10 Enchanting Beach Towns in California That Look Straight Out of a Postcard

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Let me tell you about what makes California beach towns so special. I’ve spent countless weekends cruising down Highway 1, and every time I round a corner to find another sun-soaked coastal village, I fall in love all over again. Carmel By The Sea, with its storybook cottages and rugged coastline, still makes me gasp even after visiting dozens of times.

From the moment I watched my first Pacific sunset from Laguna Beach’s Victoria Beach, where that fairytale tower stands guard over the waves, to discovering the beautiful places in California where surfers chase perfect breaks past pastel beach houses, I knew these towns were different. Here are 10 coastal spots that capture that magical California beach town vibe I just can’t get enough of.

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Must-See Attractions in California Beach Towns

Looking for the coolest things to do in California Beach Towns? Stroll along the iconic pier in Santa Monica, soak up the sun on the scenic shores of Malibu, and explore the vibrant boardwalk at Venice Beach. For a charming coastal escape, visit Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its fairytale cottages and stunning ocean views. Whether you’re interested in surfing, seaside dining, or relaxing on the sand, here are the top beach towns to visit in California.

1. Santa Monica

• 📍 Location: Los Angeles County, just 15 miles west of downtown LA
• 🏆 Best For: Urban beach lovers 🏙️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, fitness enthusiasts 🏃‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling the iconic pier, cycling the beach path, shopping at Third Street Promenade
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-November for warm weather and fewer crowds, early mornings year-round for peaceful beach time 🌅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Shutters on the Beach – Breezy rooms with wooden shutters that open to let ocean air flow through

The cheerful lights of Santa Monica Pier create the perfect California postcard scene with its vintage carousel and iconic Ferris wheel. Kids dash between arcade games while street performers entertain crowds against the backdrop of crashing waves. The wide beach stretches for 3.5 miles with volleyball nets, the original Muscle Beach workout area, and plenty of space to spread out a towel.

When hunger strikes, the pedestrian-friendly Third Street Promenade offers everything from casual tacos to upscale dining just blocks from shore. I always recommend renting bikes at Perry’s Beach Café to explore the Marvin Braude Bike Trail connecting to neighboring beaches. Pro tip: park at the civic center lot to save money and avoid the pier area congestion.

• Read Next: Breathtaking Places to Visit in Los Angeles

2. Malibu

• 📍 Location: Northwestern Los Angeles County, stretching 21 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway
• 🏆 Best For: Surfers 🏄‍♀️, celebrity spotters 🤩, nature lovers 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Catching waves at Surfrider Beach, hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, wine tasting in the canyons
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June-October for warmest water temperatures, weekdays year-round to avoid crowds 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Malibu Beach Inn – Ocean-front rooms with private balconies directly above the waves, worth every penny

Dolphins frequently arch through the glassy morning waters at Zuma Beach, Malibu’s widest stretch of golden sand. Early surfers paddle out before crowds arrive, while photographers capture the dramatic rock formations at nearby El Matador State Beach. Perfect waves break consistently at Surfrider Beach, drawing board riders from around the world to this legendary point break.

Beyond the shoreline, the Santa Monica Mountains offer numerous hiking trails with breathtaking coastal views. I’ve spotted celebrities casually enjoying lunch at Malibu Farm Café, a rustic-chic spot perched at the end of the historic pier. After a beach day, explore the boutique wineries tucked into the canyons or drive the winding roads to discover hidden estates and natural vistas.

• Read Next: Things to Do in Malibu With Kids

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3. Venice Beach

• 📍 Location: Westside Los Angeles, bordered by Santa Monica to the north and Marina Del Rey to the south
• 🏆 Best For: People-watchers 👀, counterculture enthusiasts 🎭, foodies 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Venice Canals, watching street performers on Ocean Front Walk, shopping on Abbot Kinney Boulevard
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons for peak boardwalk energy, March-May for comfortable temperatures 🌷
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Erwin – Rooftop bar serves excellent cocktails with views of skateboarders below and Pacific sunsets

Sensory overload defines the Venice Beach Boardwalk with sizzling street food, portable speakers, and an endless parade of characters. Chainsaw jugglers perform next to bodybuilders pumping iron at the outdoor Muscle Beach gym while basketball players dominate pickup games on the nearby courts. This concrete jungle by the sea offers the most diverse and raw beach experience in Southern California.

