23 West Coast Beaches You Should Consider For Your Summer Vacation
Summer is right around the corner, and what better way to soak up the sun than at one of the West Coast’s stunning beaches? From Washington’s rugged coastlines to California’s golden shores, the Pacific offers incredible vacation spots for every type of beach lover.
I’ve gathered 23 must-visit West Coast beaches that’ll make your summer unforgettable, whether you’re looking for surfing, sunbathing, or simply escaping the everyday grind.
1. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Have you ever seen those iconic photos of massive rock formations jutting out from misty shores? That’s Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach! This Oregon gem offers miles of sandy shoreline perfect for long walks and tidepooling adventures.
Summer brings slightly warmer waters and the chance to witness puffins nesting on Haystack Rock. The charming town nearby features art galleries and cozy seafood restaurants where you can warm up after beach explorations.
2. La Jolla Cove, California
Tucked between sandstone cliffs, this small beach packs enormous charm into its tiny footprint. The protected bay creates calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling among the vibrant Garibaldi fish and friendly sea lions that call this place home.
Nearby caves offer exploration opportunities during low tide. The upscale village of La Jolla surrounds the cove, providing excellent dining options and boutique shopping when you need a break from the sun and surf.
3. Ruby Beach, Washington
Wild and untamed, Ruby Beach captivates visitors with its mysterious sea stacks and driftwood-strewn shores. The beach earned its name from the reddish sand created by garnet crystals mixing with the shoreline.
Summer fog often rolls in during mornings, creating an ethereal landscape that photographers adore. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles soaring overhead and tide pools teeming with colorful starfish, anemones, and tiny crabs during low tide.
4. Coronado Beach, California
The sand literally sparkles here! Coronado’s beaches contain mica minerals that give the sand a golden shimmer in the sunlight. Families love the gentle waves and wide, flat shoreline perfect for building sandcastles or playing beach volleyball.
The historic Hotel del Coronado provides a stunning Victorian backdrop to your beach day. During summer evenings, you might catch outdoor movies on the beach or roast s’mores at one of the fire pits while watching the sun set over Point Loma.
5. Pfeiffer Beach, California
Known for its unique purple sand and dramatic rock formations, Pfeiffer Beach feels like stepping into another world. The purple hue comes from manganese garnet deposits washing down from the hillsides, creating patches of lavender-colored sand especially visible after rainfall.
Summer brings the best chance to witness sunlight streaming through Keyhole Rock, creating a magical natural phenomenon. Though the water is usually too rough for swimming, the spectacular scenery makes this Big Sur treasure worth every moment spent exploring its shores.
6. Rialto Beach, Washington
Walking along Rialto feels like stepping into a moody Pacific Northwest postcard. Massive driftwood logs bleached white by salt and sun create natural seating areas to contemplate the rhythmic waves and offshore sea stacks.
A one-mile hike from the main beach takes you to Hole-in-the-Wall, a stunning arch formation carved by the relentless ocean. Summer brings the best hiking conditions and occasionally reveals hidden tide pools filled with vibrant marine life.
7. Huntington Beach, California
They don’t call it “Surf City USA” for nothing! Consistent waves make this one of California’s premier surfing destinations, with plenty of surf schools ready to help beginners catch their first wave.
The beach stretches for 10 miles, offering ample space for sunbathing and beach games. Summer brings exciting events like the US Open of Surfing, beach volleyball tournaments, and free concerts. After dark, gather around one of the 500 fire rings for a classic California beach bonfire experience.
8. Shi Shi Beach, Washington
For those willing to make the journey, Shi Shi rewards adventurers with one of the most pristine wilderness beaches in America. Reaching this remote stretch requires a 4-mile hike through lush forest followed by a steep descent to the shore.
Summer camping here means falling asleep to crashing waves and waking to misty mornings. Point of Arches, a dramatic collection of sea stacks and natural arches at the beach’s southern end, creates a photographer’s paradise, especially during sunset when the formations are silhouetted against the colorful sky.
9. Venice Beach, California
More than just a beach, Venice is a cultural experience unlike any other coastal destination. The famous boardwalk buzzes with street performers, vendors, and the eclectic energy that makes this spot uniquely Los Angeles.
Summer weekends bring massive crowds to watch skilled skateboarders at the beachfront skate park and bodybuilders at Muscle Beach. When you need a break from people-watching, the wide sandy beach offers plenty of space to relax, and the Venice Canals nearby provide a surprisingly peaceful escape.
10. Seaside, Oregon
Families have flocked to this classic beach town for generations, drawn by its old-fashioned charm and kid-friendly atmosphere. The wide, flat beach stretches for miles, perfect for kite flying, sandcastle competitions, or searching for sand dollars.
Summer brings warm enough weather to wade in the chilly Pacific waters. After beach time, stroll along the historic promenade or visit the Seaside Aquarium where you can feed the seals. Don’t miss trying saltwater taffy from one of the many candy shops—it’s a Seaside tradition!
11. Carmel Beach, California
Picture-perfect doesn’t begin to describe this crescent-shaped beach with powdery white sand and cypress trees framing stunning views. Dogs run freely here, making it a paradise for pet owners looking to vacation with their furry friends.
The charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea sits just steps away, filled with fairy-tale cottages and upscale galleries. Summer evenings often find locals and visitors alike gathering to watch the sunset with wine and cheese picnics—a beloved Carmel tradition that perfectly captures this beach’s sophisticated yet relaxed vibe.
12. Alki Beach, Washington
Seattle’s favorite urban beach offers something rare: skyline views with your sand castle. The 2.5-mile stretch provides the perfect setting for beach volleyball, kayaking, or simply watching the ferries cross Puget Sound.
