The best family-friendly glamping in California Coast

From top to bottom, you’ll find varied terrain along the vast Pacific Coast Highway, which offers campers just about everything under the sun (or fog). Whether you prefer the far northern reaches of Redwood National Park or the southern surf beaches, there’s no shortage of camping destinations on the California coast. Campgrounds do fill up, especially in summer months, so it’s best to book well ahead of the season. Marine life includes migrating gray and humpback whales, California sea lions, and myriad bird life. It’s no wonder visitors from all over the world seek out coastal California.

93% (2.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

from

$145

/ night

Camper favorites in and near California Coast

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Root's End

96%

(308)

5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mendocino, CA

Nearly four acres close to town and amenities, yet quiet and secluded. Away from any major roads and on quiet nights, the fog horn from the Big River buoy can be heard. Wildlife on the property include piliated woodpeckers, deer, raccoons, jack rabbits, bears (keep your trash and food inside!), mountain lions, foxes, and of course, our resident ravens. Wild huckleberries and rhododendrons are abundant among the redwoods and fir. A beautiful spot to spend the night!

Slide Ranch

96%

(156)

25 sites · Tents, Lodging · Muir Beach, CA

Slide Ranch is a nonprofit organization established in 1970, becoming one of the first Park Partners in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Slide Ranch is located on the Marin coast, on land that has a rich history in connecting people to food. The Coast Miwok once fished and foraged for food at this site, and in the late 19th century Portuguese dairy farmers purchased the land and produced milk and butter for residents of San Francisco. In 1969, 134 acres of this fertile coastline were rescued from commercial development. Slide Ranch camping fees directly fund scholarships for youth programs throughout the year. Slide Ranch is an unpaved ranch environment. Our trails and garden paths all consist of uneven, sloping terrain, often muddy or soft ground during the winter season, and may be challenging to access for visitors with significant mobility restrictions. Minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No pets allowed; service animals are permitted. We do not have showering facilities or flush toilets. Water in all Slide Ranch taps is potable for refilling water bottles/jugs. Soap is provided for hand washing. Slide Ranch does not have any concessions on site. Camping is not supported by the on-site staff. Per current GGNRA regulations, campfires and open flames of any kind are not allowed.

The Olive Farm

99%

(365)

4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Novato, CA

Excellent Group Site! We only host one group at a time so you can be with your family and friends in a large, flat and private space. We listed the site for up to 12 campers but feel free to reach out if your group is bigger. Please check out the newest addition of our cabin bunkhouse. Take a look at the pictures - you can add it to your stay as an extra when you book! The land was originally purchased in the 1980's. Since then, it has been used by four generations of the family as a place to gather, relax, camp and even celebrate. I had my wedding on the property in 2010. For a few years we held an annual music festival with the very inventive name of Samapalooza. Up to 400 people would attend the day filled with live music, food and drinks. You will still find the stage and bar we built as an outdoor kitchen and dining area. Around 2008, my father and I planted our first olive trees. Many have been planted since which has gifted the land the timeless sense of purpose it deserves. My father dedicated his last years to tending the young trees and now I have taken the mantle to carry the farm forward. 'The Property', as it is known amongst family and friends has always been a place to camp. I have sat around the same fire ring for decades, rain or shine. I hope that fellow hipcampers can find the joy that my family and I have experienced here. This is a very private camp on a small olive farm. Geographically close to highways and the town of Novato, Sonoma and Napa wine country, this camp feels remote and secluded. Only one camp on the property to keep it private and special. You basically have your run of the land. We have just updated the land and made some nice improvements. Located on ten acres, you will drive past a small olive grove before reaching the spacious and open campground. Just up the hill from the camp is a private pond where you can fish, take out a small boat or just sit and watch the birds. It can be great swimming on hot summer days. This spot has been used by the family for decades and is now open to share with fellow nature lovers. Just a note: While the majority of the time you can expect complete privacy, this is a working olive farm. From time to time you may run into me (Sam) or someone else associated with the land. We will always do our best to respect your space.

