Avoid These 7 West Coast Beaches If You Hate Crowds
You finally make it to the beach, and… it’s a zoo. Screaming kids, blasting Bluetooth speakers, no parking for miles, and someone’s towel basically touching yours. Sound familiar? Some West Coast beaches are undeniably beautiful—but they’re also way too popular for their own good.
If you’re looking for peace, space, and an actual chance to hear the ocean, here are 7 beaches to avoid during peak season—and where to go instead.
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1. Santa Monica Beach, California
Why it’s packed: Tourists. Locals. Spring breakers. Everyone.
This beach is basically L.A.’s front yard—and while the pier and views are iconic, the crowds are nonstop. Parking is expensive, and you’ll be dodging bikes, strollers, and beach vendors all day.
Go here instead: Zuma Beach in Malibu is just up the coast, way more spacious, and much less chaotic.
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2. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Why it’s packed: Everyone wants that Haystack Rock selfie
Cannon Beach is stunning, but in summer? It’s a madhouse. Hotels are booked months out, parking is a nightmare, and the beach feels like a photo shoot assembly line.
Go here instead: Manzanita is 15 minutes south with similar views and a way more laid-back vibe.
3. La Jolla Cove, California
Why it’s packed: Tour buses, snorkelers, and sea lion fan clubs
It’s gorgeous, but the beach is tiny—and by noon, there’s barely space to lay down a towel. Plus, parking in La Jolla is a full-on sport.
Go here instead: Windansea Beach nearby is just as pretty, with fewer people and more room to breathe.
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4. Alki Beach, Washington
Why it’s packed: It’s Seattle’s go-to summer beach
Nice views? Yes. Chill vibe? Not when it’s warm out. Alki draws big crowds on sunny days, especially weekends, and parking fills up fast. It’s more city park than peaceful retreat.
Go here instead: Drive a bit farther to Golden Gardens Park for more space, forest trails, and actual beachy feels.
5. Pismo Beach, California
Why it’s packed: Classic stop on the Central Coast
Pismo is cute, but in summer, it’s elbow-to-elbow on the sand. Between off-roading traffic, tourists, and events, it’s loud and not exactly relaxing.
Go here instead: Avila Beach nearby is smaller, sunnier, and usually less of a circus.
6. Ocean Shores, Washington
Why it’s packed: Easy access + a ton of hotels
Ocean Shores draws big summer crowds—especially families from Seattle or Portland—and the beach can feel like an open-air campground. It’s fun, but don’t expect serenity.
Go here instead: Check out Westport or Grayland for quieter beaches with a more local vibe.
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7. Huntington Beach, California
Why it’s packed: Surf City USA is always buzzing
Huntington has solid surf and a big beach, but it’s also the epicenter of SoCal beach crowds. Think volleyball tournaments, loud music, and nonstop foot traffic.
Go here instead: Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Coast is gorgeous, usually calmer, and feels like a whole different world.
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