China Cove is a small, emerald-green cove tucked within Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, often described as “the crown jewel of the California State Park system.” This picturesque cove is characterized by its intensely colored water, dramatic rock formations, and small pebble beach that is occasionally accessible by stairs when conditions permit. A harbor seal […]
Leo Carrillo State Beach, named after the actor and conservationist, encompasses 1.5 miles of scenic coastline at the northwestern edge of Los Angeles County. The beach is notable for its sea caves, reefs, and tide pools that can be explored during low tide, revealing a fascinating array of marine life. North Beach allows dogs on […]
Cambria’s Moonstone Beach is named for the smooth, polished stones that wash up along its shore, including moonstones, jade, and jasper that beachcombers search for among the pebbles. A scenic one-mile boardwalk runs parallel to this narrow beach, offering easy accessible viewing of the coastline while protecting the fragile bluff ecosystem. The beach features fascinating […]
Jenner Beach sits at the mouth of the Russian River where it meets the Pacific Ocean, creating a dynamic coastal environment with shifting sandbars and a rich diversity of wildlife. The beach is known for its colony of harbor seals that can be observed from a safe distance, particularly during pupping season. The surrounding area […]
San Onofre State Beach encompasses several distinct areas spread over 3,000 acres of scenic coastline. Trestles Beach at the northern end features world-class surf breaks that host international competitions. The central section includes Old Man’s, a gentler break popular with longboarders and beginning surfers, embodying the beach’s laid-back surf culture dating back to the 1930s. […]
Malibu Lagoon State Beach encompasses Surfrider Beach, a legendary surfing location known for its perfect right-hand breaks and designated as the first World Surfing Reserve. Adjacent to the beach is the restored Malibu Lagoon, where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean, creating an important estuary that attracts over 200 species of birds. Walking trails and […]
The Big Sur coastline features several spectacular beaches set against dramatic cliffs where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. Pfeiffer Beach is known for its purple-tinted sand and the iconic Keyhole Rock that frames the sunset. Garrapata State Beach offers two miles of pristine shoreline with wildflowers in spring and sea otter sightings […]
Rodeo Beach is a unique pebbly beach located in the Marin Headlands section of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, just north of San Francisco. Unlike most sandy beaches, Rodeo Beach is composed of colorful, polished pebbles including jasper, carnelian, black agate, and jade, making it a favorite for rock collectors. The beach sits at […]
Asilomar State Beach encompasses a scenic one-mile strip of rocky shoreline and dune habitat on the Monterey Peninsula. A paved coastal trail runs parallel to the beach, offering stunning views of the Pacific Grove Marine Gardens State Marine Conservation Area offshore. The beach is characterized by rocky outcroppings, tide pools, and small sandy coves rather […]
Ruby Beach is one of the most scenic and popular beaches in Olympic National Park. Known for its dramatic sea stacks, driftwood, and colorful stones, this rugged coastline offers stunning views and exploration opportunities. The beach derives its name from the ruby-like crystals in the sand. Visitors come for photography, beachcombing, and exploring tide pools […]