8 Beaches You Need to Visit in Southern California
Southern California draws travelers year-round, and its beaches are a big reason why. With more than 150 miles of coastline, the region boasts a variety of sandy shorelines ready to satisfy every type of beachgoer. Wondering which beach is right for you? Here are eight you shouldn't miss on your next trip to SoCal.
1. Coronado Beach
The Coronado Bridge connects San Diego to this island beach, which is regularly ranked among the best in the country. The soft, gold-colored, mica-rich sand shines in the sun, giving Coronado Beach a regal appearance.
The Victorian architecture of the beachside Hotel del Coronado is equally regal. Guests of the historic “Del,” as it’s known, enjoy access to luxurious beach villa accommodations and high-end rooms and suites. Even if you don't stay at the hotel, you can let your furry friends run wild in Coronado’s dog-friendly section.
2. Doheny State Beach
Doheny State Beach stretches for than a mile along the coast of Orange County. Established in 1931, it was California’s first state beach and is still a popular destination for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Campers can enjoy Doheny’s expansive campground, with more than 100 sites. There are also many resorts right on the beach.
3. Hermosa Beach
The wide-open beachfront here should draw just as many visitors as its South Bay neighbors. Add a vibrant town with tons of things to do and easy access by car from Los Angeles, and you’d think it would be overrun by crowds.
As locals know, however, Hermosa Beach is relatively low key, making it perfect for people looking to spend a day relaxing in the sun. When you need some shade, check out the jazz brunch at Lighthouse Café. Cap off the day with a trip to Hermosa Beach and Comedy Club, where legends like Jerry Seinfeld have been known to perform.
4. El Matador State Beach
The stunning rock formations attract many a visitor to this Malibu beach, one of three that constitute Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach. Imposing columns of stone rise from the water, while large natural arches extend out from sea cliffs. Although these sights are always impressive, they’re best experienced at low tide. El Matador State Beach is easily accessible off the Pacific Coast Highway. The parking lot is small relative to the number of visitors the beach gets, so get here early in the day to secure a spot.
5. Newport Beach
Newport Beach is a wealthy enclave with luxury car dealership, palatial homes, and massive yachts. There are also beaches here, including Balboa Peninsula. Along with gleaming white sand perfect for sunbathers, Balboa Peninsula entices surfers with its 30-foot waves.
The community around the beach, meanwhile, is home to a wide variety of bars, restaurants, cafes, and retailers. Families should check out the Balboa Fun Zone Amusement Park and try Balboa Pier. There’s a play area, ice cream vendors, and bike rentals.
6. Santa Monica State Beach
Located only 15 miles from Los Angeles, Santa Monica State Beach is a 3-mile shoreline bisected by the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Visitors flock to the area around the pier for the amusement park and Ferris wheel, as well as other attractions like Palisades Park.
The attractions tend to make the pier area crowded, but travelers can find quieter sections by walking north or south. As the crowds decrease, so do the prices. Parking is not free, but you can avoid paying by riding your bike to the beach along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Also known as the Strand, the 20-mile paved path connects all the beaches in Santa Monica Bay.
7. Treasure Island Beach
Towering cliffs spotted with palm trees overlook Treasure Island Beach. This bluff-top park is maintained in part by Montage Laguna Beach. It offers breathtaking views of the Laguna Beach coastline.
When you’re finished taking in the sights, go down the long ramp to the cove-like shoreline. With an ocean floor that’s soft and free of rocks, Treasure Island Beach is a perfect place for swimming. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, refuel with a poke bowl at the nearby Mosaic Bar and Grille.
8. Venice Beach
The number of activities available along Venice Beach is perhaps only exceeded by the variety of people you’ll encounter. On the legendary 2.5-mile boardwalk, you’ll find artists, street performers, skateboarders, weightlifters, and many others. For optimal travel flexibility, hop on a beach cruiser. They are available to rent along the boardwalk.
People looking for a traditional beach day will be pleased with the shoreline’s wide, flat expanse of sand, which offers plenty of room to lie out in the sun. There are also volleyball nets and basketball courts for people looking for something active.