Relocating? Try These 50 Stunning SoCal Beaches
Jul 24, 2024
Is Southern California calling you? If so, we bet it sounds a lot like the cheerful waves of the beach and the happy chatter of surfers and sunbathers. With more than 150 miles of coastline, Southern California is a beach mecca. If you plan to move here, add any (or all) of these 50 beloved beaches to your list of must-see and possibly even must-live places.
Carpinteria State Beach
This family-friendly beach boasts gentle waves that won’t scare the little ones and lots of tide pools for wading and exploration. You can even spot seals and sea lions on this charming Oceanside spot. Want to stay longer than a day? Stay at one of the camping sites for a family vacation that might just become an annual tradition.
Manhattan Beach
Despite the name, this isn’t New York. It’s California and this beach embraces the state’s iconic surfer vibe. When you tire of the waves, explore the boardwalk, hang out on the vibrant pier, or find your next go-to dining or boutique shopping establishment.
Leo Carrillo State Beach
This 1.5 mile long beach along the Malibu coast has rocky shorelines, but jaw-dropping sea caves and living tide pools to explore. Anyone looking to explore coastal nature trails should stop by this state beach, along with surfers and scuba divers who crave water adventures.
Huntington City Beach
Heard of Surf City USA? Then you have heard about Huntington City Beach, a must-stop destination for surfers and those who love beach volleyball. Add in an iconic pier and annual surf competition, and you have a beach that is world-renowned (So don’t miss out on seeing it before you move from or after you move to SoCal).
Main Beach
Pretty as a picture, Main Beach is possibly Laguna Beach’s most head-turning oceanside destination. Enjoy beautiful coves, a vibrant boardwalk, and friendly tide pools. Don’t forget to try your hand at beach volleyball or up your cultural expertise with a visit to local art galleries and shops.
La Jolla Shores
If you love the beach but not snatching small children from big waves, La Jolla Shores could be right for you. Its gentle waves are also perfect for beginning surfers. This beach is popular with kayakers, snorkeling, and diving, which you can do at the nearby La Jolla Underwater Park.
Moonlight Beach
Its romantic name is backed by its wide, sandy beach and family-friendly vibe. Visit Moonlight Beach in Encinitas for picnic areas, volleyball courts, a playground, beach games, sunbathing, and pretty much everything else that makes a family beach trip memorable.
Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach boasts an historic pier and vibrant atmosphere that includes everything from amusement park rides to shopping and dining. To enjoy the latter, stop by Third Street Promenade after a day in the sand and the sun.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is, perhaps, most famous for its eclectic boardwalk, but there are also lots of other things to do here. Take in street performers and artists or browse boutique shops. Visit the Venice Skate Park or the iconic Muscle Beach outdoor gym for the whole Venice Beach experience.
Malibu Surfrider Beach
As you might have guessed from its name, Malibu Surfrider Beach is a famous surfing beach, thanks to its long, right-hand break. You don’t just have to surf here, though. Take in its beautiful views or relaxed vibe to enjoy a beach day that goes exactly as you planned it.
Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach is one of Malibu’s largest beaches, but do not expect to avoid the crowds as a result. It is also very popular, thanks to its great surf, family-friendly set up, and sandy shore. Enjoy this beach for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking after the beach fun stirs up your appetite.
El Matador Beach
Sand is not the star of El Matador Beach – The rocks are. Rock formations that take your breath away, beautiful sea caves, and a secluded atmosphere make this spot perfect for photographers, couples, and others who want to explore in one of California’s most beautiful natural environments.
Hermosa Beach
Looking for a great oceanside nightlife? Hermosa Beach is the place to be. Add in beach volleyball courts, a scenic pier, and lots of space for jogging, biking, and rollerblading, and you have a beach you can enjoy both day and night.
Redondo Beach
You do not have to pack a picnic to Redondo Beach. In addition to an historic pier, it also offers delicious dining, fun shopping, and a wide, sandy beach where you can enjoy most water activities.
Laguna Beach
If you go past Main Beach, you will come to Laguna Beach, where art galleries are a central feature along with hidden coves and tide pools. This artsy hub blends creativity and stunning scenery for a beach destination you need to see for yourself.
