Avila Beach

This secluded little spot sits on California’s central coast, approximately halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

The beach itself is a stunning unspoilt stretch of white sand and crystal clear water that’s around half a mile long, with a near 1700-feet pier at the heart of it that’s been standing for more than a century.

It’s partially closed for restoration works so you won’t be able to walk all the way to the end but you can still stroll a decent way along it and there are spots for fishing too if you fancy it.

Back to the beach, and due to its relatively small size compared to some of its neighbours along the coast, it does get fairly packed out, particularly in the summer months. In fact, it’s pretty popular all year round, partly due to the area’s microclimate which keeps the temperatures mild all year, but July and August are definitely the busiest months.

In terms of facilities here, everything’s pretty low key. Avila Beach’s adjoining town is home to around 1,500 people so there are no giant shopping malls or global fast food chains close to hand. That said, there are plenty of independent cafes and restaurants within a stone’s throw of the sands.

Amenities-wise, there are restrooms right by the beach, lots of places to park in town, and lifeguards are on duty seven days a week in the summer. You’ll also find a handful of free-to-use public barbecues next to the beach, or you can bring your own small one to the sands if you prefer.