The 8 Best-Kept Secret Beaches in California
Looking to enjoy a glorious golden hour at the beach in the Golden State? Look no further!
California’s coastline is legendary for its iconic beaches, but sometimes massive crowds and throngs of beachgoers can overshadow the seaside’s serene beauty. An afternoon at the beach should be about rest, relaxation and plenty of fun in the sun. If you prefer to park it under an umbrella and feel the sand between your toes but want to beat the crowd, there are plenty of unexpected stops along California’s 840 miles of coastline.
Tucked away from the typical tourist traps, these secluded shores offer visitors pristine sands, breathtaking beach views and a peaceful atmosphere. So, without further ado, let’s sink our toes into eight of the best-kept secret beaches in California.
In This Article
1. Hidden Beach
Perhaps the most appropriate beach to kick off this round-up is Hidden Beach in Del Norte County. Tucked away in a tree-covered hillside, you’ll only find this scenic retreat if you’re willing to hoof it a little before arriving at what is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Located near the town of Klamath, Hidden Beach is a spot with huge rocks in the surf and drift logs lining the sand. You aren’t likely to bump elbows with spring breakers, which means you can anticipate a full day of rest and relaxation or combing the beach for driftwood treasures amongst the towering trees and craggy rocks.
2. Seal Beach
Most of the beach bums making their way to Orange County plan to hit up hotspots like Laguna and Long Beach. And while there’s nothing wrong with either of these popular haunts, the locals have a better idea. Enter the white shores of Seal Beach, located in the northern pocket of the county. The city of Seal Beach is a charming coastal town known for its laid-back atmosphere and classic California beach vibes. You won’t find as many crowds but will likely spot surfers of all varieties — from kite and wind to those cruising the waves — and a picture-perfect pier for sunset strolls. After spending some time in the sand, stroll along Main Street and enjoy the local shops and eateries.
3. Black Sands Beach
Want something really out of the box? Black Sands Beach boasts inky black sand, offshore reefs and 3.5 miles of coastline to explore. If building sandcastles in this unique setting isn’t enough, there are plenty of rocks to climb, trails that trace the ridge and powerful waves to watch as they crash onto the shore. Beware that strong currents make swimming unsafe, so visitors can enjoy sunbathing, picnicking and exploring tide pools.
4. Bowling Ball Beach
You would think one of the most unusual beaches in the state would be hopping with tourists. But Bowling Ball Beach, part of Schooner Gulch State Beach in Mendocino County, has managed to fly under the radar despite being home to what is otherwise known as “natural bowling balls.” Hike down the short trail from the highway to see the beach lined with hundreds of enormous round stones sitting in tidy little rows — like mega bowling balls — thanks to years of erosion and shaping by the Pacific Ocean.
In addition to photographing this peculiar curiosity, you can explore the tide pools teeming with sea life or spend an afternoon surfing at Whiskey Shoals on the north end of the beach. Be sure to check the tide tables before you go, as the “bowling balls” are only visible at low tide.
5. Pfeiffer Beach
Described by many a local as “breathtakingly beautiful,” Pfeiffer Beach comes with an entry fee (listed at $15 as of 2024) but is well worth the day-use ticket. Nestled within the notoriously beautiful Big Sur region and located in Los Padres National Forest, this one is more popular than some on our list but still worth mentioning because of its stunning natural beauty — and, let’s just face it, some people aren’t willing to shell out. Nevertheless, if you’re itching for a solid day trip to a beach that is guaranteed to leave a big impression, Pfeiffer Beach is one for the bucket list.
Getting to the beach is tricky, as it is located off the unsigned Sycamore Canyon Road, which winds down to the shore. But the journey down is well worth it. Pfeiffer Beach’s location in the Big Sur region makes it a favorite hideaway along California’s Central Coast. Because of steep terrain most associated with the area, Pfeiffer stands out as one of the few places with ocean access in Big Sur. If you’re lucky, you might see Pfeiffer’s purple patches of sand that sprout up after a summer storm.
6. McClures Beach
McClures Beach is another off-the-beaten-path spot that is well worth the trek. A bit tricky to access but worth the short, half-mile descent from the parking lot, McClures Beach looks like something straight out of a storybook. In the warmer months, find this craggy beach dotted with ancient rocks sparkling with wildflowers like irises and gum plants. History buffs and geologists alike will rejoice at the ancient rock formations lining the beach, some dating back millions of years. Don’t bother packing the swimsuit for this one; despite tracing the beautiful coast, these waves are often described as unforgiving. Even so, don’t let that deter you. Locals say this is one of the best-kept secrets in northern California with its remarkable views, a hidden cove on the south end and near empty stretches of sandy shore.
7. Muir Beach
Muir Beach is a hidden gem hiding in plain sight. Located just minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, this secluded spot is a well-kept community secret. When visiting, you won’t want for things to do. In the most charming fashion, you must cross a 450-foot pedestrian bridge to get here.
From exploring the myriad of tide pools to strolling the coastal trails, Muir Beach basically feels like walking through a living nature documentary. You’ll also want to keep in mind that there are no lifeguards on this beach, and, especially for those with children, the north end of the beach is often frequented by “clothing optional” sunbathers. During the fall months, thousands of monarch butterflies embark on their once-in-a-lifetime migration to California’s coast, and sometimes wintering monarchs can be found in the pines at the small grove located in Muir Beach. Be sure to save time to visit the Muir Beach Overlook while you’re here to take in the striking views of the coast and Point Reyes Peninsula.
8. Interior Coast of Catalina Island
Combine the best of seclusion with the height of luxury at the interior beaches of Catalina Island. Located southwest of Los Angeles, this is the place to go if you want to kick back and relax in style. Ben Weston Beach, Little Harbor and Shark Harbor are among the top picks for this stretch of warm, sandy retreats, and each one boasts its own unique perks. From surfing and hiking to kayaking and overnight camping, you’ll find more than 62 miles of postcard-perfect beaches and coves just a stone’s throw from one of the country’s most bustling metropolitan centers.