Waterfall Camp

100%

(304)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mendocino, CA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp. Fallow us on IG https://www.instagram.com/waterfallcampmendocino/ Come enjoy your stay with us on our beautiful 5-acre property centrally located, its only 10 min to the village of Mendocino, 5 minute drive to Caspar beach and 10 min to the town of Fort Bragg. Nestled on the edge of the Redwoods and Pygmy Forest, adjacent to Russian Gulch State Park. The property has private access into park which consists of many miles of beautiful Redwood trails,the trail to the waterfall, biking trails along with a trail that leads straight to the ocean. Come and relax around your private campfire and cook over the open flames or treat yourself to fine dining in Mendocino or Fort Bragg, the experience is at your fingertips. From camping under the stars to hiking and biking through the redwoods or kayaking up Big River, come let the Mendocino coast show you what it’s all about. Our goal is to make you feel right at home. Each of our three sites has a redwood deck with a sink and food prep space, potable water, remote solar lighting, picnic table, smokeless fire pit and grill, firewood, level parking area and tent pad. One of the three sites can accommodate a 25’ trailer. There is a beautiful redwood bathhouse with two outdoor showers and two flushing toilets. All water onsite is potable so make sure to top off before your day of adventuring. There is a horseshoe pit, cornhole, and badminton set for fun under the sun. All sites are a two min walk to the State Park trails and 5 min ride to Jackson state forest bike trails. It's about a half hour walk to the beautiful waterfall from our property. Large Groups are welcome to book all three sites with two additional RV locations. Also we have a fully stocked westfalia camper van to glamp in if your wanting to pack light for the weekend. We hope to make your stay with us a memorable and fun experience. Shay & Liz -

Amaya Creek Redwood Campground

78%

(153)

19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Los Gatos, CA

Welcome to the Amaya Creek Redwood Campground! We are deep in the Santa Cruz mountains and it’s rustic so be prepared! The road is all paved but it can be narrow, bumpy and steep in some areas. Be sure to follow our directions to bypass the road closure! There is no cell phone service in some areas. PLEASE NOTE, we do not have a trash service for the campground, we require all campers to PACK OUT THEIR TRASH with them! We have 40 acres of redwood forest and two creeks running through including the Amaya Creek which serves the boundary of our property at the end of Amayak Creek Trail. There’s also a small waterfall off the Amaya Creek Trail, but it may dry out during the summer. Enjoy hiking, creeks and small waterfall exploration, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, star gazing, relaxation, meditation and more. Our campground has running water from a natural spring, Men and Women's Restrooms each with 2 toilets and 1 FREE hot water shower, utility shed with sink and hot water, and an outdoor amphitheater. The kitchen and washer/dryer is Staff Only not for campers. . Most campsites allow 4-6 guests maximum with 1 car included in the nightly rate. Each additional vehicle is $15 per day and will be added at checkout once you add the correct number of vehicles you will be bringing. Pets are $10 per day, 1 pet per group ONLY. Please add this as an extra at the time of booking, you will see the option to add extras once you begin the checkout process. Dogs must be on leash at all times! Quiet hours are 10pm-8am. No drugs of any kind including marijuana allowed. No loud music allowed. This is a private property so no visitors are allowed, only paid guests. Our onsite staff will go around and enforce the rules. No hookup for RV and trailer, check each site description to see if RV/trailer is ok for that site.

Dreamy California Coast Airstreams

98%

(91)

4 sites · Lodging · Pescadero, CA

This is private 30 acres property overlooking the stunning Tunitas Beach and Pacific ocean from a breathtaking ocean cliff view. Stunning sunrise and sunset greet you in these fully equipped Airstreams. Fully loaded with all the amenities to make your glamping experience perfect. Fire pit, BBQ, Pizza oven, A/C, Heater, full kitchen with all necessary cookware and serving dishes to cook inside the airstream or on the BBQ or Pizza oven outside. Comes will full bathroom with hot shower. Truly a rare and memorable experience, located within 9 mins of Half Moon Bay shopping. Beach access short walk or drive.

Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch

99%

(146)

1 site · Lodging · Loma Mar, CA

Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) protects open space on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the benefit of all. Situated on top of a ridge with expansive redwood forest and coastal views, the Audrey Edna Cabin provides a completely private gathering place and destination for visitors with reservations. The cabin has spectacular views of forest, sky, ocean and the Butano ridgeline. It's a short hike to 8000+ acres of county parkland where you can hike, bike and ride horses (though please note, there are no facilities for horse boarding at the cabin.) The cabin is located at Alpine Ranch, a property adjacent to Sam McDonald County Park that was protected by Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST). Whether you are looking for an active experience or just want to relax in a peaceful, remote setting, there's something here for everyone. This is a rustic hike-in cabin designed for a introductory pack-in experience. Bedding is not provided. It is about a 1.7-mile hike on a rolling dirt road from the Sam McDonald County Park parking lot, with about 650 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers can reach the cabin in an hour or less. Guests should plan to arrive at least 2 hours before sunset, and pack water and flashlights or headlamps. Guests with limited mobility, please contact us for information regarding accommodations that will allow you to access this shared resource. *A note about reservation availability: On the weekends, POST offers priority reservations for the cabin to our partners at the San Mateo County Health Department and Park Rx to provide patients with equitable access to the benefits of nature. Occasionally, we have last-minute public weekend reservation availability due to cancellations. The cabin is reservable up to 3 months in advance, on a rolling basis. Love the idea of a hike-in cabin, but unable to visit us Sunday-Thursday? Check out the nearby Sierra Club Hiker's Hut in Sam McDonald County Park. Property History: At one time, the ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains was a thriving center for trade between tribes of the coast and the bay, which we still find evidence of today in cultural sites and artifacts throughout the region. Native people have cared for this land since time immemorial, including the local Muwekma and Ramaytush Ohlone who are still active in the area today. This property specifically is host to a tributary to one of just a handful of waterways that support salmonids in this region, which are a species of tremendous importance to native people. Over 1000 acres here were eventually purchased by entrepreneur Ridgeway Rowley, who built a home on the ranch in the 1880s as part of an unsuccessful wedding proposal to Fannie Page, daughter of a local mill owner (ever heard of Page Mill Road?) After being rejected by Fannie, Rowley operated the ranch for a decade in conjunction with his work as District Attorney and publisher of the Palo Alto Weekly, before eventually returning to his hometown of Cortland, NY, where he lived as a bachelor until his death. Over the course of the 20th century, the ranch was divided, some parts of which became Pescadero Creek County Park. POST purchased the 350 acre home property, now called Alpine Ranch, in 2012 through our Heart of the Redwoods campaign, an initiative to protect 20,000 acres of Redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Alpine Ranch borders Pescadero Creek County Park and Sam McDonald County Park, adding to the area’s protected open space and containing more than a mile of tributaries to Pescadero Creek, which flows year-round and is a major spawning stream for steelhead trout. The Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch is situated at one of the property's most scenic overlooks. The cabin was built in the early 1900's, and completely reconstructed up to modern building codes by POST in 2018 so that all could enjoy this special place.

Windsor Family Farm

100%

(743)

