It’s usually proclaimed that life is better at the beach, and it turns out that it is relatively accurate. Walking along the sands, putting your toes in the water, and watching the sun set into the ocean may be beneficial to your physical and emotional health.
If you’re having trouble justifying a trip to the beach in California, here are seven reasons why you should.
Bask in Beautiful Beaches – Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur
Pfeiffer Beach, nestled away in the Big Sur State Park, is one of California’s most astonishing sights. To travel to this incredible beach in California, you’ll almost certainly need your own transportation. However, the trouble of renting a car for your trip is well worth it!
You may be forgiven for believing you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean by the purple sand found here. The rock structures with the waves slamming against them are breathtaking. The beach’s major attraction, Keyhole Rock, is a massive natural arch that is especially beautiful at sunset.
Don’t forget your camera since Pfeiffer Beach is sure to improve your Instagram feed!
Great Base for Beach Vacations – Santa Monica Beach, Los Angeles
There’s so much to do here for families who don’t want to just relax on the beach! Santa Monica, one of California’s most popular beaches, is a fantastic location for beach vacations as well as visiting Los Angeles. There’s no shortage of places to eat, hotels to stay in, and things to see and do in the area.
The only complaint you could make is that it can get a little crowded here. But if you’re capable of dealing with that, then don’t be concerned! After all, it is one of the finest beaches in the country. The Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier is also a must-see. Everyone will enjoy themselves at this classic theme park.
Surfer Friendly – Huntington Beach, Orange County
It isn’t easy to pick a favorite beach in California, with so many excellent surfing locations. However, since it’s also called the Surf City USA, we’re guessing this will have to go to Orange County’s Huntington Beach. The International Surfing Museum is located there, and the US Open for surfing is also held there every year.
Surfers will enjoy the challenging waves and the beautiful sunsets. Also, don’t miss going to the International Surfing Museum, as it’s one of the best rainy-day pastimes.
However, the beach is much more than just surfing. It’s also a great site to watch the sunset or bring the whole family, as there are plenty of other things to do!
Offers the Quietest Beaches – Point Lobos State Reserve, Carmel by the Sea
The waters of Point Lobos State Reserve are cool and can be turbulent depending on the season, so it’s not ideal for swimming. Still, it’s perfect for those looking for a variety of activities during their beach vacation. However, it receives a big tick for everything else!
Try going on a hike along the coast to see how many seals you can spot. Hiking in the national park and seeing animals is unrivaled, and nature enthusiasts will adore using this beach as a day-trip base.
Perfect for Swimming – El Matador State Beach, Malibu
This gorgeous beach comprises three little coves with fantastic rock formations and is ideal for people who prefer to get off the beaten road and completely appreciate California’s natural splendor. The rocky cliff tops will be your first introduction. Do you want to go swimming? You’ll have to descend a steep dirt trail to get there, but it’ll be well worth it once you’re in the water.
If you visit outside of the summer, you may have the entire beach to yourself. Also, don’t miss Malibu Seafood’s Tacos and Seafood. What else could you ask for? As one of California’s best beaches, this is a no-brainer.
Excellent for People Watching – Venice Beach, Los Angeles
If you’re looking for a bohemian vibe, you should go to Venice Beach in California! Venice is another of California’s most renowned beaches, located just a short distance from Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles. It’s also one of the world’s most well-known beaches!
Take in the street art or simply observe the folks running and bicycling along the promenade. It’s unbelievable how fast time flies when you’re doing something like this! Rollerblading guitarists and chainsaw jugglers, to mention a few, will also entertain you.
Consider taking a break from the sea to stroll around Venice’s canals, which gave the area its name.
Family Friendly – Coronado Beach, San Diego
Coronado Beach will please families wishing to spend time paddling in the waves and having plenty of space on the sand. It’s one of San Diego’s loveliest beaches, and it’s under the shadow of the Hotel Coronado, the country’s second-largest wooden structure. The reputedly haunted hotel must also be on your San Diego bucket list!
The historic beachfront hotel belongs to a select group of buildings: one of the few surviving examples of American Victorian beach resort architecture. The beach is broader than any in California, and with 1.5 miles of sand, you’ll never be short of space.
If that isn’t enough, volleyball, tide-pooling, and boogie boarding are just a few of the activities offered.