


Good Day, Friends!
The heat is a killer and I thought it would be a great time to cover the beaches that are available to you in California. I don’t think we were able to cover every beach, but we found lists from other newsletters that claim their idea of the perfect beach. I say let’s leave it to the readers of our newsletter. Agreed?
We hope these give you something to think about when planning a late summer or early fall vacation.
Be Well! Stay Safe!
Mark & Patti
1. We’re Starting Our Journey in Canyon Lake, California, as Rated by California.com
When you think of Canyon Lake, California, you probably imagine a peaceful, serene lake surrounded by beautiful mountains. But did you know that this region is also conveniently situated close to some of the finest beaches Southern California has to offer? Pack your sunscreen and a beach blanket - we're about to embark on a coastal adventure of the top beaches near Canyon Lake, California!
2. Next Up, The Must-Visit Beaches near Oak Hills, California as Rated by California.com
You might be surprised to learn that Oak Hills, nestled comfortably in the heart of California, isn't just all about the hills and desert landscapes. It also serves as the perfect starting point for some truly exquisite beach getaways. These hidden gems of the West Coast are waiting to be discovered, each one offering a unique ambiance, intriguing history, and the perfect blend of sun, sand, and surf.
3. California.com Didn’t leave the littles out. Next Up, The 7 Best Beaches for Kids
When you think California, you think beaches. The myriad of azure waters and sandy shores adorned with palm trees essentially define the Golden State. It is no surprise that swimming, surfing, and other beach activities are a major part of the California lifestyle — and who else to enjoy it all better than kids? Whether it’s snorkeling, collecting seashells, building sandcastles, or splashing around the shoreline, family fun awaits you and the little ones at some of the best beaches for kids in California.
4. U.S. News Reporter Alissa Grisler Also Prepared a List of What She Considered to be the Best 21 Beaches in California
When first-time visitors imagine California, one of the first things that comes to mind is likely the beach. One might envision bathing suit-clad beachgoers sashaying down sunny California boardwalks in the south or hikers traversing cliffs along the coast in the north. Either way, California offers hundreds of beaches to choose from. To help you decide which coast to travel to next, U.S. News considered traveler sentiment and factors like aesthetics, atmosphere and convenience to determine the best California beaches. Want to add your 2 cents? Vote for your favorite California beach below.
5. California.com and Reporter Annie A. came up with a list of the 13 Must-See State Beaches
Blue, glimmering waters; melodic, gently crashing waves; warm rays accompanied by invigorating coastal air—all of this can be found at California state beaches. The undulating waters gently soaking the sand, the sun kissing our skin, and the ocean breeze gently caressing our hair are signs of paradisical lands waiting to be discovered. Many of California’s state beaches include multiple beaches within them, providing you with more coastal areas to discover and explore. Whether the beaches are sandy, pebbly, or rocky, the Golden State has an option for every kind of beachgoer.
Note: Before I go on, I wanted to touch on something odd for me when I first moved to the west coast. It had to do with driving.
Living on the east coast, mainly Boston and New York, I could reach the ocean in about 30 to 60 minutes, sometimes faster if I was hot and there were no speed traps.
Living in Central California, getting to the ocean takes 2-3 hours. Out here, I found no one cares how long it takes as long as you get there. Back east, it's about time, always time. If you told someone back east that you travel 2-3 hours to the beach, they would think you're nuts. I know because they tell me that all the time.
Time isn't an issue on the west coast, nor is miles when going to the beach. It's something great to look forward to.
With all that in mind, here are some great beaches that are a little time away.
6. California.com and Team Cam Up With The Best Beaches Near Mount Clair, California
Bolsa Chica State Beach
APPROXIMATE DISTANCE: 40.7 MILES
Dubbed "The Jewel of Huntington Beach," Bolsa Chica State Beach is a haven for surfers and nature lovers. Its key highlight? An ecological reserve with over 200 bird species. Parking is plentiful with a fee, and the beach is well-equipped with restrooms and lifeguards. An intriguing piece of history: it was once a military reserve during WWII.
*See what I mean about distance and time? I asked Patti about this and she said, “we travel further than that to get to Pismo.” She was right and I don’t complain. I guess I’m a west coast guy now, sort of.
You’re Going to Want Food and Drink. Here Are Some Links
Fiesta Village-Knott’s Berry Farm
Entertainment Break for Adults