2 sites · Lodging · San Martin, CA

We are a small farm in Silicon Valley. We are basically a petting zoo and kid-friendly destination! You can stay in our "Flying Pig" cabin (sleeps up to 5), or our "Room with a view of a Ewe" (sleeps 3)....or bring friends 'n' family - and reserve both :-) Please PLEASE read further for more information! and read again just before you come :-) The guest restroom (outside entry in the main house) is shared with other guests. I clean it every day, between every group or guest. We have bikes for kids, playhouses, playground, so many kid activities....and of course, animals galore!! You can feed or pet many of them. Relax, the place is yours! One mile away is Harvey Bear County Park, with trails for bikes, horses or walking. We are 5 minutes from the Gilroy Outlets, yet a world away from the hustle and bustle! Come, relax and enjoy nature! Enjoy Gilroy Gardens (seasonally) or go hiking at a nearby State or County Park. Or just relax at the Farm. We will make this a special day for you! Let us know if you are celebrating an event * CHECK-IN is after 4:00pm and please give us a 30 min heads-up before your arrival. CHECK OUT is 10am, unless previous arrangements have been made. Please be as specific as you can regarding your arrival time (so I can make the temp in there as comfortable as possible, turn on lights as needed, etc.) ** We are a "Bed and Breakfast"; most days we have other day-guests and events here, so please respect the arrival and check-out times. If you stay 2 nights, please be aware that you most likely won't have the whole farm to yourselves during the day. This is an animal farm. If you love new animal experiences, this is the place for you! If you are scared of or allergic to cats or dogs, this might not be the place for you! If you can't handle new smells and sounds, this might not be the place for you. You will feed and enjoy the animals; please respect their space, no chasing and no going into their enclosures. There is dirt, dust and various country critters. We love Country Life!! If you are adventurous and love animals and want a unique experience, come check us out! Restroom available in the main house (short walk from the cabin). Small fridge and microwave next to the restroom. There is no kitchen/oven/stove available. Gas Fire pit available ; there is no BBQ. We are exceptionally cautious with camp fires. If it is particularly hot and windy, there will be no fires. We now have a gas fire pit where you can create smores or just enjoy the campfire ambiance. Price is $175 for the Flying Pig (up to 5 total). Another option (as an add-on): you can pitch a tent for $45. "The Flying Pig" has a queen bed, bunk beds twin size, and a loft with a twin mattress, all bedding included. You are not just paying for a place to sleep; you are paying for an experience and the enjoyment of our property :-). We serve a continental breakfast (free) or hot breakfast ($35/cabin) between 8-9am. (we can accommodate vegetarian and dairy free diets; let us know before you come). We provide bedding and towels. There is A/C and a plug-in heater in The Flying Pig. Please do not bring additional things to plug in except for chargers for phone/electronic devices. We are approximately 1 1/2 hours south of San Francisco, 30 min south of San Jose (without traffic). Gilroy Gardens is 15 min away; Harvey Bear County park is 1 mile away; Monterey and Santa Cruz and the Pinnacles National Park are approximately 1 hour away. We recommend bringing dinner or eating before arrival to maximize your evening. Contact us for more info. If you want to celebrate a birthday and bring friends for the evening, there is an additional fee for parties. (Please contact us about this). If you want to bring a few friends just to enjoy the evening, we now have that as an add-on. SPECIAL PACKAGES :-). Must be PRE-ordered and paid thru Hipcamp or upon arrival ~ *smore's kit (Everything -- including use of our gas fire pit -- that you will need to create amazing roasted marshmallows and smores sandwiches!) $20 *Child Birthday package: small gift and special treat $10 *use of fire pit (propane expense) $10

Stories from the community

N

Nina

6 days ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

We had such a fun stay at the Room with a View of a Ewe! Kim the host was extremely welcoming and friendly - she showed us around the farm and we got to feed the chickens, ducks, sheep, goats, bunnies, and alpacas. It was a hit with our toddler. The cabin was comfortable and warm overnight, and the breakfast and s’mores kit were an added bonus. Thanks Kim!

R

Rory

2 weeks ago

5 nights at Dreamy California Coast Airstreams

Incredible spot, very hard to beat! Kind and conscientious host. As shown in the photos!

A

Amelia

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

My husband, our dog and I enjoyed staying here in one of the cabins. The host was helpful and friendly. The cabin was clean and comfortable as well. It is situated on a lovely wooded property. We would definitely visit again!

R

Rodolfo

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Dreamy California Coast Airstreams

I enjoyed a lovely weekend in Airstream 3. The setting offers incredible views of the Pacific and the California coastline, and the arrival instructions were very clear. The airstream is comfortable, well-appointed, and includes all expected amenities aside from food. The cozy interior and the sound of the rain contributed to a very relaxing atmosphere. The only drawback is that Airstream 3 is outfitted with twin beds, which may not be ideal for couples. This wasn’t clearly noted in the online description, so it would be helpful to include that for future guests. Overall, a beautiful and memorable stay.

E

Ernesto

2 weeks ago

3 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

Beautiful place. The room was nice. The bed was comfy. The bathrooms were well maintained. The place had an awesome view of the night sky. Defiantly will be planning a future stay there. Mendocino is like 10 minutes away and fort brag is about 20. There’s not even a real need to bring food so long as u wanna go buy food everyday.

R

Ray

3 weeks ago

With kids

2 nights at Root's End

Great spot, close to town and really enjoyed the space. Firewood provided was a nice touch.

