23 TOP State Parks on The California Coast!

Welcome to a coastal journey like no other, where the sun-drenched shores of California meet the majesty of the Pacific Ocean.

California coast state parks offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and historical insights. Let’s dive into the best coastal state parks along California’s shorelines.

1. Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park

Nina hiking along Stout Grove Trail surrounded by huge redwood trees. — Nina walking along Stout Grove Trail

Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park offers a serene combination of towering redwoods and Pacific Ocean views. Stout Grove is the centerpiece, where ancient redwoods create a majestic forest environment.

Venture along Boy Scout Tree Trail to escape the hustle and bustle, and perhaps spot local wildlife like Roosevelt elk. For coastal beauty, the Damnation Creek Trail descends through lush forest to reveal stunning Pacific vistas and rugged cliff views.

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2. Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park

A close up of the beige wooden Point Cabrillo Light House with a red roof on an overcast California Coast day. — Isn’t this one of the most aesthetically pleasing lighthouses you’ve ever seen?

Point Cabrillo Light Station, perched along the Mendocino Coast, invites visitors to explore both history and breathtaking coastal views. Its 1909 lighthouse is beautifully preserved, offering insights into the past maritime navigation.

The coastal trails around the lighthouse provide stunning ocean views, and you may even spot migrating whales. Unique lodging options are available in the historic light keeper’s quarters, offering a memorable stay.

3. Russian Gulch State Park

Blue ocean waves inside a sinkhole in Russian Gulch State Park in California. — A popular sinkhole found in Russian Gulch State Park

Russian Gulch State Park is known for its iconic bridge that spans over a scenic coastal canyon, as well as its striking sinkhole.

Easy trails guide visitors to both attractions, making it an ideal spot for a quick coastal adventure. The park’s beach is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or a cold Pacific dip. Bring a picnic and enjoy the serenity of this coastal gem.

4. Mendocino Headlands State Park

A well-worn trail running along the California coast in Mendocino Headlands state park on an overcast day. — A trail with a view – like most of the trails at California coast state parks!

At Mendocino Headlands State Park, stunning cliffs meet the crashing Pacific, creating one of the most scenic spots along California’s coast.

The park’s well-maintained trails offer sweeping ocean views, perfect for whale watching or catching sunsets. Learn about the region’s history at the Ford House Visitor Center and explore the nearby charming village of Mendocino for a full-day experience.

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5. Van Damme State Park

A seagull perched on a giant log on a beach in Van Damme State Park in California. — Van Damme State Park is not only home to forests but also beaches

Van Damme State Park is a hidden coastal treasure, offering diverse experiences like strolling along the Fern Canyon Trail or exploring the unique Pygmy Forest.

The park’s secluded cove makes for an ideal spot to relax on the beach, while adventurers can snorkel or scuba dive to uncover the underwater wonders of the Pacific. A bit of everything for nature lovers!

6. Salt Point State Park

A female hiker walking along a paved coastal trail in Salt Point State Park. — Nina enjoying the easy walk with amazing views

Located on the Sonoma Coast, Salt Point State Park features rugged beauty with tidepools teeming with marine life and the famous Salt Point Pygmy Forest.

Hiking trails meander through forests and along the rocky coast, offering dramatic views of the Pacific. Whether you’re spotting wildlife or enjoying a scenic walk, this park is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

7. Sonoma Coast State Park

A female hiker walking along a trail through foliage overlooking a view of Sonoma Coast State Park. — The views are endless in Sonoma Coast State Park

Stretching across 17 miles, Sonoma Coast State Park offers some of the most captivating and unspoiled shoreline in California.

The rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and scenic hiking trails, like the Kortum Trail, make this park a favorite for hikers and photographers alike. Explore tidepools or camp on the beach for a full coastal immersion.

8. Tomales Bay State Park

A single kayak on a beach in Tomales Bay State Park. — Why not try out some water activities while you’re here?

Located in Marin County, Tomales Bay State Park is a peaceful escape just a short distance from San Francisco. Its calm waters make it perfect for kayaking, with stunning views of the hillsides and opportunities to explore the bay’s ecosystem.

Heart’s Desire Beach is a popular spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and swimming. The park also offers scenic hiking trails that wind through forests and hills, with chances to see local wildlife like herons and seals.

9. Mount Tamalpais State Park

A group of cyclists overlooking Mount Tamalpais State Park. — This could be you… if you enjoy cycling!

Just north of San Francisco, Mount Tamalpais State Park is known for its iconic views and lush forests. Hike to East Peak for a panoramic sunset or take the Dipsea and Steep Ravine trails for stunning coastal views.

10. Half Moon Bay State Beach

A few tourists on Francis Beach in Half Moon Bay State Park. — Tourists enjoying Francis Beach even on a cloudy day

Half Moon Bay State Beach offers a coastal getaway with four distinct beaches: Francis, Dunes, Venice, and Roosevelt. It’s a prime spot for surfing, sunbathing, and birdwatching, with picnic areas and tidepools to explore.

The beaches offer something for everyone, from secluded walks at Roosevelt Beach to birdwatching in the unique dunes ecosystem of Dunes Beach.

11. Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park

White lighthouse on a headland in Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park on an overcast day. — The lighthouse is the main character of this California coast state park

Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park is home to the iconic Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses on the West Coast.

Visitors can explore the lighthouse grounds and stay in the historic keeper’s quarters, which have been converted into cozy hostel accommodations.

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12. Año Nuevo State Park

Elephant seals basking on the beach in Año Nuevo State Park. — Elephant seals are commonplace here

Año Nuevo State Park, located on the San Mateo County coast, offers an unforgettable coastal adventure with a focus on its incredible elephant seal colony. Witness these massive creatures lounging on the beach, raising their young, or engaging in territorial battles!

Aside from the seals, explore diverse habitats including dunes, scrublands, and coastal forests via the park’s network of trails. Be sure to visit Cove Beach for great surfing or take on the Año Nuevo Point Trail for all the scenic highlights in one easy hike.

13. Coast Dairies State Beaches

An empty panther beach on an overcast day in Coast Diaries State Park. — Come here and get Panther Beach all to yourself

Coast Dairies State Beaches, hidden along the Santa Cruz County coastline, offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking unspoiled natural beauty. Hike through golden grasslands and bluffs to remote beaches with stunning Pacific views.

There are no official trails, so wander along the old railroad and discover coves and beaches at your own pace. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy a day in nature’s solitude.

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14. Garrapata State Park

A female hiker looking out over a view of Soberanes Point in Garrapata State Park. — Nina enjoying the view from Soberanes Point

Garrapata State Park is a gem along Big Sur, perfect for escaping the crowds. Its trails offer views of seals, sea lions, and possibly even whales. The foggy but mystical atmosphere adds to the park’s charm.

15. Andrew Molera State Park

A view over El Sur Ranch on a headland in Andrew Molera State Park. — El Sur Ranch in Andrew Molera State Park

Andrew Molera State Park, with its 4766 acres, is a hiker’s paradise in Big Sur. Trails meander along rivers, through redwoods, and down to the rugged coastline. It’s one of the best places for hiking in the region, with 20 miles of diverse trails.

16. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Overlooking McWay Falls and the blue ocean water of the cove it's found in. — McWay Falls

Famous for the stunning McWay Falls, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a must-see along Big Sur. The falls cascade directly into the Pacific, making it one of the few waterfalls in the world to do so.

The park’s inland trails wind through redwoods and oak trees, while nearby Partington Cove offers an easy hike down to a scenic, secluded beach.

17. Limekiln State Park

Limekiln furnaces from an old mill in the Californian forest on sunny day. — One of the many abandoned limekilns

Tucked away in Big Sur, Limekiln State Park offers both rugged coastal beauty and serene redwood forests. The Redwood Trail leads through towering groves, while the park’s historic limekilns remind visitors of its industrial past.

The park’s picturesque beach and tidepools add to its appeal, making it a perfect spot for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature.

18. Cayucos State Beach

A shipwreck off the coast of Estero Bluff State Park in Cayucos, California. — A shipwreck off the coast of Estero Bluff in Cayucos

Cayucos State Beach is a family-friendly spot with gentle waves perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, and relaxing. The scenic Estero Bluff Trail offers incredible views and even leads to a shipwreck.

The town of Cayucos is a charming seaside village with delicious seafood and quaint shops to explore after a day at the beach.

19. Morro Bay State Park

A kayak paddling in front of Morro Rock in Morro Bay State Park in California. — It’s possible to hire a kayak and explore the area around Morro Rock

Morro Bay State Park’s most iconic feature is Morro Rock, a volcanic plug towering over the bay. This coastal park is ideal for kayaking, birdwatching, and taking in views of the surrounding estuary and its abundant wildlife.

The park’s tranquil beach, Morro Strand, is perfect for a relaxing day of walking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the scenery.

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20. Pismo State Beach

Hotels, apartments and houses built on a hill glowing in the sunset light at Pismo State Beach. — The waves at Pismo Beach are great for sports.

Pismo State Beach is a popular destination for its wide, sandy shores, ideal for sunbathing, surfing, and beach sports. It’s also home to the Pismo Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of butterflies gather in the winter months.

READ MORE: 16 BEST Things To Do in Pismo Beach

21. Carpinteria State Beach

A man walking along the wooden boardwalk next to Carpinteria State Beach on a sunny day. — Strolling Carpinteria State Beach

Carpinteria State Beach offers a classic California beach experience with soft sands, gentle surf, and excellent tidepooling opportunities. This laid-back park is perfect for surfers, beachgoers, and those looking to explore marine life in its natural habitat.

22. Malibu Lagoon State Beach

Few tourists out surfing in the water at Malibu Lagoon State Beach on a clear day. — Who can argue with pristine conditions like this?

Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a haven for birdwatchers and surfers alike. The nearby Adamson House offers a glimpse into the area’s history, and the surrounding wetlands and scenic trails make it a great place to explore nature along the coast.

23. Huntington State Beach

A golden sunset behind a lifeguard hut on Huntington State Beach. — Huntington Beach is beautiful at sunset.

Known for its golden sands and perfect waves, Huntington State Beach is a go-to spot for surfers, sunbathers, and beach volleyball players. It’s also home to the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, where you can fish, stroll, or take in panoramic views of the coastline.

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