunset, when the sun aligns with the Keyhole Arch stacks, creating a unique visual effect. There is a cost for admission to Pfeiffer Beach. Read our guide on Pfeiffer Beach in order to better organize your visit.
Find accommodations near Big Sur
Crystal Cove State Park: An Underwater Nature Park
A secluded beach that stretches for over 3 miles with an “underwater nature park” teeming with coral reefs, natural pools, and incredible coves. Behind this beautiful beach, there are over 2,000 acres of wooded land to explore.
Those who know the area well suggest visiting the coastline when the tide is lower, in order to enjoy a clearer view of aquatic life.
Find accommodations near Crystal Cove State Park
Channel Islands: A Lonely Paradise
These islands are part of the Channel Islands National Park, which is located near coastal cities like Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. On the beaches of these islands, you can breathe fresh air in unspoiled nature, with wonderful rock formations and crystal clear waters.
Out of the 8 islands, only these 5 are part of the national park: San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Anacapa, Santa Barbara, and Santa Cruz. There are small and charming beaches in all of the islands, but one beach that is particularly impressive is Cuyler Harbor Beach on San Miguel Island. The only way to get to this natural paradise is by boat and there are no hotels here. Read information and tips on how to get to the Channel Islands National Park.
Find accommodations in Los Angeles
Laguna Beach, the Pearl of Orange County
Laguna Beach is one of the most fashionable cities in Orange County and one of the most interesting cities from a cultural standpoint, but its main attraction is, perhaps, its beautiful beach. The water is generally clean and the beach is very quiet, although the Pacific tends to be cold and can have strong currents. The sand is always clean, white, and warm, which makes it ideal for walking, playing, or relaxing on a towel. If you want to learn more, read our guide to Laguna Beach.
Find accommodations near Laguna Beach
But where exactly are all these famous and beautiful beaches in California? Do you want to create an itinerary to visit them all? Take a look at the map below to get your bearings.
