There are so many beach towns and cities in California that it makes it IMPOSSIBLE to choose which to visit.
But this post takes the thinking out of the equation.
Whether you want a bustling place with loads of things to do, a quiet laid-back vibe to relax, or want to catch some waves, this list has it all.
And make sure to stay until the end where we list out the top picks for different categories!
Here are the 15 best beach towns in Southern California that are TOO GOOD TO IGNORE. 👇
1. Malibu
A luxurious beach city where celebrity glamour meets pristine surf beaches.
Malibu is a world-renowned beach city, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury.
Famous for its miles of pristine beaches, such as Zuma Beach and Surfrider Beach, it’s a paradise for surfers and beach lovers.
Malibu is also home to numerous celebrities, giving it a touch of glamour.
Beyond the waves, you can explore the scenic hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains or visit the historic Malibu Pier for dining with ocean views.
The atmosphere in Malibu is one of laid-back luxury, where nature’s beauty meets upscale living.
💡 Insider Tip for Malibu: Discover the serene El Pescador State Beach and its hidden cove, El Sol Beach, for a peaceful escape away from the crowds.
2. Huntington Beach
“Surf City USA” buzzes with an energetic surf scene and lively beach culture.
Huntington Beach, affectionately known as “Surf City USA,” is a hub for surf culture and beach activities.
This vibrant city is famous for its long, sandy beaches where surfers catch waves and families enjoy picnics by the shore.
The Huntington Beach Pier, extending into the Pacific, offers breathtaking views and fishing spots.
Throughout the year, the city hosts surf competitions and lively community events, adding to its energetic atmosphere.
With its combination of excellent surf, beachside dining, and shops, Huntington Beach offers a classic California beach experience.
💡 Insider Tip for Huntington Beach: Enjoy a unique beach camping experience at Bolsa Chica or Sunset Vista, where the sound of crashing waves lulls you to sleep right next to the beach.
Related Reading: Beach Camping in SoCal
3. Laguna Beach
An artistic paradise framed by picturesque coves and upscale charm.
Laguna Beach is a vibrant seaside town known for its stunning natural beauty and artistic spirit.
Nestled between rolling hills and crystal-clear waters, it boasts some of the most picturesque coves and beaches in Southern California.
Art lovers will love it here, with galleries, art installations, and the famous Pageant of the Masters festival bringing paintings to life.
The town exudes an upscale yet laid-back vibe, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
Whether you’re exploring the hidden tide pools, enjoying a sunset at Heisler Park, or browsing through unique boutiques, Laguna Beach offers an unforgettable experience.
💡 Insider Tip for Laguna Beach: Don’t miss the enchanting 60-foot tall Pirate Tower on Victoria Beach, a fairy-tale-like structure with a mysterious past.
4. Encinitas
A surfers’ dream with a bohemian spirit, nestled along a stretch of laid-back coastline.
Encinitas is a gem along the Southern California coast, where the surf culture and a laid-back lifestyle blend seamlessly.
Known for its beautiful beaches like Moonlight Beach and the famous surf spot, Swami’s, it’s a paradise for surfers and sun-seekers.
The town also has a unique spiritual and bohemian vibe, with the Self-Realization Fellowship temple offering serene gardens overlooking the ocean.
Encinitas’ downtown area, along historic Highway 101, is lined with boutique shops, tasty eateries, and coffee shops, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.
💡 Insider Tip for Encinitas: Enjoy a piece of local history with your coffee at the Pannikin Coffee & Tea, housed in the historic Santa Fe Railroad Station.
5. Coronado
An elegant island retreat boasting historic grandeur and serene beaches.
Coronado is an idyllic island paradise, connected to mainland San Diego by the impressive Coronado Bridge.
With its world-famous Hotel del Coronado and stunning beaches with gentle waves, it offers a luxurious and serene getaway.
The island’s quaint streets, lined with elegant homes and gardens, invite leisurely walks or bike rides.
Coronado’s small-town charm, combined with its spectacular ocean views and fine dining options, creates an atmosphere of elegance and relaxation unmatched in Southern California.
