Camping California Beaches
Who doesn’t like beaches? At the beach you will enjoy a sunny getaway.That’s what everyone needs every once in a while. What better place to do this than in the state of California, with its warm, sunny weather and world-famous beaches.
So you brought your tent or your RV with you, but there’s just one problem. There are so many beaches! You can’t turn your head on the coast without spotting a picture-perfect beach. So many beaches, so little time!
Worry not, This guide is for you. We listed down a select number of beaches that will guarantee you a beach camp-out experience you will never forget. Here are 5 wonderful beaches that we recommend you camp out in!
Doheny State Beach
Doheny State Beach isn’t just your regular beach; it’s a surfer’s paradise. Surfers from all over the country and beyond have camped out on its sandy shore waiting on the perfect wave to barrel over the horizon.
The beach is so popular with surfers in the 60s, it was featured in the Beach Boys song Surfin’ USA.
Despite its popularity in the past, the beach still remains as an icon in surfing culture. To this day, you can always find surfers, both young and old, riding along the legendary beach’s waves.
If you’re not a surfer, the beach still has a lot to offer. There are several sites for camping out, either in RVs or in tents. The picnic area near the beachfront offers a stunning view of the state beach; you can also enjoy watching the surfers try their luck on the waves.
The beach is popular with water-sport enthusiasts as well. Jet Skis and boat rentals nearby offer you affordable prices to enjoy a bit of speed on the water. You can also bring your friends over to play some beach volleyball along the beach.
Bolsa Chica State Beach
If you’re looking for the perfect beach getaway but still want to be close to the massive urban sprawl of LA, then this beach is just for you. Just a short drive down south of the metropolitan area lies the sunny Bolsa Chica State Beach.
The beach is just perfect for a trip with the family. Just pack up, rent an RV, and head down south from LA to enjoy some downtime with your loved ones. There are spots on the beach that are just perfect for you to camp out in your RV. You will relax in style, soaking in that famous Golden State sun.
The sporty type isn’t going to be disappointed with the beach either. The tall waves are just ripe for surfing, and sandy volleyball courts are open to all who are willing to sweat a little in their downtime. Just be sure to pack some sunscreen!
If you’re a tent camper, you’re going to have to look for another beach. Tent camping is unfortunately not allowed in Bolsa Chica State Beach.
San Elijo and Cardiff State Beach
San Elijo and Cardiff State beach offer a wide variety to the enterprising beach camper. The beaches, while officially two separate beaches, are close enough to each other to enjoy together.
Those interested in wildlife will find this beach interesting, as many rare pacific birds often roost in the more isolated pockets of the beach. If you’re willing to swim, the reefs off the coast are a popular scuba diving spot.
The hungry camper isn’t going to be disappointed; the area is well known for its seafood. There are many restaurants in the area with a wide variety of delicious seafood to chow down on. If you want to catch your meal, you can rent a boat, go out to sea, and try your luck in fishing. You never know, maybe you’ll score something big!
The campsites around the beaches are available to be camped in either in RVs or in tents. If you want to camp out here for the summer, be sure to book it in advance. The spots fill in quickly.
China Camp State Park
Moving up the state, we can find the China Camp State Park along the San Francisco Bay Area’s coastline. The area’s campsites offer modern amenities like restrooms and bathrooms while still maintaining close proximity with nature.
The park’s calm waters and bountiful fish makes it a popular destination for fishing and boating. The fishing camper might be able to catch a wide variety of fish from bass, sturgeon, and perch. If you managed to catch some, bring out the grill to enjoy a shore-side barbecue.
You can also rent out a kayak and explore the camp’s waters. The waters are calm enough that even the most novice of kayakers can enjoy the activity around the camp. Just be sure that you’re well-hydrated when you go out; kayaking really builds up a sweat.
Once you’re done with the coast, the land around the camp is ripe for picnicking and hiking. Numerous trails around the camp offer wonderful view areas around the San Francisco Bay Area.
Sonoma Coast State Park
If you want to experience camping with the wonders of nature up close, head north of San Francisco to find the tranquil Sonoma Coast State Park.
The park is home to fascinating geological formations and natural wildlife to take your breath away. The shoreline is pocked marked by rocky outcrops that attract wildlife from the ocean. If you’re lucky, you can spot Harbor Seals lounging around among the rocks. Just be sure to watch from afar; the creatures aren’t used to visitors and might harm if you get close.
If you want to eat the wildlife, the park offers a lot in terms of fishing. You might expect to catch salmon, perch, smelt, and even shellfish. Be sure to prepare your fishing equipment; you will almost certainly catch something interesting.
The waters are slightly colder than southern beaches, so be prepared to feel a little chill while out in the waves. However, the cooler water is pleasant on the skin, especially when it’s summer. The beach’s waves are also a popular location for surfing.
-Conclusion –
Now that you’ve got yourself a list of where to go, always remember that camping is not without its responsibilities. Keep your area clean, stay safe, and be sure to bring your sunscreen with you as you go on your California beach-camping adventure!
Author
Ralph M
I write about camping for your pleasure. I can be reached at ralphdanielm1127@gmail.com
