Southern California is a gorgeous region on the West Coast of the United States that boasts sunny, tropical weather and a stunning coastline. Apart from its picturesque cities, the area is home to some of the world’s most famous parks, like Joshua Tree National Park and the world-famous Disneyland Park. Popular attractions, like Hollywood and Venice Beach, are tucked away in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. The city of San Diego is home to some of the most pristine beaches, such as La Jolla Cove Beach and Flat Rock Beach, and San Diego Zoo. If you’re heading to the region for a summer getaway and want to stay close to the ocean, continue reading to learn about the best beachfront rentals in Southern California.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and location with easy access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 11, 2024.
1. Newly remodeled duplex with barbecue facilities in Newport Beach (from USD 762)
If you’re looking to have a wonderful beach escapade in Southern California, check out this three-bedroom, three-bathroom house in Newport Beach. The rental is a modern and elegant duplex that can comfortably host up to eight people. It has a lovely rooftop deck with a built-in barbecue grill, plus stunning views of the ocean and romantic sunsets.
Step out of your front door, and you will easily reach the sandy beach. Take advantage of the board games and puzzles to make your evenings fun and lively.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
this spot was probably my most favorite because you have views of the harbor and the beach/pier/penninsula parkthere's a nice entertainment setup in the family room and all bedrooms, which offer cable tv, and you can use netflix to sign on with your own accountit looks exactly like it does in the photoslots of windows and natural lightthe upper level deck with bbq & tv had plenty of seating: a table and comfortable chairs to eat a nice dinner, bar seating, a couch style nook and outdoor bulb lightingCleanliness:
a great rooftop patio with views of both the ocean and the baythe house was sparkling clean and decorated so well and perfect for a beach homemy family really enjoyed our stay! perfect location, full of amenities and a beautiful rooftop bbq patio with amazing views of the bay and the oceanthe 3rd floor roof top bbq area was beautiful - with views of the harbor & the ocean! really loved the availability of bikes & outdoor gamesHost:
also, the owner was extremely helpful and accommodatingbeautiful home with gorgeous viewgreat property ! great location ! owner could not have been more accommodating and helpfulwe had a personalized keycode upon arrival, and everything worked as statedthe lock box entry made things so simple, since we didn't pull into town until lateRead more reviewsLocation:
it's also in a nice walkable neighborhood - you can stroll along a quaint residential area on the peninsula, or head a few blocks to the shops and restaurants by the balboa pier and ferrythis beautiful property is in the perfect location to enjoy the beach and the bay! bikes, boggy boards, paddle boards, beach chairs and umbrellas; the owners thought of everythingthere are lots of outdoor spaces to sit and enjoy the amazing viewsthe owner provided all the beach fun: boogie boards, paddle boards, great-quality bikes, kid's sand toys, etcthe home is nicely located to the area of the beach with fire rings, so we woke early one morning and walked on to the sand to "reserve" our fire ring for the night! we walked two blocks to balboa ...
2. Modern condo near downtown in Carlsbad (from USD 1200)
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.
