Hey fellow travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 best beaches in Northern California for families to frolic on this year. With its stunning coastline, Northern California has plenty of beaches that are perfect for families.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in the sun or an action-packed adventure, Northern California’s beaches have something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab the sunscreen, and get ready for a family vacation you’ll never forget!
Map of Best Family Beaches in Northern California
Use this map to identify the locations of the best family beaches in Northern California listed below:
Book your trip to Northern California here!
Why Choose Northern California?
If you’re planning a family beach vacation, Northern California should definitely be on your list of destinations. Here are just a few reasons why:
Natural Beauty
Northern California beaches are known for their stunning natural beauty. From rugged cliffs to expansive stretches of sand, there’s a beach for every type of family where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, explore tide pools or hike along scenic coastal trails.
Variety of Activities
There’s no shortage of things to do on a Northern California beach vacation. You can go swimming, surfing, kayaking or paddleboarding and many beaches also offer opportunities for hiking, biking and wildlife viewing as well. And if you’re looking for something more low-key, you can simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Northern California beaches are known for being family-friendly with many offering amenities such as restrooms, showers and picnic areas making it easy to spend a full day on the sand. And with lifeguards on duty at many beaches, you can feel safe letting your kids play in the water as well.
Unique Local Culture
Northern California is home to a unique and vibrant local culture. From the hippie vibe of Santa Cruz to the charming small towns of Mendocino County, there’s always something new to discover. And with a thriving food and wine scene, you can enjoy delicious local cuisine and beverages during your beach vacation too.
Check out these: 10 Best Camping Spots in Northern California
Best Time to Visit
When planning a family beach vacation in Northern California, it’s important to consider the best time to visit. Northern California’s weather can be unpredictable, with cool temperatures and foggy conditions common throughout the year. However, there are certain times of the year that are better for beach activities than others.
The best time to visit Northern California’s beaches is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is generally warm and sunny, making it perfect for swimming, surfing and other beach activities. However, it’s important to note that the water temperature can still be quite cold, so be sure to bring wetsuits or other appropriate gear.
If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, consider visiting in the spring or fall. During these seasons, the crowds are smaller and the weather can still be pleasant. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of foggy conditions.
Winter is generally not the best time to visit Northern California’s beaches as the weather can be cold, wet and stormy. However, if you’re a fan of whale watching, this can be a great time to visit. Many species of whales migrate along the coast during the winter months and you may be able to catch a glimpse of them from the shore.
Packing Essentials for a Beach Trip
Heading to the beach with your family can be a fun and exciting experience. However, it’s important to pack the right essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day. Here are some packing essentials you should consider bringing for a beach trip in Northern California:
- Sun Protection – The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days, so it’s important to pack adequate sun protection. Bring sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses and a hat to protect your face from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Beach Gear – Make sure to bring beach gear such as towels, beach chairs and an umbrella to provide shade. If you plan on swimming or snorkeling, bring swim gear such as goggles and fins. Don’t forget to bring a beach bag to carry all your essentials.
- Food and Drinks – Pack plenty of snacks, water and other drinks to keep everyone hydrated and energized throughout the day. Consider bringing a cooler with ice to keep your drinks and snacks cool.
- First Aid Kit – Accidents can happen, so it’s always a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit. Include items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes and pain relievers.
- Miscellaneous Items – Other items you may want to consider bringing include a camera to capture memories, a book or magazine to read and a frisbee or beach ball to play with. Don’t forget to bring extra cash for parking fees and any other expenses.
Book your trip to Northern California here!
Best Beaches in Northern California for Families
If you’re looking for the best beaches in Northern California to visit with your family, then you’re in luck! Here are some of the top family-friendly beaches that you should definitely consider visiting:
1. Ross Cove Beach
Ross Cove Beach, nestled inside the James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, offers families a serene environment with breathtaking views. The beach is equipped with essential amenities ensuring a comfortable visit for families.
This beach is a haven for those who enjoy active fun and families can indulge in surfing, beachcombing and even whale watching. You will need to check if lifeguards are on duty and it’s always recommended to check before swimming and to exercise caution, especially during storms and high tide.
It should be noted that given its location, there are not a lot of amenities in the area.
2. Rodeo Beach
Located inside the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Rodeo Beach provides a unique two-in-one experience with both Rodeo Lagoon and Rodeo Cove. The beach is dog-friendly as well allowing families to bring their furry companions along.
Apart from the usual beach activities like sunbathing and building sandcastles, Rodeo Beach offers a range of activities that cater to different interests. Surfing is popular here, with waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. The beach is also known for its unique dark sand, which is rich in magnetite and other heavy minerals, making it a fascinating spot for those interested in geology.
