18 Best Beach Resorts In Southern California - Updated 2024

Karina
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 13 min read

Home to adventure, endless possibilities, and Hollywood, California is a worthy destination for the bucket list. The state boasts excellent weather year-round, some of the most epic coastal sceneries, and plenty of adventure opportunities. With cities such as San Diego, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino, Southern California features a great mix of rugged scenery, hidden beaches, and touristy spots. Some activities you can do here include surfing the waves in Huntington Beach, unwinding in Laguna Beach, and sunbathing and exploring the movie sets in Los Angeles. This part of the state is also dotted with the best accommodations. You can book Airbnbs with pool to wind down, but the real fun is in staying closer to the shore. So, start planning your next adventure, and check out the best beach resorts in Southern California.

Best beaches in Southern California in 2024 according to Heal the Bay:

  • According to Los Angeles Daily News, among the beaches that made it to Heal the Bay's Honor Roll are Emerald Bay in Orange County, County Line Beach in Ventura County, and Moonlight Beach in San Diego County. Make sure to stop by any of them during your visit!

Other popular picks in Southern California:

  • Space enthusiasts can visit Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles to view intriguing planetarium shows, exhibits, and murals.

  • Explorers can head to Death Valley National Park and witness water-sculpted canyons, former volcanic craters, and indigenous wildlife.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on August 19, 2024.

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Beach life in Southern California

Southern California encompasses approximately 150 miles of stunning coastline. It includes San Diego County, Los Angeles County, and Orange County, and offers sandy beaches and tranquil bays. Mission Bay Park in San Diego County provides swimming opportunities and a variety of watersports, including kitesurfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and surfing. La Jolla Cove, also in San Diego County, offers picturesque views and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

For those seeking a serene location to enjoy beautiful sunsets, Treasure Island Beach in Orange County is the perfect destination.

Beach resorts in Southern California

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel; Dana Point (from USD 1053)

Perched atop a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this luxury resort offers guests direct beach access and some of the most breathtaking sunset views. The hotel features a full-service spa, a seafood restaurant, and many outdoor amenities, including two year-round pools surrounded by tall palm trees and sun loungers as well as several indoor and outdoor dining options.

No matter where guests are on the property, they will witness panoramic vistas. Each room comes equipped with a coffee maker, which will be appreciated by coffee lovers like me, a work desk, a flat-screen television, an iPod dock, a DVD player, and bathrobes. Guests can order room service and enjoy a delicious meal or a glass of wine out on the balcony.

  • Property highlights: The resort offers several beach activities, including surf lessons, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, boogie-boarding, and more.
  • Nearest beach: Salt Creek Beach is a couple of steps down the resort.
  • Suggested rooms/units: The Coastline View room features a comfortable king bed and a balcony to enjoy the panoramic vistas. Other amenities include a marble bathroom with a bathtub.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "This place is top notch. Nestled on the cliff overhanging the beach and ocean below. Beach butlers will drive you to the beach on a golf cart and get you set up with towels, chairs, and umbrellas. Same with the pools on site. The view from the workout facility is as good as it gets!" - by Google reviewer, Mike Brenneman
Stayed at this property?

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1 Ritz Carlton Dr
3.07 km (2.0 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

2. Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa; Huntington Beach (from USD 430)

One of the most luxurious resorts in the city, the five-star Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa welcomes guests in an exotic setting and offers them access to a full-service spa, two outdoor pools, a fitness center, and children’s amenities, including a playground, a game room, and a kids’ pool. Whether they opt for a room or a suite, guests can enjoy a bright and elegant space equipped with a desk, a seating area, a private balcony or patio, bathrobes, complimentary toiletries, and a flat-screen television. Huntington Beach is just 200 meters (656.2 feet away)

I feel this property is ideal if you’re coming here with your family as it offers kid-friendly pools and a waterpark to keep everyone entertained.

  • Property highlights: The resort offers several activities to keep everyone engaged from fish feeding for kids to mermaid workout for adults.
  • Nearest beach: Ten Mile Beach is just a five-minute walk away from the property.
  • Suggested rooms/units: Admire the water view from the private balcony or patio at 1 King Bed Ocean View.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "...Easy walking bridge access to the public beach across the road. They supply chairs, umbrellas and towels for you to carry to beach..." - by Google reviewer, Richard Krause
Stayed at this property?

