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23 Southern California beaches loved by locals!

23 Southern California beaches loved by locals!

Photo by Sebastien Gabriel on Unsplash

Hello, nice to meet you! I'm SAKIHO from the SoCalization Marketing Department. I've been living in San Diego for about three and a half years now. Southern California is famous for its sunny, warm, and pleasant climate, and everyone loves this climate. I love California. On warm, sunny days, you just want to go to the beach! Being able to go to beautiful beaches right away is one of the great attractions of California.


This time, we will introduce 23 beaches that are loved by people living in Southern California, divided by purpose. Find out which beach is best for you, such as which one has the most beautiful scenery, which one is the best for surfing, and so on, and incorporate it into your next travel plans!



table of contents

  1. Santa Monica State Beach -Santa Monica-
  2. La Jolla Cove - La Jolla, San Diego-
  3. Sunset Beach - Huntington Beach-
  4. El Matador Beach -Malibu-
  5. Pacific Beach -San Diego-
  6. Abalone Cove -Rancho Palos Verdes-
  7. Venice Beach -Venice-
  8. Seal Beach -Seal Beach-
  9. Laguna Beach -Laguna Beach-
  10.  Manhattan State Beach -Manhattan Beach-
  11. Huntington State Beach -Huntington Beach-
  12. Coronado Beach -San Diego-
  13. Hermosa Beach -Hermosa Beach-
  14. Crystal Cove State Park -Newport Beach-
  15. Zuma Beach -Malibu Beach-
  16. Doheny State Beach -Dana Point-
  17. Bolsa Chica State Beach -Huntington Beach-
  18. Descanso Beach -Avalon, Catalina Island-
  19. Thousand Steps Beach -Laguna Beach-
  20. East Beach -Santa Barbara-
  21. Newport Beach -Newport Beach-
  22. San Onofre Beach -San Clemente-
  23. Victoria Beach -Laguna Beach-

     <Frequently Asked Questions>What are the beaches like in Southern California?


1. Santa Monica State Beach - Santa Monica -


Photo by Matthew LeJune on Unsplash 



First of all, of course, there is Santa Monica Beach! It has been used as a filming location for many famous movies, so you may recognize it. For example, Forrest Gump, Hancock, Hanna Montana, Iron Man, and even... Santa Monica State Beach was used as a filming location for the famous movie Titanic! Perhaps being close to Hollywood is one of the reasons for this!


Santa Monica is located on the west side of Los Angeles, and is a beach with beautiful sand, bike paths, and easy access to Downtown, which is great for shopping. There is also an amusement park and an aquarium near the Pier, so it is a perfect beach for families.


Santa Monica Beach is also famous for its beachside sports activities such as beach volleyball and cycling, as well as gym training equipment. Why not try these activities with the locals while watching the ocean?!



Photo by Alvaro Palacios on Unsplash


  • Parking: Paid parking near the beach ($7-$18)
Recommended nearby hotel: Hotel Shangri-La - Santa Monica CA Hotel Near The Beach Recommended nearby hotel: Hotel Shangri-La - Santa Monica CA Hotel Near The Beach

2.La Jolla Cove - La Jolla, San Diego-

Photo by Alex Perez on Unsplash


If you love diving and natural sea creatures, La Jolla Cove is a must. Home to sea lions, garibaldi sharks, pelicans and even gentle leopard sharks, it offers a variety of activities including kayaking, paddling, snorkeling and diving. You can fully enjoy activities that allow you to experience being one with this vast ocean.


When you go on tours or activities like this, there are rental and tour shops nearby, so you can come empty-handed without having to carry any large luggage!


For those who would rather relax rather than do activities, La Jolla still has plenty to offer! La Jolla is also famous for being able to see many wild sea lions up close. Don't miss out on this rare experience!


Photo by Febiyan on Unsplash


Recommended nearby hotel: Pantai Inn Recommended nearby hotel: Pantai Inn

➽Tip: If you want to snorkel with leopard sharks, we recommend coming during the warmer months, such as August, when the sharks are more likely to come to shallow waters!

3. Sunset Beach -Huntington Beach-

Photo by Arvind Vallabh on Unsplash

Sunset Beach is located between Seal Beach and Huntington Beach along the Pacific Coast Highway. It is a quiet and very tranquil beach that is rarely crowded, making it the perfect place to quietly surf, fish, or enjoy a beachside sunbathe.


There are restaurants and bars nearby, so if you feel like it, it's a good idea to check them out. I recommend SeaLegs, a restaurant on the beach that offers a wide variety of food and drink options and also hosts live concerts!


Recommended nearby hotel: Ocean Surf Inn & Suites Recommended nearby hotel: Ocean Surf Inn & Suites

4. El Matador Beach -Malibu-

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash


A visit to El Matador Beach feels like a trip away from Malibu. With limited parking, the beach feels almost private. El Matador Beach is characterised by a coastline full of rock formations, caves and arches.


