15 Best Beaches in Salinas, CA

Salinas is a city in and the county seat of Monterey County, California, United States. It is an urban area offering a distinct combination of people, natural resources, and climate. It is currently home to 161,585 people.

Salinas is more than an agricultural hub; it is also a vibrant city with a rich history and varied cultures. The city serves as an exit to some of Northern California’s magnificent beach destinations.

The picturesque landscapes and breathtaking attractions make the city worth exploring.

We have compiled the top beaches in Salinas, CA, highlighting their exclusive attractions and reasons to visit them. Note that some of these beaches are outside Salinas but accessible by cars.

Let’s explore the best beaches in Salinas, CA.

Beaches in Salinas, CA

1. Marina State Beach

This blissful Marina State Beach is a charming, serene beach with a beautiful shoreline and scenic views of Monterey Bay. The beach is sandwiched between Santa Cruz and Monterey, allowing numerous people to utilize it.

There is ample parking and accessible roads for everyone driving or walking in. The beach keeps giving to sunbathers, kite-flyers, bird-watchers, hikers, hang-gliders, parasailers, walkers, and photographers.

Hang-gliding over the lovely dunes is among the most popular activities here. Kids have a swimming area, and that makes it a family destination. From the Ventura Harbor entrance, the area is protected by a breakwater. 

Be watchful for rip currents because they make swimming and other water activities dangerous. Hence, many prefer to stand nearby, admire the waves, or sunbathe.

There are many grocery stores within the beach, including Walmart, where you can purchase anything for your beach activities. If you want to grab a meal quickly, Starbucks, KFC, Taco Bell, and McDonald’s are within a short distance.

Moreover, the area has a rich history as part of the former Ford Ord military base. It also has American settlements and Spanish land grants. Dogs are not allowed at this beach.

Address: 3001 Lake Dr, Marina, CA 93933, United States

2. Del Monte Beach 

Located on the southern border of Monterey Bay, Del Monte Beach is a peaceful destination for beach lovers. It is known as a local favorite and popular for its soft sand.

Del Monte has vibrant blue waters and ample space, so no one would feel choked up. Locals frequent this spot for exercising, beachcombing, surfing, sunbathing, walking the dogs, and playing beach games.

With the stunning Monterey Peninsula scenery, this beach is everything you want for your private or family hangout. Hold hands and walk on the pristine sand, enjoying the cool breeze that swooshes past your ears.

Relax on one of the seats and enjoy a picnic while admiring people participating in various activities. A boardwalk trail across the dunes is another way to enjoy the beach.

Del Monte Beach offers ample parking with a short walk to the bank. There are multiple access points to the beach, which could be busier and touristier at the peak period.

You can stroll from one of the paths to the northeast of Old Fisherman’s Wharf for forty minutes.

The area has cottages overlooking the water and some seafood restaurants to entice the taste buds. You will meet numerous locals, adding a little vibrancy to the spot.

Address: 653 Del Monte Ave, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

3. Salinas River State Beach

Salinas River State Beach is among the top beaches in Salinas, CA. This beach is a hidden gem ideal for those who want to de-stress after a great day.

The untouched coastal beauty of this beach makes it a must-visit if you are in Monterey County. It resides between the Salinas River and Moss Landing town at Elkhorn Slough. 

It is a site for fishing, swimming, and other water activities. It has become one of the most celebrated beaches in the area. The panoramic views it offers to visitors are unquantifiable. 

In addition, the beach is surrounded by agricultural fields and is home to different bird species. It has three parking areas and a short sandy walk across the dunes. Walking along the sandbank takes you to the Salinas River Mouth Natural Preserve.

Aside from the beach’s respite, you can find what looks like a shipwreck but is a barge washed ashore during the December 1983 storm. The barge has become a secret spot.

Finally, Salinas River State Beach is open from sunrise to sunset and accessible to all.

Address: Moss Landing, CA 95039, United States

4. Carmel Beach 

Carmel Beach, considered one of the most enchanting beaches in California, is nestled in the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. It is famous for many things, including its untouched white sand, pristine waters, lovely cypress trees, and remarkable cliffs.

The area is fascinating, with a history dating back to the early 20th century. It also has the tradition of hosting the annual Great Sandcastle Contest. 

In addition to the above, visitors enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, and surfing. Sandy strolls and picnics are among the top activities to do at Carmel Beach. Surfing buffs will find a plethora of waves to tackle.

Another way to enjoy the beach is by relaxing and watching others engage in awesome activities. You will find many locals and tourists by the water and in a gay mood.

At the south edge of the beach is the famous Clinton Walker House by Frank Lloyd Wright. While playing and enjoying the water, note that the water is prone to rogue waves and dangerous currents.

