96% (990) • 57 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Seaside
dabudage Big Sur
1. dabudage Big Sur
95%
(725)
49mi from Seaside · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *.
Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut.
Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage.
*We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site.
There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity.
There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers.
A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come.
Children are welcome.
Dogs are welcome off-leash.
Alcohol is discouraged.
No electronic music devices.
Fires in designated pits only.
Pack out trash.
TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from.
*YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED
Requests are usually checked once daily.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$90
/ night
Redwood Paradise Camping
2. Redwood Paradise Camping
91%
(283)
35mi from Seaside · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE READ:
Hello all! If you're looking for some glamping with creature comforts, while just being 10 minutes away from restaurants. This is the place for you. We are a 5 acre property and home surrounded by tall redwood and oak trees. Very green and lots of shade. These are the amenities/facilities you will have free access to: Pool, Pool chairs and umbrellas, Deck area with sunset view, Trampolines, and hammocks.
There is not cooking allowed by or at any of the common areas, due to flies and critters. Cooking and eating is only allowed by your sites and not in any common areas: Hammocks, Trampolines, Pool Area, tables, sink, and deck please follow this rule because we want to prevent our shared areas to be fly and bug infested. We are still working on ridding the flies and cleaning. (please try to bring prepackaged food or something easy. If anything you can drive 10 minutes to nearby food and grocery). In the past we let people cook and eat around the pool but now our whole property is fly infested and I find scattered leftovers on the ground. Thanks for understanding.
THERE IS A 1-2 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5!
Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger.
CHECK OUT OUR NEW LODGING:
This property is my home that I live in with my 2 kids. It is a rustic and homey vibe, definitely not a hotel. We want you to come knowing what to expect. Our property offers a pool, and trampolines for the kids. We have a deck patio area that overlooks an amazing view of the redwood forest. Most of our guests are those that come from foreign countries and they all LOVE the property. I love leaving a great impression of our area.
CAMPGROUND GUIDELINES
Pack out your trash.
Rinse feet before using the pool.
No pool toys or floaties.
Always supervise kids.
Don’t sit on chair edges or pool cover box.
Use stumps or your own table for cooking (not ours).
Keep the area clean—no food scraps on the ground.
No dogs in the pool area; leashes and cleanup required.
No eating in rooms or cabin.
Check out on the deck.
No smoking (vapes only, away from common areas).
Propane grills only—no open flames or campfires.
Thanks for helping us keep this place awesome!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$105
/ night
Redwoods Mountain Getaway
3. Redwoods Mountain Getaway
97%
(150)
34mi from Seaside · 2 sites · Lodging
Our property sits on 2 acres of pristine mix of redwoods, madrone, and oak trees. Amazing valley views, gate access from yard to hiking trails, and very quiet at night.
Neighborhood overview
Felton/Santa Cruz is full of things to do:The Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 3 ft narrow-gauge tourist railroad.Henry Cowell State Park, most famous for the 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees.Mystery Spot: Experience gravity-defying demonstrations on the short but steep uphill walk.Garden of Eden: Secret swimming hole with lots of fun boulders to jump off and swim around. We will fill you in on how to get there.Cruise on bikes down West Cliff DriveHang out at beach and relax..And of course, world famous surfing in Santa Cruz.
We have a two-night minimum on weekends.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$140
/ night
Los Padres National Forest
4. Los Padres National Forest
95%
(452)
762 sites · Mission Canyon, California
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Andrew Molera State Park
5. Andrew Molera State Park
93%
(41)
24 sites · Carmel Valley Village, California
Surfers love this secluded beach when they want to get away from summer crowds.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Santa Cruz's Rudy Ranch
6. Santa Cruz's Rudy Ranch
95%
(197)
39mi from Seaside · 10 sites · Lodging
Are you looking for a serene getaway surrounded by the majestic redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains? Our rental is perfect for adults seeking tranquility in a peaceful setting. Our peaceful eight-acre parcel is 13 miles from Santa Cruz, CA, and within walking distance of downtown Boulder Creek.
While we enjoy the liveliness of children, we've decided to host mature guests in our quiet neighborhood for a restful retreat. Before booking, please review all the information we provide to avoid any confusion upon your arrival.
Have a fantastic time at our place, whether you're Gen X or Z, we dig all Hippies!
Pool area officially opens May 27th!
