Best West Coast Beaches For Sun And Surf

The West Coast of the United States is a paradise for anyone who loves sun, sand, and the thrill of the waves. With its long stretches of coastline, it offers a perfect mix of sunny West Coast beaches and exciting surf opportunities. From the vibrant cities of California to the scenic shores of Oregon and Washington, the region has beaches for every kind of traveler. Whether you are a family looking for a safe and fun getaway, a first-time surfer ready to catch your first wave, or a seasoned wave-chaser seeking adventure, the West Coast delivers. The combination of warm weather, consistent Pacific swells, and diverse coastal landscapes makes it one of the best places in the country for a memorable West Coast beach vacation.

In this blog, you will get to learn about the reasons why West Coast beaches are considered perfect for sun and surf. From the warm, sandy shores of Santa Monica Beach to the world-famous waves of Huntington Beach (“Surf City USA”), the classic longboard break at Malibu Surfrider Beach, and the calm, family-friendly waters of Coronado Beach (San Diego), there is something for everyone. You will also explore the vibrant culture of Venice Beach, the scenic beauty of Cannon Beach (Oregon), the dramatic dunes at Pacific City / Cape Kiwanda (Oregon), the relaxing vibes of Seaside Beach (Oregon), the rugged coastline of La Push Beach (Washington), and the surf-town charm of Westport Light State Park (Washington). By the end, you will have a full guide to the top 10 most amazing best West Coast beaches for both sun and surf, helping you plan the ultimate West Coast beach road trip.

Why The West Coast Is Perfect For Sun And Surf

There are multiple amazing reasons why the West Coast is considered the perfect place to sun and surf. By reading below, you will get to learn about those epic reasons that make these beaches ideal for everyone, from beginners to seasoned surfers.

• Varied coastline: From the warm, sandy Southern California shores to the rugged, scenic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the West Coast offers beaches that suit all tastes and preferences.

• Reliable waves: The region provides consistent West Coast surfing opportunities year-round, with both gentle beginner waves and more challenging breaks for experienced surfers.

• Vibrant surf culture: Local communities and surf towns along the Pacific Coast beaches encourage a welcoming atmosphere where surfers and beachgoers can share tips, join events, and enjoy a lively coastal vibe.

• Long summer days: Extended daylight hours and numerous microclimates create pockets of sunshine even in cooler northern areas, making it perfect for sunbathing and spending more time on the sand.

• Diverse activities: Beyond surfing, the beaches support activities like beach volleyball, kayaking, and paddleboarding. While enjoying these, it is important to keep in mind basic safety tips for a fun and secure day.

1. Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is one of the most iconic West Coast beach towns, offering wide, soft sand perfect for sunbathing, beach games, and long walks. Gentle to moderate waves make it ideal for beginners and longboarders, while the lively atmosphere and nearby shops, restaurants, and cafes create a classic Southern California experience. Families, friends, and solo travelers all enjoy the mix of relaxation, activity, and vibrant culture. With the Santa Monica Pier adding charm and entertainment, this beach is both scenic and full of life, making it a must-visit spot on any West Coast surf trip.

What To Expect:

• Busy beach with plenty of people enjoying sunbathing, volleyball, and other fun activities, giving it a lively, energetic atmosphere all day long.

• Wide, soft sandy shoreline perfect for long walks, picnics, and beach games with friends or family under the California sun.

• Gentle, consistent waves make it ideal for first-time surfers, longboarders, and anyone learning Santa Monica Surfing in a safe environment.

• Easy access from Los Angeles with nearby amenities including restaurants, cafes, showers, restrooms, and the iconic Santa Monica Pier for added entertainment.

Best Time To Visit:

Late spring through early fall offers the warmest water and most sunshine, while avoiding the heaviest summer crowds. Surfing is enjoyable year-round, with slightly larger waves in winter and mild conditions in spring and fall.

2. Huntington Beach (“Surf City USA”)

Huntington Beach is a must-visit Surf City USA destination, famous for its long stretches of soft sand and consistently rideable waves. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers, the beach also offers a lively Southern California vibe with nearby restaurants, shops, and family-friendly spaces. The strong surf community, frequent competitions, and easy beach access make it a top choice for anyone planning a West Coast surf trip. Whether you are interested in catching waves or enjoying other surfing and water sports, Huntington Beach has something for everyone.