Unfortunately, there are no lifeguards around. As long as your voice controls your dogs, they are allowed off-leash at this beach.

Address: 26478 Carmelo St, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, United States

5. Lover’s Point Park Beach

On the southern end of Monterey, Bay Lover’s Point Park Beach sits as a popular destination for outdoor recreation lovers. It is a protected marine life area, making it easier for people to spot wildlife and water life.

The beach is small but intimate. Sunbathers, walkers, picnickers, and surfers find respite in the coolness of the waters. The beach is also a favorite for photographers, offering several scenic spots to capture the moments.

Along the coast is a rocky trail. The Monterey Coastal Trail is a short walk from the ocean and a sure spot for romantic sunset views.

Address: 631 Ocean View Blvd, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, USA

6. Asilomar State Beach 

Asilomar State Beach is tucked away in Pacific Grove, a rocky, picturesque shoreline with gorgeous views. With easy access to the beach, many visitors find it an oasis to hide.

The sunset over Asilomar State Beach is thespian and Instagram-worthy. A visit promises a taste of northern California’s utter side. 

With its dramatic cliffs and tidal pools, this beach is a hub of fun and wild beauty. Moreover, the area is home to the historic Asilomar Conference Grounds, designed by celebrated architect Julia Morgan.

Among numerous activities at this panoramic spot are surfing, beach walking, tide-pooling, lounging, and sunbathing. In the Asilomar Dunes Natural Reserve is a 0.25-mile boardwalk trail right by the beach.

Of all the beaches in Salinas, CA, and its environments, this tends to be the remotest, with a classical, rugged shoreline and natural beauty. It is also a hotspot for surfers and paddlers. Keep an eye on sea animals and wildlife. 

Address: 800 Asilomar Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, United States

7. San Carlos Beach

San Carlos Beach is one of the best hideaway locations for fun activities. This sandy spot is excellent for many water activities.

The beach can be accessed from the Cannery Row area on the west edge. It stretches close to Reeside Avenue and the Coast Guard Pier. Besides, it is sheltered from harsh waves, which is excellent for scuba enthusiasts. 

Diving in the water allows them to explore Cannery Gear’s ruins in the kelp bed offshore. You will likely find many sea animals swimming by, including spiny lobsters, turbot, or halibut. Anemones and sponges also make this spot their home, so look out for them.

Aside from divers having their day on this water body, other visitors can pack a picnic to enjoy while relaxing at the beachside with impressive views that keep them relaxed.

Sit on the grassy and sandy areas with a book and let nature give you every reason to breathe again. Another option for those who want a simple exercise is to stretch your legs along the paved Monterey Peninsula Recreation Trail at the back of the beach.

Address: Reeside Ave And Cannery Row. Monterey, CA 93940, United States

8. Garrapata State Park Beach

Twelve miles south of Monterey lies Garrapata State Park Beach, a retreat for nature lovers. Popular as one of the primary stops in the Big Sur area, this pristine sand stretch is stunningly rocky with cliffs, hiking trails, and charming settings.

Here, you can take in the natural magnificence of the area. In the spring, beautiful valleys of wildflowers overwhelm the beach, inviting you to take a plunge. 

Picnic on the shores, letting the soft sand caress your bare foot. You can sunbathe or walk along the stretch of sand through the cypress trees. Keep an eye on migrating whales on the waters and local otters along the shores.

From the trail, you will spot a waterfall surging into the ocean. Take shots of the scenic environment, especially Soberanes Creek.

Access Garrapata State Beach from Garrapata State Park; follow the trails at mile markers 18 and 19 to the sand. Parking is along California Hwy 1.

Address: 34500 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, USA

9. Spanish Bay Beach

At Spanish Bay Beach, you can take on a range of activities. Visit on a bright sunny day and admire the white sand against the deep blue sea. The dazzling picture will add colorful memories to your experience.

Some of the favorite things to do on this beach are sunbathing, picnicking, and soaking in the views of the Pacific Ocean. Take the boardwalk trail by the beach and arrive at Asilomar Beach towards the north and Moss Beach to the south.

The water of Spanish Bay Beach is not ideal for swimming, but you can do other activities here. Also, you may pay a small parking fee.

Address: 1955 Sunset Dr, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, United States

10. Gibson’s Beach

This small beach gem at the southern tip of the remarkable Point Lobos State Reserve makes an ideal picture postcard on a cheerful day. Gibson Beach is a renowned beach in California.

Its ink-blue waters against unspoiled white beach sand offer a stunning view from the Bird Island Trail.