Julian

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Dreamy California Coast Airstreams

I'm a return Hipcamper to the Airstreams! One of the best coastal views in all of California.

S

Sara

3 weeks ago

With pets

1 night at Campo Nopalito

Had a great time. Tent was clean and comfortable. The kitchen had everything we would have ever needed. We made pizza, tea, and breakfast. The bathrooms were clean. My only complaint would be that the showers were cold. We tried morning and night and there was no hot water. Would come back again. My daughter loved pointing out all of the avocados on the property.

M

Marc

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Campo Nopalito

My wife and I along with our two dogs had a wonderful time at the Nopalito farm. The entire setting from the communal outdoor kitchen to the shower and outdoor seating areas were great. Jacob and his parents worked diligently to make all guests stay most comfortable. We definitely plan to come back.

Front deck and kitchenette of mushroom cabin

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Sara

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

This was my second visit, and it was just as enjoyable as the first. My friends and I stayed in the Sunshine and Mushroom cabins and loved how comfortable and well-set-up everything was. Nathan’s daughter helped us get the wood stove going, which made breakfast in the kitchen extra cozy. We’re already talking about coming back next year. Thank you to Nathan and his family for another great stay.

covered porch is a great place to listen to the birds and enjoy the sunlight coming through the trees

S

Sara

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

This was my second stay at Baby Banana Slug Farm, and it was just as great as the first. My friends and I stayed in the Sunshine and Mushroom cabins and appreciated how cozy and convenient everything was. Nathan’s daughter kindly helped us get the wood stove going, and we used it to warm the kitchen and make a great breakfast. Next time, we’ll definitely check out his shop. We’re hoping to make this an annual trip. Thank you to Nathan + family for the warm hospitality and another wonderful stay.

A

Andrea

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Salmon Creek Ranch

The treehouse is a dream! We had a lovely time. It was quiet and gorgeous.

C

Cam

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Dreamy California Coast Airstreams

Insane views and sufficient privacy between sites.

H

Henry

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Root's End

Great little spot to stay and a really communicative and helpful host! Other reviews have mentioned that the house felt damp - hate to break it to you but thats just kinda what its like in that part of CA in late fall and over the winter. I thought it was really well looked after and nicely equipped, and comfy enough for 3 to sleep in.

A

Alexa

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Campo Nopalito

Wonderful lodging on a beautiful property! It was very comfortable and had everything we needed. Jacob is a kind and helpful host.

G

Ginamarie

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

This was a great location and Kim is so nice with the littles. We had a lovely time.

J

Jessica

November 2025

1 night at Campo Nopalito

we had a great time! Everything was kept pretty clean in the shared bathroom/kitchen area. Jacob is very friendly and helpful. Will definitely be coming back!

S

Sarah

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

This was our second time staying at Kim’s farm and it was just as fun this time around. Our 3 year old had been talking about it non stop since our last visit, so we came back. The animals are always fun, but it is Kim’s hospitality that always stands out the most. Couldn’t recommend more!

L

LOU

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Windsor Family Farm

Yet another wonderful stay hosted by Kim. Second time back here and we enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. Perfect farmstay for a family!

K

Kimbel

October 2025

1 night at Salmon Creek Ranch

Fab elevated 360 view of redwood forest, excellent craftsmanship throughout. A must experience!

Available this weekend

The Fairy Forest

95%

(297)

4 sites · Lodging · Trinidad, CA

The Fairy Forest is 4 acres of redwood trees one mile from the magical city of Trinidad, CA. People have been camping in our meadow since the 1950's, and I'm happy to carry on the tradition, by opening it up to you. There was a fire on the property in 1901 which left the burnt out hollow stumps which you'll see by the shower. There's one old growth redwood on the property, behind the glampy tent, but everything else in roughly 120 years old. Every year we try to make your glamping experience better and better. This year, we've added an artisan picnic table, built on site, and some solar lights leading to the shower. Outdoor sink and cook space is next on our list! There used to be two campsites on our property, but we closed down one of them to give guests in the glampy tent exclusive usage of the outdoor shower and porta potty. We are also renting out our cabin this year, which has been our home for the last 3 years. There's 10 local beaches to explore in the area, great little restaurants and businesses, and countless trails- including Strawberry Rock, which is right down the street from us. We're 19 miles away from Orick, which is the gateway to Fern Canyon (make a reservation in advance) and all the trails with old growth redwoods. And we're 16 miles from Arcata, a vibrant, colorful and creative city that is home to the first farmer's market in California, which is quite the experience if you find yourself here on a Saturday. Hope you come and stay with us if you find yourself on the Lost Coast.