So, rather than focusing on activities, it is recommended for those who want to enjoy the scenery such as the sunset. It seems like it would be fun to discover and observe the various fish in the shallow waters around the huge arch!



In SoCalization, there are also many wines that originate from Malibu!


Malibu's best seller is Cabernet Reserve 2017 

Malibu has the ideal conditions for winemaking, producing some very fine wines.

If you visit Malibu, be sure to stop by a winery!


5. Pacific Beach -San Diego-


Photo by Josh Hild on Unsplash


Pacific Beach is one of the best beaches in San Diego. During the day, you can enjoy activities such as surfing, and at night, San Diego's nightlife is very lively.

People surfing near the pier, people enjoying suntanning on the beach, people relaxing around a bonfire on the beach at night, people enjoying drinks at clubs and bars...


Southern California's beach towns are filled with restaurants, bars, cafes and other shops, so you could easily spend the whole day there and not get bored.


Recommended nearby hotel: Pacific Terrace Hotel Recommended nearby hotel: Pacific Terrace Hotel

➽Tip: If you have kids, you can go to Belmont Park, an amusement park along the coast!



Endless Summer is a hard seltzer from Pacific Beach! It has only 100 calories per bottle and zero sugar! It's a product that allows you to enjoy alcohol while being mindful of your health. It's also recommended for those who don't like wine or beer, as it has a natural flavor and is easy to drink! Don't forget to check it out!

6.Abalone Cove -Rancho Palos Verdes-


Photo by Andrew Sterling on Unsplash 


Avalon Cove features three sea caves and a pebble beach. Relax and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean, or try some activities like scuba diving. Swim with the many sea creatures! You can also visit the tide pools at Avalon Cove at low tide to encounter colorful sea anemones, crabs, and starfish.

If you go a little further to Sacred Cove, you will encounter stunning crystal blue waters.


Recommended nearby hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton San Pedro

Recommended nearby hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton San Pedro

7. Venice Beach -Venice-



Photo by Juliana Malta on Unsplash


Venice Beach, located on the west side of downtown Los Angeles, is an area with a wonderful bohemian atmosphere. It is attractive for its many street performers, art spread throughout the city, Muscle Beach where people work out along the beach, and various stylish restaurants. It is a place filled with.


From its quaint boardwalk to the fine dining of Abbot Kinney Boulevard, whatever your interests, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes and an exciting experience. It's also famous for being a great spot for surfing and skateboarding.


Recommended nearby hotel: The Inn at Venice Beach Recommended nearby hotel: The Inn at Venice Beach

8. Seal Beach -Seal Beach-


Photo by Lisha Riabinina on Unsplash


Seal Beach is a charming beach in Orange County, located between the Pacific Coast Highway and the Pacific Ocean. There are many restaurants and shops lined up from Main Street to the pier.


This beach is perfect for those who want to relax on the sand without the crowds and gorgeous surroundings, play beach volleyball or surf, and enjoy the casual atmosphere of the restaurants and bars.


Recommended nearby hotel: The Pacific Recommended nearby hotel: The Pacific

9. Laguna Beach -Laguna Beach-


Photo by Derek Liang on Unsplash


Laguna Beach is a lively seven-mile stretch of beach with a thriving arts community and sandy beaches and rocky coves that make for great snorkeling locations.

On the streets you'll find plenty of art galleries, restaurants, boutiques and plenty of public art.


Tip: If you are snorkeling or scuba diving in Laguna Beach, we recommend visiting Shaw's Cove, where you can see lots of marine life living in the seaweed on the rocks!

Recommended nearby hotel: Pacific Edge Hotel on Laguna Beach Recommended nearby hotel: Pacific Edge Hotel on Laguna Beach

10.Manhattan State Beach -Manhattan Beach-


    Photo by Andrew Bui on Unsplash


    Manhattan Beach is a family-friendly beach in the South Bay that features a 900-foot-long pier with bike paths and an aquarium. Near the northern end of the beach is also El Port, a popular surf spot.


    Along the beach, you can enjoy beach volleyball on the courts, or stroll around the restaurants and boutiques where you can enjoy the ocean views.


    Recommended nearby hotel: Sea View Inn at the Beach Recommended nearby hotel: Sea View Inn at the Beach

    11.Huntington State Beach -Huntington Beach-



      Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash



      If you are a surfer, please visit Huntington Beach! Huntington Beach is a famous surfing mecca where professional surfers gather every year for the US Open of Surfing. If you are lucky, you may see a famous professional surfer. You might even be able to enjoy surfing while catching the same waves as the surfers!


      Huntington Beach is a great place to enjoy sun, sand, and surfing. There are many restaurants, bars, and shops on the main street, so you can enjoy the nightlife after sunset.