Top guest reviews
Host:
host is very timely communicator and very helpfulproperty owner was very responsive and helpful during the entire processcommunication with the host was wonderful - before after and during our stayRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is excellentright across the street from the beach and a nice walk to the restaurants in carlsbad villagegreat access to the beach right across the streetit is the perfect location with access to a beautiful beach and an easy walk into carlsbadto enjoy the beautiful location and outstanding condo
3. 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.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
very clean and hospitableHost:
the security guards are really helpful and nicemelinda is the best host i’ve ever encounteredkid friendly and pet friendlywe had a great time the owner is very organized and has everything labeled and is very helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
loved this place close to beach pool hot tub tennis walking distance to restaurants and easy highway accessbest donuts you’ll ever have are a 2 minute walk community pool is close bygreat location super comfortable bright and with great grounds and easy access to the oceanhad a wonderful time great place to get away and relaxmy family stayed here on vacation and really enjoyed the location- direct beach access
4. 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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
incredible views and comfortable staygreat views and very comfortable bedsthe kitchen is well equipped and we enjoyed watching tv on the big comfy couch snuggled under blanketsCleanliness:
beautiful hardwood floors throughout and a clean well-stocked kitchen with dishwasher and stone countertopsHost:
we can’t wait to return todd is a very responsive manager/hosttodd was an excellent host and this property has a beautiful view of the waterRead more reviewsLocation:
and the location is greatthe location is just a stones throw away from the beach and close to some great restaurantswonderful location overlooking the ocean and close to nice restaurantswe loved walking to downtown manhattan beach on the boardwalksuper close to the beach and great dining options
California Tour Guide
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
5. 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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable furniture and beds and nice sized unitCleanliness:
the condo is clean and invitingit was clean and functioned wellthe condo was clean and had everything we neededa gorgeous oceanfront unit that is very clean and comfortablevery clean condo with an amazing ocean view we didn't want to leaveHost:
you can tell the owner cares about the quality of the decorfred the host was helpful and quickto respond to any inquiriesRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect location for a quiet secure beachside staythis condo is perfectly located making it a quick walk to the beach hwy 101 and shoppinga quick walk to fletcher’s cove beach and downtown solana beach is perfectly locatedperfect location quiet in evenings will stay againamazing location this rental is a wonderful place to relax & enjoy the sunset over the pacific
6. Elegant haven with skylights in Playa Del Rey (from USD 1032)
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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
right on the beach with great views and lots of roomthe house has 3 bathrooms which was a blessing with 6 teenage girls in towlarge very comfortable beds with quality linens pillows and towelsCleanliness:
great well maintained and clean propertythe house itself is clean spacious open up to date and very well equippedgreat location very clean and i definitely recommend itHost:
host was very responsive and information provided was spot onowners were easy to communicate withowner was easy to work with and very friendlywe sent a text asking for restaurants to try and they were so helpfulwill miss that amazing view frank is also very helpful and quickly answers any questionsRead more reviewsLocation:
restaurants within walking distance are excellentperfect location if you don't plan to eat out every mealthe house was great the kitchen well stocked the location terrificplace was nicely kept conveniently located and enjoyable to stay atbeautiful location right on the beach and in a nice area
7. 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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the views were incredible amenities over the top and the beds so comfortableit’s a cozy little place with the best ocean views we will definitely be backCleanliness:
it was very cleanRead more reviewsLocation:
quiet and relaxing yet walking distance to everything we wanted to dothis house was exactly what we were looking for great location beautiful views and very relaxingbeautiful place and very comfortable bed
8. 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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was nice to have breakfast on the patio in the morningthe pool was great as was the hot tubCleanliness:
beautiful clean condo with great view out to the oceanthe property was very clean have recommended this rental to several of our friendswas very clean had great views toiletries were great as well and we enjoyed the netflix serviceRead more reviewsLocation:
great location right near lifeguard tower 8location and property are very nicethis was a great location and had everything we needed for the beachthe location is ideal for walking to the harbor pier local restaurants and barswe hope to visit this place again
9. Classy cottage near Surfrider Beach in Malibu (from USD 395)
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.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the room had a box fan also and the bathroom had a hair dryer-both very appreciatedthe shower water pressure was low but definitely overshadowed by the views and the valueour stay was very comfortable and memorableCleanliness:
it's a calming beautiful clean and remarkable place to stayHost:
the owner was incredibly nice and the on site staff was extremely helpfulangel was so helpful getting us settled inthe caretaker was friendly and looked at it and eventually jiggled the thermostat and it litRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect location and great place to relaxthe location of this property is also perfect close to tons of restaurants and the piersimple with an amazing locationfabulous location walking distance to a few restaurants and right in front of the crashing surfstaying in this location is as good as it gets if you love the ocean
Relax on a sandy beach in Southern California
Southern California is a great option if you want to relax and marvel at awe-inspiring ocean views. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore attractions, like LEGOLAND California, Disneyland Park, and SeaWorld San Diego. Choose one of these best rentals so that you can spend your vacation basking in the sun on a sandy beach.
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