northern california coastal towns

25 Beautiful Northern California Coastal Towns Worth Visiting [+ Where to Stay]

ByGabriel Glasier Hours Updated on

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • The best Northern California coastal towns to visit will depend on the type of experience you’re looking for.
  • Santa Cruz, Capitola, and Stinson Beach are the best beach towns to visit if you’re looking to enjoy the sun, sand, and water.
  • Monterey, San Francisco, and Carmel-by-the-Sea are our favorites for fun and relaxing weekend getaways.

Northern California is home to many charming coastal towns ranging from historic destinations to small hamlets that draw in crowds for their cute shops and great restaurants.

The hard part is choosing which of these amazing Northern California beach towns to visit during your trip to the Golden State.

The good news is that I have spent most of my life exploring the California coast, and these coastal cities are usually my favorite stops during these adventures.

I compiled everything you need to know to help you select the perfect beachside destinations for an epic coastal road trip.

disclosure policy statement
Table of Contents show

25 Northern California Coastal Towns

These northern California coastal towns are either nestled on top of high bluffs, on rocky coastlines, or surrounded by forested areas of coastal redwoods with excellent views of the ocean. 

Most have a relatively laidback and artsy vibe that is best attributed to their natural surroundings that inspire their residents’ creative side. 

Also, these coastal towns are not all about the beach, as most offer plenty of outdoor activities away from the water as well. 

There are hiking trails that stretch for miles, quaint villages, boutique restaurants, shops, hotels, wine-tasting experiences, and plenty of family-friendly outdoor activities. 

These coastal towns have something for everyone.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

beach with cypress tree
cottage

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a tiny one-square-mile town that you won’t mind getting lost in, especially during Fall, which is the sunniest time in the area. 

This artist’s haven is full of art galleries, charming cottages straight out of a fairytale, secret passageways leading to beautiful courtyards, high-end boutique shops, cute coffee shops, and gourmet restaurants. 

There are plenty of things to do in Carmel to keep you busy without feeling rushed.

After leisurely exploring the artsy tree-lined streets of downtown Carmel, head to Point Lobos State Reserve, one of California’s best state parks and home to ancient Monterey cypress trees. 

Here you can take the Bird Island Trail, a scenic and easy coastline hiking trail that offers access to the emerald green waters of China Cove and a relatively steep descent to the beautiful Gibson Beach.       

What to See & Do in Carmel

  • View beautiful sunsets at Carmel Beach
  • Visit your choice of over 20 tasting rooms and try world-class wines
  • Discover charming 1920s and 30s fairytale cottages on Ocean Avenue 
  • Take a day trip to Point Lobos State Nature Reserve or do a scenic drive to Big Sur

📍 Do you want to learn more about Carmel? This guided tour is led by a very passionate and knowledgeable guide. Check rates & read reviews here.

Where to Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Monterey

california coastline
Lover’s Point in Monterey

Considered one of the best northern California coastal towns, Monterey was once a little fishing town and is now one of the top tourist destinations in California because of top attractions like 17-Mile Drive. 

Historical sites such as the famous Cannery Row, inspiration for John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name, and Fisherman’s Wharf retain classic coastal vibes while now housing numerous restaurants, craft breweries, and local coffee shops. 

Restaurants buy most of their seafood direct from local fishermen, so expect only the freshest when dining here. 

The ocean temperature here seldom exceeds 57° F, so it is less than ideal for swimming, but its rocky coastline and sandy beaches make up for it with some great hiking trails.  

What to See & Do in Monterey

📍 Do you want to learn more about Cannery Row? This self-guided audio tour is packed with information that will make you appreciate the place even more. Plus, it’s incredibly affordable. Check rates & read reviews here. 

Where to Stay in Monterey

READ MORE: Closest Airport to Monterey

Capitola

colorful houses on the beach
Capitola – one of the best beach towns in Northern California

Sand on your feet and brightly colored houses, this beach town in northern California provides summer beach vibes all year round. 

Located next to Santa Cruz on the northern end of Monterey Bay, Capitola experiences mild weather throughout the year with a bit of early morning and late afternoon fog. 

The city’s main attractions are the famous Capitola Village and the Esplanade, which are located just right next to the beach. 

Locals and tourists alike can enjoy its many restaurants, cafes, and shops and then immediately walk to the beach to spend a relaxing afternoon on the sand. 

Sunsets by the Capitola beach with the picturesque Village at the backdrop are as beautiful as they are charming. 