Summer transforms Alki into a bustling playground where locals escape the city without leaving it. The paved beach path fills with rollerbladers and cyclists, while the shoreline hosts bonfires and beach parties. Restaurants and cafes line the strip, serving everything from fresh seafood to creamy gelato.
13. Baker Beach, California
Few beaches offer views as spectacular as Baker Beach, where the Golden Gate Bridge stands majestically against the backdrop of the Marin Headlands. This mile-long stretch sits within the Presidio, providing a natural escape within San Francisco city limits.
Summer fog often burns off by midday, revealing stunning panoramas. Keep in mind that the northern section is clothing-optional, while families tend to gather at the southern end. The beach’s unique perspective makes it a photographer’s dream, especially during golden hour.
14. Manzanita Beach, Oregon
Quieter than its northern neighbors, Manzanita offers seven miles of soft sand backed by the dramatic Neahkahnie Mountain. The beach town maintains a laid-back vibe, with locally-owned shops and restaurants instead of touristy attractions.
Summer brings warmer temperatures perfect for beachcombing and kite flying in the consistent breezes. Nehalem Bay State Park sits at the beach’s southern end, offering hiking trails and excellent crabbing opportunities. When the tide goes out, explore fascinating tide pools or hunt for agates and jasper among the sand.
15. Laguna Beach, California
Artists have been drawn to Laguna’s stunning coves and crystal waters for decades, creating a beach town with a thriving creative soul. The main beach sits right downtown, while dozens of hidden pocket beaches await discovery along the coastline.
Summer brings the famous Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts, celebrating the town’s artistic heritage. Snorkeling at Shaw’s Cove reveals colorful garibaldi fish darting among kelp forests. After beach time, explore the galleries and boutiques of this sophisticated yet laid-back community.
16. Bandon Beach, Oregon
Mother Nature created a sculpture garden at Bandon, where dramatic sea stacks rise from the shoreline like sentinels guarding the coast. Face Rock, Wizard’s Hat, and Cat and Kittens Rocks are just a few of the formations that make this beach unforgettable.
Summer brings the best tidepooling opportunities when low tides reveal colorful marine ecosystems. The Coquille River Lighthouse stands nearby, offering historical context to your beach explorations. Sunset here creates a magical light show as the rocks become silhouetted against the colorful sky.
17. Doheny State Beach, California
Immortalized in the Beach Boys’ “Surfin’ USA,” Doheny offers gentle waves perfect for beginner surfers and families with small children. The northern section provides calm waters for swimming, while the southern area attracts longboarders to its more consistent breaks.
Summer weekends bring picnicking families who stake out spots beneath the palm trees. The beach features fire rings, volleyball courts, and a visitor center with fascinating aquariums. Camping right by the shore makes Doheny one of the few places where you can literally sleep to the sound of waves.
18. Rockaway Beach, Oregon
Seven miles of uninterrupted sandy shoreline make Rockaway a beach walker’s paradise. The distinctive Twin Rocks formation offshore provides a perfect landmark and photo opportunity that captures this beach’s wild beauty.
Summer brings kite festivals and sandcastle competitions to this family-friendly destination. Unlike some Oregon beaches, Rockaway offers easy access with multiple entry points right from town. The old-fashioned train that runs along the coast adds nostalgic charm, while beachcombing after storms often yields treasures like agates and Japanese glass floats.
19. Stinson Beach, California
Just an hour from San Francisco but worlds away in atmosphere, Stinson offers three miles of soft white sand backed by rolling hills. The beach’s crescent shape creates relatively protected swimming conditions rare for Northern California beaches.
Summer weekends bring Bay Area residents escaping the city fog for Stinson’s typically sunnier microclimate. Hiking trails in Mount Tamalpais State Park provide stunning overlooks of the beach below. The small beach town offers charming restaurants serving fresh seafood and local produce.
20. Manhattan Beach, California
Upscale yet laid-back, Manhattan Beach embodies Southern California beach culture at its finest. The wide, clean beach attracts volleyball players, surfers, and sunbathers, while the paved Strand path bustles with joggers and cyclists.
Summer brings professional beach volleyball tournaments that are free to watch. The picturesque pier houses a small aquarium at its end, perfect for entertaining kids. After beach time, explore the “downtown” area filled with boutiques, craft breweries, and restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to gourmet ice cream.
21. Pismo Beach, California
Classic California beach town vibes abound at Pismo, where you can drive right onto the sand in designated areas—a rarity on the West Coast. The wide beach stretches for miles, providing plenty of space for horseback riding, ATV adventures, or simply spreading out your beach blanket.
Summer brings warm weather perfect for swimming and surfing. Nearby Oceano Dunes offer a unique ecosystem to explore, while the Pismo Beach Pier provides excellent fishing. Don’t leave without trying the town’s famous clam chowder, served in sourdough bread bowls at restaurants along the shore.
22. Neskowin Beach, Oregon
Ghost forests emerge from the sand at low tide, revealing 2,000-year-old tree stumps preserved by a sudden burial event long ago. This natural phenomenon makes Neskowin uniquely magical among Oregon’s beaches.
Summer brings the best conditions for exploring tide pools around Proposal Rock, a dramatic sea stack accessible by foot at low tide. The small village offers just enough amenities without the crowds of larger beach towns. Hawk Creek runs through the beach, creating a shallow stream perfect for children to splash in.
23. Cayucos State Beach, California
If you’re seeking the California of decades past, Cayucos delivers with its preserved small-town charm and uncrowded shoreline. The historic wooden pier extends 982 feet into the ocean, offering fishing opportunities and panoramic views of Estero Bay.
Summer mornings often reveal playful dolphins swimming close to shore. The gentle waves make this an ideal spot for beginning surfers or families with children. After beach time, explore the town’s antique shops and grab a famous brown butter cookie from the local bakery—a sweet tradition since 1982.