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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to California

Parks

You prefer a beach that transitions seamlessly into a park.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Marina Park image 1
Marina Park image 2
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City park

Waterfront park offers calm beach with little waves and playground featuring a lighthouse slide. Families gather for safe children's swim area and picnic spots near open grass and water access. Kayak and paddleboard rentals add to the relaxed, family-friendly vibe.

Soft sand and calm water create a safe beach ideal for kids. A nearby playground and open grass areas offer space for children to run and play.

A pirate ship-themed playground with a lighthouse slide offers fun for toddlers and small kids. The beach has little waves and a safe area for children to play in sand and water.

People are saying

"This playground is perfect for small children and offers less stress for parents."

"This park is perfect for small children with its playground and beach."

"It's a great family beach for small children."

Good to know

1

Parking at Marina Park costs $3.75 per hour, with limited free street parking.

2

There is plenty of parking during non-summer hours, but it can be challenging to find a spot.

3

The beach at Marina Park is safe for kids with little waves and a designated swimming area.

02
Fletcher Cove Beach Park image 1

Wide, clean beach with easy access and ample parking offers a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Grassy picnic areas and a renovated playground provide space for relaxation and play. Lifeguards on duty and well-maintained facilities support a safe, calm environment.

A wide, clean beach with easy access and complete facilities offers a serene spot for visitors. A grassy area nearby provides great views for watching sunsets without heavy crowds.

Easy access to the beach and sunset views make this park stand out. It features a renovated playground with a shaded area next to the parking lot, ideal for younger kids. Lifeguards are on duty, and a nice observation perch overlooks the park.

People are saying

"This park has a nice playground and plenty of sand."

"This beach is calm, clean, and perfect for a relaxing day with kids."

"The restrooms and showers here are spotless."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited but free, with some street parking available nearby.

2

The public restrooms and showers are free and well-maintained.

3

The park has lifeguards on duty for safety.

03
Treasure Island Park image 1

Beach features breathtaking ocean views and paved trails with benches and picnic areas for relaxing. Atmosphere stays laid-back and serene, with few people and a friendly vibe. Waves crash over boulder reefs, creating scenic tide pools and a unique coastal experience.

Tide pools and lazy seals stand out along a clean sandy beach with a beautiful blue ocean. Rocky areas add variety, creating a secluded atmosphere that feels like stepping into another world.

Stunning coastal bluffs and sandy coves create a breathtaking setting. The park offers wheelchair and stroller friendly paved paths leading to the beach, making it accessible and family-friendly.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and amazing."

"It's so kid friendly, the tide pools are amazing for little ones."

"I found the parks here to be so beautiful and scenic."

Good to know

1

Parking across the street costs $2.50 per hour.

2

Dogs are allowed before 9am and after 6pm, but this is not posted.

3

There are public bathrooms and showers near the 'Lost Point' Cafe.

04
Laguna Beach, California image 1

Coastal park offers breathtaking ocean views and peaceful, clean beaches with volleyball and basketball courts. The atmosphere stays serene and family-friendly, with open spaces and playgrounds for kids. Pathways invite easy strolls along the coast, enhancing the relaxing vibe.

Clean sand and water make this beach stand out. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere with easy access from the main street and a safe environment for kids to play.

Offers amazing views along the coastline with a playground, basketball court, and picnic area. Hiking paths provide a memorable experience right by the beach.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and clean."

"The sunsets here are unforgettable and truly beautiful."

"The ocean views from the parks here are breathtaking."

Good to know

1

Parking meters cost $6.50 per hour; plan ahead for limited parking.

2

Restrooms and showers are conveniently located just steps from the beach.

3

The beach is very clean with no trash in sight.

05
Glorietta Bay Park image 1

Park offers panoramic bay views and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere with well-manicured lawns and playground facilities. It attracts families and couples seeking calm outdoor space with scenic surroundings. Parking can be limited but the area remains peaceful and clean.

A quiet beach with a gorgeous view of the Bay offers a clean, small sandy area perfect for kids. Nearby grass, tables, and restrooms add convenience without crowds.

Well-maintained lawns, vibrant flower beds, and towering palm trees create a picturesque setting. The park offers panoramic views of the bay and bridge, along with clean, safe facilities including restrooms and ample parking.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the bay and the Coronado Bridge."