The serene Venice Canals provide a stark contrast just blocks away from the chaotic boardwalk. Morning walks reveal quirky homes and peaceful reflections across these historic waterways. For shopping and dining, Abbot Kinney Boulevard delivers with trendy boutiques housed in converted bungalows and innovative restaurants. Venice proudly maintains its artistic roots while embracing its evolution as a creative hub.

4. Carmel-by-the-Sea

• 📍 Location: Monterey Peninsula along California’s Central Coast, 120 miles south of San Francisco
• 🏆 Best For: Art lovers 🎨, dog owners 🐕, romantics 💑
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering the fairytale downtown, visiting the historic mission, taking the scenic 17-Mile Drive
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-November for ideal weather and fewer tourists, April-May for wildflowers 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: L’Auberge Carmel – Intimate 20-room boutique hotel with fresh-baked cookies delivered daily and exceptional personalized service

Stepping into Carmel feels like entering a European fairy tale with enchanting cottages, secret passageways, and hidden garden courtyards. Cobblestone streets wind through this one-square-mile village packed with nearly 100 art galleries and unique boutiques. The powder-fine sand beach at the bottom of Ocean Avenue welcomes off-leash dogs to frolic alongside visitors watching the turquoise waves of Carmel Bay.

Literary history comes alive at Tor House, former home of poet Robinson Jeffers, while the historic Carmel Mission offers stunning gardens surrounding the 1771 basilica. Local ordinances preserve the town’s charm with no street addresses, no mail delivery, and strict limitations on chain restaurants. Nearby attractions include world-famous Pebble Beach Golf Links and the spectacular coastal views along 17-Mile Drive.

• Read next: Best Luxury Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea
• You may also like: Top Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea

5. Laguna Beach

• 📍 Location: Orange County, midway between Los Angeles and San Diego
• 🏆 Best For: Art enthusiasts 🖼️, tide pool explorers 🐚, wellness seekers 🧘‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Gallery hopping during First Thursdays Art Walk, snorkeling at Shaw’s Cove, hiking coastal trails in Crystal Cove State Park
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October for warmest swimming conditions, July-August for art festivals 🎨
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Montage Laguna Beach – Clifftop resort with room service on private balconies perfect for whale watching during migration season

Emerald coves cut dramatically into the cliffs of Laguna Beach, creating a coastline unlike anywhere else in Orange County. Each of the town’s 30+ beaches has distinct features, from the protective reef at Shaw’s Cove creating a natural swimming pool to the sea caves hidden at 1,000 Steps Beach. The town’s artistic heritage remains alive in over 100 galleries, continuing traditions established when plein air painters discovered its magical light quality in the early 1900s.

The Sawdust Art Festival transforms summer evenings with local artists working in open-air studios along sawdust-covered paths. For breathtaking views, the moderate Top of the World trail rewards hikers with panoramas stretching to Catalina Island on clear days. I’ve found Heisler Park offers the perfect morning walk with its clifftop promenade and easy access to the vibrant downtown area.

6. Santa Cruz

• 📍 Location: Central California coast, 1.5 hours south of San Francisco and 40 minutes north of Monterey
• 🏆 Best For: Surfers 🏄‍♂️, boardwalk enthusiasts 🎢, marine wildlife lovers 🐋
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding classic coasters at the Beach Boardwalk, watching surfers at Steamer Lane, strolling West Cliff Drive
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-October for warmest temperatures and fewer crowds; whale watching best December-April 🐳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Dream Inn – Converted 70s motel with ocean-facing fire pits and non-stop wave soundtracks

Wooden roller coasters rattle above boardwalk crowds at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, California’s oldest seaside amusement park, operating since 1907. The scent of caramel corn fills the air as classic rides cast long shadows across golden sand. Nearby Steamer Lane draws top surfers who perform their wave ballet beneath an iconic lighthouse. I’ve spent countless hours watching their silhouettes against vibrant sunset backdrops.

Rent a cruiser bike for the perfect ride along West Cliff Drive with stunning ocean panoramas. The path hugs dramatic cliffs past barking sea lions and natural arches carved by relentless waves. Downtown’s Pacific Avenue buzzes with street musicians and independent shops housed in colorful Victorian buildings. Unlike cookie-cutter beach towns, Santa Cruz maintains authentic surf culture and bohemian spirit that captures California’s golden essence.

