Best California Beaches for a Day Trip
Welcome, beach lovers! With an awe-inspiring coastline stretching over 800 miles, California is a paradise for sun, sand, and surf lovers. The Golden State is teeming with stunning beaches that are perfect for day trips, each boasting its unique allure.
A day at the beach offers a chance to relax, unwind, and partake in a myriad of fun activities. As we explore from Northern to Southern California, we discover a beach for every preference. Are you seeking a family-friendly beach, a prime surf spot, or a quiet retreat? We've got you covered! So grab your sunscreen and beach towel, and let's embark on a journey through California's best beaches for a day trip.
NorCal Beaches
Let's begin our journey with Northern California's prized coastal spots, home to some truly charming beaches that are perfect for day trips.
Stinson Beach
Nestled just about 20 miles north of San Francisco, Stinson Beach is a splendid getaway from the bustling city life. It's renowned for its broad sandy beach that stretches for 3.5 miles, inviting you to lay down your beach blanket and soak up the sun. The shoreline is framed by verdant hills that are home to the Dipsea and Matt Davis trails, ideal for hiking enthusiasts. After a refreshing hike, there's nothing quite like plunging into the cool ocean waters, playing beach volleyball, or simply watching the surfers catch waves. With its proximity to San Francisco and abundant recreational activities, Stinson Beach makes for a fantastic day trip.
Glass Beach, Fort Bragg
Continuing up the coast, we reach Fort Bragg's Glass Beach, a destination that's as intriguing as its name suggests. Here, decades of discarded glass has been transformed by the ceaseless action of the waves into a sparkling shore of polished sea glass. Walking on the colorful, glass-covered shoreline feels like stepping into a treasure chest. While the beach is the main attraction, Fort Bragg also offers visitors the Skunk Train ride through the redwood forests, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, and the Sea Glass Museum to explore. A visit to Glass Beach offers more than just a day at the beach; it's an adventure into the resilience of nature and the beauty that can come from the unexpected.
Central California
Pismo Beach
In the heart of California's coastline lies the classic beach town of Pismo Beach. Known for its wide stretches of sandy beaches and a nostalgic pier that offers an impressive view of the Pacific, Pismo Beach promises a laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for a day trip.
What sets Pismo Beach apart from other coastal locations is the unique mix of beach fun and exciting adventure activities. Not only can you bask in the sun or engage in water sports, but you can also try your hand at clam digging. Pismo Beach is famed for its Pismo clams, and hunting for these tasty shellfish can add a fun twist to your beach day.
For the thrill-seekers, Pismo offers a different kind of beach activity – ATV dune riding. The Oceano Dunes, located south of Pismo Beach, are the only California State Park where vehicles may be driven on the beach. Whether you're a first-timer or an experienced rider, dashing across the expansive sand dunes on an ATV is an exhilarating experience.
And if all these activities work up an appetite, or you're looking for a post-beach relaxation spot, the nearby Edna Valley has beautiful wineries offering tastings of local varietals. This beach and wine combination makes Pismo Beach a unique destination that caters to a variety of interests.
SoCal Beaches
Zuma Beach
Let's begin our Southern California beach tour with Zuma Beach, located in the glamorous city of Malibu. Known for its clean, long stretch of sand, good surf, and scenic beauty, Zuma Beach is the quintessential Southern California beach. It's a serene escape from the bustling city, where sparkling waters meet sprawling sandy shores, framed by scenic cliffs.
Zuma Beach's stunning views and clear waters provide a great opportunity for sunbathing, swimming, and even spotting dolphins that frequently come close to the shore. For surf enthusiasts, Zuma is a paradise offering consistent waves, making it a favorite among locals.
A day trip to Zuma Beach isn't complete without a visit to the surrounding town of Malibu. Known for its star-studded residents, it's not uncommon to spot a celebrity while strolling around. Malibu boasts upscale shopping, exquisite dining options, and an array of wineries for a post-beach visit.
Moreover, Malibu is home to the Getty Villa, showcasing an impressive collection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan artifacts — a worthy pit stop for art and history lovers. Malibu offers more than just a beach day, its unique blend of natural beauty and celebrity allure providing a truly one-of-a-kind Southern California experience.
Coronado Beach
Next, we head to the far southern end of the state and visit Coronado Beach in San Diego. Known for its golden sand shimmering from the mineral mica, Coronado Beach offers a unique charm. The beach is also home to the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, a stately red-roofed Victorian beach resort that has been the crown jewel of the area since 1888.
With its calm, warm waters and family-friendly atmosphere, complete with tide pools for kids to explore, Coronado Beach is an excellent choice for a family day trip. Moreover, the surrounding town of Coronado enhances this beach experience. After soaking in the sun, families can stroll around the charming town, grab a delicious lunch at one of the many eateries, or visit the boutique shops offering a variety of unique items. This quaint, pedestrian-friendly town is known for its welcoming community, stunning gardens, and historic architecture, offering a delightful way to wrap up your beach day.
This combination of the beach's family-friendly atmosphere and the town's allure makes Coronado not just a beach destination, but a full day-trip experience.
Laguna Beach
Finally, we venture into the heart of the Orange County coastline to the artsy town of Laguna Beach. Not only does Laguna offer some of the most beautiful beaches in the state, but the area's bohemian vibe brings a unique appeal. The town is dotted with art galleries, boutiques, and outdoor cafes, bringing a vibrant cultural scene to its natural beauty. The coast is lined with beautiful coves, perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or even spotting sea life. Crystal Cove State Park, located just north of the Laguna Beach area, provides one of the best snorkeling opportunities in Southern California, making it a haven for underwater adventure enthusiasts. With its blend of natural beauty and artistic charm, Laguna Beach offers a multifaceted beach day experience.
Looking for more than a day trip? Check out our TA Luxe Review of the Montage Laguna Beach to experience the height of luxury beach-front vacations in California.
Bonus: A Hidden Gem
For the adventurous spirits yearning for a less crowded beach experience, we're letting you in on a well-kept secret — El Matador State Beach. Nestled between Malibu and Zuma Beach, El Matador is part of the Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, a cluster of hidden beaches that offer an extraordinary view of the Pacific.
El Matador is an enchanting escape adorned with massive sea stacks, mysterious caves, and intriguing rock formations, its dramatic landscapes making it a favorite spot for photographers and romantic getaways. The beach is relatively small, giving it an intimate feel that other, larger beaches lack.
Getting to the beach is a bit of an adventure, requiring a short hike down a steep staircase and cliff-side trail. But rest assured, the journey is well worth it as the untouched beauty of El Matador unfolds before your eyes.
And for the perfect end to your day trip, stick around for the sunset. El Matador boasts some of the most stunning sunsets in all of California. The sun dipping below the horizon, casting an array of hues over the ocean, is an unforgettable sight that serves as a perfect conclusion to your California beach adventure.