Why It Stands Out:

• Famous for its reliable waves that are perfect for both beginners learning Huntington Beach surfing and experienced surfers seeking bigger swells

• Wide, expansive sand with volleyball courts, picnic areas, and plenty of room for families and groups to relax and play

• Vibrant surf culture with surf shops, the International Surfing Museum, and a lively pier area full of shops and eateries

• Easy parking and access near the pier make spending the day on the beach convenient and enjoyable

Best Time To Visit:

Surfing and sunbathing are enjoyable year-round, with late summer offering warmer water and the most vibrant beach atmosphere. Spring and early fall are perfect for fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.

3. Malibu Surfrider Beach

Malibu Surfrider is a legendary surfing beach on the West Coast, famous for its long, smooth point break and stunning Southern California scenery. Perfect for longboarders and sunbathers alike, the beach offers a calmer atmosphere compared to other busy spots. With the nearby Malibu Pier and scenic coastal drives, visitors can enjoy both ocean adventure and picturesque views. Upscale dining and boutique shops along the coast add to the experience, making Malibu surfing a blend of sport, culture, and relaxation. Surfrider Beach continues to attract surfers from around the world seeking classic waves and vibrant coastal charm.

What To Expect:

• Classic longboard waves that peel smoothly, offering rides that stretch hundreds of feet for both beginners and experienced surfers

• Scenic coastline with fewer crowds at the point, making it ideal for sunbathing, photography, and enjoying a peaceful beach day

• Access to nearby restaurants, cafes, and scenic drives along the coast to complement a full beach day experience

• Friendly local surf community that encourages good etiquette and welcomes visitors exploring Surfrider Beach

Best Time To Visit:

Spring through early fall provides the most consistent longboard-friendly waves and sunny weather. Summer is busier with tourists, while late summer and early fall often offer slightly smaller crowds and ideal Malibu surfing conditions.

4. Coronado Beach (San Diego)

Coronado Beach in Coronado, San Diego, is a family-friendly West Coast beach famous for its wide, soft sand and gentle shorebreaks. Its calm waters and stunning views of the historic Hotel del Coronado make it perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and leisurely walks along the shore. With lifeguards, restrooms, and plenty of open space, it is one of the most relaxing beaches in the area. Visitors enjoy the warm Southern California sun, scenic coastline, and safe environment, making Coronado family beach a top choice for families and casual beachgoers alike.

What To Expect:

• Wide, soft sandy shoreline perfect for kids, beach toys, and casual games along the water

• Gentle waves and shallow swimming areas are ideal for families and beginner swimmers

• Plenty of amenities, including restrooms, lifeguards, picnic areas, and easy access from the city

• Beautiful views of the historic Hotel del Coronado create a picturesque backdrop for photos and relaxing

Best Time To Visit:

Summer and early fall are the best months for warm water, consistent sun, and calm waves. Visiting in September or October often means fewer crowds while still enjoying the pleasant Coronado San Diego weather and relaxing Coronado family beach experience.

5. Venice Beach

Venice Beach LA, is one of the most lively and unique destinations among West Coast beaches, known for its vibrant boardwalk, eclectic culture, and wide sandy shoreline. While the waves are mostly beginner-friendly, the real attraction lies in the street performers, colorful murals, outdoor gyms, and food stalls along the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk. Visitors enjoy people-watching, beach games, and the mix of locals and tourists that creates an energetic, memorable Southern California vibe. This makes Venice Beach surfing suitable for newcomers while offering endless entertainment beyond the water.

What To Expect:

• A busy, eclectic beach with endless street performers, food stalls, and unique shops, where visitors can enjoy the vibrant energy while soaking up the sun on the wide sandy shoreline

• Mixed surf conditions with mostly small, manageable waves perfect for beginners, though occasional larger swells provide slightly more challenging rides for those looking to improve skills

• Numerous amenities, including bike paths connecting to Santa Monica, showers, restrooms, and easy access from surrounding neighborhoods, make it convenient for both day trips and longer visits

• People-watching heaven where locals and tourists mingle, adding a lively and unforgettable atmosphere that makes the beach experience about much more than just swimming or surfing

Best Time To Visit:

Spring through fall offers the warmest weather and sunniest skies, while weekdays are ideal for avoiding the largest crowds and enjoying a more relaxed Venice Beach, LA experience, including surfing and boardwalk activities.