• For more unique adventures: 12 AWESOME Things to Do in Fresno at Night

7. Encinitas

• 📍 Location: Southern California, 25 miles north of San Diego in North County
• 🏆 Best For: Yoga enthusiasts 🧘‍♀️, surfers 🏄‍♂️, botanical garden lovers 🌸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Catching waves at Swami’s Beach, wandering through the Self-Realization Fellowship gardens, exploring the historic downtown
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round with perfect weather, September-October for fewer crowds and warm water 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Surfhouse – Compact surfer haven with outdoor showers and craft beer-fueled wave reports

Barefoot yogis mix with wetsuit-clad surfers on sidewalks in Encinitas, creating Southern California’s perfect spiritual-meets-surf culture. Swami’s Beach delivers world-class waves beneath the distinctive gold meditation domes that define the town’s skyline. Morning sessions often include dolphins sharing the same breaks as human wave-riders. The magnificent Self-Realization Fellowship Gardens offer cliffside meditation spots with hummingbirds darting between exotic blooms.

Historic Highway 101 pulses with genuine SoCal energy as cyclists cruise past the 1928 La Paloma Theatre. I’ve discovered my favorite coffee at Pannikin, housed in a converted train station, while overhearing locals debate swell forecasts. Unlike neighboring beach communities, Encinitas embraces its eccentric side rather than polishing it away. This authenticity shines through in family-owned taco stands, record shops, and the “Keep Encinitas Funky” bumper stickers adorning surf vans throughout town.

8. Pismo Beach

• 📍 Location: Central California coast, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along Highway 1
• 🏆 Best For: Clam diggers 🐚, wine enthusiasts 🍷, ATV adventurers 🏍️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving on the beach, exploring nearby Oceano Dunes, wine tasting in adjacent Edna Valley
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-May for wildflowers and pleasant temperatures, October-February for monarch butterfly migration 🦋
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Inn at the Pier – Mid-range rooms with knockout rooftop views overlooking the landmark wooden pier

Cars drive straight onto the sand at Pismo Beach, one of California’s rare spots offering beachfront parking with Pacific Ocean views. The historic wooden pier creaks underfoot as fishing lines dangle into waters that made the town famous for its namesake clams. Low tides reveal perfect conditions for digging these treasures using local techniques passed down through generations. The atmosphere feels decidedly old-school California, untouched by excessive commercialization.

Just minutes inland, Edna Valley vineyards pour exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir without Napa’s crowds or prices. The maritime climate creates distinctive wines worth exploring during afternoon tastings. Winter brings thousands of monarch butterflies, transforming eucalyptus groves into vibrant orange canopies. After sunset, grab a steaming clam chowder bread bowl at Splash Café while watching fishing boats return with their daily catch. This working-class beach town proudly maintains its authentic coastal heritage.

9. Half Moon Bay

• 📍 Location: Northern California coast, 30 minutes south of San Francisco and 45 minutes northwest of Silicon Valley
• 🏆 Best For: Pumpkin enthusiasts 🎃, coastal hikers 🥾, big wave watchers 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the Coastal Trail, watching massive waves at Mavericks, visiting goat farms and pumpkin patches
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October for the famous Pumpkin Festival and December-February to witness the legendary Mavericks surf competition 🏄‍♂️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay – Splurge-worthy Scottish-inspired resort with nightly bagpiper performances at sunset

Thunderous waves crash against dramatic cliffs along Half Moon Bay, creating Northern California’s most spectacular coastal scenery. The six-mile Coastal Trail delivers breathtaking ocean views past wildflower meadows and falcon habitats. Winter brings heart-stopping excitement as monster waves at Mavericks reach sixty feet high while elite surfers tackle what many consider the most dangerous break in America. I’ve watched these wave warriors from cliff vantages, holding my breath with each massive set.

Downtown preserves its fishing village charm with weathered boats in the harbor and farmers selling fresh strawberries from pickup trucks. October transforms surrounding fields into orange pumpkin patches that produce record-breaking giants for the famous festival. For something beyond standard tourist stops, visit Harley Farms to sample award-winning goat cheese in a picturesque setting. The town perfectly balances agricultural heritage with natural beauty, maintaining authenticity despite proximity to Silicon Valley wealth.

• You may also enjoy: The Best Nighttime Attractions in Fresno, CA

10. Manhattan Beach

• 📍 Location: Los Angeles County’s South Bay, 20 minutes south of LAX and 30 minutes southwest of downtown LA
• 🏆 Best For: Beach volleyball players 🏐, pier strollers 🌴, upscale diners 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the iconic pier, playing volleyball on the wide sandy beach, browsing boutiques on Manhattan Beach Boulevard
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-October for warm water and locals’ summer, August for the International Surf Festival 🏄‍♀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Shade Hotel – Stylish boutique option with complimentary beach cruisers and perfect central location

Olympic-caliber volleyball players dominate the horizon at Manhattan Beach, launching across pristine sand that stretches for two miles along the Pacific. The elegant Manhattan Beach Pier extends 928 feet into the ocean, offering uncluttered views unlike typical tourist-packed Southern California landmarks. Its distinctive round end houses a free aquarium showcasing local marine life. The atmosphere combines athletic energy with upscale coastal living, evident in the multi-million-dollar homes cascading down the hillside.

