Best Beaches in California

 

California’s Best Beaches (Ranked 5 to 1): Real Reviews for Summer 2025

With over 800 miles of coastline, California has no shortage of beaches—but let’s be honest, not all of them live up to the hype. If you're planning a trip to the Golden State and want sand, surf, and good vibes without wasting your time, this guide breaks down the five best beaches based on:

✅ Things to Do

 ✅ Family Friendly

 ✅ Cleanliness

 ✅ Ease of Access

We’ve ranked them from #5 to #1 so you can start at the bottom and end with the best.

🏖️ #5. Venice Beach – Los Angeles, CA

Total Score: 6.8/10

Things to Do: 9 – Skatepark, Muscle Beach, street performers, vendors

Family Friendly: 5 – Lots going on; not ideal for kids

Cleanliness: 5 – Crowded, can get dirty

Ease of Access: 8 – Plenty of parking and public transit

Overall Vibe: Loud, raw, iconic—but gritty

What to Wear: Venice is more street than swim. Throw on a bold look and slip into MP Slide Sandals for all-day boardwalk comfort.

🏖️ #4. Pfeiffer Beach – Big Sur, CA

Total Score: 7.5/10

Things to Do: 6 – It's remote and scenic, not packed with activities

Family Friendly: 7 – Peaceful but not much for little ones

Cleanliness: 9 – Natural and untouched

Ease of Access: 8 – Tricky road but rewarding

Overall Vibe: Magical and moody

Essentials: Quiet and misty days call for low-key comfort. Our MP Swim Shorts are quick-dry and subtle enough to match the peaceful surroundings.

🏖️ #3. Coronado Beach – San Diego, CA

Total Score: 8.7/10

Things to Do: 8.5 – Gentle surf, Hotel del Coronado, pier walks

Family Friendly: 9 – Calm, clean, easy to watch the kids

Cleanliness: 9 – Exceptionally clean

Ease of Access: 8 – Accessible by car or ferry

Overall Vibe: Polished, classic, safe

Beachwear Tip: Class it up with clean lines. Our Women’s Bikini Swimsuit fits right in among the resort-casual scene.

🏖️ #2. Santa Monica Beach – Santa Monica, CA

Total Score: 8.9/10

Things to Do: 10 – Pier rides, restaurants, shops, aquarium

Family Friendly: 8.5 – Fun for everyone, but busy

Cleanliness: 8 – Maintained well for how many visit

Ease of Access: 9 – Easy by car, train, or walking

Overall Vibe: Fun, touristy, action-packed

Style Move: Bring something breezy you can move in—MP Swim Shorts and MP Slide Sandals will keep up with your day from beach to boulevard.

🥇 #1. La Jolla Shores – La Jolla, CA

Total Score: 9.5/10

Things to Do: 9.5 – Tide pools, kayaking, snorkeling, seals

Family Friendly: 10 – Super safe and activity-rich for all ages

Cleanliness: 9 – Very well maintained

Ease of Access: 9.5 – Big lot, walkable to town

Overall Vibe: Calm, classy, California at its best

Best Look: Go from ocean to outdoor café in style. Our Women’s Bikini Swimsuit or MP Swim Shorts are smart picks. Don’t forget the MP Slide Sandals for sandy strolls or seal-spotting.

Final Word: Not All California Beaches Are Created Equal

If you want that postcard moment and clean sand under your feet, La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach are unmatched. If you're chasing energy and culture, Santa Monica gives you the best of both worlds. And if you’re feeling brave (or weird), Venice is always… Venice.

Whatever coast you claim, make sure you’re showing up in gear that fits the vibe.

🖤 Shop Midnight Poison beachwear — built for sun, movement, and low-key flexing.