Here are the amenities available at Rodeo Beach:
- Bathrooms: Rodeo Beach is equipped with restroom facilities for visitors.
- Showers: There are showers available, which can be especially useful for rinsing off after a day at the beach.
- Water Fountain: A water fountain is present at the Rodeo Beach parking lot, ensuring that visitors have access to drinking water.
- Parking: There’s a parking lot at Rodeo Beach for visitors. Additionally, in case of overflow, there are extra parking lots available at the lower parking area of The Marine Mammal Center (0.5 miles from Rodeo Beach) and the Smith parking lot across from The Presidio Riding Club (over 1 mile from Rodeo Beach).
3. Caspar State Beach
Caspar State Beach is an ideal destination for families seeking a quieter beach experience. Its relatively secluded location means it’s often less crowded than other nearby beaches allowing families to enjoy a more peaceful and intimate setting. The beach’s cove-like formation provides some protection from the stronger ocean currents, making it a safer option for swimming, especially for younger children.
One of the standout features of Caspar State Beach is its suitability for a range of water-based activities. The calm waters of the cove are conducive to swimming, making it a favorite spot for families during the warmer months. Additionally, the beach is known for its tide pools, which are teeming with marine life. Exploring these tide pools can be an educational and fun activity for kids and adults alike, offering a chance to observe starfish, anemones, crabs, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat.
Here’s a summary of the amenities available at Caspar Headlands State Beach:
- Phone Number for Inquiries: Visitors can reach out to (707) 937-5804 for any queries related to the beach.
- Park Hours: The beach operates from sunrise to sunset.
- Dogs: Dogs are allowed at Caspar Headlands State Beach, making it pet-friendly.
- Accessible Features: The beach has features that cater to accessibility needs, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the beach.
- Safety Tips & Drone Restrictions: Drones are not allowed in the park due to various reasons, including potential disturbances to other visitors and wildlife.
4. Santa Cruz Beach
Santa Cruz City beaches are central to the Santa Cruz coastline. They offer a variety of activities and scenic views, making them a must-visit for anyone traveling to Santa Cruz. Whether you’re interested in taking a scenic walk along the shore, playing a game of volleyball, exploring the Santa Cruz Wharf or simply relaxing on the soft sand, these beaches are an essential stop.
Additionally, Santa Cruz Beach stands out for its proximity to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the state’s oldest surviving amusement park. The boardwalk’s plethora of activities ensures that families have a variety of entertainment options.
Amenities here include:
- Lifeguard Headquarters: Located at #1 Municipal Wharf, the lifeguard headquarters can be reached at 831-420-5715 for any beach-related inquiries.
- Public Bathrooms: Restroom facilities are available for visitors.
- Public Transit: The beach is accessible via public transportation, making it convenient for those without personal vehicles.
- Lifeguards: Lifeguard services are provided at specific times:
- Summer Service: Daily from 10 AM to 7 PM (Memorial Day to Labor Day)
- Spring Service: Weekends from 10 AM to 7 PM (Easter to Memorial Day)
- Fall Service: Weekends from 10 AM to 7 PM (Labor Day to October). Service hours might vary based on weather conditions.
- Vollyball: The beach offers 16 volleyball courts that are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reservations are encouraged.
5. Gualala Point Regional Park
Gualala Point Regional Park is an oceanfront park located in the northwest corner of Sonoma County. It borders both the Gualala River and Mendocino County. The park spans both sides of Highway 1 and offers a diverse range of natural attractions, from its expansive beach and estuary to its forested areas. One of the standout features of the park is its expansive beach and estuary, where the Gualala River meets the Pacific Ocean.
For families, the park’s visitor center, open on most weekends, serves as an educational hub. Here, families can learn about the North Coast’s history, the heritage of the Native American communities, the ecology of the Gualala River, and the marine environment. Such educational insights can make a visit to the park both fun and informative for children and adults alike.
Amenities here include:
- Contact: For inquiries, the park can be reached at 707-785-2377 or via email at [email protected].
- Visitor Center: A visitor center, open on most weekends, provides insights into the North Coast’s history, Native American heritage, the Gualala River, and the marine environment.
Book your trip to Northern California here!
6. Seaside Beach
Part of the Monterey State Beach, Seaside Beach offers a tranquil setting, perfect for picnics, beach games, or simply enjoying the rhythmic sound of the waves. The beach’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean means that it’s also a great spot for watching marine life as well, including the occasional sighting of whales during their migration periods.
While Seaside Beach offers a peaceful environment, it’s essential to note that it might not have the extensive amenities that some of the more commercialized beaches offer. Furthermore, parking for Seaside Beach is somewhat limited, accommodating approximately 8-10 cars. The parking lot is situated along Highway 1, about a mile north of the bridge over Ten Mile River. This places it roughly nine miles north of Fort Bragg.
