Doheny State Beach was California’s first state beach, established in 1931, and remains one of Southern California’s most popular coastal parks. The beach is divided into two distinct areas: the northern section offers gentler waves ideal for swimming and beginning surfers, while the southern area contains a five-acre lawn with picnic facilities and volleyball courts. […]
Beaches for Picnicking
Natural Bridges State Beach
Natural Bridges State Beach is named for the naturally formed arch in the offshore rock, the last remaining of three that once stood in the area. This Santa Cruz beach is renowned for its remarkable tidepools exposed during low tide, containing a rich diversity of marine life including sea stars, crabs, and anemones. The beach […]
Carmel Beach
Carmel Beach is a pristine, white-sand crescent situated at the foot of Ocean Avenue in the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Known for its cypress-lined backdrop and the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links visible to the north, this dog-friendly beach allows canine companions to run off-leash. The beach offers excellent surfing conditions and permits beach fires […]
Baker Beach
Baker Beach stretches along the western shore of the Presidio, offering one of San Francisco’s most iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands. This mile-long beach features coarse, golden sand backed by rugged serpentine cliffs, creating a dramatic setting particularly popular with photographers. The northern section is traditionally clothing-optional, while the southern […]
Moonstone Beach
Moonstone Beach in Cambria is named for the smooth, polished stones (moonstones, jade, and jasper) that wash up on its shores. A scenic one-mile wooden boardwalk parallels this narrow stretch of beach, offering easy access for visitors to admire breathtaking ocean views and observe local wildlife including seals, sea otters, and dolphins. The beach features […]
Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach is one of Los Angeles County’s largest and most popular beaches, with 1.8 miles of pristine shoreline offering abundant recreational opportunities. The wide, flat sandy beach features volleyball courts, concession stands, and ample parking facilities to accommodate visitors. Consistently recognized for its excellent water quality, Zuma provides safe swimming conditions with year-round lifeguard […]
El Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach is one of Malibu’s most dramatically beautiful beaches, characterized by its towering bluffs, massive rock formations, and sea caves. Access requires navigating a steep staircase from the parking area above, but the descent rewards visitors with breathtaking coastal scenery. The beach’s distinctive sea stacks, arches, and caves make it a favorite […]
Corpus Christi Beach (Gulf)
Corpus Christi’s Gulf Beach stretches along the eastern shore of Corpus Christi, offering true Gulf of Mexico surf conditions compared to the calmer bay beaches. The beach features wide, clean sand with moderate waves ideal for boogie boarding and beginning surfers. Multiple access points with parking make the beach easily accessible for visitors. The area […]
Terramar Beach
Terramar Beach is a primarily residential beach area on the west end of Galveston Island, offering a more local experience than tourist-centered beaches. Public access points allow visitors to enjoy the same beautiful Gulf views as the beachfront homeowners. Vehicle access is permitted in designated areas, making it convenient for fishing and transporting beach equipment. […]
Indian Point Beach
Indian Point Beach is part of Indian Point Park on Corpus Christi Bay, offering a combination of sandy shoreline and recreational facilities. The beach features a 1,275-foot lighted fishing pier extending into the bay, popular with anglers targeting redfish, speckled trout, and flounder. The park includes a butterfly garden, playground equipment, and covered picnic areas […]