Condé Nast TravelerJan 26The Best Beaches in California for Swimming, Whale Watching, and Winter SunIt's impossible to do an entirely comprehensive list, but here's a good place to start along the shores of the Golden State.Comfy cottages and cabins20 things in this storyCarmelNeighborhoodArea with luxurious white sandsEl Matador BeachSightHidden gem with rock formations and sea cavesThe Surfrider MalibuHotelIconically beachy place to stayCalamigos Ranch Resort & SpaHotelLuxurious stay in the nearby mountainsPfeiffer BeachSightStandout beach known for purple sand and Keyhole ArchFernwood ResortMotelCozy rustic vibe place to stayPost Ranch InnHotelUltimate romantic luxury stayMcWay FallsSightTidefall in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State ParkJulia Pfeiffer Burns State ParkNature reservePark where McWay Falls is locatedBig Sur LodgeHotelComfy cottages and cabinsCrescent Bay BeachSightPicturesque beach perfect for laying on sandAlila VentanaHotelCelebrity-fave luxury stayCapri LagunaHotelSpot right on the beachCasa Loma Beach HotelMotelStylish beachy vibeLa Jolla CoveSightAnimal lover's paradise with seals and sea lionsHotel La JollaHotelStylish retreatLa Valencia HotelHotelOld-world vibes with ocean viewsMuscle BeachSightMuscle Beach Venice is the contemporary title of the outdoor weightlifting platform constructed in Venice,…The Georgian HotelHotelArt deco vibeShutters on the BeachHotelNancy Meyers energyRead the full piece at Condé Nast Traveler →