Beach Camping in California
Discover the best beach camping across California. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Gold Bluff Beach Campground
Your tent sits mere steps from wild Pacific surf, where Roosevelt elk emerge from morning fog and sea lions bark from offshore rocks. The golden beach stretches endlessly in both directions, while Fern Canyon's prehistoric walls wait just minutes away through towering coastal redwoods.
Santa Rosa Island
Pristine white-sand beaches stretch for miles along this remote Channel Islands outpost, where crystal-clear waters meet untouched coastline accessible only by boat.
Sycamore Campground
Pitch your tent beneath towering sycamores in a coastal canyon, then slip through an underpass to reach expansive Pacific beaches for surfing, tide pooling, and sunset watching.
About Beach Camping in California
Beach camping California offers an unparalleled coastal experience where the Pacific Ocean meets diverse landscapes ranging from ancient redwood forests to remote island wilderness. California's 840-mile coastline provides beach camping opportunities unlike anywhere else in the United States, with campgrounds perched on dramatic bluffs, nestled in coastal canyons, and situated directly on sandy shores.
Best Time
The optimal time for beach camping California depends on your preferred experience and tolerance for coastal weather. Late spring through early fall (May through October) offers the most reliable weather, with September and October providing the warmest ocean temperatures and clearest skies as summer fog patterns dissipate.
Scenery Highlights
- Oceanfront and lakeside sites
- Sandy beaches and swimming
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Water sports and fishing
Explore Beach Camping in California
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular beach campgrounds exactly six months in advance when booking windows open, as prime oceanfront sites at locations like Wright's Beach and Sycamore fill within minutes.
- 2Bring layered clothing regardless of season—coastal temperatures can swing 30 degrees between foggy mornings and sunny afternoons, and evening ocean breezes require warm jackets even in July.
- 3Pack a quality tent with strong stakes and guy lines, as coastal winds can be significant, especially at bluff-top campgrounds like Abalone.
- 4Consider bringing a sun shelter or canopy for daytime beach activities, as shade is often limited.
Beach Camping in California FAQ
We've ranked 20+ beach campgrounds in California based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in California is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in California, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
Popular California Campgrounds Book Fast
The best beach camping in California book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Gold Bluff Beach Campground
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Find Your Perfect California Campground
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- Search 20+ beach camping in California
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