A year-round tropical climate with an average water temperature
of 78 degrees... that's what Southern California's beaches have to
offer. Oh, and you can throw in perfect waves, superb dining, and
oceanfront resorts for every budget. These shorelines are paradise on
earth. You want more? How about picturesque harbors and hundreds of
miles of shimmering coastline with free coastal access to the world's
best white sand, surf and sun.
It's tough to pick the best of
these treasures, but here are six of the greatest beaches in California.
They include both nice quiet beaches and rip roaring beaches with
thousands of bathing beauties.
1. Oceanside City Beach. This
tropical beach lies in northern San Diego County. This tranquil and
eloquent beach is lined with palm trees and perfect for beach walkers.
You can take a leisurely walk or ride a rented bicycle along "The
Strand" (the main street alongside the beach). If you're adventurous,
you can even go rollerblading or spend some time fishing from the
Oceanside pier. The nearby village of Cape Cod boasts a rich assortment
of great restaurants. This beach has professional lifeguards and
restrooms.
2. Newport Beach. This piece of trendy
real estate is located between San Diego and Los Angeles in Orange
County. Newport Beach offers delightful harbor cruises, boating, scuba
diving, and bodysurfing. Most of local restaurants provide panoramic
views of the ocean. This beach is distinguished by its Fun Zone and the
Balboa Pavilion.
3. Cardiff State Beach. This San
Diego County recreational facility has professional lifeguards for water
goers and free public restrooms for all. The gently sloping beach is
ideal for sunbathing, fishing, swimming, surfing and kayaking. Cardiff
State Beach is a quieter, more casual beach with fewer crowds than most
California beaches. The area's Restaurant Row features several quality
seafood and Mexican restaurants. The San Elijo Lagoon is a bird
watcher's fantasy come true.