      Recommended nearby hotel: Paséa Hotel & Spa Recommended nearby hotel: Paséa Hotel & Spa

      12. Coronado Beach -San Diego-

      Photo by Alejandro Luengo on Unsplash

      Coronado Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Southern California, located on an island, and is said to be a popular destination for famous celebrities. Coronado Beach is home to the Hotel Del Coronado, famous for its prime beachfront location, stunning architecture, and movie history. This hotel is also famous for being a favorite destination for celebrities when they visit San Diego. If you are visiting here, be sure to stay at the Hotel Coronado!


      Relax and swim at Coronado Beach, a relaxed and fun mix of San Diego and the best of both worlds, making this a must-see when visiting Southern California!


      Recommended nearby hotels: Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton Recommended nearby hotels: Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton

      13.Hermosa Beach -Hermosa Beach-

        Photo by YUXUAN WANG on Unsplash


        Hermosa Beach is one of the most casual beaches near Los Angeles. It covers an area of ​​about 3.6 square kilometers, and the Strand, a bike path along the beach, takes advantage of the vast area. You can also enjoy beach volleyball, and enjoy the ocean view from the pier.


        Downtown Hermosa also has many restaurants, boutiques, bars and other things to enjoy all day and night.


        Recommended nearby hotel: Grandview Inn Recommended nearby hotel: Grandview Inn


        14. Crystal Cove State Park
        -Newport Beach-


        Photo by Morgan Alicia on Unsplash

        Crystal Cove State Park is home to a beautiful state beach, backcountry hiking trails, campgrounds, and an underwater park. The beaches here are popular for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and just relaxing.


        In the vast ocean of 44.5 square kilometers, seaweed spreads like a forest, and many marine creatures live there. Why not go diving and see what kind of creatures live and how they do it? Why not take a look?


        Recommended nearby hotel: Marriott's Newport Coast Villas Recommended nearby hotel: Marriott's Newport Coast Villas

        15. Zuma Beach -Malibu Beach-


          Photo by Nikola Knezevic on Unsplash


          Zoomer Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Southern California, located in Malibu Beach. It is a place where you can enjoy all the usual beach activities and sports such as bodyboarding and swimming, and the water is clear and blue. This is the secret behind its even greater popularity.


          Another big reason why people gather around Zoomer Beach is that there are many parking lots around the beach, and access from the parking lots to the beach is also very good.

          If you'd like to explore the coastline around Malibu, be sure to visit Zoomer Beach!


          • Google Maps 
          •  Website
          • Parking: Paid parking ($0.25/10 minutes, up to 90 minutes increments)
          Recommended nearby hotel: Hotel June Malibu Recommended nearby hotel: Hotel June Malibu

          16. Doheny State Beach -Dana Point-

            Photo by Austin Neill on Unsplash


            Do you know the Beach Boys' hit song, " Surfun USA "? If so, you may recognize the name of Dohany State Beach. Dana Point is a great beach for surfing, especially Recommended for beginners.


            The shallow water is a bit rocky in places, so it's a good idea to bring sandals etc. There are restaurants, bars and a marina nearby, so you could easily spend the whole day by the beach.


            Recommended nearby hotel: Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel Recommended nearby hotel: Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel

            17. Bolsa Chica State Beach -Huntington Beach-


              Photo by Omar Lopez on Unsplash


              Bolsa Chica State Beach is one of the most versatile beaches in Southern California. With sand, blue waves and plenty of nature, you can surf, swim, sunbathe, fish or just relax on the beach with friends. It's also easy to pass the time.


              Staying in a hotel is nice, but it's also exciting to stay in an RV on the nearby beach. The nearby community of Sunset Beach is also fun to eat there and explore the various shops.



              Tip: Just across the Pacific Coast Highway from the coast is a beautiful nature preserve filled with nature trails and wildlife, including a chance to spot a coyote if you're lucky!

              18. Descanso Beach -Avalon, Catalina Island-

                Photo by Amy Vosters on Unsplash 


                If you want to experience a slightly luxurious atmosphere like you're on a tropical island, we recommend Descanso Beach on Catalina Island. The water is very clear and beautiful, and snorkeling, paddling, and kayaking here are sure to be a wonderful experience.


                After your activities, why not sit back on the long benches and enjoy a Southern California drink? The Beach Club hosts parties every Saturday during the summer, so be sure to enjoy the weekend to the fullest!


                Recommended nearby hotel: Bellanca Hotel Recommended nearby hotel: Bellanca Hotel

                19. Thousand Steps Beach -Laguna Beach-


                  Photo by kevin turcios on Unsplash



                  If you think that 1000 steps to the beach is too much, don't worry, it's actually only 218 steps!! You have to go up the stairs from the parking lot to the beach, and the number of parking spaces is also Since it is a bit limited, this beach is recommended for those who prefer a beach that is less crowded and less crowded than other beaches.