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille

Address: 21500 Pacfic Coast Highway
34.89 km (21.7 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre

California Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

Stephanie Eley

I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more

Tours by Stephanie

3. Montage Laguna Beach; Laguna Beach (from USD 1613)

This five-star resort in Laguna Beach boasts a spectacular location as it is perched atop a rocky hill right on the beach. The resort is a top choice for families, couples, and guests with pets. On site, guests will find three restaurants serving American and French cuisines and two year-round outdoor pools surrounded by cabanas offering spa services. What’s more, its rooms are bright and spacious, tastefully designed and furnished, and feature a seating area, a minibar, a coffee maker, and a private balcony with great views.

  • Property highlights: The resort offers fun land and water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, whale watching, snorkeling, golfing, and hiking.
  • Nearest beach: The beach is a few steps away from the property.
  • Suggested rooms/units: The King Rooms offer a partial ocean view from the private balcony/patio. It also features a marble bathroom with a soaking tub for extra relaxation.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "Beautiful beach, wonderful tidepools for kids, and scenic Arch for photos!" - by Google reviewer, Jim Mannoia
Stayed at this property?

Montage Laguna Beach

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille

Address: 30801 South Coast Highway
8.59 km (5.4 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

4. Paradise Point Resort and Spa; San Diego (from USD 373)

Paradise Point Resort and Spa is a fabulous beachfront resort in Mission Bay, San Diego, excellent for couples, pet lovers, and families with children. Sitting on a private island, the resort boasts various accommodation options, including standard rooms, suites, and bungalows, all in an exotic setting surrounded by lush vegetation. There is a full-service spa on site, five pools, sports courts, a gym, and beautiful tropical gardens that guests can explore. All rooms are bright, spacious, and equipped with a desk, a minibar, a flat-screen television, a coffeemaker, and a private balcony or a patio. Best of all, Crown Point Beach is 550 meters (1804 feet) away.

In my opinion, this resort is ideal for adventure lovers who can try exciting watersports such as kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and more.

  • Property highlights: This resort features a marina where you can try water sports such as speed boats, sailboats, kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis and more.
  • Suggested rooms/units: The Bayside Bungalow features a living/dining area and separate bedrooms. During your stay, unwind on the patio and admire the water views.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "Food and location are perfect for a beach City. The view is of the marina, boats, paddle boards are for rent." - by Google reviewer, Rick Patterson
Stayed at this property?

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1404 Vacation Rd
87.09 km (54.2 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

5. Terranea Resort; Rancho Palos Verdes (from USD 883)

This luxury resort, located 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) away from Abalone Cove Beach, welcomes guests in a spectacular natural setting with sweeping ocean views and world-class services. Guests arriving at the retreat will be greeted with a complimentary sparkling wine glass and then accompanied to their luxury room. Here, they will find a private balcony and an ensuite bathroom with a separate bathtub and shower. I am a fan of the American series F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and am excited to know that the units also have a flat-screen television where guests like me can watch their favorite shows.

Guests can enjoy lots of outdoor activities, such as tennis and golf, either on site or nearby. The resort also features a fitness center, five on-site restaurants serving local cuisine, three outdoor pools, a spa, and marvelous gardens with an outdoor fireplace.

  • Property highlights: Choose from one of the exciting ocean activities offered at this resort, which includes kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, tide pooling, and more.
  • Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
  • Suggested rooms/units: Unwind in the opulent Shearwater Suites admiring the waves from the private balcony of your accommodation.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "Beautiful discreet beach, highly recommend visiting during the week for the least amount of visitors. Great activities throughout the beach such as kayaking, archery, and paddle boarding." - by Google reviewer, Bryan Martinez
Stayed at this property?

Terranea Resort

Wifi Available

Address: 100 Terranea Way
72.34 km (45.0 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

6. Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach; Dana Point (from USD 1129)

Five-star Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach is a magnificent resort located in a hillside setting. Here, guests can enjoy dining at seven on-site restaurants, swimming in one of the three pools, playing golf, or relaxing at the spa. Each guest room is spacious and bright, and they also have a private terrace or balcony, a flat-screen television, a seating area, and a deluxe bathroom with a separate shower and large bathtub. In addition, the outdoor space is sprinkled with palm trees, sun loungers, and cabanas so that guests can enjoy a relaxing experience.

