8 Best Beaches to Visit on the West Coast in Winter

Feature “Lone surfer leaving Indian Beach as the fog and mist rolls in among the sea stacks during the Blue Hour after sunset near Cannon Beach, Oregon Coast” by diana_robinson is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Winter might not scream “beach season,” but the West Coast does things differently. From dramatic storm watching to peaceful walks on uncrowded shores, these beaches shine even when it’s chilly. Here are eight stunning beaches to visit this winter.

Table of Contents

1. Cannon Beach, Oregon
2. Glass Beach, California
3. La Push Beach, Washington
4. Pfeiffer Beach, California
5. Moonstone Beach, California
6. Kalaloch Beach, Washington
7. Bodega Bay, California
8. Huntington Beach, California
MORE ON THE WEST COAST:

1. Cannon Beach, Oregon

A Pink sunset at Cannon Beach with Haystack Rock in the middle and a flying bird in the left corner.

With its iconic Haystack Rock and misty coastal vibes, Cannon Beach is a winter wonderland. Bundle up for a peaceful walk along the sand, watch waves crash against the rock, or enjoy storm watching from a cozy café in town. Winter sunsets here? Unforgettable.

2. Glass Beach, California

Located in Fort Bragg, this unique beach is famous for its colorful sea glass. Winter brings fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to explore and snap some incredible photos. Pro tip: Visit after a storm for fresh treasures washed ashore.

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3. La Push Beach, Washington

Garrett looking out while standing on Second Beach at La Push.

Part of the Olympic Coast, La Push offers rugged beauty with towering sea stacks and crashing waves. Winter storms amplify its dramatic charm, and you might even spot gray whales passing by. Don’t forget to pack a thermos of something warm.

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4. Pfeiffer Beach, California

This hidden gem in Big Sur is famous for its purple sand and the iconic Keyhole Arch. Winter rains make the sand’s colors even more vibrant, and the seasonal light streaming through the arch at sunset is breathtaking. Arrive early for parking—it’s limited!

5. Moonstone Beach, California

Located in Cambria along the Central Coast, Moonstone Beach offers peaceful strolls and stunning views. Winter often brings dramatic waves, perfect for storm watching. Walk the boardwalk, collect unique stones, and enjoy the small-town charm nearby.

6. Kalaloch Beach, Washington

Nina sitting on driftwood on Kalaloch Beach Washington

This wild, windswept beach in Olympic National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. Check out the famous Tree of Life, explore tide pools, or watch the waves roll in. Winter adds a hauntingly beautiful vibe to this already magical spot.

7. Bodega Bay, California

A favorite for winter getaways, Bodega Bay offers quiet beaches, fresh seafood, and incredible coastal views. Head to Doran Beach for a serene walk or visit the rugged cliffs at Bodega Head for epic whale watching.

8. Huntington Beach, California

a pier in the middle of a body of water — Photo by Caleb Bennetts on Unsplash

If you’re craving a warmer winter beach day, head to Huntington Beach. Known as Surf City USA, it’s lively even in the cooler months. Watch surfers tackle the waves, stroll the iconic pier, or just soak in the laid-back SoCal vibe.