7. Fort Funston Beach
Fort Funston Beach, located in San Francisco, is a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. The beach offers a scenic section that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean where families can enjoy a range of activities from hiking and biking to simply relaxing on the sandy shores.
One of the standout features of Fort Funston is its accessibility to various trails, making it a haven for hikers and bikers. The trails are well-maintained and provide breathtaking views of the coastline, making it a memorable experience for families. Additionally, the beach area is known for its popularity among beach-goers, offering a serene environment to relax and soak in the sun.
However, it’s essential to note that while Fort Funston offers a natural and picturesque setting, it does lack certain amenities. As such, families planning a visit should come prepared with essentials like water, snacks, and appropriate sunprotection and check conditions before siwimming.
8. Glass Beach
Glass Beach, located in Fort Bragg, is a unique and fascinating destination that has captured the attention of both locals and tourists for years. What makes this beach stand out is its colorful sea glass, which is the result of years of dumping garbage into the area. Over time, the ocean’s waves have smoothed and polished the glass, turning them into beautiful, jewel-like pebbles that cover the shore.
For families, Glass Beach offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Children, in particular, are often mesmerized by the shimmering pieces of sea glass, and it can be a fun activity for them to search for different colors and shapes. However, it’s essential to note that while it’s tempting to collect these glass pieces as souvenirs, visitors are encouraged to leave them behind to preserve the beach’s unique beauty for future generations.
During low tide, visitors can explore tide pools that often house various marine life. This can be an educational and fun activity, especially for kids.
Here are the amenities available at Glass Beach:
- Parking: Glass Beach has a parking lot located at the end of Elm Street. This parking is free and can accommodate a fair number of cars.
- Restrooms: There are public restrooms available near the parking area for visitors’ convenience.
9. Enderts Beach
Enderts Beach, nestled near Crescent City in the Redwood National Park, is a coastal gem that offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and tranquility. The beach is characterized by its rugged cliffs, pristine sands and a serene environment, making it an ideal spot for relaxation, beachcombing and soaking in the picturesque surroundings.
One of the standout features of Enderts Beach is its accessibility to tide pools. These natural formations are a treasure trove of marine life, providing children with an educational and exciting opportunity to explore and learn about various sea creatures. The beach also boasts scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the coastline, making it a haven for those who enjoy hiking and nature walks as well.
Amenities at Enderts Beach include:
- Parking: There is a parking area located at the southern end of Enderts Beach Road. This parking is designed to accommodate visitors coming to the beach and is conveniently located near the trailhead that leads to the beach.
- Trail Access: The beach can be accessed via a half-mile hike that descends to this rugged beach. The trail is a part of the “Last Chance Section” of the California Coastal Trail. The first part of the trail follows coastal cliffs, and after about a third of a mile, there’s a trail junction before crossing Nickel Creek. A sign at this junction points to Enderts Beach down a spur trail that descends approximately 200 feet to the ocean.
- Interpretive Panels: Along the trails leading to the beach, there are two interpretive wayside panels that provide information about coastal vegetation and tide pools, enhancing the educational experience for visitors.
- Restrooms: Facilities are available, but they are located only at the parking lot and not directly on the beach.
10. Montara State Beach
Montara State Beach, located just south of Pacifica and north of Half Moon Bay, is a coastal gem that offers families a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its expansive sandy shores, dramatic cliffs and the rhythmic sound of crashing waves, this beach provides a picturesque backdrop for a day of relaxation for all ages.
For families, Montara State Beach presents a great array of activities. The beach is renowned for its tide pools, where children can marvel at the diverse marine life, from colorful starfish to tiny crabs. This not only provides entertainment but also serves as an educational experience, teaching kids about the wonders of marine ecosystems. The gentle waves at certain parts of the beach are suitable for wading as well allowing families to enjoy the cool waters safely.
Here are the amenities available at Montara State Beach:
- Parking: Montara State Beach has a parking area located at the southern end of Enderts Beach Road. This parking is designed to accommodate visitors coming to the beach.
- Restrooms: Facilities are available near the parking area for visitors’ convenience.
- Dogs: Dogs are permitted at Montara State Beach, provided they are controlled with a leash of no more than six feet at all times.
- Safety Precautions: The beach has guidelines for ocean safety, emphasizing the unpredictability of the ocean with strong currents and riptides. Visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially near the water.
- Prohibitions: Beach fires, collecting (removing shells, driftwood, and other natural beach features), fireworks, and drones are not allowed at the beach.
Conclusion
There you have it, my 10 best beaches in Northern California for families. As usual, let me know of your experiences here or if there is anything you think I need to add.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
