Remarkable beaches to explore

Beach Guide

With every great coast, there are several great beaches. Not all beach was created equal, but here are a few of my favorite places that are absolutely breathtaking, one-of-a-kind, and mostly tucked away from major beaches.


Northern California:

  • Alamere Falls: a great hike, and there is an actual waterfall that falls onto the beach
  • Bonny Doon: breathtaking turquoise waters, dolphins, seals, and occasionally nudists
  • Gray Whale Cove: dangerous crossing of the street, but a gorgeous beach down a set of stairs
  • Panther Beach: close to Bonny Doon

Southern California

  • 1000 Steps Beach: a favorite by locals and worth the steps
  • Butterfly Beach: anywhere in Santa Barbara is gorgeous, this one is a little less populated
  • Manhattan Beach: not secluded, but one of my favorites along the beautiful Strand, surrounded by great eats and shopping, and a beautiful pier overlooking Palos Verdes
  • Shaw’s Cove: by far one of my favorite beaches in the world

Australia

East

  • Sydney: Tamarama, McKenzie’s Bay, Blackwoods (Cronulla)
  • Shoal Bay

West

  • Southwest, Esperance: Twilight Beach, Blue Haven Beach