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$145
/ night
Waldhaus Redwood Retreat
7. Waldhaus Redwood Retreat
100%
(19)
50mi from Seaside · 1 site · Lodging
Tucked away in the Portola Redwoods, you will find your very own bohemian grove. Designed by prominent architect in San Francisco, your will find 4 comfortable cabins, modern open kitchen and spa-like bathrooms. Less than an hour away from the Silicon Valley, this is our weekend sanctuary. Like John Muir once said - “Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$900
/ night
Redwood Rain Forest Camp
8. Redwood Rain Forest Camp
94%
(17)
41mi from Seaside · 16 sites
Redwood Rain Forest Camp is Easterseals Camp Harmon. For more that 50 years it has been a magical place for people with special needs to experience the wonder of camp. During our off season we invite you to enjoy the beauty and wonder of a rain forest. Winters in the redwoods are a fantastic time to really experience nature. Even during the rain one can hike and see the amazing forest in action.
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
9. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
100%
(2)
2 sites · Aptos, California
Behold natural wonders aplenty in the Forest of Nisene Marks.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
10. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
98%
(50)
107 sites · Felton, California
Big trees keep on growing in this famed Northern California treasure.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
11. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
99%
(67)
2 sites · Carmel Valley Village, California
Watch McWay Falls tumble into the ocean at this compact Big Sur park.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
12. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
98%
(362)
274 sites · Boulder Creek, California
Soak up the shade of old growth redwood trees & take some selfies with banana slugs!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Castle Rock State Park
13. Castle Rock State Park
93%
(22)
52 sites · Saratoga, California
Hikers and climbers love Castle Rock State Park.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Limekiln State Park
14. Limekiln State Park
99%
(108)
28 sites · Pine Canyon, California
A perfect intro to Big Sur, Limekiln serves up peaceful walks, crashing surf, and scenic camping "from the Redwoods to the Sea."
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Portola Redwoods State Park
15. Portola Redwoods State Park
97%
(72)
59 sites · La Honda, California
Explore the otherworldly beauty of old-growth redwoods—a tranquil sanctuary and ideal getaway.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
96% (990) • 57 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Seaside
dabudage Big Sur
1. dabudage Big Sur
95%
(725)
49mi from Seaside · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging
DABUDAGE in southern Big Sur. ***READ THIS ENTIRE WRITTEN DESCRIPTION BEFORE REQUESTING TO BOOK!* And Format Request as Specified *.
Disconnect from the virtual world and surround yourself in nature. At the base of a majestic canyon where steep mountains plunge to the ocean, along a flowing creek. Backed by redwood trees and surrounded by national forest is a minimalistic homestead with family, friends and animals. *The prices have been raised on hipcamp as Hipcamp now takes more than a 25% cut.
Discounts and/or trades may be available if needed. You can visit our site on the web for more information at dabudage.
*We currently only accept reservations for dates within the next 3 weeks*. You must Arrive Before Dark to find your site.
There is no wi-fi, cell service or electricity.
There are two small communal guest kitchens, fresh water, a shower/bath and composting barrel poopers.
A massive flood in Jan 2021 brought 100's of gigantic full sized redwood trees and boulders smashing down thru most of the land and previous structures. It is and will be in the process of rebuilding for many years to come.
Children are welcome.
Dogs are welcome off-leash.
Alcohol is discouraged.
No electronic music devices.
Fires in designated pits only.
Pack out trash.
TO RESERVE A SITE - Please include a bit about yourself/party and where you’re coming from.
*YOU MUST ALSO INCLUDE - “ My party and I have read the description” - IN ORDER TO BE ACCEPTED
Requests are usually checked once daily.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$90
/ night
Redwood Paradise Camping
2. Redwood Paradise Camping
91%
(283)
35mi from Seaside · 15 sites · Tents, Lodging
PLEASE READ:
Hello all! If you're looking for some glamping with creature comforts, while just being 10 minutes away from restaurants. This is the place for you. We are a 5 acre property and home surrounded by tall redwood and oak trees. Very green and lots of shade. These are the amenities/facilities you will have free access to: Pool, Pool chairs and umbrellas, Deck area with sunset view, Trampolines, and hammocks.
There is not cooking allowed by or at any of the common areas, due to flies and critters. Cooking and eating is only allowed by your sites and not in any common areas: Hammocks, Trampolines, Pool Area, tables, sink, and deck please follow this rule because we want to prevent our shared areas to be fly and bug infested. We are still working on ridding the flies and cleaning. (please try to bring prepackaged food or something easy. If anything you can drive 10 minutes to nearby food and grocery). In the past we let people cook and eat around the pool but now our whole property is fly infested and I find scattered leftovers on the ground. Thanks for understanding.