What to See & Do in Capitola

  • Visit the Armida Winery tasting room at the Village
  • Take surfing or paddleboarding lessons at the Capitola Beach Company
  • Have a fine dining experience with waterfront views at Margaritaville

Where to Stay in Capitola

Santa Cruz

santa cruz beach california
Santa Cruz – a fun beach town in California

Santa Cruz, also known as Surf City, has that old-school small beach town vibe that attracts millions of visitors each year from all over the world looking to experience that quintessential California beach culture. 

You can rent a bike and spend a day or two exploring coastal biking paths and maybe even take out your surfboard for a spin at Pleasure Point Park. 

Of course, no visit to this northern California beach town is complete without spending a day at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk enjoying carnival rides, games, and famous clam chowder. 

Santa Cruz County is home to 29 miles of sandy beaches if you need a break from the more touristy areas.

What to See & Do in Santa Cruz

  • Ride the iconic Big Dipper Roller Coaster at the Boardwalk
  • Stop by a brewery in Santa Cruz to enjoy a glass of cold beer
  • Take a hike in the redwoods at Nisene Marks State Park

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

Half Moon Bay

beach california

Are you a surfer? Then you definitely have to visit Half Moon Bay. 

Located in San Mateo County, Half Moon Bay is famous for Mavericks, a surf break that features some of the biggest waves in the world. 

For non-surfers, this laid-back quaint coastal town also offers beautiful buffs and some of the most scenic hiking trails and beaches in Northern California. 

Go on a beach camping trip with your friends and family at the Half Moon Bay State Beach or explore tidepools over at the JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. 

After a day out exploring the coast, wind down at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, where you can sip on a pint around a fire pit with views of the bay.   

What to See & Do in Half Moon Bay

Where to Stay in Half Moon Bay

Pacifica

beach with big shoreline

Continue driving north of Half Moon Bay on the Pacific Coast Highway, and you’ll find yourself in Pacifica, one of the delightful beach towns in Northern California frequented by surfers and coastal travelers. 

The town has several hiking trails with stunning panoramic views of the ocean, but what draws the crowds is the beach’s perfect beginner surf break that draws crowds to take surf lessons. 

Pacifica State Beach is one of the best California coast cities to visit, as it is home to dozens of cute breweries, coffee shops, and small restaurants that sit right off the beach.  

Also located in this northern California beach town is Rockaway Beach, which is one of the cleanest beaches in the Bay area with waterfront shops and restaurants. 

What to See & Do in Pacifica

  • Hike up the infamous Bootlegger’s Steps in Mori Point
  • Visit the Shelldance Orchid Gardens
  • Go on a horseback ride at the Devil’s Slide Trail

Where to Stay in Pacifica

San Francisco

golden gate bridge on the bay
San Francisco – One of the best coastal cities in California

It would be amiss not to include San Francisco, the largest northern California coastal city, on this list. 

San Francisco is not only the state’s second-largest city but also considered one of the best places to live in California (if you can afford it), with a vibrant artistic culture and rich history. 

The San Francisco peninsula’s weather tends to be cooler than the rest of California, especially during the summer, which makes the early fall the best time to visit. 

Start your day early and go to Baker Beach for some Instagram-worthy pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge or take a quiet stroll along Ocean Beach. 

When visiting, you can stay in downtown San Francisco at one of the hotels with stunning views of the bay and explore its many art galleries and museums. 

San Francisco is well known as one of the best food cities in the world, with a melting pot of cuisines served at small family-owned restaurants and fine dining palaces of gastronomy.

LOCAL TIP: San Francisco is one of the best places to spend Christmas in California because of how festive it is!

What to See & Do in San Francisco

📍 If you want a relaxing way to enjoy this city, why not go on this sunset cruise and admire the San Francisco skyline from the water? Check rates & read reviews here.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

READ MORE: San Francisco Hotels with Jacuzzi in Room, Best Private Tours in San Francisco, Best Hotels with Views in SF, Black Sand Beach in SF

Stinson Beach

northern california coastal town

Stinson Beach is a small beach town north of San Francisco, and it has the Golden Gate National Recreation Area’s only swimming beach if you don’t mind the cold water. 

The beach is 3.5 miles long, flat, and has fine white sand, perfect for some shoe-free strolls. 

You can also take your furry friend along during your visit as the north end is very dog-friendly. This seaside community has a small-town feel with a family-friendly vibe. 

Stinson Beach is everything you could imagine in a charming coastal town with its weathered stores and restaurants and its mixture of natural surroundings, including a 51-acre park that offers picnicking, barbecuing, and building sandcastles.

What to See & Do in Stinson Beach

📍 This small group tour will take you to Muir Woods plus a stop in Sausalito so you don’t have to worry about logistics and transportation. Check rates & read reviews here.