💡 Insider Tip for Coronado: Experience a touch of Venice with a romantic Gondola Ride through the canals of the Coronado Cays, complete with the option to bring snacks and wine aboard.
6. Newport Beach
Luxury and leisure collide in this harbor town with upscale allure.
Newport Beach epitomizes luxurious coastal living, with its stunning harbor, beautiful beaches, and sophisticated ambiance.
The city is renowned for its upscale shopping and dining experiences, particularly around Fashion Island and Balboa Island, where visitors can enjoy boutique shops and waterfront restaurants.
Boating enthusiasts will love it here, with numerous yacht clubs and marinas dotting the harbor.
Whether you’re lounging on the sandy shores of Corona del Mar or exploring the ecological reserves, Newport Beach offers a blend of natural beauty and opulence.
💡 Insider Tip for Newport Beach: Take part in an unforgettable whale-watching adventure, where you can witness the majestic beauty of marine life right in Newport Beach’s own backyard.
7. San Clemente
Spanish architectural beauty meets world-class surf in this quaint beach town.
San Clemente, with its Spanish colonial-style architecture and panoramic ocean views, exudes a timeless charm.
This laid-back beach town is famous for its world-class surf spots, such as Trestles, and family-friendly beaches like San Clemente State Beach.
The San Clemente Pier is a favorite spot for fishing, sunset walks, and dining with a view.
The town’s Avenida Del Mar is the heart of San Clemente, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
With its friendly atmosphere and beautiful settings, San Clemente provides a perfect escape into coastal serenity.
💡 Insider Tip for San Clemente: Explore the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, the historic home of the city’s founder, offering breathtaking ocean views and a peek into the local history and culture.
8. Santa Monica
A dynamic blend of beachside fun and urban sophistication.
Santa Monica is a bustling beach city that perfectly captures the essence of a Southern California lifestyle.
Its iconic Santa Monica Pier, complete with an amusement park and aquarium, offers endless entertainment against a backdrop of stunning ocean views.
The Third Street Promenade is a shopper’s paradise, with street performers adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Santa Monica’s wide, sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing, volleyball, and surfing.
With its blend of urban energy and beachside relaxation, Santa Monica appeals to visitors of all ages looking for a lively coastal experience.
💡 Insider Tip for Santa Monica: Climb the Santa Monica Stairs for a unique blend of fitness and local culture, offering a challenging workout with scenic views in a tranquil residential area.
9. Carlsbad
Family-friendly “Village by the Sea” with blooming attractions and pristine beaches.
Carlsbad is a family-friendly coastal city that boasts a blend of natural beauty, leisure activities, and cultural attractions.
Known as “The Village by the Sea,” Carlsbad offers miles of pristine beaches and is home to Legoland California, a major attraction for families with children.
The city’s Flower Fields burst into color every spring, creating a spectacular sight.
Carlsbad’s charming downtown area features boutique shopping, unique cafes, and fine dining, all contributing to its welcoming, laid-back vibe.
💡 Insider Tip for Carlsbad: Discover the vibrant Carlsbad Flower Fields, a breathtaking display of colorful blooms that transform the landscape each spring, offering a perfect backdrop for photos and leisurely walks.
10. Ventura
A relaxed beach town offering classic California surf culture and historic charm.
Ventura, officially known as San Buenaventura, offers a slice of classic California beach life with its historic pier, surfable waves, and a relaxed atmosphere.
The city is a gateway to the Channel Islands National Park, providing opportunities for unique wildlife sightings and outdoor adventures.
Ventura’s downtown is a mix of vintage shops, seafood restaurants, and cultural venues, reflecting its rich history and community spirit.
With its uncrowded beaches and casual vibe, Ventura is a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
💡 Insider Tip for Ventura: Venture out with Island Packers for a whale-watching excursion or a day trip to the Channel Islands National Park, where you can immerse yourself in the area’s stunning natural beauty and wildlife.
11. Redondo Beach
Maritime leisure and beachside tranquility define this family-friendly coastal community.
Redondo Beach is a relaxed, nautical community known for its picturesque marina, vibrant boardwalk, and family-friendly beach.
