Top Beaches in California

If you're hitting the beach, I suggest going around 10 AM. It’s less crowded and you can snatch a good spot on the sand without all the hassle

Just a heads up, parking can be a nightmare! I suggest using the city parking lots rather than street parking to avoid tickets and towing headaches.

I think it’s a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle. Water fountains are available, and you’ll save money instead of buying drinks all day.

Bring your own beach chairs and umbrellas if you can. Rental prices can add up quickly, and it’s more comfy when you have your own stuff. I regretted not bringing mine and ended up sitting on the sand

Pack a picnic! It's a great way to save money on food and enjoy the beach atmosphere. I found a nice spot and just relaxed while munching away instead of spending a lot at nearby cafes.

My advice is to bring your own snacks and drinks... The beach prices can be super high! I regretted not packing a cooler when I saw a bottle of water for $5

If you're planning to swim, make sure to wear water shoes! The rocky sections can be a bit rough on the feet, and I definitely learned that the hard way.

Bring a picnic! There's plenty of grassy areas and it saved me some cash because local food can be pricey. Grab some snacks at a nearby grocery store.

Check the tide schedule before you go! Low tide reveals incredible tide pools that you don't want to miss. I stumbled upon some amazing starfish and anemones when I visited at low tide.

I think checking out the tide charts before you go can really help. We missed a chance to see the tide pools because we got there too late – so plan accordingly!

My advice is to wear comfy shoes. The trails around the park can be a little uneven, and flip-flops won't cut it. You'll enjoy exploring a lot more!

I suggest bringing your own snacks and drinks. The nearby shops can be pricey, and the beach spot is perfect for a picnic! We saved a bunch by just packing our own food.

I recommend going around sunset. The views are absolutely stunning and you'll avoid the midday crowds – trust me, it's worth it for those Instagram shots!

Don’t forget to bring a sun umbrella or blanket. The sand can get unbearably hot, and I spent way too much time hopping around trying to find a cool spot!

Bring your own snacks and drinks! The beach kiosks are convenient but super pricey. I totally regretted buying overpriced chips when I could've packed my own!

If you want to avoid the wind, head over to the southern part of the beach. I was blown away—literally—by the wind in the north part, which made it tough to relax.

Check the parking situation before you go! I found a spot at the lot, but it fills up quick! Aim to get there by 9 AM if you want to snag a good spot.

My advice is to wear sturdy shoes if you're planning to hike the trails. The paths can get rocky, and flip-flops aren’t gonna cut it for some of those areas!

I recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks. The food options in the park can be pricey and not that great. A picnic on the beach beats cafe food!

Make sure to wear good shoes! The trail down to the beach can be rocky and steep. I wish I'd worn something sturdier instead of flip flops.

If you wanna save a few bucks my advice is to skip the shops near the beach. They’re super overpriced. Instead grab snacks from a grocery store across the street.

Pack a picnic! There are a ton of great spot to sit and eat. Food on the pier can be pricey and you can enjoy a meal with your pups right on the sand.

I recommend checking the tides before you come. There’s way more beach space at low tide, and it’s a lot easier for your pup to run around without getting swept away!

I think you should hit the beach early, around 8 AM, to snag a good parking spot. It fills up fast and you'll save time instead of driving around looking for a spot.

Check the tide schedule before you go. We didn't, and the tide came in faster than expected, limiting our beach time. Plan around it for a better experience!

If you really want to enjoy some peace, try to hit the beach early, like around 7 AM, before the crowds roll in and the heat kicks up. It made my morning so much more relaxing!

If you’re into water sports, look for deals or rentals right at the beach. We found some great local shops offering much lower rates than the big brands. Definitely worth it!

Parking can be a hassle, so my advice is to arrive by 9 AM. We waited forever for a spot, and it was a real mood killer. Better early than frustrated.