As an explorer, I am always excited to try new adventures and this resort offers equipment such as boogie boards and surfboards, making it an ideal choice for an exciting stay!

Salt Creek Beach Park is 850 meters (2,789 feet) away, while Dana Strand Beach is 1.2 kilometers (0.7 miles) away.

  • Property highlights: The private beach club at this resort offers various water sports equipment such as surfboards, boogie boards, and stand-up paddleboards to make your beach day more exciting.
  • Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
  • Beach access: Private
  • Suggested rooms/units: Unwind in ultimate luxury at the Ocean Grand Penthouse Suite 1 King Bed boasting two spa-like bathrooms and a tub to soak away your cares.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "...The hotel has these mini shuttles that will take you to one of the restaurants that is located at the beach. It has a perfect view and great food. You can then walk to the beach and they provide you with a beach chair and umbrella. The beach is privet to the hotel guests and the residents in that area. It is not a crowded beach since it is geated..." - by Google reviewer, Ninella Keshesh
Stayed at this property?

Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille Visual Aid: Tactile

Address: One Monarch Beach Resort
3.32 km (2.1 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

7. L'Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa; San Diego (from USD 628)

L'Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa is a beautiful four-star resort that blends luxury amenities with coastal touches. The dog-friendly resort is ideal for couples and families with children. It boasts rooms of various sizes, all equipped with ensuite marble bathrooms, coffee-making facilities, a flat-screen television, and cozy bathrobes. There are two famous beaches a short walk away from the retreat. Still, guests can also stay on the premises and enjoy the outdoor pool, the on-site spa and fitness center, or one of the three restaurants serving American cuisine.

  • Property highlights: Polish your surfing skills thanks to the surf lessons offered at this resort.
  • Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
  • Suggested rooms/units: The Del Mar One Bedroom Suite has three balconies exclusive for your use. Here, you can lounge by the fireplace in one of the living rooms or soak in the Roman tub of your master bathroom.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "My family and I absolutely love this spot...the boutique hotel is small/quaint, clean, and have very friendly staff (special shout out to the valet/bell staff and their golf cart beach services). The balcony was perfect, loved waking up to the views and watching the sunset on the rooftop balcony. The location cannot be beat...downtown Del Mar has great F&B options....we borrowed their cute beach cruisers and went to Solana /shops etc, perfect stay..." - by Google reviewer, Bina Roy Desai
Stayed at this property?

L'Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille Visual Aid: Tactile

Address: 1540 Camino Del Mar
68.28 km (42.5 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

8. The Waterfront Beach Resort; Huntington Beach (from USD 434)

The Waterfront Beach Resort is a five-star Hilton hotel in Huntington Beach, located across the street from the beach with the same name. The resort has a coastal vibe and features a rooftop bar, an outdoor pool with water slides, cabanas, fire pits, and two on-site restaurants. Rooms at the Waterfront Beach Resort come equipped with an iPod dock, a minibar, a seating area with a flat-screen television, and a private balcony or terrace.

  • Property highlights: This resort offers a beach bonfire package, which includes a beach butler to fetch your favorite snacks while you admire the ocean.
  • Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
  • Suggested rooms/units: The Premium Partial Ocean View 1 King Studio Suite has a separate seating area and a walk-in shower.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "Perfect location for a beach vacation. Hotel staff was friendly and accommodating. Ocean view room with balcony. Perfect for evening views and morning coffee. Easy walk to Huntington Beach. Easy and affordable beach rentals. Plenty of surf. Worth every penny spent on this trip" - by Google reviewer, Yvonne Grundtvig-Bashor
Stayed at this property?

The Waterfront Beach Resort, A Hilton Hotel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy
35.31 km (22.0 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna

9. Hotel del Coronado; San Diego (from USD 791)

San Diego County’s five-star Hotel del Coronado is the perfect blend of historic architecture, luxury amenities, and flawless service. Although the hotel dates back to 1888, it boasts nothing but high-class and modern touches. Guests can spend their days here either dipping their toes in the outdoor pool, relaxing with a pool-side massage, or trying one of the water sports options available.