"The parks here offer beautiful views of the ocean and skyline."

"I found the beach gorgeous with a great view of the bay."

Good to know

1

Parking at Glorietta Bay Park is limited, but ample street parking is available.

2

The bathrooms at the park are outdated and may not be very clean.

3

Check the water quality report before swimming in the bay.

06
Ellen Browning Scripps Park image 1

Open coastal park offers spectacular ocean views and peaceful walking trails with lush greenery. Visitors often watch sea lions playing nearby and enjoy picnic areas with shade and grills. The atmosphere stays calm and relaxing, making it ideal for unwinding by the water.

Clean restrooms and safe water make the beach comfortable for visitors. Wildlife like seals and sea lions swim nearby, adding to the natural charm. The beach offers great views and easy access along the cliffs.

Great park right on the coastline offers incredible views and a pet friendly atmosphere. It features open spaces perfect for picnics and walks with family.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful ocean views and sunsets here."

"You can see sea lions and seals right from the beach here."

"The parks here offer stunning ocean views and magnificent sunsets."

Good to know

1

The park hosts summer concerts every Saturday at 6pm.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Free parking is available for up to three hours.

07
Sea Grove Park image 1

Cliff-top park offers breathtaking ocean views and tranquil beach atmosphere with grassy areas and plenty of benches. Soft ocean breezes and sounds of waves create a peaceful vibe. Locals and tourists gather here, especially to watch the sunset.

Sandy beach with no rocks offers easy access and space to relax. Stunning views from the cliff top overlook surfers and the shoreline, making it a great spot for walking, yoga, and enjoying the sea.

Beautiful views and a sandy beach with no rocks make this park stand out. It offers green soft grass, benches, a playground, and easy access to nearby food and shopping.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful ocean views from the park."

"I loved the beautiful ocean views from these parks."

"I enjoyed the beautiful beach views and refreshing environment."

Good to know

1

Parking at Sea Grove Park is limited and can be hard to find.

2

There is an unwritten four-hour parking limit at Sea Grove Park.

3

Parking can be expensive if you find a spot in public parking nearby.

08
Crescent Bay Point Park image 1

Seaside cliff park offers sweeping ocean views and a large open lawn for relaxation. The atmosphere stays peaceful and tranquil, especially during weekdays, with southern-facing sunlight lasting until sunset. It attracts those seeking a quiet spot for picnics, yoga, or romantic moments.

A peaceful beach with clear water and great access offers a quiet spot away from crowds. Beautiful houses surround the clean shore, making it ideal for families and those who prefer a less busy beach.

Small but romantic park with gorgeous ocean views and a scenic lookout point. Offers wide sweeping views of the Pacific and surrounding area, making it a great spot for sunrise or sunset.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful, scenic ocean views."

"I found this beach to be peaceful and less busy than others."

"The park's views of the ocean and Laguna Beach are beautiful."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at Crescent Bay Point Park.

2

There are no local bathrooms at Crescent Bay Point Park.

3

Parking can be difficult at Crescent Bay Point Park during peak times.

09
Crystal Cove State Park image 1

Beachfront park offers breathtaking ocean views and peaceful, mellow atmosphere with beautiful rock formations and nostalgic 1930s bungalows. The area remains quiet and uncrowded, inviting relaxation and reflection. Trails lead to scenic viewpoints with benches, enhancing the tranquil experience.

Beautiful coastline offers a stunning beach experience with amazing access. This spot stands out as a favorite beach in Southern California, known for its natural charm and family-friendly vibe.

Unspoiled coastline meets breathtaking ocean views along well-marked trails. The park offers organized facilities and a chance to spot dolphins near the shore.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful with stunning views."

"It's a quiet, natural spot, not overcrowded or trashed."

"The park's ocean views are stunning and peaceful."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 at the entrance, but plan ahead as it's limited.

2

You need a California state pass to park there.

3

There are no stores at the park, so bring food, drinks, and sunblock.

10
La Jolla Shores Park image 1

Large beach with spectacular ocean views and a spacious grassy area creates a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Lifeguards and fire pits add to the safe, relaxed vibe. The park feels well-maintained and perfect for quiet afternoons or casual gatherings.

