Orange County, CA

Secluded, action-packed, or classic—there's a Southern California beach for every mood.

La Jolla

San Diego, California, United States

Lather up the SPF 50 and rent some gear on this mile-long crescent of sand, then try out a new sea-salty sport. Kayakers cruise out to La Jolla's sea caves. Boogie boarders and stand-up paddlers ply the gentle surf. Snorkelers spot California spiny lobsters, sheep crabs, and leopard sharks.

6800 Westward Beach Rd
Malibu, CA

Malibu's broad, pearly beaches stretch along 25 coastal miles, so it’s tough to pick a favorite strand. But Point Dume delivers much more than just surfing and swimming. Top-roped climbers scale the seaside cliffs, migrating gray whales parade past the point, and a blufftop preserve offers unforgettable views of the Malibu coast and Catalina Island.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica, California, United States

This beach features a broad expanse of pale yellow sand lining the coast for 3.5 miles. You can rent chairs, umbrellas, and gear such as bicycles and stand-up paddleboards from Perry’s on the Beach; they even offer a VIP-style “butler” service to set up your spot in the beach and bring you food, drinks, and sunscreen.

Huntington Beach, CA

The flat, wide beaches and desirable breaks along Huntington Beach gave this town its “Surf City, USA” nickname in the 1950s when the U.S. Open of Surfing first took place. Today, Huntington remains a wave-riding mecca and the most popular of the well-known beaches in the country—but surfing is not the only game in town.

Santa Monica, CA