It’s no myth that California is home to some of the best (and perhaps even the most) beautiful beaches on the West Coast, and the coastal towns in which they are found set the bar just as high. I have traveled from city to beach along the Pacific coast throughout the Golden State, yet it is still difficult to decide which “little town” stands out the most. So I asked my readers what they preferred and they rated these California coastal towns as the best in the state.
San Diego
We’d call it a city, not a town, but they have some great beaches, and the warmest water too. Whether you want an oceanfront stroll or plan to ride some waves, San Diego is truly a “beach town.” With options for walkers and surfers alike, San Diego offers several options for you to kick your feet up and immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of local coffee shops, farm-to-table dining, and the like.
Mission Beach is a great destination for walkers, but if you have a four-legged friend, Ocean Beach is perhaps the most pet-friendly beach in the area. Find out which of the diverse cultures of this city speaks to you with my guide to the beaches of San Diego.
Malibu
Probably the richest beach town on the list, with some great beaches and plenty of luxury homes to admire. Not only is this beach destination popular with tourists, but directors prefer the location of many of their films, such as Iron Man. This beach town has everything from family-friendly and local restaurants (literally across the street from the ocean) and designer shops to a cove where all you do is drink and relax. If relaxation with the option of shopping and enjoying good food is your definition of a beach town, then start planning with my guide for your Malibu getaway.
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Some people call Pismo California’s quintessential beach town, so cute it might make you swoon. If you want a romantic walk on the beach with a small town atmosphere, head to Pismo. This city is perfect for those looking for a shady getaway. It is a peaceful destination complete with wide sandy beaches. It also lives up to its small size by hosting such fun and local opportunities like car shows and clam festivals. Just a three-hour drive from Los Angeles, Pismo features delicious restaurants and picturesque beaches that will quickly get you out of your inbox.
Here’s your guide to planning a Pismo vacation.
La Jolla
Exclusive La Jolla is one of my favorite California beach towns, for its beautiful coastal scenery and many places to walk and eat. La Jolla means “the jewel” in Spanish and as beautiful as it is, it’s no wonder why. Everyone from shoppers to outdoor enthusiasts to thrill seekers find their happiness here. Home to the Birch Aquarium and the La Jolla Boardwalk, La Jolla truly represents what it’s like to be a beach town. The coasts here have a welcoming spirit with a landscape that will make you soak up the worries of the day and sink into the sand.
Head to La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Shores, or any of the other beaches to really get that “beachy feel” in the area when planning your trip to San Diego.
Santa Barbara
A south-facing coastline gives Santa Barbara its “banana belt” climate and the architecture with red tile roofs gives it a Mediterranean feel. From Spanish-style architecture to the best Mexican food in the area, Santa Barbara will transport you south of the border. At the cornerstone of luxury and relaxation, Santa Barbara is unlike other Southern California coastal cities. In fact, many escape the “nerve center” of Los Angeles for the relaxing, almost spa-like atmosphere that Santa Barbara offers.
Don’t let the tranquility fool you: there is a lot to do in this small town. You’ll find everything from high-end shops to breweries serving local beer. Plan your trip with this Santa Barbara guide.
Santa Cruz
With one of the few remaining coastal amusement parks in California and a nickname of “Surf City,” you have a lot to brag about in the coastal city department. When it comes to beach towns, Santa Cruz has a lot to offer. People of all ages and interests also find more than enough things to do outside of the beach scene. The ‘hippie’ culture often associated with surfing and sand here is alive and well with local art galleries, amusement parks and the boardwalk. Find local events that will make your family getaway unforgettable.
There’s even a 1911 hand-carved carousel that invites you to step back in time and get a taste of the old California that drew many to the Sunshine State. Here is your guide for your trip to Santa Cruz.
What is the best coastal city in California?
I polled over 1,200 of my readers to find out which California seaside town they like best. Pismo Beach won by a wide margin with 30% of the vote. After that, Santa Cruz got 10%. Los Angeles South Bay, La Jolla and Santa Monica beaches each scored 8%, followed by Oxnard and Santa Barbara with 7%. Go to one or try them all to find out which one you prefer with my guides below.