Wide, sandy beach offers plenty of space for swimming and surfing. Free parking is usually available right at the beach, making it easy to visit with family.

Soft, clean sand and clear, warm water create a stunning beach park with calm waters ideal for swimming and surfing. Free parking and spectacular views add to the appeal for families and visitors.

People are saying

"The beach here is really clean and felt safe."

"The parks here are stunning with gorgeous natural beauty."

"The sunset here is beautiful and did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

Parking at La Jolla Shores Park is limited, especially on weekends.

2

Free parking is available, but it can fill up quickly.

3

Public restrooms are located near the parking lot.

11
South Mission Beach Park image 1

Park offers many volleyball courts and bonfire pits near a clean, walkable beach with ocean views. Space feels open with a well-maintained basketball court and picnic areas. Parking varies from limited to available, influencing crowd levels.

Busy and beautiful, this beach features many volleyball courts and several bonfire pits. It offers great spots for sunset viewing and a less crowded area favored by surfers.

Cleanliness stands out with well-kept grounds. The playground offers a fun spot for kids. Parking can be tricky, so arriving early helps secure a spot near the lot.

People are saying

"I found plenty of parking available."

"I always enjoy my time at this great park."

"This beach is beautiful and clean."

Good to know

1

Parking at South Mission Beach Park is very limited, so arrive early.

2

The restrooms at South Mission Beach Park are often dirty.

3

There are many volleyball courts available at South Mission Beach Park.

12
Treasure Island Beach image 1

Small beach offers 360-degree stunning views with rock formations and tide pools to explore. Atmosphere feels clean, quiet, and luxurious, attracting those seeking a romantic and serene setting. Well-maintained landscaping includes benches and outdoor showers, enhancing comfort and convenience.

Clear blue water and clean, well-kept landscaping create a peaceful and beautiful beach setting. The beach offers quiet atmosphere with few tourists and excellent views for photography and sunset watching.

Beautiful landscaping and panoramic ocean views define the park. Well-maintained paths lead from parking beneath the park to the coastline, with parking limited to 3 hours.

People are saying

"The beach views were amazing and picturesque."

"It's a peaceful escape with clean sand and quiet seas."

"This park's soft sand and tide pools are gorgeous."

Good to know

1

Be aware of the parking situation; it can be limited and challenging.

2

There are no toilets available at the beach.

3

Swimming is not safe due to strong currents; lifeguards are present.

13
Cuvier Park image 1

Park offers spectacular ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere with gentle waves and ocean breeze. Large green space invites families and children to explore tide pools and enjoy picnics. Seating areas and photo spots add to the relaxing, scenic experience.

Beautiful beaches and coves offer gorgeous views and a clean shoreline. A walking path runs alongside the beach with green space above, plus parking access near tide pools at low tide.

A large green space offers room for picnics and play with majestic ocean views. The park hosts wedding ceremonies and provides breathtaking sunset views that create a serene, romantic atmosphere.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are beautiful and spectacular."

"I loved the beautiful ocean views from this park."

"The beach offers spectacular views of the teal blue water."

Good to know

1

Cuvier Park hosts many wedding ceremonies, especially on weekends.

2

Parking at Cuvier Park is often difficult; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Visitors should be cautious of seals and avoid bringing food due to aggressive behavior.

14
Miramar Park image 1
City park

Grassy hills overlook the ocean with incredible sunset views and scenic coastline vistas. Quiet and family-friendly, the park offers dog-friendly paths and easy beach access. Calm energy invites relaxation and peaceful walks.

Clean beach with easy access and lifeguards on duty offers beautiful views and a great area for walking. Dolphins can often be seen just off the shore, adding to the scenic aquatic nature.

Offers beautiful ocean views and a great view of Palos Verdes. The park is dog friendly with good grass and plenty of benches for sitting.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful ocean views here."

"I found the beach here beautiful with great views."

"The park offers beautiful ocean views and sunset watching."

Good to know

1

The Church At The Beach service starts at 9 am.

2

Parking costs $2 per hour or $7 for all day.

3

There are wheelchair-accessible routes to the beach.

15
Torrey Pines State Beach image 1

Towering sandstone cliffs overlook a pristine beach with crashing waves and a gentle breeze that creates a calm, refreshing atmosphere. Visitors find space to spread out, enjoy peaceful solitude, or watch paragliders launch from the cliffs. The setting offers stunning panoramic views and a raw, natural vibe without pretense.