The city’s harbor area offers water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking, while the Redondo Beach Pier features a variety of shops, eateries, and entertainment options.
Redondo’s laid-back atmosphere is perfect for beachgoers looking for a peaceful day by the sea or those interested in the local sea life at the SEA Lab aquarium.
With its blend of beachside charm and maritime activities, Redondo Beach provides a tranquil yet engaging coastal experience.
💡 Insider Tip for Redondo Beach: Experience the outdoor events at the Redondo Beach Pier, including kite festivals, summer concert series, and monthly yoga meet-ups for a true taste of local community spirit.
12. Dana Point
Nautical paradise where stunning harbors meet marine adventure.
Dana Point is a serene coastal city known for its stunning harbor, world-class surfing, and beautiful cliffside views.
It’s a haven for marine life enthusiasts, with the Ocean Institute offering educational programs and whale-watching tours that highlight the area’s rich marine biodiversity.
Dana Point’s beaches, such as Salt Creek and Doheny State Beach, are perfect for water activities or simply soaking up the sun.
The city’s laid-back vibe, combined with its scenic beauty and nautical attractions, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the sea.
💡 Insider Tip for Dana Point: Explore the Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area for a serene hike with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, where you can also spot dolphins and whales from the cliffs above.
13. Long Beach
An urban waterfront playground rich in diversity and maritime heritage.
Long Beach is a dynamic urban waterfront city with a diverse array of attractions, from the historic Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific to vibrant arts districts.
Its wide, sandy beaches are great for leisurely strolls, kite surfing, and beach volleyball.
The downtown area boasts a lively culinary scene, unique shops, and entertainment venues, all within walking distance of the water.
Long Beach’s blend of urban energy and beach town relaxation offers something for everyone, making it a unique spot in Southern California.
💡 Insider Tip for Long Beach: Explore the tranquil El Dorado Nature Center, a hidden oasis in the city with over 100 acres of woodlands, lakes, and streams, offering a peaceful retreat from urban life.
14. Del Mar
Chic and tranquil, this coastal town excels in elegance and oceanic activities.
Del Mar is an upscale, tranquil town that radiates charm and sophistication.
Known for its famous Del Mar Racetrack, where the surf meets the turf, the town also offers pristine beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Del Mar’s quaint downtown area, with its luxury boutiques, fine dining, and cozy cafes, adds to the town’s exclusive feel.
Surrounded by rolling hills and offering breathtaking ocean views, Del Mar provides a serene escape with a touch of elegance.
💡 Insider Tip for Del Mar: Take a magical hot air balloon ride over Del Mar to experience panoramic ocean views and the luxury of coastal living from the sky, complete with a champagne toast.
15. Santa Barbara
The “American Riviera” blends Mediterranean flair with cultural sophistication.
Santa Barbara, often referred to as the “American Riviera,” is renowned for its Mediterranean-style architecture, stunning beaches, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The city’s historic mission, vibrant arts scene, and world-class wineries add to its allure.
Santa Barbara’s downtown area features boutique shopping, gourmet restaurants, and cultural museums, all framed by beautiful mountain views.
With its mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back luxury, Santa Barbara offers an unforgettable coastal experience that epitomizes Southern California’s charm.
💡 Insider Tip for Santa Barbara: Embark on a scenic bike ride along Cabrillo Bike Path, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and stop by the colorful Chromatic Gate, a vibrant landmark that captures the artistic spirit of the city.
Top Picks
Best for Surfing 🏄🏻♂️
Huntington Beach – “Surf City USA” is known for its excellent surf breaks and surf culture.
San Clemente is also a good pick for this.
Best for Families 👨👩👧👦
Carlsbad – Home to Legoland California and family-friendly beaches.
Redondo Beach is also a good pick for this
Best for Arts and Culture 🎭
Laguna Beach – Known for its vibrant arts scene, galleries, and the Pageant of the Masters festival.
Best for Luxury and Leisure 🛍
Newport Beach – Offers luxurious coastal living, upscale shopping, and dining.
Best for Nature and Adventure 🐳
Dana Point – Ideal for whale watching, marine life exploration, and outdoor activities.
Ventura is also good as you can visit Channel Islands National Park.