Southern California is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From sandy shores to rocky coves, the region is a paradise for beachgoers. With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan a beach getaway. To help you choose the best beach destination, we’ve compiled a list of 10 best beaches in Southern California that you need to visit this summer. Whether you’re looking for a spot to relax or a place to explore, there’s something for everyone on this list.
1) Zuma Beach
Located along the coast of Malibu, Zuma Beach is one of Southern California’s best beaches. With its sandy shores, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder why Zuma Beach has been ranked as one of the best beaches in the state. Zuma Beach is well known for its surfing, sunbathing and beach volleyball. It is also the ideal spot for a romantic picnic or an afternoon of relaxing with a good book.
The beach can be quite crowded during the summer months, but if you come early in the day, you will find plenty of parking spots and more room to spread out on the sand. There are also numerous vendors along the beach selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. Be sure to check out the nearby Point Dume State Marine Reserve, which is home to over 200 species of marine life.
Whether you’re looking to relax or have an adventure, Zuma Beach is a great choice. You won’t regret a visit to this stunning Southern California beach.
2) Newport Beach
Located in Orange County, California, Newport Beach is one of the best beaches in Southern California. It is known for its crystal clear waters, white sand and dramatic cliffs. The beach stretches from the Newport Beach Pier to the Balboa Peninsula. Visitors can enjoy activities such as sunbathing, swimming, surfing and sailing.
Newport Beach is also home to some of the world’s best shopping and dining. There are plenty of options for entertainment here, including the Balboa Fun Zone, a historical amusement park with a carousel and ferris wheel. Nearby, you will find popular attractions such as Fashion Island, a popular outdoor mall, and Balboa Island, a charming waterfront village.
If you’re looking for a day of fun at the beach, Newport Beach is the perfect destination! You can enjoy long walks along the shoreline, play beach volleyball or spend your time people-watching at one of the many restaurants overlooking the bay. With its stunning views and endless opportunities for recreation, Newport Beach is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
3) Hermosa Beach
Located just south of Los Angeles, Hermosa Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon relaxing, sunbathing, swimming, or even surfing. The beach is known for its laid-back, family friendly atmosphere and the stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding area.
The white sand beach is lined with tall palm trees, and the sea has a gentle swell which makes it great for swimmers and surfers alike. The waters here are usually calm and crystal clear, so it’s perfect for snorkeling and diving. The beach has a large boardwalk and pier that provides plenty of entertainment, including shops, restaurants, and bars.
Hermosa Beach is one of the few beaches in Southern California that doesn’t allow bonfires or barbecues on the beach. So if you’re looking for a place to relax and just soak in the sun without the noise of a barbecue party, then this is the perfect spot.
The beach also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the International Surf Festival and Beach Soccer Tournament. If you’re looking for a great spot to take your family this summer, then Hermosa Beach should be at the top of your list!
4) Laguna Beach
One of the most iconic beaches in Southern California, Laguna Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking for a classic SoCal beach experience. Located just south of Los Angeles and stretching along the picturesque Pacific Coast Highway, this beach is known for its amazing views, beautiful sunsets, and pristine white sands. Visitors will also be able to explore some of the more hidden coves and caves that dot the landscape.
The main beach is located in the middle of Laguna Beach, and offers plenty of activities including swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Further up the coast you’ll find many smaller, secluded beaches that are perfect for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Laguna Beach also has a great nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from. There’s also a wide range of art galleries and shops that you can explore during your visit. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting night on the town, Laguna Beach has something for everyone.
5) Venice Beach
Venice Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Southern California. Located in Los Angeles County, it’s a bustling beach with lots to see and do. The classic Venice Beach boardwalk offers plenty of sights, sounds, and experiences. There are street performers, skateboarders, musicians, and vendors galore. It’s also a great place to people watch, as there are often interesting characters strolling the boardwalk.
When it comes to swimming, Venice Beach offers beautiful golden sand and crystal-clear water. There are lifeguards on duty during the day, so it’s a safe place to swim. On the beach, you’ll find volleyball courts, bike paths, and picnic areas for your convenience.
For those looking for a bit more action, there’s no shortage of activities to partake in at Venice Beach. From bodyboarding to boogie boarding, surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding, there’s something for everyone here. There are even a few man-made lagoons that offer a serene environment to relax in.
No matter what you’re looking for in a beach vacation, Venice Beach is sure to please. With its stunning views, eclectic atmosphere, and plenty of recreational opportunities, it’s one of the best beaches in Southern California.
6) Manhattan Beach
Located in the city of Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Southern California. Known for its beautiful white sand, clean beach and warm, year-round temperatures, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to this spot to soak up some sun. The beach itself stretches for three miles, providing plenty of space for activities such as swimming, surfing, beach volleyball, and sunbathing.
What really makes Manhattan Beach stand out from other beaches in the area is its wide variety of restaurants, cafes and bars. From casual eateries to upscale dining, there’s something for everyone. The neighborhood also offers a variety of shops and boutiques, making it the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs.
