California has the kind of beaches most people can only dream of.
Birthplace of the Beach Boys, the state’s rich culture of surfing and sunbathing have helped shape much of the world’s image of the area. With Hollywood on its doorstep, its stunning scenery have also been immortalised on both the silver screen and TV.
But with so many to choose from, it can be hard to pick California’s most iconic beach. Read on to find out a few of our must see selections for tourists hitting the West Coast on holiday…
Laguna Beach
This seaside resort rose to prominence during the 1970s as a centre of alternative culture, with its laid-back atmosphere attracting young people from across America. Now one of the most affluent places in the state, tourists can enjoy the hotels and holiday homes which are built mere metres from the beachfront. The Main Beach of the city is typically filled from dawn until dusk, with an average high of 20 degrees even in January making it the ideal place for a trip to top up your sun tan.
Venice Beach
Perfectly located for those flying to LA on holiday, Venice Beach is perhaps the most diverse part of California. The beachfront is a bustling epicentre of activity, with street performers and musicians lining the café filled promenade. Surfers flock to the area due to the excellent conditions of the Venice Breakwater, with the beachside streetballers also a rich source of entertainment for tourists relaxing on the golden sands.
Crystal Cove State Park
California might be home to one in eight Americans, but Crystal Cove State Park is perfect for escaping the bright lights and crowds of the state’s most famous cities. Its three and a half miles of secluded sands provide the dream American wilderness for active beachgoers due to the hiking trails and biking tracks that surround the waterfront. Its coves are perfect for scuba divers, with their clear waters and tide pools home to an array of intriguing West Coast marine life.
Newport Beach
The great and the good of Hollywood have flocked to Newport Beach for decades – it’s the very epitome of Orange County glamour. The city’s harbour has some of the most spectacular boats you are ever likely to see, or have the pleasure of taking a trip on. The beachfront area is dominated by bikes and beachcruisers, whilst its waters continue to be a popular hangout for the area’s surfer and paddleboarder population. With stunning sands, abundant watersports and suntanned locals, Newport Beach really is the personification of The Golden State.
What is your favourite beach in California?
