Laguna Creek Beach is within Coast Dairies State Park in Santa Cruz on Cabrillo Hwy. It is popular for sunbathing, birdwatching, exploring tidal pools and surfing. It is also unofficially a naturist clothing-optional beach, just so you know.
There is a free parking lot at the north entrance of Laguna Road off Hwy 1. Cross the highway and look for a well-trod trail through the vegetation. Cross the railroad… read more »
The Santa Cruz beach of Mitchell's Cove is marked by a pinnacle of sandstone that stands right at the centre of its sands. South facing, much of the depth of the beach is lost during high tide, although there is the possibility of catching sight of migrating grey whales.
Free parking is available at the top of the steps that lead down the cliff to the beach, between the turnings… read more »
This is the largest state park along the Big Sur coast and since it boasts over 20 miles of hiking trails, it's the perfect destination for avid trekkers.
Here, you'll find open meadows, high ridges, groves of sycamore and redwood trees, a river, many trails, and one of the best beaches to explore in the area.
The beach itself isn't the most accessible, and takes a little effort to get to, but… read more »
Set just off the scenic Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County, Cayucos State Beach is a classic California coastal destination. This wide, sandy beach stretches alongside the charming town of Cayucos, offering a laid-back vibe, great surf, and stunning ocean views. With its historic pier, tide pools, and rolling waves, the beach is perfect for a whole host of activities.
The beach is popular for surfing, with consistent waves that… read more »
This quiet and expansive stretch of beach is situated near Monterey on California's Central Coast. Once part of the former Fort Ord military base, the four-mile-long beach is now a protected state park.
The dunes which back the beach provide a natural barrier from the wind and add to the beach's rugged beauty. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory shorebirds and coastal foxes with… read more »
Garrapata State Park Beach is a rugged and breathtaking stretch of coastline along California's famed Highway 1, just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This wild and unspoiled beach is part of a state park, which includes over 4,000 acres of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and scenic hiking trails. With its golden sand, crashing Pacific waves, and stunning views, Garrapata captures the essence of Big Sur's raw beauty.
Fan Shell Beach is a picturesque little stretch of coastline along the famous 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach. With its rugged beauty, soft white sand, and stunning ocean views, this beach is a favourite stop for visitors exploring the Monterey Peninsula.
During spring and early summer, the beach is a key nesting site for Brandt’s cormorants, making it an excellent location for birdwatching. The surrounding rocks and tide pools are home… read more »
The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes is one of the largest coastal dune ecosystems in California, stretching along the coast between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. This vast and dynamic landscape features towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and a rich diversity of plant and animal life. It is part of the larger dunes complex and a key site for both conservation and outdoor recreation.
Visitors can hike through rolling sand hills,… read more »
Jalama Beach is set on a remote stretch of the Santa Barbara County coastline. It is a rugged and windswept expanse of sand known for its natural beauty, good surf, and relative remoteness. Tucked away at the end of a long, winding road off Highway 1, this hidden gem offers visitors a true escape from the busier beaches of Southern California.
Jalama beach is a favourite among surfers, thanks to… read more »
Manresa State Beach is a beautiful, wide stretch of golden sand located on the Monterey Bay coastline just outside Santa Cruz. Despite this the beach has something of a remote feel and the lack of commercial development making it a perfect escape for those looking to experience California's natural coastal beauty.
The beach is popular with surfers, especially those looking for a less crowded alternative to Santa Cruz's busier surf… read more »
