Best Beaches in California

Are you seeking to find a property in California where you can call the beach your home?

In this 2023 SoCal beach guide, we will discover the best beaches in California, especially in SoCal, a region renowned for its stunning beaches, wonderful climate, and a plethora of activities.

Whether you want to unwind and bask in the sun, go for a splash on the water, or engage in water sports, you'll find it all in Southern California. From Coronado Island to Del Mar Beach, these beach spots provide the ideal destination for oceanfront living.

If you have gathered that moving to San Diego or anywhere in California sounds like a good idea,  contact us today to schedule a tour of our beachfront properties.

Coronado Island Beach

Situated on a peninsula, you can access Coronado Island Beach from downtown San Diego by way of the archetypal Coronado Bridge. Due to the presence of the mica mineral, Coronado Beach is recognized for its shimmering golden sand.

The beach consistently ranks among the best beaches in the nation thanks to its magnificent sand and stunning Pacific Ocean waves. Free public parking lots are some of the perks of living here. After a day of exploring, settle down and enjoy a dinner or a fine glass of wine at one of the many cafes and patios along the beach.

Hotel Del Coronado

Whether you're visiting SoCal for business or vacation, you will need a place to stay. The Hotel Del Coronado, which is situated in Coronado, is a historic and iconic hotel that has been offering accommodation since 1888.

The hotel's distinctive architecture is one feature that sets it apart from other beach resorts in America. Its red turrets and white colonial decor characterize the Victorian-style hotel. It's also the biggest wooden structure in the country.

Thanks to its prime location, excellent facade, great cuisine, and a plethora of activities, Hotel Del Coronado is a fantastic option for anyone searching for accommodation in a historic, and elegant beachfront hotel.

Mission Beach

Wide, sandy beaches, a boardwalk, and an amusement park right on the water make Mission Beach a bustling and popular destination. The boardwalk at Mission Beach also referred to as "The Strand," is one of its main attractions. Along the boardwalk are numerous stores, eateries, and attractions that hug the shore.

The beach offers a great spot for people-watching, walking, biking, and rollerblading. You can also catch a glimpse of street entertainers and musicians along the boardwalk.

Belmont Park, a typical coastal amusement park, is another popular attraction at Mission Beach. Besides a variety of facilities and games, the park features a roller coaster and a Ferris wheel. Given that the beach faces west, Mission Beach is an excellent place to view the sunset over the Pacific.

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is a picturesque spot in the Californian coastal community of La Jolla. It is renowned for its sea caves, natural beauty, and crystal-clear waters.

The wildlife on the seashore is diverse, as it offers a great spot for watching sea lions and seals sunbathing on the rocks. And if you enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving, you won't miss spotting a variety of sea stars, colorful fish, and sea anemones.

Besides swimming, La Jolla Cove is the ideal photography destination, and you can even stroll down the promenade to take in the views. Take a break from adventure and grab a bite to eat at several nearby restaurants and cafes that straddle the beach.

Del Mar Beach

Del Mar Beach is a lovely and secluded spot in Southern California. It's renowned for its expansive sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Sunbathing, swimming, and beach games are all ideal on the well-maintained beach. The family-friendly beach features a playground for kids and picnic tables for beachgoers.

Unlike other crowded beaches in the San Diego area, Del Mar Beach is ideal for a romantic stroll or a relaxing day outside, thanks to its moderate climate. A bike path that runs along the coast is perfect for cyclists looking to get some exercise while enjoying the views.

The tidal pool area on the beach is another fantastic spot to discover aquatic life. Though not widely known as a shopper's paradise, Del Mar Beach also has a variety of hidden gems to seek out at the nearby Del Mar Village.

La Jolla Shores

A stunning and popular destination, La Jolla Shores is renowned for its expansive sandy beach, clear blue waters, and welcoming ambiance.

The La Jolla Underwater Park, a protected marine reserve and an excellent place for snorkeling and scuba diving, is the area's main attraction. Explore the park and discover diverse marine life including sea stars, colorful fish, and sea anemones.

A bike path follows the shoreline which is excellent for cycling while taking in the views. Water sports activities include swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

After working up an appetite, step out of the water and into a large grassy area ideal for a picnic. There're also several restaurants and cafes nearby where you can grab a bite to eat.

Final Thoughts

There are many beautiful beaches in SoCal to choose from, each with special characteristics and amenities. Whether you're looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun or a spot for adventure and water recreation, you'll find it all here.

If you're considering moving to a beach town in Southern California, contact us today or visit our website for more information about San Diego real estate.