| If anything, California is known for its beaches. Sun, | | | | it the ideal picnic spot for families. |
| sand, and surf are the orders of the day for many | | | | Surfers will want to head out to Malibu Surfrider |
| Californians, along with the perks of trendy bikinis, | | | | Beach. The Malibu Pier in the area makes an ideal |
| even suntans, and socializing in a relaxed atmosphere. | | | | spot for saltwater fishing or birdwatching (real birds |
| Out in Southern California, we have the ever-popular | | | | for avian lovers). Guided tours for everything from |
| beaches of Malibu, Los Angeles, OC (made insanely | | | | the monarch butterfly to the gray whale are available |
| popular by the hit TV show), Santa Barbara, and San | | | | at certain seasons. |
| Diego. The beaches in Santa Cruz deserve a special | | | | Snorkelers should take a look at La Jolla Cove Beach. |
| mention from Central California, while Northern | | | | Gear rentals are available nearby and the waters are |
| California's claim to beach fame comes from the | | | | safe for children and beginners. There's also plenty of |
| three counties of Humboldt, Mendocino, and Marin. | | | | sealife to be seen here. |
| Venice Beach in Los Angeles is often touted as a | | | | But if sheer beauty is what you're after, definitely |
| popular favorite, where you have more than just | | | | take a trip down to Laguna Beach and have your |
| surf and sand. Locals and tourists gather to watch | | | | pick of several gorgeous beaches, many of which |
| street performers, artists, and, of course, beautiful | | | | have added attractions such as surfing, picnicking, |
| women (and men for the ladies), which forms part of | | | | volleyball, snorkeling, and even tide pools. For a more |
| the action. The sidewalk that runs through the beach | | | | laid back atmosphere, visit Ocean Beach in San Diego, |
| stretches all the way out to Santa Monica. | | | | and bring your dog for a walk as well. |
| If skating or biking is your thing, hit the Alamitos | | | | The lineup of beaches in California is endless. |
| Beach, which offers a 3.1 mile pedestrian bike path. | | | | Everything from activity-heavy beaches, to incredible |
| Those with kids may want to stick with a safer | | | | views, to specialty beaches for dogs to roam free |
| beach like Marine Beach, where the waters are quite | | | | without leashes (Dog Beach-San Diego) and nudists |
| shallow and lifeguards are always nearby during peak | | | | (Black's Beach-San Diego) is available for every kind |
| seasons. The volleyball court and grassy areas make | | | | of preference. |