Top 20 Best Beaches in California in December (Winter)

As the leaves change color and fall to the ground, most people assume summer is over. However, in California, there’s still plenty of gorgeous weather to enjoy! In December, the beaches are still sunny and (mostly) warm, making it a perfect time to visit one of our state’s many stunning coastline destinations. Here are some of the best beaches in California in December, and my favorites for a winter beach getaway.

JUMP TO the best winter beaches in…
☀️ Southern California
☀️ Central California
☀️ Northern California

Can You Go to the Beach in California in December?

Contrary to what some may believe, you can most definitely go to the beach in California in December! In fact, many people think that the weather is actually nicer during this time of year. Of course, some areas are warmer than others and provide different types of scenery and activities, so you’ll want to read through this article thoroughly to find the perfect spot.

Most people shy away from the beaches during the colder winter months, leaving you with fewer crowds to enjoy the incredible scenery. Though some beach towns can still be crowded during the holidays. Whichever beach you decide to visit, if you’re looking for a little bit of summer in the middle of winter, California is the place to be.

California Coastal Temperatures in the Winter

The weather in California during the winter tends to range from an average of about 50°F to 60°F, with January typically being the coldest month. Days are often overcast with scatterings of rainy days and occasional sunshine. Southern California tends to stay the warmest and the weather cools as you head north.

San Diego Average Temperature in December: 49°F to 66°F

Santa Monica (LA) Average Temperature in December: 51°F to 65°F

Santa Barbara Average Temperature in December: 45°F to 65°F

San Francisco Average Temperature in December: 47°F to 58°F

What Is the Warmest Beach in California in December?

The warmest beaches and best winter beaches are typically southern California beaches, often ones in San Diego such as Imperial Beach. Long Beach and Laguna Beach have also seen days that get up to at least 67°F as well.

>>> Does it snow in southern California? Find out here!

Best Winter Beach Towns and Destinations in California

There are many great beach towns and beach destinations in California to visit throughout the winter, it truly depends on what you are looking for.

If your goal is to enjoy water activities (California tends to get bigger swells in the winter that are great for surfers who want bigger waves) it’s best to stick to the southern beaches (such as San Diego) that have slightly warmer water and warmer weather.

surfing in CA in December — _{Christmas Eve Surf!}

However, plenty of central and northern California beaches make for lovely beach destinations for walking, marine life spotting, watching sunsets, or simply enjoying a quieter beach town and scenery for a bit.

As a sweeping generalization, southern California beach towns tend to be a bit bigger and have more events, rowdy nightlife, surf culture, and especially if you’re visiting Los Angeles – a TON to do. There are just more cities in southern California stacked together.

Northern California beach towns tend to be a bit slower-paced and are best for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore stunning nature or people who want to get into the more “hippie” side of California.

Though you can find a bit of both vibes in each area. For example, Santa Cruz in the north is known for surfing and San Francisco has a ton of nightlife and tourist attractions. And in the south, state beaches such as San Onofre offer more in terms of outdoor adventuring. This is why many choose to take a trip down the Pacific Coast Highway to experience it all!

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Where Is the Warmest Place in California in December?

The absolute warmest place in California during December is going to be the desert, inland from the coast. Palm Springs in particular is a great place to visit for lovely, warm weather with an average mid-day temperature of about 70°F.

Best Way to Get Around California

California is a big state, and if you want to see everything it has to offer, driving is the best way to get around. If you stay in one city and a general location, it’s possible to take an Uber from place to place, but you would miss out on the freedom that comes with having your own car. Plus, California is known for its incredible road trips and scenery between the major cities.

If you want to hit multiple of these beaches, driving will be your best bet. Renting a car will be more affordable during the off-season in the winter months, and it’s definitely worth it for the flexibility and freedom it provides.

To get the best deals and secure your rental car, it’s best to book it ASAP when you have a general itinerary plan. I always use and recommend DiscoverCars, as I find they tend to have some of the BEST deals and lowest prices as well as widespread locations across California.

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Top 21 Best Beaches in California During the Winter
~ In Order From South to North ~

Best Southern California Beaches to Visit in December

#1 – Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach is a neighborhood of San Diego, located between La Jolla to the north and Mission Beach to the south. The area is known for its 3 miles of coastline, with various beach areas catering to different crowds.

Tourmaline Surfing Park is a surfing-only beach, popular with novice surfers for its slower waves. North Pacific Beach from Tourmaline to Crystal Pier is best for families looking to enjoy a calmer beach. Pacific Beach from the Crystal Pier to Pacific Beach Drive will have plenty to keep you entertained from bicycle rentals to biker bars.

The area is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops. In the winter, the weather is mild and sunny, making it a great time to visit Pacific Beach. The ocean water may be too cold for swimming unless you have on a nice wetsuit, but the water will likely be warmer than most beaches further north in California. Either way, the beaches are still beautiful and worth exploring.

👉 Want to visit a few of San Diego’s Beaches? Check out this private driving tour!

