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Whatever your mood, there’s an idyllic Golden State beach with your name on it. If action-packed fun in the sun is your jam, take your pick of classic SoCal spots from La Jolla Shores to Dana Strand Beach in Orange County to Santa Monica. Central Coast beaches cover the full gamut, whether you’ve just finished a spa treatment in Santa Barbara or want to watch the surfers do their thing at Rincon Point in Carpinteria. The northern half of the state specializes in hidden beaches, where you can find a secluded stretch of sand that’s perfect for beachcombing or collecting your thoughts.
11 Incredible California Beaches
Secluded, action-packed, or classic—there's a California beach for every mood
11 Great Dog Beaches
Whether your pup wants to ride the waves or lounge in the sand, there’s a Golden State beach calling
7 Cool Ways to Play in the Pacific Ocean
Pull on your swimsuit and slather on sunscreen to try these saltwater-based sports in California
Orange County’s Best Beaches
Visit these four idyllic, sun-drenched stretches of sand in Southern California
San Diego County’s Best Beaches
Surf, swim, and sunbathe at one of these five postcard-worthy beaches
An A to Z Guide: California Surf Culture
Let this be your introduction to the Golden State’s official sport, which is celebrated on California Surfing Day Sept. 20
Best Beaches on the North Coast
Explore the breathtaking scenery of the wild Sonoma and Mendocino coasts—from sandy shores to the top of a lighthouse
Travel Stories
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Amazing Seafood Restaurants in San Diego
The beach city excels at fresh-catch cuisine, paired with local brews and great views
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5 Classic California Beach Burgers
Where to find the best hamburgers along the California coastline
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Piedras Blancas
See (and hear) thousands of bellowing elephant seals and tour a historic lighthouse
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4 Incredible Resorts in Orange County
Enjoy unparalleled views, world-class golf, fine dining, and much more at these high-end destinations
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11 Great Dog Beaches
Whether your pup wants to ride the waves or lounge in the sand, there’s a Golden State beach calling
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Point Reyes Beaches
Find your perfect stretch of sand among Point Reyes’ 80 miles of shoreline options
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10 Great Beaches for Kids
Make memories at some of California's family-favorite beaches
Family Travel, Idyllwild, Wild North Coast
42min
Michelin Guide, L.A. to Paso Robles, LGBTQ+ Travel
46min
Sonoma County’s Hidden Gems
40min
Cowboy Culture, Highway One, Bikes and Hikes LA
46min
Big Sur, Waterfalls, Oakland
23min
Holiday Travels in California
45min
Undiscovered California Road Trips
49min
California Curiosities, Architecture, East Bay
37min
California Surfing Day, Ryan Robinson, Glamping
48min
Central California's Greatest Hits
42min

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