THERE IS A 1-2 MINUTE HIKE TO THE CAMPSITES 1-5!
Poolside campsites are closer to the parking and are bigger.
CHECK OUT OUR NEW LODGING:
This property is my home that I live in with my 2 kids. It is a rustic and homey vibe, definitely not a hotel. We want you to come knowing what to expect. Our property offers a pool, and trampolines for the kids. We have a deck patio area that overlooks an amazing view of the redwood forest. Most of our guests are those that come from foreign countries and they all LOVE the property. I love leaving a great impression of our area.
CAMPGROUND GUIDELINES
Pack out your trash.
Rinse feet before using the pool.
No pool toys or floaties.
Always supervise kids.
Don’t sit on chair edges or pool cover box.
Use stumps or your own table for cooking (not ours).
Keep the area clean—no food scraps on the ground.
No dogs in the pool area; leashes and cleanup required.
No eating in rooms or cabin.
Check out on the deck.
No smoking (vapes only, away from common areas).
Propane grills only—no open flames or campfires.
Thanks for helping us keep this place awesome!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$105
/ night
Redwoods Mountain Getaway
3. Redwoods Mountain Getaway
97%
(150)
34mi from Seaside · 2 sites · Lodging
Our property sits on 2 acres of pristine mix of redwoods, madrone, and oak trees. Amazing valley views, gate access from yard to hiking trails, and very quiet at night.
Neighborhood overview
Felton/Santa Cruz is full of things to do:The Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 3 ft narrow-gauge tourist railroad.Henry Cowell State Park, most famous for the 40-acre grove of towering old-growth redwood trees.Mystery Spot: Experience gravity-defying demonstrations on the short but steep uphill walk.Garden of Eden: Secret swimming hole with lots of fun boulders to jump off and swim around. We will fill you in on how to get there.Cruise on bikes down West Cliff DriveHang out at beach and relax..And of course, world famous surfing in Santa Cruz.
We have a two-night minimum on weekends.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$140
/ night
Los Padres National Forest
4. Los Padres National Forest
95%
(452)
762 sites · Mission Canyon, California
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Andrew Molera State Park
5. Andrew Molera State Park
93%
(41)
24 sites · Carmel Valley Village, California
Surfers love this secluded beach when they want to get away from summer crowds.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
Santa Cruz's Rudy Ranch
6. Santa Cruz's Rudy Ranch
95%
(197)
39mi from Seaside · 10 sites · Lodging
Are you looking for a serene getaway surrounded by the majestic redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains? Our rental is perfect for adults seeking tranquility in a peaceful setting. Our peaceful eight-acre parcel is 13 miles from Santa Cruz, CA, and within walking distance of downtown Boulder Creek.
While we enjoy the liveliness of children, we've decided to host mature guests in our quiet neighborhood for a restful retreat. Before booking, please review all the information we provide to avoid any confusion upon your arrival.
Have a fantastic time at our place, whether you're Gen X or Z, we dig all Hippies!
Pool area officially opens May 27th!
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
from
$145
/ night
Waldhaus Redwood Retreat
7. Waldhaus Redwood Retreat
100%
(19)
50mi from Seaside · 1 site · Lodging
Tucked away in the Portola Redwoods, you will find your very own bohemian grove. Designed by prominent architect in San Francisco, your will find 4 comfortable cabins, modern open kitchen and spa-like bathrooms. Less than an hour away from the Silicon Valley, this is our weekend sanctuary. Like John Muir once said - “Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$900
/ night
Redwood Rain Forest Camp
8. Redwood Rain Forest Camp
94%
(17)
41mi from Seaside · 16 sites
Redwood Rain Forest Camp is Easterseals Camp Harmon. For more that 50 years it has been a magical place for people with special needs to experience the wonder of camp. During our off season we invite you to enjoy the beauty and wonder of a rain forest. Winters in the redwoods are a fantastic time to really experience nature. Even during the rain one can hike and see the amazing forest in action.
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
9. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
100%
(2)
2 sites · Aptos, California
Behold natural wonders aplenty in the Forest of Nisene Marks.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
10. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
98%
(50)
107 sites · Felton, California
Big trees keep on growing in this famed Northern California treasure.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
11. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
99%
(67)
2 sites · Carmel Valley Village, California
Watch McWay Falls tumble into the ocean at this compact Big Sur park.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
12. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
98%
(362)
274 sites · Boulder Creek, California
Soak up the shade of old growth redwood trees & take some selfies with banana slugs!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Castle Rock State Park
13. Castle Rock State Park
93%
(22)
52 sites · Saratoga, California
Hikers and climbers love Castle Rock State Park.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Limekiln State Park
14. Limekiln State Park
99%
(108)
28 sites · Pine Canyon, California
A perfect intro to Big Sur, Limekiln serves up peaceful walks, crashing surf, and scenic camping "from the Redwoods to the Sea."