If you’re looking for a bit of fun, there are a number of activities available in Manhattan Beach. Visit the nearby pier for fishing or explore the tidepools at the nearby Marine Street Beach. Other activities include beach volleyball, surfing lessons, biking along the Strand (a paved path that runs along the beach) and rollerblading.
No matter what you’re looking for, Manhattan Beach has something to offer. Whether you’re looking to relax or get active, you won’t be disappointed by a day spent at this beautiful beach.
7) San Diego – Coronado Beach
When it comes to beaches in Southern California, Coronado Beach in San Diego is one of the best. Located near downtown San Diego, this beach is known for its soft sand and spectacular views. The wide beach makes it perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, and playing beach volleyball. The water temperature is perfect for swimming and there are plenty of places to rent water sports equipment like kayaks and paddle boards. And if you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are several restaurants and cafes nearby. Coronado Beach also has a designated surfing area, so if you’re an avid surfer, you won’t want to miss it. With its beautiful views and perfect waves, Coronado Beach is definitely one of the best beaches in Southern California.
8) Huntington Beach
Located in Orange County, Huntington Beach is a popular summer destination. This nine-mile stretch of white sand is lined with palm trees, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun. Huntington Beach is also home to some of the best surf spots in the area, with world-renowned surfers often visiting the beach. It’s a great spot to catch some waves or just observe.
The pier at Huntington Beach is one of the longest in the world, stretching 1,850 feet out into the Pacific Ocean. A great place to walk, watch the sunset, or take photos, it’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops nearby so you can grab a bite to eat or do some shopping after your day at the beach.
For those looking for something more adventurous, there are also plenty of activities nearby such as fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and even whale watching (during certain times of year). The nearby Bolsa Chica State Ecological Reserve is also worth a visit for nature lovers.
No matter what you’re looking for, Huntington Beach is sure to have something for you. With beautiful beaches, great surf spots, and plenty of activities, it’s no wonder why this Southern California beach is so popular. So make sure to add it to your list of must-visit beaches this summer!
9) Malibu
Malibu is one of the most iconic beaches in Southern California. It’s known for its spectacularly scenic beach views and golden sand, as well as its numerous celebrity homes. With miles of beautiful coastline to explore, Malibu is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a beach vacation.
You’ll find plenty of activities to keep you busy at Malibu. Surfing and paddleboarding are popular pursuits in the area, or you can simply lay out on the beach and soak up the California sun. Malibu also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars along the shoreline. Whether you’re looking to go shopping or enjoy some tasty food and drinks, there’s something for everyone in Malibu.
In addition to being a great place to spend the day, Malibu is also home to some of the best sunsets in California. The best time to watch the sunset is around 9:00 pm during the summer months when the sky is a deep shade of orange and pink. After dark, head to the pier where you can spot some bioluminescent plankton that looks like stars twinkling in the night sky.
No matter what you choose to do during your time in Malibu, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
10) Santa Monica
Santa Monica is one of the best beaches in Southern California, and it’s easy to see why. With its iconic pier, sandy beaches, and endless activities, there’s something for everyone.
The Santa Monica Pier is a must-see spot for visitors. Located at the end of the boardwalk, this historical landmark has everything from an old-fashioned carousel to an amusement park with games and rides. Don’t miss out on the stunning sunset views from the pier, either!
The beach itself has plenty of activities available. Try your hand at paddle boarding or hit the sand for a game of volleyball. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars close by to explore.
Santa Monica is also home to the famous Muscle Beach, where you can watch bodybuilders show off their strength or join in with some of the classes available. It’s a great spot for people watching or even to have a picnic on the grass.
Make sure to take in the incredible sights that Santa Monica has to offer and make it one of your top stops when visiting Southern California. You won’t regret it!
Final Words
Southern California is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a day of sun and surf, a romantic beach walk, or an unforgettable family getaway, these 10 beaches in Southern California have something for everyone. From the iconic Venice Beach to the serene Malibu, take some time to explore these stunning beaches this summer and create memories that will last a lifetime.
F&Q
Q: What are some of the best beaches in Southern California?
A: Some of the best beaches in Southern California include Zuma Beach, Newport Beach, Hermosa Beach, Laguna Beach, Venice Beach, Manhattan Beach, Coronado Beach, Huntington Beach, Malibu and Santa Monica.
Q: What activities can I do at Southern California beaches?
A: Activities that you can enjoy at Southern California beaches include swimming, surfing, sunbathing, beach volleyball, fishing, snorkeling and kayaking. Additionally, there are often parks and playgrounds nearby for family-friendly fun.
Q: Is there an age restriction for visiting beaches in Southern California?
A: Generally speaking, no. Most beaches in Southern California are open to people of all ages. However, there may be certain restrictions in place depending on the beach. For example, some beaches may require minors to be accompanied by an adult. It’s important to always check the beach rules and regulations before visiting.
