West Beach, Santa Barbara

West Beach in Santa Barbara is wonderfully located. With a bike path that leads from here to west UCSB campus, adjacent to Stearns Wharf Pier, and the Santa Barbara Harbor parking area, it is not only accessible, but surrounded by fun things to do. The beach itself is a popular spot for volleyball. The pier has shops, restaurants, and an interactive marine education facility. Other shopping and dining options are nearby. Additionally, you’ll even find a super impressive skate park near the pier.

Address: State Street and W Cabrillo Blvd Santa Barbara, CA 93103

Surfer’s Knoll Beach, Ventura

Across from the shops and restaurants at Ventura Harbor Village you’ll find Surfer’s Knoll Beach. This spot has its own small parking lot where Spinnaker Drive turns north. You can also park at the Village and walk across the street. A popular spot for surfing and beach combing alike!

Address: 1596 Spinnaker Drive Ventura, CA 93001

Carpinteria State Beach, Carpinteria

Right in the city of Carpinteria you’ll find the stunning white sand Carpinteria State Beach. The state beach starts at Linden Avenue and continues south all the way to Tar Pits Beach at the south end of the park. There is a campground here with over 200 camping spots, an amazing location for a summer family vacation!

Address: Palm Ave and 6th Street Carpinteria, CA 93103

Lechuza Beach, Malibu

A little known beach in Malibu, CA is Lechuza Beach. It’s located below homes at the northern end of Broad Beach Road. The best public access is at the center of the beach with an entrance on Broad Beach Road across from a short cul-de-sac called Bunnie Lane. From here walk through a tree-covered corridor, and then down a few flights of stairs to the sand. It can also be accessed through the gates at East Sea Level Drive and West Sea Level Drive. Any signs that state, “Right to pass by permission and subject to control by owner” are false and can be ignored, this is a public beach. Parking is available on Broad Beach Road near all three of these entrances, just do not block any driveways! This beach has some wonderfully photographic rock formations.

Address: 31712 Broad Beach Road Malibu, CA 90265

County Line Beach, Oxnard

County Line Beach sits just within Ventura County. It is a part of Leo Carrillo State Park. Parking is limited to a small lot and shoulder parking along the Pacific Coast Highway. Neptune’s Net, a popular seafood restaurant is across the street. County Line Beach is one of several beaches that are part of Leo Carrillo State Park. Although this beach has very few amenities for beach goers, it is a great spot, especially for surfers, fishermen, and scuba divers!

Address: Pacific Coast Highway and Yerba Buena Road Ventura, CA 90265