Bolsa Chica is where classic California surf meets family-friendly vibes. It’s got bonfire pits for evening s’mores and lifeguards on duty for some added peace of mind. Plus, the waves are gentle enough for the “surfing for dummies” crowd. 

With the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve right next door, curious kiddos can also check out local birds, fish and (if they’re lucky) some adorable baby turtles. Nothing like combining fun and learning without a single textbook in sight.

Santa Monica Beach is more than just a beach — it’s a whole family entertainment zone. Between the thrill of the Santa Monica Pier and its carnival rides, the fun-house mirrors at the arcade and mini aquariums full of funky fish, this place is like a real-life amusement park (minus the entry fee). 

When it’s time to refuel, grab something from a nearby food stand or treat the crew to an ice cream at the Pier. And while you’re there, why not let the kids run wild at the nearby Annenberg Beach House, a historic spot with play areas and a splash pad?

If you’re visiting with Princess, you can take a guided tour that explores both Santa Monica and nearby Venice Beach, diving into the one-of-a-kind vibe and charm of these iconic California spots.

With its glittering sands (yes, it actually sparkles!) and gentle waves, Coronado Beach is like the jewel of San Diego. Kids can collect sand dollars along the shore, splash in the shallow waves, or explore the shore near the Hotel del Coronado. 

It’s also a hotspot for sandcastle-building contests; who knows, your family might just become the next reigning champions of Castle Coronado. Restrooms and outdoor showers keep things tidy, and shaded picnic tables make it easy to keep snacks and sunscreen nearby.

Mission Beach brings a little slice of boardwalk fun to your beach day. Start with the sand, then move on to the surf before you hit up Belmont Park for rides and games. 

Got little ones? They’ll love the carousel. Got tweens or teens? The roller coaster is a classic. And for those beach-strolling types, there’s a long, bustling boardwalk where you can grab a snack or just people-watch. Mission Beach really is the perfect beach day setup: half surf and sand, half carnival vibes, and totally full of family fun.

Newport Beach is the whole beach town package. It’s got tons of tide pools and the legendary Balboa Fun Zone, where the Ferris wheel offers unbeatable views of the beach and pier. 

When everyone’s ready for a snack, treat the kids to a frozen banana from one of the boardwalk’s famous stands (you’re not really in Newport until you’ve tried one). And with pedal boat and kayak rentals nearby, even your family’s mini adventurers can get out on the water without a fuss.

If Southern California is all sunshine and boardwalks, Central California brings a more rugged charm with stunning beaches that feel like hidden treasures. Here, you’ll find quieter, nature-rich beaches set against dramatic cliffs, misty mornings and scenic trails. Central California’s beaches are perfect for families looking to blend a classic beach day with a dash of exploration and discovery. Pack some layers for this region’s famously cool breezes, and prepare for everything from pebble-strewn shores to tide pools teeming with life.

Moonstone Beach feels like something out of a storybook; foggy mornings, polished pebbles and driftwood-strewn sands make it a magical spot for a family outing. Here, it’s all about the atmosphere, so pack some layers (it can get misty and cool) and get ready for some good old-fashioned treasure hunting. 

Kids will love searching for the smooth “moonstones” scattered along the beach, while parents can enjoy a peaceful walk along the boardwalk that winds through native plants and offers gorgeous ocean views. And when the fog clears? You just might get to see a dolphin pod cruising along the shore.

Known by locals as “Hendry’s Beach,” Arroyo Burro is where nature and relaxation collide. With a designated dog-friendly section, it’s perfect for families who want to bring every family member along, paws included. Kids can explore tide pools at low tide, search for shells or even try boogie boarding in the mild waves. 

There are easy-to-access picnic areas and barbecues for a beach cookout, and The Boathouse restaurant is right on the sand for a sunset meal. And did we mention the views? Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, Arroyo Burro is one of those beaches where every photo looks like a postcard.

Pismo Downtown Beach has everything a family could need, including sandy shores, volleyball courts and a pier that stretches right over the water (ideal for spotting fish or catching a photo-worthy sunset). It’s a classic beach that offers plenty of options for both play and relaxation. 