Quiet and serene beach with clean shores and a unique rock beach area. Offers great spots for hiking and surfing with peaceful views and minimal crowds.

Short but beautiful hikes wind through the nearby state park area. The information center offers helpful staff, and parking fees support wildlife preservation.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and clean."

"The panoramic ocean views from the cliffs are stunning and refreshing."

"The parks offer killer views of the ocean and city."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20 for all-day access.

2

The hiking trails are currently closed until February 2026.

3

Volunteers offer guided hikes on weekends.

16
Tecolote Shores image 1

Park offers beautiful scenic views and spacious playgrounds with accessible play equipment and musical play elements. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, ideal for relaxing or family gatherings. Crowds include families with kids enjoying the upgraded play areas and waterfront setting.

Smooth, sandy beaches with calm water and a gentle slope make swimming safe for children. Two playgrounds sit right next to the beach, adding to the convenience for families.

Several parks feature state-of-the-art playgrounds suitable for all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. One park offers a wide variety of playground equipment and sits next to the bay, allowing kids to play in the sand while enjoying a beautiful view.

People are saying

"It's a great spot with two amazing playgrounds for kids."

"The playgrounds here are amazing and accessible for all kids."

"It's a beautiful beach, perfect for family fun and kids playing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, especially on weekends and holidays.

2

The park is handicap accessible with facilities for children with disabilities.

3

Tecolote Shores hosts local Dragon Boat races throughout the summer.

17
Mission Beach Park image 1

Boardwalk runs alongside a giant roller coaster and an amusement park with shops and eateries. Beach offers clean, relaxing atmosphere with sunny, peaceful views and opportunities for outdoor activities. Family-friendly vibe fills the area with friendly energy and live music.

Beautiful sandy beach offers a clean and less crowded experience toward the south. Plenty of activities and free parking right at the beach make it a great public spot with nearby restaurants.

A long, beautiful stretch of beach meets a clean, well-kept park perfect for roller skating and biking. The nearby amusement area features a giant wooden roller coaster and rides that appeal to both kids and adults.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and super clean."

"It's a fun place with a roller coaster and beach activities."

"The parks here offer beautiful beaches and ocean views."

Good to know

1

Parking fills up quickly, so arrive early to avoid parking across the street.

2

Parking at Mission Beach Park is free.

3

Finding parking is difficult, especially with red curbs that could result in a ticket.

18
Baby Beach image 1
Public beach

Small, quiet beach offers calm waters ideal for children and family activities. Barbecue areas and picnic grass create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Lifeguards and coast guard presence add to the sense of safety.

A protected sandy beach with very fine sand and no rocks makes it ideal for toddlers and young kids to swim and play. Free parking is available, and the calm waters suit paddle boarding and kayaking from the shore.

Big shade trees and a few picnic tables create a nice spot for last-minute picnics. The area combines a small park with a beach for a simple outdoor setting.

People are saying

"This beach is perfect for kids, with calm, shallow water."

"It's a fun place for kids to splash and play in the water."

"The park areas are beautiful and great for kids."

Good to know

1

Parking is free, but arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Dogs are not allowed on the sand or near the water.

3

The beach has limited bathroom facilities with only two stalls.

19
Alamitos Park image 1

Small beach park with rocks extending into the ocean and emerald grass invites picnics and sunbathing. Atmosphere stays relaxing and scenic, with views of boats and nearby wildlife. Playground sounds and gentle waves create a peaceful yet lively setting.

A small beach park with rocks extending into the ocean offers a relaxing spot. A huge beach nearby provides spectacular views and stays quiet even when visited.

A clean, beautiful spot with rocks extending into the ocean and winding trails for walking. It offers good fishing for halibut and bass, plus views of boats, birds, and even whales.

People are saying

"It's a small, gorgeous beach with rocks to explore."

"It's a beautiful, relaxing spot with amazing views."

"This park offers a beautiful view of the bay and boats."

Good to know

1

Parking at Alamitos Park is not free; there is a charge for parking.

2

Restrooms are available and in good condition at the park.

3

The park is great for fishing, with various fish species present.