Bolinas

beach town northern california
Bolinas – An underrated beach town in California

Located just 20 minutes from Stinson Beach is the quiet beach town of Bolinas, which exudes chill hippie vibes. 

This relatively isolated small town on the northern California coast has spotty mobile coverage and doesn’t have many restaurants and shops, making this the perfect destination for a more unplugged and relaxed getaway. 

Parking at the beaches can be a little limited, and the locals can get pretty upset when people park illegally, so arrive early to secure a spot. 

Bolinas Beach is a popular surf spot for beginners to intermediate riders, and the breaks can get busy on weekends. 

Other fun options include tide pooling at Agate Beach during low tide, or you can bring your kayak and paddle along the Bolinas Lagoon.

What to See & Do in Bolinas

  • Catch the gentle waves surfing at Bolinas Beach
  • Hike the redwood forests of Mount Tamalpais State Park
  • Take a day hike on the Coastal Trail and take in the view from the bluffs

Where to Stay in Bolinas

Point Reyes 

california coastal town

Point Reyes Station is a beautiful coastal town north of San Francisco that is the perfect combination of an artisan coastal community and an outdoor paradise. 

This small town is situated in the Point Reyes National Seashore at the foot of Tomales Bay. 

This area is famous for its stunning oyster farms and boutique cheese producers that make some of the country’s best cheeses. 

The town is a great jump-off point to the area’s best recreation and a perfect spot to load up on supplies for a hike to the beach for a picnic. 

Point Reyes Station is also a great place to grab a cup of coffee at a cute cafe or grab lunch at one of the small family-owned restaurants.  

What to See & Do in Point Reyes

  • Visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse
  • Eat oyster right from the ocean at Drake’s Bay Oyster Company
  • Hike the Palomarin Trail to see Alamere Falls break on the beach

Where to Stay in 

Bodega Bay

rugged coastline
Bodega Bay – One of the best coastal towns in California

This coastal town near San Francisco is situated on the Pacific Coast Highway on the Sonoma Coast. 

This sleepy fishing village, with just over 1000 residents, was the location of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic horror movie The Birds, which was released in 1963. 

Don’t be frightened, though, as it means you’ll have a very quiet time visiting this section of the coast. 

Bodega Bay consists of several sections, including the town on the bay, the Bodega Head Pennisula, and Doran Beach. 

This means there is a lot to explore in Bodega Bay along a beautiful stretch of 12 beaches just starting north of town. 

Bodega Bay is the perfect spot to spend time in nature by day, while chowing down on pristine seafood at night at one of the town’s chowder houses on the water. 

What to See & Do in Bodega Bay

  • Taste wines at the vineyards near Occidental
  • Go visit Doran Beach
  • Go tide pooling or surfing at the Schoolhouse Beach

Where to Stay in 

Jenner

coastal city with jagged rocks
View of Goat Rock Beach from Kortum Trail

Jenner is a tiny northern California coast town with a calm and serene vibe and is located right on the bluffs at the mouth of the Russian River. 

This area is popular with kayakers wanting to paddle across its estuary, where there is a protected area where they can see some sea lions sunbathing and hunting for Dungeness crabs. 

You can also sunbathe across the river at Goat Rock Beach, where the dark sand will keep you warm against the chilly ocean breezes. 

If you’re planning to stay in the area for more than a day trip, you can find accommodations in Jenner, Monte Rio, and the cute town of Guerville.

What to See & Do in Jenner

  • Visit Goat Rock Beach at the Sonoma Coast State Park
  • Sample Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at the Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery
  • Hike the Kortum Trail along the bluffs heading south all the way to Wrights Beach
  • See the tafoni formations in sandstone at Salt Point State Park

Where to Stay in Jenner

Gualala

aerial view of coastal town
Gualala – Coastal town north of San Francisco

Gualala shares its name with the Gualala River which flows through the town and into the Pacific Ocean. 

It’s a very cozy coastal town with an artsy vibe that draws people to its five art festivals hosted here every year. 

If you happen to enjoy kayaking, make sure to visit the area during summer and paddle up its namesake river. 

The town has several tasty family-owned restaurants and cafes to stop for a quick bite before exploring the coast. 

Also, despite its tiny size, Gualala is home to one of California’s premier oceanfront communities and Sea Ranch Golf Links, a par 72 course with stunning ocean views.

