California's coastline is home to some of the most breathtaking state parks in the country. Beyond postcard-perfect Pacific Ocean views, these wonders offer plenty of fun, adventure, relaxation, and space for reflection. California’s coastal state parks promise unique and unforgettable experiences, from paddling and hiking to tide-pooling and scuba diving. Even better: They rival the grandeur of our national parks. Here are eight must-visit spots, from north to south.
Humboldt Lagoons State Park, Trinidad
Set on Northern California’s rugged windswept coastline, Humboldt Lagoons State Park is a nature lover’s paradise thanks to an eye-pleasing mix of coastal dunes, tranquil lagoons, open prairies, and lush forests. Uniquely, this state park is home to three lagoons, including Big, Stone, and Freshwater Lagoons, which make up the largest lagoon system in the United States. There’s a curious diversity of ecosystems here, too, which enables visitors to spy whales, elk, pelicans, and woodpeckers, all in a single visit. Get your steps in on the California Coastal Trail, or grab a paddle and set off in a kayak to Ryan’s Cove. In late spring, the Azalea Nature Trail is painted in vibrant hues thanks to bright pink and red azalea blooms. Catch the sunset from the Dry Lagoon day-use area for awe-inspiring skies seemingly on fire with reds, oranges, and yellows.
Russian Gulch State Park, Mendocino
Russian Gulch State Park overflows with natural wonders, including a shaded three-mile canyon, pristine beaches, and a rocky coastline. That’s not to mention a majestic 36-foot-tall waterfall, a collapsed sea cave called Devil’s Punchbowl, and the Frederick W. Panhorst Bridge, which stands a lofty 10 stories above the bottom of the gulch. Every visit promises new adventures thanks to more than 15 miles of hiking trails. Add the Fern Canyon Trail to your list for epic views of towering redwoods and those stunning falls. Wind down your visit with the day’s last rays on the beach at Russian Gulch Creek.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel-by-the-Sea
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is among the most popular recreational areas within California’s state park system, and it’s easy to see why with vast coastal vistas, sheltered coves, and rich marine life. Add to that the vocal sea lions that frequent the off-shore rocks at Sea Lion Point. A short hike leads the way to the best viewing spots; don’t forget to bring your binoculars. Point Lobos is also a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Dive in at Whalers or Bluefish Coves to explore underwater kelp forests teeming with blue rockfish, sponges, and sea slugs.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur
Best known for iconic McWay Falls, a stunning 80-foot-tall waterfall that spills over granite cliffs onto the beach, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a showstopper. Here, you’ll find dramatic ocean bluffs, but also 300-foot-tall redwood trees. For redwoods, set off on the Ewoldsen Trail, which winds through redwood groves and offers stunning pocket views of the Pacific Ocean. And revel at the power of the stunning falls from the Overlook Trail. As a heads-up, due to rockslide closures on Highway 1, you’ll need to access the park from the north from Monterey.
Morro Bay State Park, Morro Bay
Morro Bay State Park is best known for its world-famous centerpiece, 576-foot-tall Morro Rock sitting just off the beach. The star attraction is not so much a rock, but one of nine volcanic peaks in San Luis Obispo County called the Nine Sisters. Check out this iconic landmark while cruising Highway 1 or while hiking to the summit of Black Hill, another one of the peaks. Rent a kayak in Morro Bay for a paddle and up-close views of Morro Rock, while saying hello to playful seals and otters splashing in the bay. Dive into local history at the Morro Bay Museum of Natural History, which brims with hands-on exhibits and nature-based activities for kids, including a Junior Ranger program.
Montaña de Oro State Park, Los Osos
A short drive south from Morro Bay is Montaña de Oro State Park, which is celebrated for its rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and an array of wildlife, including black-tailed deer and California quail. In spring, the hillsides are often aglow with golden wildflowers in full bloom. The two-mile long (one-way) Bluff Trail is a favorite among hikers, both for dramatic views of ocean waves crashing against the bluffs and for magical sunsets that paint the sky red, orange, and fuchsia. Benches dot the trail, inviting you to settle in for gentle reflection as the sun dips below the horizon.
El Capitán State Beach, Santa Barbara
Just 20 miles west of Santa Barbara, El Capitán State Beach dazzles with a sandy shoreline, rugged tidepools, and majestic stands of sycamore and oak trees lining nearby El Capitan Creek. Home to fall butterfly migrations, El Capitán is sought out for bluff camping and unforgettable outdoor weddings. Stroll the coastline at low tide for tide pooling as curious marine life, such as sea stars and mussels, reveal themselves to beach-goers. (Always look, but don’t touch or remove!) Hop on a surfboard or take in all the jaw-dropping water views from park trails boasting picture-perfect vistas across the Pacific Ocean.