Zoos in California are not the only places you can hang out with your family. California is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world – and they make for a great family getaway.
Earlier, I enlisted some of the best beaches in California for couples. And in this post, you’ll explore the best family beaches in California – Both, Southern and Northern parts.
With the golden sand, blue waters, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s little wonder why so many families spend their precious time together enjoying the California coast.
That’s where you can enjoy Hawaii-like experience in the US.
Best Family Beaches in Southern California
Whether you’re looking for an idyllic beach city with plenty of amenities or want something a bit more laid-back, there are many beaches in California for families. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
1/ Coronado Beach
Coronado Beach is a classic family beach destination on an island in San Diego Bay. It’s one of the best kids-friendly beaches in California.
The beach is wide with plenty of soft sand, and the water is calm, making it safe for kids to swim.
You will find many amenities here, including restaurants, shops, and beach gear rentals. There’s even a dog-friendly zone for your furry friends. And there are tons of family-friendly hotels surrounded by the beach.
Why you choose this beach:
- The tidepools are perfect for kids to explore.
- Space for family games like frisbee and beach volleyball.
- Facilities like restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on duty.
- Across the road from the beach is the iconic Hotel del Coronado, which has kid-friendly dining options and fun activities.
2/ Silver Strand State Beach
Just a few miles down the road from Coronado Beach is Silver Strand State Beach, yet another kid-friendly family beach in California.
This beach offers a more secluded and natural environment for families wanting peace. It’s one of the best family-friendly beaches in California’s Coronado.
The calm waters make it a great spot to take young kids swimming. There’s ample sand for beach games and plenty of outdoor activities like biking, fishing, and hiking.
Why go for this beach:
- Dunes and salt marshes provide a scenic backdrop.
- Opportunities for nature walks.
- Great surf, making it popular with older kids who love boogie boards.
- Located near attractions like the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld.
- The beach has a campground nearby, making it easy for families to stay overnight and enjoy the outdoors.
3/ La Jolla Cove, San Diego
La Jolla Cove is one of the best family beaches in California, offering stunning views of the cliffs and ocean. The beach is known for its gentle waves and clear water, perfect for families with young kids.
Kids will love the sea creatures they can spot in the tidepools, and there’s plenty of sand for beach games. The nearby La J Shores also offers plenty of amenities, including restaurants and shops.
Reasons you should choose this beach:
- Surrounded by beautiful parks and playgrounds.
- The beach is famous for its sea caves and snorkeling.
- It has excellent dining options nearby.
- This location is nearby popular attractions such as the Birch Aquarium and the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
4/ Mission Beach, San Diego
Mission Beach is a lively and bustling beach offering family entertainment. The long and wide beach provides plenty of space for sunbathing, surfing, and beach games.
The boardwalk offers entertainment, restaurants, shops, a roller coaster, and an amusement park. Without a doubt, Mission Beach is the perfect destination for families looking to have some fun in the sun.
Why you choose this beach:
- Opportunities like bike rides and rollerblading opportunities.
- Home to Belmont Park, a family-friendly amusement park.
- Mission Beach has lots of water sports rentals available.
- Close to the San Diego Zoo, making it easy to combine beach time with a visit to this popular attraction.
5/ Balboa Beach, Newport Beach
Located in the heart of Newport Beach, Balboa Beach is a popular destination for families looking for sun, sand, and fun.
With its calm water and numerous amenities, it’s one of the best beaches in California for families with kids of all ages.
No worries about overcrowding either, as the beach is large enough for everyone to have their own space.
And when you get hungry, there are plenty of restaurants nearby. It’s one of the best family-friendly beaches in California.
Why you choose this beach:
- The beach has a long pier that offers panoramic views of the ocean.
- Facilities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
- The Newport Beach Balboa Fun Zone, a fun amusement park.
- Located near excellent dining options, including seafood restaurants and ice cream parlors.
6/ South Carlsbad State Beach, Carlsbad
South Carlsbad State Beach is family-friendly, with plenty of activities to entertain the kids. The beach has gentle waves and lots of sand, making it great for swimming and beach games.
There are also nearby attractions such as the Carlsbad Flower Fields and Legoland.
So, South Carlsbad State Beach is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a beach that offers plenty of fun and entertainment for the whole family.
Here’s what you can expect from this beach:
- A long, wide sandy expanse perfect for families.
- Ideal for swimming, boogie boarding, fishing, and surfing.
- A large campground offering tents and R.V. sites.
- It is convenient to Carlsbad’s charming downtown village with unique shops and family-friendly attractions.
7/ Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica Beach is a bona fide classic attracting sun-seekers for over a century. Located in the heart of L.A. The beach provides easy access to the city’s many attractions and offers many activities to entertain families.
