Let’s go to the beach…each…ya know…nikki minaj. Anyways, with temperatures finally rising in So Cal, it’s time to catch some rays and soak up the sun. Here are 5 picturesque beaches that can amp up any summer day and complete your coastal cowgirl dreams! Lather on that sunscreen and let’s get our feet wet, Babes!

1.) El Matador State Beach, Malibu

This is the ultimate photoshoot destination for brides, babes, and beach bums alike. This cliff-bordered cove has smooth oat sand, vibrant yellow wildflowers, and rocks galore. The key to this beach is arriving super early to avoid crowds and to bring multiple outfits because this beach has countless backgrounds. Parking costs $3 an hour and $10 for the whole day and is extremely close to the beach.

After building up an appetite from your bountiful photoshoot, check out the Cross Creek Malibu Country Mart just 5 miles away. From acai bowls at Sunlife Organics to a glass of wine at Taverna Tony, this shopping mart has anything your heart desires. Bonus points if you stop by Nobu Malibu!

2. Woods Cove, Laguna

This beach is quaint and stunning. Located in the dream beach town, Laguna, this cove is always sunny and tropical. I recommend parking on a side street off of South Coast Highway such as Diamond Street. Make sure to check for meters and use your parking brake! Then enjoy the scenic and relaxing trip down to the cove, through lush landscaping and breathtaking steps. PSA: go when the tides are low!

After your time in the sun, take a visit to one of the many sea shell shops that line the main street, and stop for brunch at Urth Cafe! My personal favorite activity is stopping by The Bead Shop and adding a charm to my ever-growing charm bracelet.

3. Crystal Cove, Laguna

It’s so easy to spend a whole day at Crystal Cove in Laguna. Start with a walk through Moro Canyon for a refreshing and breezy beginner-friendly hike. For an even more leisurely stroll, take the Coastal Trail. Next, you can stop for some food at Shake Shack, Beachcomber, or even Trader Joes to nourish your body. You can even visit the historic center or explore the tide pools. Crystal Cove is the best option for all California explorers.

4. Coronado Beach, San Diego

Nestled in the quaint island of Coronado in San Diego, California, this beach is the perfect destination for a birthday weekend or bachelorette trip. This beach has everything from soft sands, and tide pools, to beautiful rock formations perfect for Instagram pictures. The beach borders the famous Hotel del Coronado which is the perfect resort or even venue to host your girl gang for a weekend of memories and ocean breeze. The city of Coronado is also so endearing and is speckled with bars, brunch spots, and bookstores.

5. Balboa Peninsula Beach, Newport

Balboa is a small town in Newport Beach, California that is beyond charming. This beach is vast and meant for beach volleyball and tanning. The town of Balboa is the perfect spot to window shop and grab a frozen banana to keep cool on a hot summer day. You can rent a bike to ride up and down the boardwalk, shop at the Lido Village, and even rent a boat for the day. Duffy and speed boats are popular excursions for visitors and are the perfect opportunity to celebrate with friends. The nightlife in Newport is impressive as the main boulevard comes to life when the sun goes down, lined from beginning to end with dive and rooftop bars.

Honestly, there are endless beaches to visit in Southern California, but these definitely deserve some summer lovin’ this year. Comment your favorite beach, and stay sunkissed <3

Toodles!
Nancy :)