Most Beautiful Coastal Towns In California

Nestled on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Carmel-by-the-Sea, or simply Carmel, is often described as one of the most beautiful towns in America. Incorporated in the early 20th century, Carmel is known for its quaint streets, charming shops, and beautiful beaches. Visitors will enjoy hours strolling through town, browsing galleries and boutiques, or enjoying tea at Tuck Box.

Eureka is one of the most stunning coastal towns of California and is located in the far north of the state, not so far from Oregon. It is in the Redwood Empire region of California on U.S. Route 101. The population of the city itself is only around 27,000 (making it the largest coastal town between San Francisco and Portland), and it has a very nice coastal charm - the sort of coastal charm one feels in towns in New Zealand. The city continues to preserve its Old Town and its stunning 19th-century Victorian homes and businesses.

Another northern town to explore is Fort Bragg. It is a sleepy town of around 7,000 inhabitants and is a noted tourist destination on account of its stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. But perhaps its most notable attraction is Glass Beach - here, one can see beaches covered in pieces of worn glass. Another local attraction is the heritage California Western Railroad, otherwise known as the "Skunk Train."

Crescent City is the northernmost coastal town in California (around 20 miles south of Oregon) and has a population of under 7,000. It offers stunning views of the ocean in a very green setting with other attractions in the area - like the historic Battery Point Light. It is a fishing town with plenty of commercial fishing vessels. Nearby visitors can also enjoy redwoods, including redwoods in the Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park and the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

Brookings is not in California, but it gets an honorable mention as it is just over the state line. If one is going this far north in California, it is not so much more to continue on to southern Oregon. Brookings is a stunning Oregon coastal town of around 6,700 people. One of the notable things about the history of Brookings is that it was the only site in mainland America during World War Two to be aerial bombed by the Japanese (a Japanese floatplane was launched by a Japanese submarine). The Japanese had hoped to start massive wildfires in the forests of the Pacific Northwest.

San Clemente is a beautiful city in Orange County, California. Visitors can enjoy the quaint downtown area, which features a variety of shops and restaurants. The pier is also a popular spot for fishing, sunbathing, and watching the waves crash against the rocks. For those interested in history, the San Juan Capistrano Mission is nearby and definitely worth a visit. Nature lovers will enjoy hiking through the hills or taking a stroll along one of the city's many sandy beaches.

Cambria is a beautiful seaside town located on the central coast of California. Visitors can enjoy many activities, such as exploring the area's many hiking trails, visiting the local wineries, or simply relaxing on the beach.

There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to explore in Cambria, making it an ideal place to spend a weekend getaway. And for those interested in history, the town is home to several unique landmarks, including the Fiscalini Ranch House and the Kneeland-Walker House.

Malibu is one of the most iconic beach towns in California, and its 30 miles of coastline are dotted with beautiful beaches, stunning cliffside views, and luxurious beachfront homes.

Grab a board and hit Surfrider Beach, or stroll along Malibu Pier before heading to Zuma Beach to soak up the sun. Restaurants such as The Getty Villa, Duke’s Malibu, and Malibu Seafood are ready to serve up delicious meals to hungry visitors like only California can. But be sure to leave plenty of time to experience the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Malibu’s rich surf art scene at Pepperdine University’s Surf Museum.

Located just south of Los Angeles, Laguna Beach is a popular destination with locals and tourists. The Pacific Marine Mammal Center offers free admission and a chance to get up close with sea lions and other injured marine life that has been rescued and will one day be released back into the wild. Nearby Crystal Cove State Park offers outdoor adventurers over three miles of beachfront and 2,400 acres of public land for hiking and exploring.

There's no place quite like Venice Beach. Deriving its name from the famed Italian city, Venice Beach – or simply Venice – is host to some of the most iconic landmarks in the state. From historic Muscle Beach to the world-famous Boardwalk and the stunning scenery along Venice Beach, it remains a beloved treasure of the West Coast.

Looking to do some shopping? There are dozens of unique stores lining the Boardwalk, selling everything from beachwear to souvenirs. Shoppers would be doing themselves a disservice if they passed up an opportunity to shop along the ultra-posh Abbot Kinney. Cap off the day with a stroll along the famed Venice Canals or experience the action at the world-famous Venice Skate Park.