Beaches
Southern California
BEST BEACHES IN SOCAL
Aliso Beach
Laguna Beach, CA
Aliso Beach is a hidden gem for beach lovers and nature seekers alike! It is known for its breathtaking coastline, soft sands, and pristine waters, Aliso Beach offers the perfect mix of relaxation and outdoor fun. Whether you're a family looking for a peaceful day by the ocean or a thrill seeker ready to hit the waves, this beach has it all. It's a popular spot for skimboarding, thanks to its perfect shore breaks, and its picnic areas and fire pits make it a great destination for gatherings during sunset hours. Plus, Aliso Beach is just minutes away from some of Laguna Beach’s most stunning hiking trails. Make sure to stay environmentally conscious when visiting these beaches, remember to fully extinguish fire pits and leave no trace behind!
Coronado Beach
Coronado, CA
Coronado Beach is a breathtaking beach known for its sparkling sand, gentle waves, and iconic backdrop of the historic Hotel del Coronado. This expansive, family-friendly beach offers plenty of space for lounging under the sun, playing beach games, and leisurely strolls along the shore. Its calm surf makes it perfect for swimming and boogie boarding, while the scenic views are ideal for a relaxing day by the ocean and watching the golden sunset. Coronado Beach is also one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Southern California, making it a haven for pet lovers! Discover the beauty of this coastal paradise, and be sure to #LeaveNoTrace to help keep this beach pristine for future visitors.
Crystal Cove Beach
Newport Beach, CA
Crystal Cove Beach offers an unforgettable coastal experience perfect for nature lovers and beach seekers. With its pristine shoreline, scenic trails, and historic beach cottages, this hidden gem provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Crystal Cove is also part of the Crystal Cove State Park, with 3 miles of sandy beaches and over 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness. The park’s marine-protected area is home to the lively tide pools, making it a haven for marine life enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking the cliffs, exploring the tide pools, or soaking in the sun, Crystal Cove Beach is the ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature while supporting local conservation efforts.
Granada Beach
Long Beach, CA
Granada Beach is the perfect coastal retreat for anyone seeking a blend of relaxation and outdoor fun! With its wide, sandy shoreline, calm waters, and panoramic ocean views, it’s a popular spot for beachgoers, cyclists, and kiteboarders alike. Located along the scenic Belmont Shore, Granada Beach is also home to Long Beach’s unique “Moonlight Movies on the Beach” events during summer, making it a great destination for families. Whether you're there to swim, stroll along the beach, or enjoy a seaside picnic, Granada Beach offers a laid-back vibe with plenty to explore. Remember to pack out everything you bring on your next beach adventure! Let’s keep our beaches clean and beautiful!
La Jolla Shores Beach
San Diego, CA
La Jolla Shores Beach in San Diego, is a stunning coastal destination that offers something for anyone and everyone. Known for its gentle waves and expansive sandy shores, this beach is perfect for families, surfers, and snorkelers. La Jolla Shores is also home to the protected San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park, making it a popular spot for kayaking and diving adventures. With incredible views, tide pools brimming with marine life, and endless opportunities to explore, it’s no wonder this beach is a favorite for both locals and tourists. Plan your visit to this natural gem, and don’t forget to #LeaveNoTrace to help preserve its beauty for future generations.
Rosie's Dog Beach
Long Beach, CA
Rosie’s Dog Beach is the ultimate destination for dog lovers and their furry friends! As one of the only legal off-leash dog beaches in Southern California since 2010, this spot allows your pup to roam free, splash in the waves, and enjoy the sunshine in a safe and fun environment. With over 4 acres of sandy shoreline, Rosie’s Dog Beach offers plenty of space for your dog to run, play fetch, and make new friends. It's a favorite for locals and visitors, creating a vibrant community of dog owners who love the beach just as much as their pets. Don't miss this dog friendly haven on your next trip to Long Beach! Click the link to learn more about Rosie’s Dog Beach.
1,000 Steps Beach
Laguna Beach, CA
1000 Steps Beach, is an adventure lover’s dream! While the name might sound daunting, the actual stair count is closer to 200, but the journey is well worth it. Tucked away behind a steep set of stairs, this hidden paradise offers a secluded escape with stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and soft sandy shores. Popular for surfing the big waves, sunbathing during summertime, and exploring sea caves at low tide, 1000 Steps Beach is perfect for anyone looking to experience the raw beauty of Laguna Beach away from the crowds. To learn more about this beach visit Laguna Beach for more information!
Treasure Island Beach
Laguna Beach, CA
Treasure Island Beach is a hidden gem along the California coast that offers stunning ocean views, incredible marine life, and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for families, snorkelers, and beachgoers, this beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs, giving visitors a sense of tranquil escape. It's a fantastic spot for a relaxing day of sunbathing or exploring the vibrant marine life in the nearby tide pools. Keep an eye out for volunteers from the Laguna Ocean Foundation, who are dedicated to protecting Laguna Beach's tidepools and educating visitors about the local wildlife and preservation efforts. With easy access via scenic walkways and plenty of nearby amenities, Treasure Island Beach makes for a perfect beach day while helping protect and enjoy Southern California's natural beauty. Make sure to #LeavenoTrace and pick up after yourself to keep this paradise clean for everyone to enjoy!
Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica, CA
Santa Monica State Beach is a vibrant coastal gem that attracts visitors with its stunning scenery and lively atmosphere. Stretching for over three miles along California's iconic coastline, this beach offers an array of activities, from sunbathing on the golden sands to thrilling water sports like paddleboarding and surfing. Take a stroll along the bustling Santa Monica Pier, where you can enjoy rides, games, and delicious seaside dining. For nature enthusiasts, the beach is surrounded by picturesque walking paths, perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a scenic walk. With its blend of outdoor fun, natural beauty, and cultural attractions, Santa Monica State Beach is the ultimate destination for anyone looking to soak up the sun and embrace the vibrant Californian lifestyle. Remember to #LeaveNoTrace when you plan your visit to help preserve this coastal paradise and keep it clean and beautiful for future generations!