                  Thousand Steps Beach is great for bodyboarding, kayaking, swimming and skimboarding, and if you visit at low tide you'll also be able to see sea caves and tide pools.


                  Recommended nearby hotels: The Ranch at Laguna Beach Recommended nearby hotels: The Ranch at Laguna Beach

                  20. East Beach -Santa Barbara-


                    Photo by Nikola Knezevic on Unsplash 


                    Santa Barbara's East Beach is an expansive stretch of sandy shoreline perfect for families, with beach volleyball courts, paved paths for biking and other activities, picnic tables and a playground.


                    East Beach is within walking distance of Stearns Wharf and the downtown Santa Barbara area - you can relax on the beach or go into town to enjoy fresh seafood, wine tastings and live music performances.



                    Santa Barbara is also the birthplace of many wines. Thanks to its slightly cooler climate than California, the wines are characterized by an elegant style similar to French wines. There are plenty of wines available at reasonable prices. Why not enjoy the Santa Barbara experience from the comfort of your own home, imagining fresh seafood and ocean views?



                    Santa Barbara's best-selling wine is Nuits-Blanches Righteous Juice-Archie Chardonnay 2018 


                    Don't forget to check it out!

                    21.Newport Beach -Newport Beach-

                      Photo by Andrea Leopardi on Unsplash


                      Newport Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Southern California. You can enjoy a laid-back and fun atmosphere with a little boat ride and sandy beach. It is a fairly large beach that stretches for 10 miles (16 km) and is a nice beach that many locals often visit. There is also a popular surf spot called The Wedge.


                      Be sure to also visit the pier and nearby Balboa Island, where you'll find plenty of local dining and shopping, as well as fishing and whale watching tours that can be booked on-site.


                      Recommended nearby hotel: Doryman's Oceanfront Inn Recommended nearby hotel: Doryman's Oceanfront Inn

                      22.San Onofre Beach -San Clemente-


                        Photo by Evan Dorian on Unsplash 


                        If you're an outdoor enthusiast, San Onofre Beach is the place for you! Fishing, kayaking, swimming, biking, camping, and the essential surfing can all be enjoyed at San Onofre Beach. Nearby Trestles is also a famous surfing spot.


                        We also recommend camping at the campsite on the cliffs, which is just a short walk from the sea. You can sometimes see whales and dolphins from this campsite! How about enjoying a drink while looking at this magnificent view?


                        Recommended nearby hotel: The Surfbreak Hotel Recommended nearby hotel: The Surfbreak Hotel

                        23.Victoria Beach -Laguna Beach-


                          Photo by Zetong Li on Unsplash  


                          If you want to go to a beach that is a little different, we recommend Victoria Beach. This secluded white sand beach has a castle-like tower facing the sea, known locally as the "Pirate Tower." there is.

                          Victoria Beach is a little hidden gem in Southern California that offers privacy and plenty of natural beauty. Explore the rock formations, laze on the sand, and take photos with this wonderful mysterious tower...

                          If you want to enjoy this unique atmosphere, why not visit Victoria Beach?


                          Recommended nearby hotel: Laguna Beach House Recommended nearby hotel: Laguna Beach House


                          <Frequently Asked Questions> What are the beaches like in Southern California?

                          • What are the cleanest beaches in Southern California?
                            • The waters of Laguna Beach are the clearest, offering a beautiful, clear ocean view. With over 20 different beaches and coves, Laguna Beach is ranked as one of the cleanest beaches.

                          • How many beaches are there in Southern California?
                            • Southern California has over 100 named beaches. From entire large towns to smaller beaches within them, there are many beaches in Southern California. Los Angeles County alone has over 15 named beaches.

                          • What are the best beaches in Southern California?
                            • Coronado Beach is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in Southern California. Clear blue waters, white sand and iconic sunsets are what make Coronado Beach the most beautiful beach in Southern California.

                          • What are the warmest beaches in Southern California?
                              • La Jolla and Newport Beach are some of the warmest beaches. The water temperatures in La Jolla and Newport Beach are consistently higher than other Southern California beaches.

                          • Are there any black sand beaches in Southern California?
                              • Sacred Cove, also known as Smugglers Cove, is a beach with black sand in Southern California. The black sand beach of Sacred Cove can be accessed from a hiking trail in Palos Verdes.

                          • What are the best swimming beaches in Southern California?
                            • The best beaches for swimming in Southern California are Seal Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Huntington Beach. Surfing conditions vary depending on the season and weather, but these three beaches are generally great for swimming.



                          What do you think? Were you able to find a beach that matches your needs? Collect points with SoCalization, get a tour, and enjoy the Southern California life at many beaches!


                          Try this Southern California flavor in the comfort of your own home!

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