20
Mission Beach, San Diego image 1

Public beach features wide boardwalk, amusement park, and roller coaster near the shore. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and serene during the day to lively and crowded in evenings and weekends. Visitors include families, couples, and surfers enjoying clean beach and great waves.

Clean beach with fun waves offers a great spot for surfing and relaxing. A long boardwalk runs alongside, lined with restaurants and shops, creating a lively yet serene atmosphere.

Rides offer fun and excitement. The park has a lovely atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to have an amazing vibe."

"The sunsets here are spectacular and a real highlight."

"It's a lively place with everybody present at the parks."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available, but it can be hard to find during summer.

2

The beach gets crowded in the evenings and on weekends.

3

Lifeguards are alert and visible throughout the beach.

21
Kellogg Park image 1

Open space with beach access and ocean views creates a relaxing atmosphere. Grassy areas and a playground attract families and picnickers. The vibe shifts from peaceful to lively with music and crowds near the sand.

Soft, clean sand and well-organized waters for kayaking, swimming, and diving make the beach safe and enjoyable. Lifeguards are on duty, and nearby fire pits and a playground add to the experience for families and kids.

A beachside park with a varied playground for kids of all ages, including swings and a sandpit. It offers clean restrooms, ocean views, and space for activities like barbecues and surfing.

People are saying

"Parking available, but you might need to arrive early."

"This beach is a great playground for the kids."

"It's a great playground by the beach with lots of options."

Good to know

1

Parking is free, but it can be challenging to find a spot during the day.

2

Arrive before 8am to secure a public parking space near the park.

3

The park has a great kids' playground right on the beach.

22
China Basin Park image 1

Park offers stunning water views including a nearby stadium and bay. It features quiet, scenic spaces with grassy areas, a sandy beach with bright chairs, and paved paths for walking or cycling. Visitors find it peaceful yet urban, framed by modern buildings and suitable for relaxation or casual gatherings.

Several grassy areas border a wide walk and cycle path right next to the shoreline. A sandy beach area features bright red Adirondack chairs and reclining wooden chairs for sitting and relaxing.

Small but lovely park with amazing views of the bay, Oracle Park, and nearby bridges. Offers a dog park, walking paths, shaded seating, and a peaceful atmosphere for quiet reflection or socializing.

People are saying

"I loved the great views of the stadium and the bay."

"The park offers stunning views of the bay and Oracle Park."

"It's a cute beach area with fun, reclining chairs."

Good to know

1

The park has a gender-neutral restroom available for visitors.

2

Expect a small beach area with sand and benches for relaxation.

3

The park is conveniently located across from Oracle Park and near the Caltrain station.

23
Scotchmans Cove, Crystal Cove State Park image 1

Beach with breathtaking views and accessible tide pools offers a romantic atmosphere during sunset. Parking requires a fee, and the area remains not too busy, attracting locals seeking a friendly California shoreline.

Friendly California beach with a beautiful coastline offers a pleasant walking experience. Access requires a fee that many find worth paying.

Shoreline offers a state park experience with access to a beach. Parking costs twenty dollars with options in multiple parking lots.

People are saying

"I loved exploring the tide pools full of treasures at this beach."

"You can park in different lots near the local Parks."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20 for the day at Scotchmans Cove.

2

Tide pools are accessible and best explored during low tide.

3

Scotchmans Cove is less crowded during weekdays.

24
Heisler Park Beach Stairway image 1

Coastal cliffs and crashing waves create breathtaking ocean views with smooth walking paths and beach access. Picnic areas with barbecues and benches offer spots to relax and enjoy the peaceful, scenic atmosphere. Visitors often come for photography, nature walks, and quiet moments by the water.

Stairway access leads to a clean beach with breathtaking ocean views and rugged cliffs. The area features a beautiful park with artwork and a scenic boardwalk nearby.

Offers stunning coastal views with rugged cliffs and beaches. Features scenic trails, lush flowers, and tropical palm trees. Great for family picnics, photography sessions, and walking pets on leash.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful with stunning scenery."

"The park's views are gorgeous, especially the coastal cliffs and waves."

"Parking is available on the street, though it can be tricky."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during weekends.

2

Pets are allowed on the beach before 9am and after 6pm.

3

Public parking on Cliff Drive is free after 7 pm.

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