Most Romantic Beaches in California

Looking for romantic beaches in California? You’re in luck! These stunning beaches offer some of the state’s most picturesque and secluded spots. So grab your significant other and explore these beautiful shorelines.

From the rocky coves of Big Sur to the sandy shores of La Jolla, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation. Pack your sunscreen and prepare to fall in love with California’s beaches!

11 Most Romantic Beaches in California

1. Laguna Beach

One of the most iconic and popular beaches in California, Laguna Beach is also one of the most romantic. With its rocky cliffs, secluded coves, and clear blue waters, it’s easy to see why this beach is a favorite among couples.

With its dramatic cliffs and scenic views, the beach will surely be a hit for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

There are many activities that keep you busy during your stay, from sunbathing and swimming to hiking and picnicking. You can even take a stroll down Main Beach and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. There are plenty of other things to do in the area as well, including visiting the Laguna Art Museum or taking a walk through Heisler Park.

The beach is also home to various restaurants and shops, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring with your loved one. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or an adventure-filled weekend away, Laguna Beach is sure to provide romance at every turn.

2. Big Sur

Big Sur is not a single beach but rather a stretch of coastline along Highway 1 in central California. The area is known for its dramatic cliffs, towering mountains, and scenic views. It’s also home to some of the state’s most beautiful and secluded beaches.

The most popular beach in Big Sur is Pfeiffer Beach, known for its violet-hued sand, which is created by mineral deposits in the rocks. The beach is also home to several secluded coves, making it the perfect place for a romantic stroll or picnic. Garrapata State Beach is another popular spot, known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning landscapes.

Sand Dollar Beach is also a great spot for couples looking to relax and enjoy incredible views. The beach gets its name from the sand dollars that can be found here – a perfect memento of your romantic getaway. You can visit all of these beaches by taking a drive down Highway 1.

3. La Jolla

La Jolla is a seaside community in San Diego, California, that’s renowned for many things. The winding roads and sandy beaches make it a popular spot for couples seeking to escape the city life’s hustle and bustle. While La Jolla is home to many high-end shops and restaurants, there are also plenty of romantic activities to enjoy.

Couples can take a leisurely stroll along the beach, paddle boarding or kayaking in the calm waters, or explore the tide pools together. For those wanting to get away from it all, La Jolla also offers plenty of opportunities for solitude and reflection. With its stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere, La Jolla is one of the most romantic spots in California.

La Jolla is also home to many popular restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon strolling hand-in-hand with your loved one. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon or a weekend getaway, La Jolla should definitely be on your list of destinations. With so many things to offer, it’s no wonder why it is one of the top beach destinations in the world.

4. Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach is a small town located in Marin County, California. The town is situated on a beautiful stretch of coastline and is known for its sandy beaches, quaint shops, and stunning views. Stinson Beach is also one of the best places in the state for surfing, making it a popular spot among couples who love adventure.

With its gentle waves and sandy shores, the beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It is also an ideal spot for a romantic stroll or sunset picnic. As the day ends, the beach takes on a magical quality, with the golden light of the setting sun shining on the water. Stinson Beach is sure to kindle the flames of love, whether you’re watching the sunrise or enjoying a quiet moment under the stars.

There’s also a variety of restaurants and cafes nearby if you’re looking for a romantic dinner with a view. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Stinson Beach will surely provide you with memories to last a lifetime.

5. Malibu

Malibu is widely considered to be one of the most romantic beaches in California. The coastline is dotted with small coves, each offering its own unique view of the Pacific Ocean. The sandy beaches and gentle waves make it a perfect spot for a sunset stroll, and the nearby restaurants and cafes provide the perfect opportunity for a romantic dinner.

Malibu is known for its Mediterranean atmosphere and dramatic coastline. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets, long walks on the beach, and intimate moments overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The beach is also a popular spot for picnics and weddings.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate setting for a proposal or simply want to enjoy a quiet day with your significant other, Malibu is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. With its sandy shores and beautiful setting, it’s no wonder why Malibu is considered one of the most romantic spots in California.

6. Torrey Pines Beach

Located within easy driving distance of Los Angeles and San Diego, Torrey Pines State Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area. Featuring dramatic sandy cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and miles of golden sand, it’s easy to see why this beach is such a romantic destination.

Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and hiking at Torrey Pines State Beach. There are also several restaurants and cafes located nearby, making it easy to enjoy a romantic meal with a stunning ocean view.

Whether you’re looking for a place to take a romantic stroll or simply enjoy the incredible views, the place is sure to please. And when the sun goes down, the beach comes alive with bonfires, making it the perfect setting for an intimate night under the stars. You’re sure to fall in love with this magical place.

7. Leo Carrillo Beach

Although it’s located just 30 to 40 minutes north of Los Angeles, Leo Carrillo State Park feels like a world away. The 2,513-acre park boasts miles of pristine shoreline, as well as tide pools, caves, and hiking trails. Leo Carrillo Beach is especially popular with couples, thanks to its dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and stunning sunsets.

For an extra dose of romance, take a walk along the beach at sunset and keep your eyes peeled for the park’s resident dolphins. You may even spot a whale or two during your visit. With its natural beauty and endless potential for adventure, Leo Carrillo State Park is the perfect place to fall in love all over again.

The beach is also perfect for a sunset stroll or a romantic picnic. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the coastal caves offer an exciting way to explore the coastline. With its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife, Leo Carrillo State Park and beach are sure to create lasting memories for all who visit.

8. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is one of the most romantic beaches in California. It’s known for its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, stunning sunsets, and romantic atmosphere. The beach is also a great place to take a long walk, build a sandcastle, or just relax and soak up the sun. Half Moon Bay should definitely be on your list if you’re looking for a romantic getaway.

The beach is situated just south of San Francisco, making it a popular destination for city-dwellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Visitors can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from walks along the coastline to picnics on the sand.

There are also many restaurants and cafes located nearby, perfect for enjoying a quiet meal with a loved one. If you have a little more time, consider driving down the coast or exploring one of the nearby state parks. With its incredible setting and endless possibilities for romance, Half Moon Bay is sure to be a memorable trip.

9. Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is one of the most popular beaches in California, and it’s easy to see why. Nestled between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Hermosa offers stunning views, endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, and plenty of chances to relax and enjoy the California sun.

One of the best ways to experience Hermosa’s natural beauty is to take a stroll along The Strand, a two-mile section of the beach that is perfect for walking, biking, or simply taking in the scenery. At sunset, The Strand comes alive with joggers, strollers, and couples holding hands as they watch the sun dip below the horizon.

For those looking for a more active experience, Hermosa also offers excellent surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. It’s also a popular destination for weddings. No matter how you spend your time in Hermosa Beach, it’s sure to be a romantic getaway that you’ll never forget.

10. Newport Beach

There’s something about a beach at sunset that is just inherently romantic. The sound of the crashing waves, the sky’s colors, and the feeling of sand between your toes all come together to create the perfect setting for a romantic evening. And Newport Beach in California offers the best sunset view of any beach in the state.

In addition, Newport Beach offers a wide variety of dining and shopping options, making it easy to find the perfect evening activity. There are also many modern facilities, including a boardwalk, that make Newport Beach the perfect place to spend a day or two.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway or just a place to enjoy the sunset with your loved one, Newport Beach should definitely be at the top of your list.

11. Venice Beach

With its gentle waves and sandy shores, Venice Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the company of your loved one. The beach is also a great place for walking, swimming, and sunbathing. There’s something truly romantic about watching the sunset over the ocean, and Venice Beach is one of the best places in California to do just that.

In addition to its natural beauty, Venice Beach is also home to a number of unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The seafront restaurants are perfect for a romantic evening meal. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of entertainment options on this beautiful beach.

The Venice beach boardwalk is also popular, as it’s lined with street performers, artists, and musicians. There’s also a Venice Beach Recreation Center that offers a variety of activities for couples looking for a little adventure. As one of the most popular beaches in California, Venice Beach is sure to create lasting memories for both of you.

There are plenty of romantic beaches in California, but these 11 are definitely the best of the best. Whether you’re looking for a place to watch the sunset or a beach with great seafood, these beaches have something to offer. So get out there and enjoy the California sun with your special someone – you won’t regret it!