Best beach in Southern California?

Question

I've been saving up money to take a really nice trip when I graduate at the end of this year. I've decided I'm going to a beach in Southern California, but I've never been there and I don't know which beach would be the best choice. I'd like clear, warm water, lots of shops and a nice atmosphere. Does anyone have any suggestions or personal experiences? Help is definitely appreciated. Thanks so much!

Answer 1

La Jolla has the best beach and shops for you to have a great time.

Top ten beaches at S. California:  http://search.travelchannel.com/travel/T...

Web site for La Jolla:  http://www.lajolla.com/

Restaurants at La Jolla I like:  http://www.sandiegorestaurants.com/resta...

http://www.sammyspizza.com/menu.html

Answer 2

You could Try New Port Beach, it's really nice over there. Or Balboa Beach. I just suggest that you don't go to Venice Beach, there are a lot of shops there, but it also comes with its weirdos.

Answer 3

Long Beach

Answer 4

The sand on SoCal beaches is not conductive to clear water, so it always looks slightly brownish blue. We're not lucky enough to have the white sand in the Caribbean.

Santa Monica is pretty famous, has the boardwalk, and a pier with an amusement park in it, and it is right next to Los Angeles.

There's Newport and Huntington beach a little bit south, it's not exactly a fancy beach, but it's ok. Down PCH you'll find Fashion Island, a large outdoor mall.

And there's Oceanside and San Diego. I haven't been to san diego yet, but oceanside has a cooler feel than up north and the sand is a bit harder and not as gritty.