Misthaven Ranch Nature Retreat

79%

(14)

8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Gilroy, CA

Nestled in the serene redwood forests of Gilroy, our 6-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. Wake up to the soothing sounds of our rooster’s call and start your day with a sense of peace and excitement. Our ranch is packed with fun-filled activities for all ages. Fly through the trees on our zipline, bounce away your stress on the trampoline, or challenge yourself with archery and axe throwing. Wander along our scenic hiking trails, follow the bubbling creek, and soak in breathtaking views from the mountaintop. Animal lovers will be in heaven at our charming petting zoo, home to our friendly goat, sheep, kunekune pigs, chickens, ducks, and bunnies. Get up close and enjoy interacting with these adorable creatures. As the day winds down, fire up the BBQ grill for a delicious outdoor meal, then gather around the campfire for a night of s’mores and stories under the stars. Our ranch offers incredible stargazing opportunities, with clear skies that often reveal the awe-inspiring Milky Way. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this unique experience will help you reconnect with nature, breathe in the fresh forest air, and leave with unforgettable memories. Book your stay today and unlock your wild side on our one-of-a-kind ranch! *All activities are free except zipline.

Redwood Paradise Camping

1 site · Lodging · Cazadero, CA

Nestled within the Sonoma county between towering redwoods, vineyards, and the Russian River, is a 2.5 acre campsite speckled with fruit trees, ferns, boulders, and the pristine Ward Creek. Situated in Cazadero, a little town consisting of a handful of churches, one general store and a hardware store, this oasis offers escape from city life with convenience around the corner. You will have the entire 2.5 acres to yourselves as we only rent to one group at a time. Immerse yourself in California's beauty at this magical glampsite.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping in California Coast guide

Where to go

North Coast

The counties of Humboldt, Mendocino, and Sonoma encompass the northern reaches of California’s coastline. Here is where you’ll find rugged bluffs descending to pristine coves, ancient groves of coastal redwoods, historic lighthouses, and cozy towns. The Lost Coast, Sue-meg State Park (formerly Patrick’s Point), and Trinidad State Beach all lie north of Eureka’s Old Town. It’s possible to spot migrating whales and harbor seals at MacKerricher State Park or the nearby Mendocino Headlands. Sonoma Coast State Park begins at Bodega Head with 17 miles of beaches to explore.

San Francisco Bay Area

Surrounding this urban center is a surprising array of options for outdoor lovers. Cross the Golden Gate to the North Bay’s Marin Headlands, Muir Beach, and Muir Woods, all of which fill with campers on weekends. Hike the Tomales Point Trail to see herds of Tule elk, or kayak on Tomales Bay. If you want to camp on the bay near San Francisco, consider Rob Hill Campground above Baker Beach, ferry to Angel Island State Park, or check out a variety of Hipcamps. Follow Highway 1 south for the nearby beach towns of Pacifica and Half Moon Bay.

Central Coast

Stretching between Monterey Bay and Santa Barbara, this lengthy portion of the Pacific coastline includes the coveted regions of Big Sur, Morro Bay, and Pismo Beach—where you may camp among the beach dunes. Start off in the surf mecca of Santa Cruz, which includes a campground at Manresa State Beach. At the southern end, catch a ferry to Channel Islands National Park for walk-in campgrounds and sea kayaking. Be sure to bring binoculars for bird watching and whale watching offshore.

Southern California

The southern shores between Los Angeles and San Diego are the stuff of California dreamin’. Beachfront campsites claim the most desirable real estate, with surfing, windsurfing, and beachcombing on your doorstep. Heading south from Newport Beach, check out these coastal camping options: Crystal Cove State Park, Doheny State Beach, San Clemente State Beach, South Carlsbad State Beach, and San Elijo State Beach.