The Warmest Beaches in California (2025)
Go Back To Previous PageCalifornia boasts miles of stunning, golden coastline. From the palm-fringed beaches of Los Angeles to the rugged cliffside beaches of Northern California, the Pacific coastline offers breathtaking views. However, dipping your toes in the Pacific can be challenging at times due to the generally cold water temperatures. Let’s discuss the Warmest Beaches in California.
1. Long Beach: the Warmest Beach in California
Long Beach is renowned for having the warmest waters in California, with summer water temperatures consistently exceeding 75°F and air temperatures reaching as high as 84°F.
Located in Los Angeles County, it is also one of California’s most popular tourist destinations.
Therefore, the warm climate makes Long Beach an ideal spot for watersports, festivals, and volleyball tournaments.
In addition to its warm waters, Long Beach is one of the most affordable beach towns in California. It features one of the longest paved bike & hiking trails in the state, which runs along the beautiful Pacific coastline.
2. Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach is renowned for being one of the warmest sandy beaches in California.
Therefore, with its warm weather and water temperatures, it is a top destination for surfers, volleyball players, and beachgoers alike.
Nicknamed “Surf City,” Huntington Beach enjoys consistent water temperatures throughout the year. One notable attraction is the Huntington Beach Pier, which is one of the longest public piers on the West Coast.
3. Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach, located in Orange County, is a fantastic family-friendly natural getaway. It is renowned for its sunny cliffs that overlook warm, pristine waters. The average summer temperature in Laguna Beach is around 80 degrees, and this pleasant climate remains consistent throughout the year. T
he area is characterized by lush trees and foliage along the waterfront, offering numerous walking and biking trails for exploration. Additionally, downtown Laguna Beach features excellent restaurants, entertainment options, and art galleries to enjoy.
4. San Clemente State Beach
San Clemente is renowned for its miles of walking trails and piers, making it a fantastic place to soak up the sun. With an average summer temperature of 79 degrees, it’s ideal for outdoor activities such as surfing, volleyball, and various water sports.
Some popular local attractions include the San Clemente Pier, scenic beach trails, and the breathtaking Calafia Cliffs. Downtown San Clemente is perfect for walking and is famous for its charming Spanish-style architecture.
5. Santa Barbara Beach
Santa Barbara Beach is known as one of the warmest beaches in California. It is in Santa Barbara, a coastal city in Southern California, just north of Los Angeles. The city is renowned for its pleasant Mediterranean climate and charming Spanish-style architecture.
With an average temperature of 77°F, Santa Barbara Beach is an ideal location for summer relaxation. The area offers a wide range of activities both on and off the beach, making Santa Barbara one of the most popular tourist destinations in California.
6. Drakes Beach
Drakes Beach, located about an hour north of San Francisco, is the warmest beach in Northern California and one of the most picturesque in the state. Stunning white sandstone cliffs overlook this scenic landscape, and the water temperatures here are typically above the local average.
In addition to its dramatic sandy cliffs, Drakes Beach is a favored spot for local wildlife, including seal populations. Visitors can also explore nearby nature reserves, such as Point Reyes National Seashore.
7. Stinson Beach
Stinson Beach, located an hour north of San Francisco, is an excellent place to soak up the sun. With an average summer temperature of 77°F, it offers warm weather for Northern California. The beach is ideal for water sports, sunbathing, and exploring nearby nature preserves and state parks.
The town of Stinson Beach itself is small and relaxed, making it a perfect spot to stop for a meal.
8. Mission Beach
Mission Beach, located in San Diego, is a popular destination for surfers. During the summer, average temperatures range in the mid-70s, accompanied by consistent sunshine and beautiful weather.
Therefore, the Mission Beach Boardwalk is a lively spot that features a variety of food options, shops, and games.
Additionally, Mission Beach hosts numerous volleyball tournaments and outdoor workout sessions, making it a vibrant place for both relaxation and activity.
9. La Jolla Beach
La Jolla, located in San Diego, is a beautiful beach known for its ocean bluffs and nearby country clubs. The area features a natural coastline, complete with sea caves and tide pools teeming with marine life.
During the summer, the average temperature in La Jolla typically ranges from the low to mid-70s.
Additionally, La Jolla is home to the University of California, San Diego, which engages in a variety of marine research. The local wildlife includes great white sharks, seals, and dolphins.
10. Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach features one of the most iconic coastlines in California. Renowned for its Ferris wheel and pier, the beach is an ideal destination for surfing, sunbathing, biking, and sightseeing. Therefore, it is just a short walk from the city of Santa Monica. It offers a variety of bars, clubs, and diverse dog-friendly restaurants.
You can see the Santa Monica Mountains from the coastline. They are easily accessible by a short drive. The average summer temperature at Santa Monica Beach is 71 degrees.