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Portola Redwoods State Park
15. Portola Redwoods State Park
97%
(72)
59 sites · La Honda, California
Explore the otherworldly beauty of old-growth redwoods—a tranquil sanctuary and ideal getaway.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
R
RAJASHREE
November 2025
Tent
I loved camping at Gene's land , highly recommend it. Great host and beautiful location close to the beach.
See more
H
Hayley
November 2025
Tent
We had an incredible few days on Gene’s land. A few highlights include a lovely outdoor kitchen, easy creek access and a nice grassy area for our tent.
See more
A
Amanda
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Redwoods Mountain Getaway
Amazing views. Quiet, peaceful setting. The outdoor shower was amazing! Bring headlamps for the short walk to the bathroom at night.
See more
T
Tiansong
October 2025
Tent
Thanks Ruth and her family for offering us a great camping experience!
See more
Sophia
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
Ruth and Marshall were both great hosts! They were responsive to messages prior to arrival and were friendly and accommodating during our visit. When booking, I wondered if the pool would be visible from our campsite, but I was glad to find that it was very nice and private (a bit removed from the common areas and surrounded by trees). We loved the zipline and hammocks.
See moreG
Gary
October 2025
Tent
Great location on North Hwy 1/Big Sur with a running creek 'soundtrack' in a great location especially when finding availability at the big (State or Nationals) Parks are sold out.
See moreM
Matthew
September 2025
B
Bo
September 2025
1 night at dabudage Big Sur
My partner and I loved the redwood gazebo at Gene’s camp site. The view from the site is gorgeous. Gene is responsive and friendly. I would love to go back when possible - also highly recommend it to anyone looking for a calm and therapeutic experience.
See more
A
Adeline
September 2025
Tent
What a lovely camp site! We were in the Redwood Paradise Campsite #1 (not by the pool) and it was amazing. Secluded and right in the lush redwoods. Definitely a bit of a hike from the car camping so wouldn’t recommend for anyone unable to trek their gear to their site, but it was worth it for the lovely spot. Ruth & Marshall were so welcoming and kind, serving delicious coffee every morning and Marshall played beautiful piano which was a nice touch. The pool is not heated but we didn’t mind it was a nice cold plunge at the end of a hot sweaty day. Shower and flushing toilet was nice to have; don’t expect anything extravagant but it was just fine for the weekend - much nicer than state park bathrooms/showers. Overall would 100% recommend and return!
See more
K
Kelly
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Great location along the creek with easy access to beach! Quirky, unique spot that offers several campsites tucked along the creek and hillside. It’s first come, first serve, so recommend getting there early to scope out the best spot and get a parking spot. Kitchen and water available around property, although we brought our own stuff so didn’t use it. Fire pits are around but not at each site. Overall, we enjoyed our time and would come back!
Couple things to note:
- LOTS of dogs off leash, which is awesome, but if you don’t enjoy dogs or are looking for a pristine campground, this may not be your spot.
- It’s unclear where to go when you arrive. We just walked up toward a group of structures and a woman who lives there came out and briefly explained we could basically just find any spot. There was no check-in so I’m not even sure how they account for people being there. Definitely follow their instruction to be there before dark as you’ll struggle to find where to go.
- Some spots are up the hillside so if you have a lot of stuff, just be prepared for some exercise!
- Very kid-friendly and it seems several kids live there. That said, they are out and about being kiddos throughout the day and into the evening so you’ll hear them!
- Lots of raccoons! Make sure all your food is secure and trash put away before bed!
Have fun!!
See more
S
Shefali
September 2025
Tent
Beautiful site! Drive down is relaxing and the peace and quiet is something you can’t beat! There is an enjoyable common area with very nicely placed hammocks that allow you to observe the redwoods and enjoy what they offer! Would recommend this spot!
See moreK
Kate
September 2025
Tent
The reviews don’t lie — this land is magical, and we’re very grateful to have had the chance to experience it.
Perks were the coolest cat ever living her best life and inspiring us to do the same, the hot shower, the short walk to the ocean, and the winding creek.
Thanks to Gene and fam for sharing their space!