Coronado Beach
If you move to San Diego, you will quickly come to enjoy the wonders of Coronado Beaches sparkling sand and flat terrain. Perfect for families, it offers fun for every age. If you are just staying a few nights, you can snag a room at the iconic Hotel del Coronado to complete the experience.
San Onofre State Beach
Do everything at San Onofre State Beach. Options include surfing, camping, and exploring many natural trails. Here you can indulge your love for surfing and sunbathing while also taking in Southern California’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Salt Creek Beach
Nestled close to the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Salt Creek Beach is a great getaway whether you live nearby or are traveling for a few days. Its grassy park area and scenic walking trails also make it perfect for children, families, and anyone who wants to enjoy riveting views of the bluffs while they get their exercise.
Newport Beach
Newport is synonymous with upscale. Surf, boat, and eat beachside in this vibrant little community. Want more? Head over to the nearby Balboa Peninsula for even more things to do.
Crystal Cove State Park
You will not want to take your eyes off the stunning coastal views of Crystal Cove State Park. Stay in an historic beachfront cottage. Hike, swim, and even discover the nearby underwater marine park! It is almost as good as discovering Atlantis!
Huntington State Beach
Though similar in name to Huntington City Beach, Huntington State Beach boasts lots more natural beauty to take in. You can even enjoy a bonfire, track down your favorite birds, and walk the beach looking for the perfect shell to bring home.
Doheny State Beach
Located in Dana Point, Doheny State Beach is a popular spot for camping, picnicking, and water sports. Bring the kids too; the waves are gentle and perfect for getting beginners used to the beach.
Oceanside Beach
Oceanside beach is a family-friend oasis where you walk the long wooden pier, fish, surf, or swim on the wide sandy beaches, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere where something is always happening.
Carlsbad State Beach
Known for its clean, sandy coastline, Carlsbad State Beach is great for surfing. You can also refresh yourself at the nearby dining and shopping located in Carlsbad Village.
Mission Beach
Mission Beach isn’t the quietest oceanside spot in California, but it is one of the most exciting. Here you can enjoy beachside fun and swimming, alongside historic Belmont Park amusement park and a classic boardwalk that makes this beach a fun place to be.
Pacific Beach
If you tire of Mission Beach, just head on over to Pacific Beach and its younger vibe. Popular with younger crowds and surfers, this beach also boasts an active boardwalk, mouth-watering restaurants, and fascinating shops to explore.
Torrey Pines State Beach
Torrey Pines State Beach is not your typical sand and ocean getaway. Instead, this locale boasts soaring cliffs and hiking trails that feature breathtaking views. More peaceful than California’s more touristy beaches, it is perfect for quiet walks, beachcombing, and relaxation.
Silver Strand State Beach
A small beach situated on a narrow strip of land between Coronado and Imperial Beach, Silver Strand State Beach has calm waters that are beautiful for swimming. You can also camp here, so feel free to make a trip out of it, either before you move from Southern California or after you arrive here from your old location.
Seal Beach
Yes, you can see seals at Seal Beach, if you happen to arrive at the right time. If the seals are not in view, however, you can also enjoy the beach’s small-town atmosphere, scenic pier, and all of the surfing, swimming, and fishing your heart desires.
Sunset Beach
Want to enjoy spectacular sunsets and a romantic setting? Try Sunset Beach, where a peaceful atmosphere allows you to take in gorgeous sunsets along with wide, sandy spaces and picnic areas.
Crystal Pier Beach
If you want to enjoy a few days near the ocean, consider renting one of the cottages that line Crystal Pier Beach. Expect to see some crowds. This spot is popular among surfers, sunbathers, and many who want to experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean for themselves, whether for a day or a week.
Victoria Beach
The first place to visit when you reach Victoria Beach is its famed Pirate Tower. A privately built and owned tower designed to give one of the nearby homeowners beach access, it is 60 feet of mystery right on the beach. Explore around its base, and then enjoy the other, more standard beach activities in a space that is less crowded than some of Southern California’s other beaches.
