If you’re looking for a beach with an amazing view, look no further because we’ve got multiple places for you! California’s State Route Highway 1, more commonly known as California’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), is the perfect place to drive and find places with beautiful views and stunning beaches. It stretches 655 miles up and down the coastline from southern California to northern California (and actually goes up to Oregon) and is the perfect place for a diverse array of sightseeing opportunities!
You can hit cities like Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, San Francisco, Carmel by the Sea, San Simeon, Laguna, Long Beach, Pismo Beach, and plenty of other beach towns on the Pacific Ocean.
If this sounds like what you’re looking for, we’re covering the seven must-go beaches to head to on your PCH road trip! From state parks to national parks, redwood trees, tide pools, the Golden Gate Bridge, bluffs, and elephant seals, there’s plenty to see and do along the way.
Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur
Our first spot has picture-perfect views. Located two hours south of San Jose and part of the Los Padres National Forest, this beach gives you a mix of stunning scenery, relaxing vibes, and friendly beachgoers.
The area around Pfeiffer Beach, commonly known as Big Sur, is also a great place to explore. It offers places such as McWay Falls, Bixby Bridge, and the Henry Miller Memorial Library, which are all sure to add good memories to your trip.
Pack the Isla Del Sol Multi-Strap Cross-Back One Piece with you for the perfect relaxed and comfortable suit.
Glass Beach, Fort Bragg
Glass beaches are a natural attraction to visit and this one is by far one of the most beautiful ones. With multiple across California, it’s important to remember the two important guidelines when visiting the sea glass beaches.
First, always wear shoes; even though the waves and the sands have worn down the glass, there might always be some sharper pieces that can cause injuries. Secondly, make sure you enjoy the moment and are present at the beach; take it all in!
Monterey State Beach, Monterey
If sunbathing is what you’re looking for, then Monterey State Beach is the perfect spot for you. It has sun, sand, and water you can actually put your feet into. What more could you want? This area doesn’t get super hot so don’t expect extremely high temperatures. The warmest average temperatures only hit until September and even then it’s around the 70 mark. Don’t let this keep you away, though; just plan ahead and prep for the potential breeze and beautiful ocean view.
Given that the temperatures aren’t the highest, try out our Tropics Of Tropez High-Neck Keyhole One-Piece for a fun look that is sure to keep you warmer in the water. Taking our Beach Cozy Hooded Sweater Cover-Up Tunic cover-up is also always a good idea in case you’re feeling chilly.
Pismo State Beach, Pismo
Another great sunbathing spot is Pismo State Beach. From catching waves, fishing from the pier or simply chilling on the beach this spot is the perfect melting pot. Famous across the world for its clams and monarch butterfly garden, it has an abundance of wildlife and a stunning view across the horizon.
If the beach isn’t doing it for you, you can always go on a shopping stroll along the boardwalk. Throw on your cover-up and you’re ready!
With activities for the whole family, make sure you add this perfect spot on the list for your next trip!
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz
A classic spot we couldn’t go without mentioning is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. A tried and true destination, there are always activities available to take part in, from rides, special events, or just walking along the boardwalk. Lounge at the beach, or enjoy some people watching if you’re on a budget. If the rides have piqued your interest, you can purchase tickets for the different attractions at California’s oldest surviving amusement park.
In any case, make sure to check out the city’s event calendar during your trip. You never know what you might catch on while there. Benefit concerts, movie nights, chili cook-offs, and car shows, are just a couple of the activities you might come across during your time in town, so who knows what else you might find!
Take our Crystal Cove Bandeau Mio if you decide to head for a fun beach day, besides all the other fun activities!
Carbon Beach, Malibu
Also known as “Billionaire’s Beach”, Carbon Beach has a beautiful and extensive sandy coastline. Whether or not it's high tide, there will still be a dry spot to lounge and relax on. It features stunning waters, an amazing coastline view, and easy access from the road (which acts as the parking lot).
The beach is further heightened by the impressive architectural homes that surround the beach and that add to the awesomeness factor. Whether you want to relax or head into the water for a dip you’ll want to get your bikini and head to Carbon Beach for a visit!
Our Ocean Oasis Shirred One Shoulder One Piece would look perfect on the sandy beach, while you relax and take in the amazing seaside mansions!
Mission Beach, San Diego
The final suggestion is yet another boardwalk. While this spot isn’t technically on the PCH, it’s close enough! The Mission Beach in San Diego lets you go from the sand to soaking up the rays, watching surfers and skaters practice their tricks and maybe even join in on a game of volleyball.
At the end of an adventure-filled day, you can head to rides and hop on the roller coaster for a little thrill at the end of the day!
For a set that works for all types of activities you might take part in pick up our Twisted Bamboo Over-The-Shoulder Midkini Top and our All Aboard 3" Inseam Board Short for a comfy, beach sport ready option.
If lounging is more your speed then the Catalina Coast Bandeau Mio is a great option to get!
Hit the Hwy and Go
These beaches are sure to scratch any type of adventure itch you’ve been having. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a weekend beach getaway, we can guarantee any of these will fit the bill. From the south to the central coast to the north, this highway has it all.
Most of them offer other activities besides heading to the beach which allows for a versatile itinerary and doing some exploring wherever you hit up first! Make sure you remember to pack all the necessities and don’t forget to also pack up your favorite sunscreen for all the sunbathing you’ll be enjoying!
With all these great beaches to explore, you just need to get your favorite bathing suit and get ready for your next pacific coast highway beach trip. If you’re in need of a new suit check out our website to see what’s in stock and start looking at our trendy, and stylish swimwear and cover-up options for the trip.
Now all you’ve got left to do is book the trip and look forward to all the relaxing you’ll be doing!
Sources:
Beaches on the PCH in California | USA Today