Stroll down the pier and you might spot local surfers showing off their moves or even catch a glimpse of a sea lion popping its head up to say hello. Pismo is also famous for its clam chowder, so grab a warm bowl at one of the nearby restaurants and dig in for a taste of the coast.

With powdery white sands and turquoise waves, set against the backdrop of rugged cliffs, Carmel Beach could win a calendar photo contest. Families love its gentle waves, perfect for wading and wave-jumping. And for those bringing four-legged friends, Carmel Beach is one of the best dog-friendly spots in California, so the whole family can enjoy it. 

If the kids get tired of the sand, they can search the tide pools for sea anemones and starfish. And once you’ve soaked up enough sun, wander into nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea — a charming little town with ice cream parlors, cozy cafes and whimsical shops that feel straight out of a fairytale.

Northern California’s beaches offer a different kind of beauty — think majestic cliffs, mist-covered coves and quirky spots like beaches covered in sea glass. While the weather can be a bit chillier here, the scenic beauty and family-friendly amenities more than make up for it. From iconic city beaches to secluded bays, this part of California has unique spots that provide a mix of beach fun, wildlife spotting and unforgettable views.

Main Beach, also known as Cowell Beach, is Northern California’s answer to a family-friendly beach bonanza. It’s right next to the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, where you’ll find rides like the Giant Dipper, a classic wooden roller coaster, along with an endless array of boardwalk games (go ahead and win yourself a plush souvenir or two, we’re sure there’s a little room in your luggage). 

The beach itself offers plenty of space for sandcastle building, paddleboarding and wading in gentle waves. For lunch, grab some beach-side bites like garlic fries or soft-serve ice cream. Kids can switch between beach time and the boardwalk with ease, making Main Beach the ultimate two-in-one adventure spot.

Crissy Field is a family beach with a view, but not just any view. The Golden Gate Bridge looms beautifully in the background, making every photo a keeper. There are plenty of things to do in San Francisco, and Crissy Field is no exception. With grassy picnic areas, gentle surf for young swimmers and even a few food trucks serving up local bites, it’s a popular destination for both locals and visitors. 

It’s also close to kid-friendly attractions like the Exploratorium, where curious minds can dig into interactive science exhibits. Parents will appreciate the wide walking paths and nearby restrooms. Plus, for a little extra adventure, you can rent bikes to explore the scenic trails along the waterfront.

Glass Beach is probably the most unique beach you’ll ever visit, and it’s definitely one for the memory books. Instead of sand, the shore here is covered in smooth, colorful pieces of sea glass — tiny gems created over decades from discarded glass polished by the waves. 

While it’s more of a beach to explore and take photos than one for swimming, kids will love hunting for different colored pieces (just remember: look, but don’t take). Fort Bragg also offers coastal trails with scenic overlooks, so once the glass-hunting fun is over, you can take a family hike with some pretty incredible views.

Heart’s Desire Beach is tucked away in Tomales Bay State Park, a serene and sheltered spot that feels like your family’s own private paradise. This beach is a dream for little swimmers, with calm waters, plenty of shade and picnic tables perfect for a leisurely family lunch. 

Kids can splash around in the shallow bay, and if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak to explore the coastline together. Since it’s nestled within the larger park, you can also enjoy hiking trails that lead to beautiful, panoramic views of the bay. Heart’s Desire is a hidden gem that lives up to its name, offering tranquility and beauty in spades.

Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on California’s best family beaches, there’s no better way to explore this incredible coastline than on board a Princess cruise. It’s the easiest way to relax and enjoy the journey, while hitting all the highlights along the Pacific Coast without the hassle of driving or checking in and out of hotels. 

With tons of family-friendly activities, kid-approved dining and amenities that cater to everyone, a Princess cruise makes the California coast an unforgettable destination for the whole family.

Set sail on a Princess cruise from California and explore the most family-friendly beaches along the California coastline. It’s the perfect family vacation, full of fun activities, beautiful destinations and unforgettable beach experiences for everyone to enjoy.