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 […]
Seacliff State Beach features the iconic concrete ship SS Palo Alto at its southernmost end, an unusual World War I-era tanker now serving as an artificial reef and fishing pier. The beach stretches along Monterey Bay with views of the Santa Cruz Mountains to the north, offering excellent whale watching opportunities during migration seasons. A […]
Ocean Beach in San Diego offers a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere that reflects the community’s free-spirited character. The wide, sandy beach stretches for one mile and features a designated dog beach at the northern end where pets can run off-leash. The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier extends 1,971 feet into the Pacific, making it one of the […]
Morro Strand State Beach extends over three miles along California’s central coast, offering spectacular views of Morro Rock, a 576-foot volcanic plug that is the most distinctive landmark in the area. This long, straight beach features fine sand and gentle sloping terrain, making it ideal for extended beach walks and jogging. The protected waters of […]
Marina State Beach features dramatic sand dunes and a wide, pristine shoreline on Monterey Bay. The beach is renowned as one of California’s top hang gliding and paragliding locations, with a designated launch area atop the dunes providing perfect conditions for flight with consistent winds and panoramic coastal views. A boardwalk trail crosses the fragile […]
Black’s Beach stretches along the base of 300-foot cliffs below Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, creating one of San Diego’s most isolated and dramatic shorelines. The challenging access—via steep trails from street level—helps maintain the beach’s uncrowded nature despite its reputation for excellent surfing conditions. The northern section of Black’s Beach is unofficially clothing-optional, being […]
Huntington Dog Beach is a 1.5-mile stretch of coastline where dogs can run unleashed along the shore, splash in the waves, and socialize with other canines. This non-profit, volunteer-maintained beach section between Seapoint Street and 21st Street has become a beloved institution for dog owners throughout Southern California. The wide, flat beach provides ample space […]
Main Beach sits at the heart of downtown Laguna Beach, serving as the community’s central gathering place where the town meets the sea. The beach features a distinctive white lifeguard tower, basketball and volleyball courts, a children’s playground, and a scenic boardwalk perfect for strolling. Its central location provides easy access to Laguna’s art galleries, […]
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 […]
Solana Beach features several cove-like beaches nestled beneath scenic sandstone bluffs north of San Diego. Fletcher Cove Beach Park, the main access point, includes a grassy park area atop the bluff with a playground and picnic facilities, plus a gradually sloping ramp down to the beach. Tide Beach Park to the north offers excellent tide […]