Morning marine layer burns off by midday, revealing crystal blue waters and Catalina Island on clear days. Locals grab espresso at Two Guns before browsing curated shops along Manhattan Beach Boulevard. I’ve spotted Hollywood producers and professional athletes casually mingling with wetsuit-clad surfers fresh from dawn patrol sessions. The afternoon sea breeze carries appetizing aromas from Fishing With Dynamite, known for the freshest seafood in South Bay. This refined beach town balances athletic heritage with sophisticated dining and shopping without Venice Beach’s tourist crowds.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the best coastal cities in California

Looking to expand your knowledge about the best California beach towns to visit? In the section below, I’ve collected some of the most common questions I get about the best beach towns in California. Hopefully, my answers will help you ensure an unforgettable vacation!

What is the most beautiful beach town in California?

Obviously, “beautiful” is subjective, but I personally consider Carmel-by-the-Sea to be one of the most beautiful beach towns in California. Nestled along the rugged coastline of Central California, Carmel boasts scenic white sand beaches, historic architecture, and a charming downtown area. It’s particularly known for its fairytale-like cottages and the absence of streetlights, which make the town feel timeless and romantic.

In addition to its natural beauty, Carmel is rich in arts and culture, featuring numerous galleries and theatres. The coastline offers breathtaking views, particularly at sunset, and the nearby 17-Mile Drive provides one of the most scenic routes in the state. Whether you’re into photography, nature walks, or simply soaking in the views, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a picturesque setting that’s hard to match.

What is the warmest beach town in California?

Southern California is known for its warm weather, and among its beach towns, Huntington Beach is often cited as having some of the warmest temperatures year-round. Located in Orange County, Huntington Beach enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, surfing, and other beach activities. The town itself has a lively atmosphere with a range of dining and shopping options. Moreover, if you’re a surfer or a fan of surf culture, you’ll find Huntington Beach particularly appealing; it’s often referred to as “Surf City USA” due to its high-quality waves and surfing culture.

What city in California has perfect weather?

San Diego is frequently touted as the city with “perfect” weather in California. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures in San Diego typically range from the high 40s to the high 70s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for outdoor activities year-round.

Its consistency in temperature, combined with over 260 sunny days per year, makes it a popular destination for those who value stable, sunny weather. So, whether you’re exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter, touring the famous San Diego Zoo, or lounging on one of its many beaches, the climate often feels just right.

Are there any small beach towns left in California?

Absolutely! California still boasts a number of charming small beach towns that offer a more laid-back vibe compared to bustling cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. These towns provide a quintessential California beach experience without the crowds. Here are some to consider:

• Capitola: Located in Santa Cruz County, this town is known for its colorful seaside homes and a relaxed atmosphere. The downtown area is small but vibrant, offering a range of boutiques and eateries.
• Cayucos: Situated along California’s Central Coast, Cayucos offers a vintage beach town experience. It’s ideal for surfing, fishing, or simply soaking up the sun on the beach.
• Mendocino: While not a traditional “beach town,” Mendocino offers stunning coastal views and a small-town atmosphere. It’s more cliffside than beachside but provides access to several beautiful beaches.
• Carpinteria: Just south of Santa Barbara, this small oceanfront town is known for its excellent beaches and a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to paddleboarding.
• Pismo Beach: Located on the Central Coast, Pismo Beach offers a classic California beach town experience, complete with a pier, sandy beaches, and surf-friendly waves.
• Encinitas: In San Diego County, Encinitas has a laid-back vibe and is home to beautiful beaches like Moonlight Beach and Swami’s, a popular surf spot.
• Half Moon Bay: A short drive from San Francisco, this town offers a peaceful coastal retreat with scenic views, artisan shops, and local seafood.

What part of California stays warm all year?

Southern California generally stays warm throughout the year, especially areas closer to the desert, like Palm Springs and the Inland Empire. These regions experience a hot desert or semi-arid climate with very mild winters and extremely warm summers. In Palm Springs, for example, winter temperatures rarely dip below 60°F, while summer highs can exceed 100°F.