The rooms have plenty of natural light are painted in warm colors and are sprinkled with coastal-inspired elements. Some units also have a private study where writers like me can journal their travel experiences. In addition, each room comes with cozy bathrobes, a desk, a seating area, a minibar, and a flat-screen television. What’s more, Coronado Beach is 250 meters (820 feet) away.

  • Property highlights: The resort arranges a special movie screening on select dates by the beach, which you can enjoy by a private bonfire or lounging on the beach daybed.
  • Nearest beach: The beach is a short walk away from the property.
  • Suggested rooms/units: Enjoy the soothing sound of waves crashing the shore from the balcony of the Oceanfront Horizon Cottage.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "Right on the beach with a restaurant on site overlooking the ocean. Historic hotel and unique architecture." - by Google reviewer, G T-S
Stayed at this property?

Hotel Del Coronado A Curio by Hilton

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, Coronado (CA), United States, 92118-2918
99.03 km (61.6 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna Fitness centre

10. Loews Coronado Bay Resort; San Diego (from USD 352)

A short 10-minute walk from the beach and surrounded by excellent facilities, the family-friendly Loews Coronado Bay Resort boasts a superb peninsula location. The resort features three pools, a spa and fitness center, and two on-site restaurants that serve fresh seafood and an American menu. Each room features a Keurig coffee maker, a minibar, a seating corner, a luxury ensuite bathroom with bathrobes and complimentary toiletries, and a private balcony.

  • Property highlights: To make your beach stay memorable, the resort offers various water activities, including powerboats, jet skis, kayaks, and more on rent.
  • Nearest beach: The beach is a few minutes away from the property.
  • Suggested rooms/units: The Waterfront Villa Grand King Suite boasts a grand balcony overlooking the Bay. While you're here, unwind in the spacious living room or enjoy relaxing soaks in the bathtub.

What guests are saying about their beach stay:

  • "We had another great stay during our trip to Coronado. We went to Silver Strand Beach for the first time, had a GREAT time, and appreciated the shuttle service, towels and beach chairs provided." - by Google reviewer, Geri Adams
Stayed at this property?

Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 4000 Coronado Bay Road
105.75 km (65.8 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna

Beachfront rentals in Southern California

Are you looking for a more private beach vacation? Fret not, as Southern California boasts many excellent vacation rentals by the beach that provide the best of both worlds. You’ll have your own space to relax, prepare meals, or have some alone time, all the while being close to the sunny shores. Check them out below!

11. Modern condo near downtown in Carlsbad (from USD 839)

Within walking distance of Downtown Carlsbad, this modern four-bedroom condo can host up to nine people. A few steps from your doorstep, and you’ll be dipping your toes on the sandy beach. With hiking and cycling trails nearby, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Take advantage of the balcony to have breakfast while soaking up the stunning sea views. You’ll have unobstructed views of the beach from anywhere in the rental because there are 26 out of 29 windows that offer ocean vistas.

Stayed at this property?
Carlsbad, California, United States
47.21 km (29.4 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
condo 9 Guests 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
it was clean and very organized with towels etc
the condo was clean and beautiful
Host:
host is very timely communicator and very helpful
property owner was very responsive and helpful during the entire process
communication with the host was wonderful - before after and during our stay
Location:
the location is excellent
right across the street from the beach and a nice walk to the restaurants in carlsbad village
great access to the beach right across the street
it is the perfect location with access to a beautiful beach and an easy walk into carlsbad
to enjoy the beautiful location and outstanding condo
Read more reviews

12. Pet-friendly dwelling with a hot tub in Encinitas (from USD 265)

Only a one-minute stroll from a private beach, this three-bedroom condo is ideal for families looking for privacy and planning exhilarating beach activities. It is surrounded by breathtaking sceneries, and it welcomes pets, so you will be able to take your furry friend for a walk in the area. The outdoor space features two swimming pools, a hot tub, a tennis court, and kids’ play areas.

Take advantage of the beach toys, pool toys, and two adult bikes to have fun in the sun. With a well-appointed kitchen, you will be able to whip up your family’s favorite meals.

Stayed at this property?