Kids can enjoy the famous Santa Monica Pier, which features an aquarium, games, and rides. Plus, there are plenty of beachside amenities such as showers and restrooms.
Why it’s one of the best family beaches in California:
- White sand stretching over three miles.
- Restaurants and snack shacks.
- Amenities such as clean restrooms, showers, and changing facilities.
- Plenty of activities to enjoy, such as swimming, biking, skating, surfing, and basketball.
Best Family Beaches in Northern California (Central CA)
8/ Zuma Beach, Malibu
Nestled in beautiful Malibu, Zuma Beach is one of California’s most iconic and popular beaches, drawing millions of visitors annually.
With its soft sand and gentle waves, it’s one of the best beaches in California for families with young kids. The beach has many amenities, including lifeguards, restrooms, and showers.
Why Zuma Beach is worth a visit:
- White, sandy shoreline backed by jagged cliffs and hillsides.
- A stunning backdrop for family photos.
- Excellent swimming, bodysurfing, boogie-boarding, and surfing.
- It is near local attractions such as the Malibu Pier, Malibu Creek State Park, and Malibu Wine Safaris.
9/ Carmel City Beach, Monterey
Carmel City Beach is a prime destination on the Central Coast, boasting stunning white sands, aquamarine waters, and rugged rocky outcroppings.
If you’re looking for a less crowded beach with beautiful scenery and fun activities, this is the spot for you.
Carmel City Beach is ideal for families, with lots of shallow waters great for swimming and plenty of room to spread out and relax.
Why choose this beach:
- Lots of scenic trails that snake along the cliffs.
- Restaurants, cafes, and shops are all steps away from the beach.
- Carmel City Beach is also pet-friendly.
- A beautiful beach that stretches along the coast for a mile with plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and surfing.
10/ Crissy Field East Beach, San Francisco
In San Francisco, Crissy Field East Beach is a beautiful family-friendly beach that provides stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. You can enjoy walking, running, biking, and kite flying here.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island views.
These are the reasons to choose this beach:
- A great spot for picnics.
- Perfect for walking and cycling.
- A range of playgrounds for children.
- Restrooms are available.
11/ Baker Beach, San Francisco
Also located in San Francisco, Baker Beach is one of the best family beaches in California. It’s a great spot for swimming, picnicking, or just relaxing and watching the waves along its two miles of coastline.
You will never run out of things to do here. You can enjoy various activities, such as surfing, fishing, beachcombing, and trekking on the nearby trails.
Reasons to choose this beach:
- Breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Perfect place for a family picnic.
- A range of wildlife to see.
- Children’s play area and picnic shelters.
12/ Arroyo Burro Beach, Santa Barbara
Arroyo Burro Beach is a beautiful beach in Santa Barbara and a popular destination for families to enjoy the sun and sea. Sant Babara is known for its mild climate, making it an ideal spot to relax and have fun.
Undoubtedly, Arroyo Burro Beach is one of the top destinations for families. Here you can enjoy various activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and beachcombing.
Reasons to choose this beach:
- A great place to swim, paddle, surf, or boogie board.
- The beach has a playground for children with clean restrooms.
- It is the perfect place for a family picnic.
- Dogs are welcome on this beach with a leash.
13/ East Beach, Santa Barbara
East Beach in Santa Barbara is one of the best family-friendly beaches in California, featuring a wide stretch of white sand and crystal-clear water.
You can enjoy various activities and the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Reasons to choose this beach:
- Miles of clean sandy beaches to explore
- A perfect place to swim, sunbathe and play
- A play area for children with swings and slides
- A range of restaurants and cafes to try out
FAQs: Best Family-Friendly Beaches in California
What beach in California is best for families?
California has many family-friendly beaches, such as Santa Monica Beach, Crissy Field East Beach, and Arroyo Burro Beach. They offer various activities and amenities, making it the perfect destination for families.
What is the safest beach in California?
The safest beach is the one that you feel most comfortable at. Some of the best family-friendly beaches in California include Santa Monica Beach, Crissy Field East Beach, and Arroyo Burro Beach.
These beaches are well-maintained and provide clean facilities.
What is the prettiest beach in California?
The prettiest beach in California depends on individual opinion, as beauty is subjective. Some of the most beautiful beaches in California include East Beach in Santa Barbara, La Jolla Cove in San Diego, and Carmel Beach in Monterey.
Is Santa Monica Beach good for families?
Yes, Santa Monica Beach is an excellent choice for families. It’s the perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing, with several amenities like restrooms, showers, a playground, and picnic tables. There are also plenty of food options.
Is Malibu safe for kids?
Yes, Malibu is clearly a safe place for children. The family beaches in California’s Malibu are well maintained, with lifeguards on duty during summer. There are many activities for kids, such as swimming, surfing, and beachcombing.