El Porto Beach
If you visit Manhattan Beach, take the time to also enjoy the nearby El Porto Beach. A popular surfing location, it offers consistently good waves and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to sunbathe and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
Topanga Beach
Want to do whale watching without getting out on the water? Visit Topanga Beach, where coastline views complement the views of dolphins and whales in the water. A favorite Southern California beach, it sits at the mouth of Topanga Canyon and is a must-add to your beach list.
Point Dume State Beach
Add Point Dume State Beach to the Southern California beaches that boast dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. Perfectly clean and less crowded than other Malibu beaches, it offers a peaceful place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
County Line Beach
Named for its location on the border of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, County Line Beach offers a rugged beauty to accompany your surfing and other beach activities.
Cabrillo Beach
Cabrillo Beach gives you options when it comes to enjoying the ocean. Choose a sandy, more open area to tackle the waves, or settle for the day along the protected harbor with quieter, more family-friendly, waters. If you get tired of the sand and sun, retreat to the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium for indoor adventures.
Dockweiler State Beach
Ready for s’mores and bonfires? Try Dockweiler State Beach, where fire pits galore make it possible to enjoy the water and the fire together. An added bonus, especially if you have kids, is the opportunity to watch planes take off and land from your spot on the beach.
Hermosa City Beach
One of California’s lively and vibrant beaches is Hermosa City Beach. Enjoy beach volleyball courts, a scenic pier, shops, restaurants, bars and other entertainment to keep you refreshed as you enjoy the pristine waters and sandy shores.
San Clemente State Beach
If you surf, you should try San Clemente State Beach, famed for its excellent surfing conditions and beautiful sandstone bluffs. You can camp here too, so you do not have to leave the beautiful shores after just one day unless you want to.
Pismo Beach
Located on the Central Coast of California, Pismo Beach has wide, sandy shores, a beautiful pier, and many things to do, from surfing to visiting its sand dunes.
Ponto Beach
Clean, with sandy shores and great waves, Ponto Beach is a relaxed environment perfect for enjoying a relaxed day at the beach, enjoying the surf, eating a picnic, or getting the perfect tan.
Cardiff State Beach
Located in Encinitas, Cardiff State Beach has everything: A relaxed environment, stunning bluffs, and great surf breaks. This combination of features makes it popular with everyone from surfers to swimmers and those who just want to enjoy the peace of beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
Swami’s Beach
Swami’s surf break is famous, making it one of Southern California’s most popular spots for surfing. Even if you do not want to surf, visit this beach to take in the surrounding gardens.
Trestles Beach
A world-renowned surfing spot, Trestles Beach delivers dependably rideable waves and a truly remarkable rugged backdrop. You hike to this beach along a trail, and can expect a secluded, private feel that you may prefer over the more crowded beaches in the state.
Crescent Bay Beach
Small but stunning, Crescent Bay Beach has crystal clear waters and a beautiful view. Enjoy its tidal pools, swimming spots, and snorkeling opportunities for yourself as soon as you complete your move to Southern California.
Pfeiffer Beach
Located in Big Sur, Pfeiffer Beach offers stunning rock formations and, if you are lucky, patches of purple sand from the erosion of the cliffs above. While not as well-known as some of Southern California’s other beaches, it offers a unique coastal experience you will not want to miss.
Carmel Beach
White sands, stunning views, and a charming nearby town make Carmel Beach a popular destination for tourists and nearby residents alike. Even better? This dog-friendly beach lets you bring your furry friend to enjoy the ocean with you.
Gaviota State Beach
Located near Santa Barbara, Gaviota State Beach offers you sweeping views of sandy shores and towering cliffs. Popular for everything from fishing to the nearby Gaviota Hot Springs, this is a unique place to take in all of the beauty and fun of the ocean.
Goleta Beach
Known for its calm waters and family-friendly amenities, Goleta Beach is ideal for spending a day in and by the water.
The diversity of Southern California’s beaches offers stunning views, exciting surfing, upscale dining and shopping, and exceptional hiking. The beaches of California are only one reason you may be considering a relocation here. To make your move seamless, and free you up to start exploring these sandy oases, consider Atlas Allied and the expertise that has made us a trusted moving expert since 1925.