Southern California Beaches
If we could, we'd throw down a list of the absolute best beaches in Southern California for your use and enjoyment. Unfortunately, it's just not that easy. Some Southern California beaches are preferred by surfers, others are loved by families and still others are the choice of people-watchers. Is any one Southern California beach actually the best or second best? Well, it depends on whom you ask. And, frankly, we'd rather not ask. So instead, here's a short-and-sweet list of tips and pointers to help you pick which beach you'd like to see during your Southern California vacation.
Surfing is really popular in Southern California. If you'd like to hop on a board or just watch someone else do it, look into Tourmaline Surfing Park at Pacific Beach, Windansea Beach in La Jolla, Trestles Beach in San Onofre, San Clemente State Beach or Rincon at the border of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties.
Black's Beach in La Jolla is for those who are free at heart and don't need a suit (or any clothes at all) to enjoy a day in the sunshine.
Bolsa Chica State Beach in Huntington Beach is a popular bonfire spot. Just get there early to mark your territory.
Long Beach is protected by breakwater, which means no waves. Bad for surfing, but great for kids wearing floaties.
Manhattan Beach is a people-watching beach. Seemingly wealthy and obviously beautiful people tend to be seen at Manhattan Beach, along with the folks who like to hang around those seemingly wealthy, obviously beautiful people. The beach is walking distance to restaurants and shops.
Venice Beach is a must-see for Southern California visitors.On the weekends, the Venice Boardwalk comes alive with street performers, vendors, musicians and political activists. And then there are the body builders of Muscle Beach and the beachgoers cruising around showing off their tans.
Zuma Beach in Malibu is a great destination for California visitors--lots of sand, good waves and frequent dolphin sightings.
Camping can be had at public campgrounds up and down the coast. If you're into pitching a tent near the waves, here's a good list to check out. You can search for a campsite on the California State Parks website.
Some beaches in Southern California are locally world-famous for being 'hang-out' beaches. Picture barefoot, suit-clad guys and girls jaywalking to the smoothee place across the street from the sand. Beaches within walking distance to casual restaurants and/or shops include Seal Beach, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Venice Beach and San Diego's Mission Beach.
What'd we miss? Email us and let us know.