6. Cannon Beach (Oregon)

Cannon Beach, Oregon, is a stunning coastal destination, famous for its dramatic landscapes and wide sandy shores. The iconic Cannon Beach Haystack Rock dominates the view, providing a perfect backdrop for photography, beach walks, and exploring tidal pools. While the Pacific waters are cooler, the beach is ideal for long walks, kite flying, and enjoying the serene natural surroundings. The nearby town offers charming shops, cafes, and art galleries, making it a complete getaway. Cannon Beach surf is suitable for both beginners and intermediate surfers at nearby spots, adding variety to a beach day.

Why It Stands Out:

• Photogenic coastline featuring the massive Haystack Rock, dramatic cliffs, and broad tidal flats with hidden pockets of sun, creating a visually striking location perfect for photography, walking, and family outings along the sand

• Tidal pools at the base of the rock offer opportunities to observe sea stars, anemones, and small marine life, while nearby cafes and art shops make exploring the small-town atmosphere both fun and relaxing

• Nearby beaches and state parks provide a range of Cannon Beach surf conditions, from beginner-friendly waves to more challenging breaks, allowing surfers of different skill levels to enjoy the Pacific

• Small-town charm with a walkable village, cozy cafes, and galleries ensures visitors can combine nature exploration with local culture, giving a full and enriching beach experience for all ages

Best Time To Visit

Summer is the ideal season for Cannon Beach Oregon, offering the sunniest weather, warmer air temperatures, and calmer winds. This period is perfect for beach walks, photography, exploring tidal pools, and casual surfing.

7. Pacific City / Cape Kiwanda (Oregon)

Pacific City Oregon, and Cape Kiwanda are a must-visit on the Oregon coast, known for their powerful waves and dramatic coastal scenery. The large sandstone headland creates clean, surfable breaks, attracting surfers of all levels. The massive dune at Cape Kiwanda offers panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset. The charming town of Pacific City adds a laid-back vibe, with unique shops, local eateries, and the famous dory boat fleet launching from the beach. Pacific City surf is best when swells pick up, making it ideal for adventurous surfers.

What To Expect:

• Strong, surfable waves at Cape Kiwanda provide exciting conditions for intermediate and advanced surfers, while smaller swells are perfect for beginners learning basic surfing techniques on a scenic beach

• Panoramic viewpoints atop the massive dune offer incredible sunrise and sunset opportunities while exploring tide pools, walking along the sand, and enjoying the local shops, eateries, and breweries along the coast

• The beach is ideal for observing Pacific City’s unique dory boat fleet, which launches directly into the waves, creating an engaging spectacle for both locals and visitors seeking adventure

• Laid-back surf-town charm combined with scenic sand dunes, dramatic cliffs, and ocean vistas makes it a perfect destination for photography, long walks, and capturing the quintessential Oregon coast experience

Best Time To Visit:

Summer through early fall offers the sunniest weather, calmer winds, and photo-ready sunsets, making it the perfect time for exploring the dunes, watching the dory boats, and enjoying Pacific City, Oregon’s charm.

8. Seaside Beach (Oregon)

Seaside Oregon, Beach is a classic family-friendly destination on the northern Oregon coast, known for its wide, sandy shore and nostalgic beachfront atmosphere. The historic promenade, local arcades, and iconic carousel make it perfect for casual strolls, sunbathing, and spending quality time with family. Gentle waves allow novice surfers and boogie boarders to enjoy the water safely, while plenty of open sand offers space for volleyball, kite flying, and sandcastle building. The nearby town of Seaside OR, provides shops, restaurants, and easy access to the beach for a complete coastal getaway.

Why It Stands Out:

• The broad, flat sands and gentle waves create a safe environment for families to relax, play, and learn basic surfing skills while enjoying classic beachfront activities along the promenade.

• The historic boardwalk offers arcades, ice cream parlors, a carousel, and small local museums, giving visitors both entertainment and a sense of nostalgia in a vibrant, family-oriented environment.