What to See & Do in Gualala

  • Visit the Point Arenas lighthouse and hike the  5.7-mile Point Arenas Trail
  • Hike up dunes and bluffs at Gualala Point Regional Park
  • Spot spherical sandstone formations during low tides at the Bowling Ball Beach
  • Enjoy artworks by local artists at the Dolphin Gallery

Where to Stay in Gualala

Mendocino

houses on the coast
Mendocino – One of the best towns on the California coast for a relaxing weekend

Mendocino was established in the 1850s and exudes a vibe similar to Victorian Maine with its picturesque mansions and gourmet restaurants situated on a peninsula on the jagged coast. 

It’s also the only town on the California coast designated as a historical landmark. 

Hike your way up the headlands for some of the most stunning views of the Mendocino coastline but if you prefer to be right in the action, rent a kayak and explore natural sea caves in the area. 

Also, this quiet coastal town offers luxurious spa experiences and stays and is close to the Anderson Valley wine region, which may come in handy if you’re planning a romantic getaway for two. 

What to See & Do in Mendocino

  • Go wine tasting at the Navarro Vineyards, Husch Vineyards, and the Roederer Estate
  • Visit nearby Point Cabrillo Light Station Historic Park
  • Explore nearby Russian Gulch State Park

Where to Stay in Mendocino

Fort Bragg

glass beach
Glass Beach

If you’ve ever needed evidence of how trash can turn into treasure, travel 15 minutes north of Mendocino to the coastal city of Fort Bragg. 

Here you will find one of the most unique beaches in Northern California. 

Glass Beach was once a dump site that has now become a tourist attraction. 

Make sure to come during the low tide to see all the polished sea glass on the beach, but keep in mind that collecting the glass is highly discouraged in order to preserve this attraction for future generations. 

Fort Bragg is also more developed than the other coastal towns near it, like Gualala, so you can use this town as your base of exploration, as there are more lodging and restaurant options here.

What to See & Do in Fort Bragg

  • Take Instagram-worthy pictures at Glass Beach during sunset
  • Visit the 47-acre Mendocino Botanical Garden
  • Take the Skunk Train into the redwoods forest
  • Enjoy local craft beer at North Coast Brewing Company

Where to Stay in Fort Bragg

Shelter Cove

ocean view of coastal town

Located 2.5 hours from Fort Bragg through a winding 25-mile road, Shelter Cove is an out-of-the-way Northern California coastal town that’s worth the extra drive. 

Crowds here are few and far between, and this isolated town is known to be the gateway to the Lost Coast, which is considered one of the most beautiful sections of the California coast. 

This wild nature area is completely undeveloped and is brimming with tide pools to explore and trails for adventures. 

The Black Sand Beach is Shelter Cove’s most popular destination, with over 25 miles of sandy shore to explore. 

Are you staying here overnight? Make sure to step out and look up, as star gazing is a popular activity here with the absence of light pollution. 

What to See & Do in Shelter Cove

  • Hike the Lost Coast Trail starting at Black Sand Beach
  • Star gazing (this town is quiet and has no street lights)
  • Taste a beer flight at Gyppo Ale Mill Brewery

Where to Stay in Shelter Cove

Trinidad

lighthouse by the ocean

Trinidad is a hidden gem that’s all about the ocean. 

This quiet and uncrowded seaside town on the northern California coast is part of the Gateways, which includes other towns like Fort Bragg, the Monterey Peninsula, the Lost Coast, and Pidgeon Point. 

What makes The Gateways special is its focus on geo-tourism, sustainability, and striving for balance between the visitors’ and residents’ welfare. 

You can explore its rugged coastlines, go bird watching at the Trinidad Rocks, or go beachcombing at Moonstone Beach. 

Despite its idyllic atmosphere, the town remains less crowded and touristy than other NorCal coastal towns, so you might score more value for your stay here.

What to See & Do in Trinidad

  • Hike the Trinidad Headland Trail
  • Visit Trinidad State Beach during low tide
  • Explore Redwood National Park

Where to Stay in Trinidad

Crescent City

lighthouse by the beach

Crescent City is the farthest north of all the northern California beach towns, which was supposed to be a shipping city. 

But because of its rocky coastline, it has earned its reputation as a shipwreck city. 

The Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park is the area’s main draw with its massive coastal redwoods and fern-lined forests. 

Crescent City also has strips of beaches and lovely tide pools you can explore, especially during low tides. 

If you love a good sunset, visit Crescent Beach and make your way up the beach overlook to enjoy great ocean views.

What to See & Do in Crescent City

  • Take the Templeman Grove loop trail or the 6-mile Boy Scout Trail at Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park
  • Go fishing for salmon and trout on the Smith River
  • Visit the Battery Point Lighthouse

Where to Stay in Crescent City

Best Time to Visit the Northern California Coastal Cities

hiking trail along the coast

The best time to visit the northern California coastal cities is either during the late summer or early fall. 