See moreB
Bruce
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Lovely people and a lovely place. Hope to return and camp again soon!
See moreR
Romina
September 2025
Tent
I loved staying here. Camping with the best views, connected to Nature and away from technology. And just a walk away from the ocean
Gene and family are great. I really enjoyed my stay
See more
L
Lorraine
September 2025
2 nights at dabudage Big Sur
The views are stunning and definitely help with emotional regulation and grounding. The more in tuned you are with nature the better your experience will be. The hike up to the Redwood Room was a lot and my first day my legs were SORE! However, there is a water spigot and a pooper close by the room so you don't have to keep climbing up and down for basic needs. The only downfall is food. Because of the raccoons, having food up is a giant no no. However, the nighttime racoon activity did keep my pup up all night, less about me feeling in any sense of danger, but more of something to keep in mind. There was also a cluster of daddy long legs just outside of the room. Knowing they are completely harmless to humans I didn't mind, plus apparently when they cluster, they emit an odor that is supposed to repel predators from coming close so it gave me a sense of safety. Overall, it was a wonderful experience being out there and I hope to return.
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Peyton
September 2025
Tent
This is everything I hope for in a camp site - pure nature and the lands beauty. I'm so grateful to have been able to spend a couple days on this gorgeous piece of property. Amazing sunsets, basically a private beach, river running along the sites. Can't wait to come back, such a gem of a spot.
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Matthew
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Great location. So much to explore in southern Big Sur before the closure. Recommend bookmarking and downloading your points of interest and hikes beforehand as you will not have reception. I used All Trails. You can “walk” to the ocean either across the street up the way you drove in, or even better, via a small dirt trail under the bridge which leads as awesome, just wear good water shoes. I stayed at the very first site by the “saw mill”, super private, creek and ocean sounds, fantastic nights sleep. Some of the other sites closer to the communal areas were much smaller, better for 2 person tents.
See moreA
Adam
September 2025
Tent
With kids
Ruth and Marshall are amazing hosts! Very accommodating. They have created quite the camping experience that was perfect for my family. Great balance of being out in nature but having facilities and community activities nearby. The pool was pristine and such a relief for when it became hot in the afternoon. Daughter enjoyed the trampolines as well. We all took a nap on the hammocks. The live classical piano music with coffee on the deck was an unexpected but welcomed treat. We read and were prepared for the hike to campsite 5 with all of our belongings. It was made easier with a wagon we brought but they also provide a wheelbarrow. “Hiking in” is often a requirement to get into nature that we welcomed but there are closer campsites if you’re not up for that. The bugs are also a part of camping but we came prepared with spray etc. The stars at night were amazing and all the sounds of wildlife. One deer joined us briefly. Any store you need is just half an hour away for example when the camp stove I bought was defective and I needed to quick replace it. Overall we had the best time and hope to come back again!
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Zoe
September 2025
Tent
We really enjoyed our stay. The campground was exactly as described and the kitchens had a good assortment of pots and pans. Showers have hot water and filtered water was available. The property is nearby to many amazing beaches and viewpoints. Would recommend.
See more
Grant
September 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved camping on Gene’s land! It was tucked off the highway and felt very secluded, but still have many hikes and beaches easily accessible.
See more
Redwood camping near Seaside guide
Where to go
The Monterey Peninsula
Just south of Seaside, the Monterey Peninsula offers tons to see and do, from taking a scenic seafront drive to visiting Point Pinos Lighthouse, which dates back to 1855. Don't miss Carmel at the southern end of the peninsula, where you can tour an 18th-century mission or simply stroll around town checking out its famously quirky storybook houses.
The San Francisco Peninsula
North of Seaside, the San Francisco Peninsula features a mix of sandy and rocky beaches and a whole lot of redwood trees. This area makes for a great hiking day trip from Seaside, though you may want to stick around to set up camp in one of the many inland state parks.
California's Central Coast
Stretching south from Monterey Bay until the southern end of Ventura County, California's Central Coast is known for gorgeous beaches—many of which have year-round campgrounds—along with some of the state's most lauded wine-growing areas. The Big Sur coast, a short drive south, offers some of the finest views in the region along with dense forests full of hiking trails and camping spots.
When to go
Like Monterey, Seaside has a mild climate and gets a lot of visitors throughout the year. Summer weekends are particularly busy, as is the third full weekend of September, when the annual Monterey Jazz Festival brings tens of thousands of visitors to the area. Come in winter to see migratory whales make their annual journey past Seaside's shores.