Don’t miss an adventure from this trail because your eyes will extend to the China Coves, an iconic rock formation on the island. In the springs and early summer, you will see lots of beautiful birds when hiking on this trail.

Sometimes, you can see Gibson Creek from the base of tall cliffs where this beach hides. Take a short walk, sunbathe, or read on the soft sandy area. 

If you plan to swim, understand that the water is usually ice-cold for the best part of the year. A wetsuit may be needed to enable you to enjoy a great swim. Summer is the best time to explore Gibson Beach. 

 Address: Plateau Trl. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93923, United States

11. Monterey State Beach

With miles of picturesque seaboard, Monterey State Beach provides beachgoers with outdoor activities, from fishing to tide-pooling, kayaking, and surfing. The beach stretches from Fisherman’s Wharf to Seaside, and there is no shortage of activity.

It is a haven for water enthusiasts who want to leave the house and unplug from their usual work activities. 

The 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Trail extends along the coastline, linking to other beaches, like Del Monte Beach. If you enjoy leisurely strolling, this is a great place to engage in this simple exercise, enjoying the vistas of the Pacific Coast.

As a popular launch for paragliders and beachcombers, the spot has unique activities to hold you in awe. It is expected to see scuba divers from the surf when resting by the beachside. There are benches and bluffs for relaxing.

If you are a beachcomber, take advantage of this opportunity to find sea treasures along the shores, such as seashells and sea glass. Nature lovers will enjoy the outdoorsy setting of this beach. 

12. Zmudowski State Beach

One of the top beaches in Salinas’s neighborhood is Zmudowski State Beach. It promises a rewarding experience with the untamed beauty of the Monterey County coasts. 

This beach is not always crowded like others. It is long and sandy, offering a gentle feeling under the feet. 

Take a vacation to Salinas and visit this untouched natural beauty with the Pacific Ocean on one side and tall dunes on the other. Beachcombers, sunbathers, picnickers, and others will find this place a lovely destination to get away.

Horse riders are also seen around the waters occasionally. Blooming wildflowers in the spring welcome cheerful visitors. However, it is dangerous to swim here due to rip currents and cold water temperatures. Parking is free, and there is access off California Hwy 1.

Address: 201-215 Giberson Rd, Moss Landing, CA 95039, United States

13. Lovers Point Beach

Lovers Point Beach is one of the beaches in Salinas and its surroundings for outdoor recreational activities. This beach is nestled in the serene Pacific Grove.

The area has two small beaches and soft sand, offering numerous fun things to do. Bring a kayak or rent one and cruise the waters, spotting lovely birds and marine life.

Surf or scuba dive in the lovely waters and enjoy the splash of water against your body. Picnic on the sandy coast, play volleyball or soak in the sun rays by the beachside.

There is no end to what you can do at Lovers Point Beach. Let the whole family go on this adventure together.

Address: Pacific Grove, CA 93950, United States

14 McAbee Beach

McAbee Beach, located in the renowned Cannery Row, is a spectacular destination for beach lovers. The kelp forest off the shore adds another aspect of attraction to the water.

The beach stretches only a short distance but offers a place for kayakers, snorkelers, and divers to enjoy their best time in the water. Divers can enter from the south edge of the beach, where the water is deeper. 

You will find invertebrates such as anemones, sponges, and rockfish on the water. Otters and large fish glide with poise between the long fronds of the kelps. 

Close by is a delectable seafood restaurant where you can relax and enjoy a great meal. The seawalls adorned with lively murals are great sights to behold.

Soak in the artwork as you learn about the Cannery, a sardine-canning district in the early ’40s. This also earned it the name, ‘Sardine Capital of the World.’

Address: 1 Hoffman Ave, Monterey, CA 93940, USA 

15. Pfeiffer Beach

Another must-see beach in California is Pfeiffer Beach, situated in Big Sur. The beach is a stand-alone attraction, not attached to any of the Pfeiffer’s parks.

This beautiful beach offers a scenic backdrop of tall cliffs, gorgeous Keyhole Rock, and purple-specked sand. Visit on a bright summer day and be amazed at the sight that fills your eyes.

Like other beaches in Salinas and the region, Pfeiffer Beach is not a swimming beach, but you can do many other things here.

Stroll, walk, sand-play, beach-comb, picnic, sunbathe, and have fun with your family and friends. A camera with you will help to make the memory unforgettable. 

Address: Big Sur, CA 93920, United States

Have time in California?, take to exploring other California cities, here is our list of things to do in North Hollywood, things to do in Turlock, and things to do in Glendale.

Plan Your Trip to Salinas

The beaches in Salinas, CA, and neighboring cities provide a perfect family getaway. Which of the above options would you prefer?