The coast tends to be too cold during the winter, and the rainy season makes it too wet during the springtime. 

Early summer heat inland paired with cold winds from the Pacific gives way to the production of fog which doesn’t exactly clear up until late August, so it’s best to hold out until late summer or early fall. 

But if you prefer smaller crowds, warmer temperatures, and you don’t mind a few rain showers, then Spring is also a good time to visit.

Tips for Visiting the Northern California Beach Towns

  1. Check the weather

Make it a point to always check the weather at the specific beach town you plan to visit. 

The weather on the coast is very different than even 20 miles inland, and the temperature can swing as much as 40°F. 

If you’re exploring other areas in the state of California, be aware that the weather varies greatly throughout the area.

  1. Dress appropriately

Even if the weather says it’s pleasant and sunny out, make sure to always pack a light sweater or a windbreaker with you. 

During most of the year, the coast is so much cooler than inland areas, and the cold winds off the Pacific add to the chill.

  1. Check the tide tables

Some beaches in these coastal towns, especially those particularly known for tide pooling, are best visited during low tide. 

Make sure to check the tide tables to schedule your itinerary accordingly. 

Also, many of these beaches are unsuitable for swimming, and caution must be observed even while beachcombing due to rip tides, rogue waves, and very cold waters.

  1. Take a motion sickness pill

Some sections of Highway 1 and the Lost Coast have winding roads that go on for miles, so if you easily get nauseous, take a motion sickness pill to avoid being miserable.

FAQs

What is the most affordable beach town in Northern California to visit?

The cheapest beach town to visit in Northern California is Crescent City. Another option is Monterey where you will find multiple budget-friendly accommodation options conveniently located near the beach.

Where is the warmest beach in Northern California?

The warmest beach in Northern California is Stinson Beach. Although the water temperature is still going to be in the high 50s, the daytime highs in July can get to as high as 89°F.

What beach town is near Redwood National Park?

The closest beach town near Redwood National Park is the small seaside city of Trinidad, which is home to multiple beaches, a lighthouse, and a few seafood restaurants.

The coastal cities of Arcata, Eureka, and Crescent City also have access to beaches and are less than 60 miles from the Redwood National and State Parks.

Does Northern California have nice beaches?

Yes, Northern California is home to some of the nicest beaches in the state, ranging from wide sandy stretches like Stinson Beach to small secluded coves, including Stump Beach and Russian Gulch State Beach.

Many beaches in Northern California are beautiful, but the ocean conditions are often unsuitable for swimming or other activities as the water is cold, and the currents can be dangerous.

Are Northern California beaches swimmable?

Yes, there are many swimmable beaches in Northern California, including Caspar Headlands and Stinson Beaches.

While you can swim at many beaches in Northern California, the water temperatures can be very cold. It is strongly suggested that you wear a wetsuit even during the warmer summer months.

The water can also be treacherous with strong currents and rip tides, so it’s best to check in advance with park personnel and stay close to the shore.

List of the Best Coastal Towns in Northern California

  1. Carmel-by-the-Sea
  2. Monterey
  3. San Francisco
  4. Point Reyes
  5. Bodega Bay
  6. Jenner
  7. Gualala
  8. Mendocino
  9. Fort Bragg
  10. Shelter Cove
  11. Trinidad
  12. Crescent City
  13. Eureka
  14. Albion
  15. Sea Ranch
  16. Sausalito

List of the Best Northern California Beach Towns

  1. Capitola
  2. Santa Cruz
  3. Half Moon Bay
  4. Pacifica
  5. Stinson Beach
  6. Bolinas
  7. Pacific Grove
  8. Pescadero
  9. Davenport

Map of Northern California Coastal Towns

northern california coastal towns map
See on Google Maps

Wrap-Up: 25 Northern California Coastal Towns

Whether you’re a beach lover looking to tick off beach towns from your list or you simply want to go on a scenic northern California coast road trip exploring northern California Coastal Towns, use this list to help plan your itinerary. 

So what are you waiting for? 

Plan your trip to one of these charming coastal towns and start relaxing by the Pacific Ocean!

Related:

Gabriel is the head writer for Chef Travel Guide and has been featured in the Huffington Post, Martha Stewart, Eat This, Not That, Real Simple, Muscle and Health, and many more. He was born and raised in California and has worked as a professional restaurant chef for over 20 years. After escaping the “kitchen life”, he is now focused on his passion for the outdoors and world travel. Gabriel’s passions include trail running and hiking on California's incredible trails, camping in the redwoods, and exploring the golden state from the Eastern Sierras to the rugged North Coast.

Similar Posts