55.08 km (34.3 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
50 reviews   Wifi Available
condo 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 7
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean and hospitable
Host:
the security guards are really helpful and nice
melinda is the best host i’ve ever encountered
kid friendly and pet friendly
we had a great time the owner is very organized and has everything labeled and is very helpful
Location:
loved this place close to beach pool hot tub tennis walking distance to restaurants and easy highway access
best donuts you’ll ever have are a 2 minute walk community pool is close by
great location super comfortable bright and with great grounds and easy access to the ocean
had a wonderful time great place to get away and relax
my family stayed here on vacation and really enjoyed the location- direct beach access
Read more reviews

13. Family-friendly abode with two bedrooms in Manhattan Beach (from USD 355)

Are you visiting Manhattan Beach with your loved ones and are looking for a cozy place to stay? Check out this two-bedroom condo situated on a gorgeous beach at Sand Section of Manhattan Beach. It comes with a rooftop deck with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding area.

For indoor entertainment, the rental is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and TVs with a DVD/CD player. The kitchen is fully furnished to ensure you will have an easy time preparing meals.

Stayed at this property?

82.8 km (51.5 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
265 reviews   Wifi Available
condo 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
incredible views and comfortable stay
great views and very comfortable beds
the kitchen is well equipped and we enjoyed watching tv on the big comfy couch snuggled under blankets
Cleanliness:
beautiful hardwood floors throughout and a clean well-stocked kitchen with dishwasher and stone countertops
Host:
we can’t wait to return todd is a very responsive manager/host
todd was an excellent host and this property has a beautiful view of the water
Location:
and the location is great
the location is just a stones throw away from the beach and close to some great restaurants
wonderful location overlooking the ocean and close to nice restaurants
we loved walking to downtown manhattan beach on the boardwalk
super close to the beach and great dining options
Read more reviews

14. Luxurious residence near San Diego Zoo in Solana Beach (from USD 415)

Set on a tranquil cul-de-sac in Solana Beach, this luxurious condo invites you to marvel at the stunning azure Pacific Ocean. It sits a few steps from the white sands of Solana Beach. While here, you’ll be close to family-friendly attractions, such as LEGOLAND California, San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld San Diego, and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

For a fun beach experience, the residence comes with beach chairs, beach toys, and boogie boards. There’s a kitchen, a cable TV, and free Wi-Fi too.

Stayed at this property?

65.29 km (40.6 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
93 reviews   Wifi Available
condo 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 5
Minimum Nights: 5
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable furniture and beds and nice sized unit
Cleanliness:
the condo is clean and inviting
it was clean and functioned well
the condo was clean and had everything we needed
a gorgeous oceanfront unit that is very clean and comfortable
very clean condo with an amazing ocean view we didn't want to leave
Host:
you can tell the owner cares about the quality of the decor
fred the host was helpful and quickto respond to any inquiries
Location:
perfect location for a quiet secure beachside stay
this condo is perfectly located making it a quick walk to the beach hwy 101 and shopping
a quick walk to fletcher’s cove beach and downtown solana beach is perfectly located
perfect location quiet in evenings will stay again
amazing location this rental is a wonderful place to relax & enjoy the sunset over the pacific
Read more reviews

15. Elegant haven with skylights in Playa Del Rey (from USD 942)

Sitting on a white-sand beach in Playa Del Rey, this elegant haven invites you to take advantage of California’s balmy atmosphere for a memorable escape. Whether you’re planning a weekend family vacation or a birthday party for your kid, the cozy beach house is perfect for any special occasion.

Once you step inside, you will be struck by the stylish design of the property. The home features open and sunny spaces, vaulted ceilings, and skylights. It is equipped with modern conveniences and chic furnishings to ensure luxury and comfort, such as four beds, three bedrooms, and a gourmet kitchen.

Stayed at this property?
Playa del Rey, California, United States
89.76 km (55.8 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 7 Guests 3 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
right on the beach with great views and lots of room
the house has 3 bathrooms which was a blessing with 6 teenage girls in tow
large very comfortable beds with quality linens pillows and towels
Cleanliness:
great well maintained and clean property
the house itself is clean spacious open up to date and very well equipped
great location very clean and i definitely recommend it
Host:
host was very responsive and information provided was spot on
owners were easy to communicate with
owner was easy to work with and very friendly
we sent a text asking for restaurants to try and they were so helpful
will miss that amazing view frank is also very helpful and quickly answers any questions
Location:
restaurants within walking distance are excellent
perfect location if you don't plan to eat out every meal
the house was great the kitchen well stocked the location terrific
place was nicely kept conveniently located and enjoyable to stay at
beautiful location right on the beach and in a nice area
Read more reviews

16. Beautiful hideaway with a deck in San Diego (from USD 395)

Nothing beats the stunning ocean views from the deck of this luxurious home that sits on the azure coast of San Diego. The deck is equipped with cozy furniture for you to relax and admire the spectacular sunsets or enjoy open-air dining. It also comes with a grill you’re welcome to use for a barbecue party with loved ones.