Therefore, if you’re someone who loves hot, sunny weather, these regions are ideal for year-round warmth. It’s worth noting, however, that the warmth in desert areas is a dry heat, which some find more comfortable than the humidity often found in coastal regions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, poolside relaxation, or winter sun, Southern California offers regions that stay toasty all year long.

What cities in California have a beach?

California is blessed with a long coastline that stretches for more than 800 miles. As such, many cities along this coast have access to beautiful beaches. Here’s a list of some notable California cities with beaches:

Southern California cities with beaches:

• San Diego: Known for its beautiful beaches like La Jolla Cove, Mission Beach, and Coronado Beach.
• Oceanside: Offers a long stretch of sandy beaches and a pier.
• Laguna Beach: Famous for its coves and artistic community.
• Newport Beach: Known for its surfing and upscale living.
• Huntington Beach: Also known as “Surf City, USA.”
• Long Beach: Offers both beach and harbor areas, close to Los Angeles.
• Santa Monica: Features a famous pier and a wide beach.
• Malibu: Known for its scenic beaches like Zuma and Point Dume.

Central California cities with beaches:

• Santa Barbara: Offers beautiful beaches and a Mediterranean climate.
• Ventura: Known for its harbor and Surfers Point.
• Pismo Beach: Popular for surfing and its classic pier.
• Santa Cruz: Home to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Northern California cities with beaches:

• Half Moon Bay: Known for its rugged coastline and beaches like Mavericks.
• Santa Cruz: Offers a variety of beaches and is home to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
• Monterey: Famous for its scenic coastline and Cannery Row.
• Carmel-by-the-Sea: Known for its white sand beach and artistic community.

Where is the cheapest place to live on the California coast?

Living on the California coast is often associated with a high cost of living, especially in cities like Malibu, Santa Monica, and San Francisco. However, there are some California coastal towns and cities where the cost of living is relatively more affordable. Here are some options:

• Eureka: Located in Northern California, Eureka offers a lower cost of living compared to other coastal cities. It’s known for its Victorian architecture and proximity to outdoor activities.
• Oxnard: Situated between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, Oxnard is relatively more affordable and offers beautiful beaches like Silver Strand Beach.
• Ventura: Close to Oxnard, Ventura offers a slightly higher but still relatively affordable cost of living. It’s known for its harbor and Surfers Point.
• San Pedro: This is a community within the city of Los Angeles and offers a more affordable lifestyle while still providing access to the amenities of a big city.
• Imperial Beach: Located near the Mexican border in San Diego County, this town offers a more affordable lifestyle with the benefit of a beautiful beach.
• Morro Bay: Located on the Central Coast, Morro Bay is known for its large volcanic rock that sits in the harbor. It’s a fishing town with a more laid-back lifestyle.

What beach town in California has colorful houses?

The beach town in California known for its colorful houses is Capitola. Located in Santa Cruz County, Capitola is a charming small town that features a row of brightly colored homes known as the “Capitola Venetians” right along the beachfront. These iconic houses are one of the most photographed spots in the area and add a unique, whimsical charm to the town.

Capitola’s Venetian Court, as it’s officially known, was built in the 1920s and was inspired by the architectural styles of the Mediterranean. The colorful homes overlook Soquel Creek and Capitola Beach, offering a picturesque setting that’s popular for both tourists and photographers.

In addition to its colorful houses, Capitola offers a relaxed atmosphere with a quaint village setting, featuring boutique shops, restaurants, and of course, a beautiful beach. It’s a great place for a day trip or a weekend getaway, offering activities like paddleboarding, fishing, and simply enjoying the sun and surf.

What is the safest beach town in California?

Here are a few of the safest California beach towns that offer low crime rates and high-quality beachside amenities:

• Manhattan Beach: Located in Los Angeles County, Manhattan Beach has low crime rates and is known for its clean, well-patrolled beaches. The community is family-friendly and offers various amenities.
• Laguna Beach: This Orange County town is not only picturesque but also has a reputation for being safe and family-friendly. The beaches are clean, and lifeguards are usually present.
• Coronado: Located in San Diego County, Coronado is often cited as one of the safest beach towns in California. It has low crime rates and offers well-maintained beaches with lifeguards.
• Carmel-by-the-Sea: Known for its scenic beauty and artistic community, Carmel also boasts low crime rates. The beach area is clean and usually less crowded, offering a peaceful environment.
• Seal Beach: Situated in Orange County, Seal Beach is a small, quaint town with low crime rates. The beach is well-maintained and is generally considered safe for families.