• The beach is ideal for sunbathing, casual sports, and long walks along the shore while exploring nearby shops and dining options within walking distance of the sand.

• Calm waters and easy access to public amenities like restrooms, lifeguards, and picnic areas make it an excellent spot for young children, beach games, and extended stays by the ocean.

Best Time To Visit:

The summer months of July and August bring the warmest, sunniest weather, making Seaside family beach perfect for sunbathing, casual surfing, exploring the promenade, and enjoying all the local activities without heavy rains.

9. La Push Beach (Washington)

La Push Beach, Washington, is a remote and wild coastline on the Quileute Reservation, famous for its rugged scenery and dramatic ocean views. The beaches are lined with massive driftwood, towering sea stacks, and forested cliffs, creating a peaceful and secluded environment. While the waves are often cold and challenging, making La Push surfing ideal for intermediate and experienced surfers, the area is perfect for hiking, tide pooling, wildlife spotting, and simply enjoying the quiet natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest coast.

What To Expect:

• La Push features First, Second, and Third Beach, each offering striking driftwood-filled shores and forested backdrops, perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking a quiet, scenic escape away from crowded areas.

• The coastal waters are cold year-round, requiring wetsuits for comfort, while the variable waves provide opportunities for both cautious beginners on calm days and skilled surfers seeking more challenging conditions.

• Visitors can explore tide pools, watch seals and eagles, and enjoy the peaceful environment, where the forest meets the ocean, creating a unique and dramatic coastal experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

• The beaches provide a sense of solitude with fewer crowds, making hiking, picnicking, and sunset viewing a more relaxed and immersive Pacific Northwest beach experience for families and solo travelers alike.

Best Time To Visit:

Mid-summer (June–August) offers the best chance of sun and calmer weather, making it ideal for exploring La Push, enjoying the dramatic scenery, tide pooling, and taking in the peaceful coastal atmosphere.

10. Westport Light State Park (Washington)

Westport Light State Park in Washington is a top surf destination on the West Coast, known for its reliable waves and strong surf culture. The wide, sandy shoreline provides ample space for walking, beachcombing, and kiting, while the town of Westport offers surf shops, rentals, and local dining. With cold but rideable waters, Westport surfing attracts both beginners and advanced surfers seeking consistent swells. The historic Grays Harbor Lighthouse adds charm and photo opportunities, making this a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and coastal scenery.

Why It Stands Out:

• Westport is recognized as one of Washington’s most dependable surf towns, with long, wide beach breaks that create fun conditions for beginners learning to surf and intermediate surfers improving their skills.

• The coastline features driftwood-strewn sand, scenic views, and easy beach access, while local surf shops, lessons, and friendly town amenities make it welcoming for anyone looking to enjoy Westport WA surf.

• Strong North Pacific swells provide more challenging waves in fall and winter for experienced surfers, while calmer summer conditions are perfect for beginners or those wanting a relaxed day on the beach.

• The combination of wide sandy stretches, a nearby lighthouse, and small-town charm gives visitors a classic Pacific Northwest surf-town experience with plenty of space for beach activities and relaxation.

Best Time To Visit:

Late summer (July–August) offers the warmest weather and more sun, ideal for beach activities. Fall and winter provide bigger swells for Westport surfing, attracting experienced surfers seeking powerful and consistent waves.

Conclusion

The West Coast is full of stunning beaches waiting to be explored. Here you have learned about the wide, sandy shores and beginner-friendly waves of Santa Monica Beach, the consistent surf and lively atmosphere at Huntington Beach (“Surf City USA”), the classic longboard point break at Malibu Surfrider Beach, and the calm, family-friendly waters of Coronado Beach (San Diego). You also experienced the vibrant boardwalk and eclectic culture of Venice Beach, the dramatic cliffs and Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach (Oregon), the scenic dunes and powerful waves of Pacific City / Cape Kiwanda (Oregon), the welcoming and gentle sands of Seaside Beach (Oregon), the rugged coastline of La Push Beach (Washington), and the surf-town charm with consistent swells at Westport Light State Park (Washington). Plan your trip and enjoy the ultimate West Coast beach adventure.