When you stay here, the beach is just at your doorstep. The living space and dining area also offer amazing views of the ocean. The glass windows and doors allow the rental to be filled with so much natural light.

Stayed at this property?

89.99 km (56.0 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
104 reviews   Wifi Available
condo 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the views were incredible amenities over the top and the beds so comfortable
it’s a cozy little place with the best ocean views we will definitely be back
Cleanliness:
it was very clean
Host:
owner is super easy to communicate with
the owners were so accomodating and easy to work with
Location:
quiet and relaxing yet walking distance to everything we wanted to do
this house was exactly what we were looking for great location beautiful views and very relaxing
beautiful place and very comfortable bed
Read more reviews

17. Well-designed retreat with a balcony in Oceanside (from USD 213)

Book this vacation rental in Oceanside, California, and you will be close to attractions, like LEGOLAND California, San Diego, a zoo, a pier, and a marina. The condo has a fantastic balcony where you can have a barbecue while taking in stunning ocean views and spectacular sunsets. It offers high-speed Wi-Fi and Netflix channels so that you will stay entertained indoors. For guests with kids, it provides a Graco Pack ‘n Play, plus a booster chair.

Since the property is just steps from the beach, you will have endless opportunities for surfing and swimming.

Stayed at this property?

40.37 km (25.1 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
125 reviews   Wifi Available
condo 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was nice to have breakfast on the patio in the morning
the pool was great as was the hot tub
Cleanliness:
beautiful clean condo with great view out to the ocean
the property was very clean have recommended this rental to several of our friends
was very clean had great views toiletries were great as well and we enjoyed the netflix service
Host:
thank you very much property owners
this property was great and the owners were wonderful
Location:
great location right near lifeguard tower 8
location and property are very nice
this was a great location and had everything we needed for the beach
the location is ideal for walking to the harbor pier local restaurants and bars
we hope to visit this place again
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18. Classy cottage near Surfrider Beach in Malibu (from USD 503)

You will get to soak up panoramic sea views while staying at this cottage set on Carbon Beach in Malibu. Also known as Billionaire Row, the beach takes pride as Malibu’s best dry sandy beach. A short stroll will take you to attractions, like Malibu Pier and Surfrider Beach.

While here, you can enjoy exhilarating activities, like kayaking, diving, fishing, and boating. You will also have access to a large private deck, a fully functional kitchen, and an HDTV.

Stayed at this property?
Malibu, California, United States
111.24 km (69.2 mi) from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Dana Point
Apartment 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room had a box fan also and the bathroom had a hair dryer-both very appreciated
the shower water pressure was low but definitely overshadowed by the views and the value
our stay was very comfortable and memorable
Cleanliness:
it's a calming beautiful clean and remarkable place to stay
Host:
the owner was incredibly nice and the on site staff was extremely helpful
angel was so helpful getting us settled in
the caretaker was friendly and looked at it and eventually jiggled the thermostat and it lit
Location:
perfect location and great place to relax
the location of this property is also perfect close to tons of restaurants and the pier
simple with an amazing location
fabulous location walking distance to a few restaurants and right in front of the crashing surf
staying in this location is as good as it gets if you love the ocean
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Enjoy the Californian dream in one of these top beach resorts

This summer, you’ll go from dreaming about California to living in California. Be sure to check out Southern California as there are so many excellent places to visit here. Whether you want to check out Universal Studios in Los Angeles, go paddle boarding in Huntington Beach, or discover a piece of history in San Diego, you’ll need a place by the sea to stay to enjoy the real vibe. So, book one of these fantastic beachfront properties and have fun!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Karina, a content creator rooted in Bucharest, Romania, embodies the spirit of a globetrotter. Her fascination with the beloved series F.R.I.E.N.D.S and a fervent love for coffee add vibrant layers...Read more

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