San Clemente State Beach, California

San Clemente is one of those magical places that exist just outside of a city (in this case, two) but can make you feel worlds away from the insanity and rush of a million people trying to get everywhere. Instead,this beautiful beach makes you want to go exactly one place, and, if you are sitting in the sand, you’ve already arrived. Situated in between LA and San Diego, San Clemente State Beach is one of the most popular spots in SoCal, as you can imagine. Sweeping ocean bluffs carved out of California sandstone give way to the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific, which crashes warm and tame on the state parks lovely, mile-long expanse of shoreline. Beginning surfers can get their sea legs along this gentle stretch of beach, and, of course, the water is perfect for anyone who is looking for the iconic California experience. If you want to take a break from the salt and sun, check out some of the great hiking trails, which offer up some truly incredible views of the impossible horizon. The best part? You can absolutely fall asleep and wake-up to the sound of waves. Sigh. We wish they all could be California beaches.