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Pacific Terrace Hotel

#2 – La Jolla

La Jolla is a beautiful seaside town in Southern California (San Diego area) that is well-known for its rugged coastline. The cliffs and canyons of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve are a sight to behold, and the trails that wind past the pine trees and sandstone formations are perfect for a winter hike.

For golf enthusiasts, the two courses at the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course sit atop sea cliffs and offer stunning ocean views. La Jolla Cove is another popular spot for visitors with beautiful views perfect for a sunset picnic.

For those interested in marine life, Shell Beach tide pools are home to anemones, crabs, and other creatures. In addition to its natural beauty, La Jolla is also home to posh boutiques and waterfront restaurants to explore in the walkable town of La Jolla Village, making it a perfect destination for a winter getaway in December.

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Yoga on the Beach
La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour
E-Bike Tour

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Pantai Inn

#3 – San Onofre State Beach

San Onofre State Beach is one of California’s most popular beaches, especially for surfers. The waves here are lovely and long, perfect for catching a few waves and practicing maneuvers. But it’s not just surfers who love this beach – swimmers, sunbathers, campers, kayakers, birders, fishermen, and bicyclists all enjoy spending time here.

“San O” offers camping, day-use options, and RV Hookup sites with electricity and water. Camping is available all year round, making it a great spot for the adventurous willing to brave a bit of cooler weather to spend the night during December. With views like this and such stunning nature to explore, it’s easy to see why this beach is so popular.

>>> Check out the official site for more information and to reserve a campsite.

#4 – Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is a great place to visit any time of year, but it’s especially enjoyable in the winter when you’re looking to escape cold weather for a little sunshine. The popular beach town (AKA “Surf City USA”) is well known for its surf beaches. Huntington Beach is constantly hosting events and is the location for many World Surf League competitions.

In addition to surfing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Huntington Beach. The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a great place to go for a hike or a nature walk. And the town has plenty of oceanfront dining and bars, so you can enjoy the views even if you’re not beach-bound. It’s also a popular spot for those looking for some nightlife and activity.

In December, Huntington Beach hosts a variety of events such as the annual Cruise of Lights Boat Tours of Huntington Harbour and plenty of holiday parades and festivities.

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Take a Surf Lesson
Best Beaches in Orange County Day Tour

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa

#5 – Long Beach

Long Beach is a coastal city in Southern California that is known for its port and lively downtown area. Although it’s a popular tourist destination in the summer, Long Beach is also a great place to visit in the winter because of how much there is to do.

One of the most popular attractions is the RMS Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner that now serves as a museum ship. Visitors can explore the historic vessel, and the surrounding grounds host a variety of events throughout the year.

Another top attraction is the Aquarium of the Pacific, which features touch tanks, a shark lagoon, and a wide variety of marine life. For those interested in art, the Museum of Latin American Art is also worth a visit. The museum has a collection of modern and contemporary works from Latin American artists. Or, go shopping and find plenty of restaurants and entertainment in the Pike plaza along the waterfront.

Whether you’re looking for history, culture, a good party, or just a fun day by the water, Long Beach has something to offer everyone.

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Skip the Ticketing Line: Aquarium of the Pacific
Whale-Watching Tour
Swan Boat Night Ride on the Rainbow Lagoon

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Hyatt Centric The Pike Long Beach

#6 – Avalon Beach

Avalon is a special place that is definitely worth a visit, even in winter. It’s located on Santa Catalina Island and can be reached by a short ferry ride from Long Beach.

❗CLICK HERE TO BOOK –> Catalina Express Round-Trip Ferry Service
PRO TIP: You can get a free ferry ticket to Catalina on your birthday!

Avalon has three public beaches, each with its own unique character. The town itself is very popular, but it has managed to retain its charm and allure. Many of the town’s beaches, shops, and restaurants are found along Crescent Ave.

Though in winter, the beach might not be the main attraction, it’s still a beautiful place to walk or sit and enjoy the view. And of course, there is always the possibility of seeing some dolphins playing in the waves. This is an excellent place to relax and enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life!

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Hotel Atwater

#7 – Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is a lively beach community located in the South Bay region of the Greater Los Angeles area. It is one of the three Beach Cities, along with Redondo and Manhattan Beach.

The Hermosa Beach Pier is the biggest draw, lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. You can play beach volleyball, bike or skate along the strand, and enjoy the beautiful weather.

During the winter months, the weather is mild and the beaches are less crowded. Hermosa Beach Pier is also a great place to spend New Year’s Eve if you’re looking for a fun party to ring in the new year!

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Helicopter Tour Over the South Bay LA

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: H2O Hermosa

view of Hermosa Beach from on top of the pier

#8 – Santa Monica / Venice Beaches

Santa Monica and Venice Beach are two of Los Angeles’ most popular beaches. They are easily accessible to one another along the strand.

Venice is known for its funky street performers, skating, interesting shops, and the infamous Muscle Beach outdoor gym. Santa Monica has a pier featuring the giant Ferris Wheel and arcade games along the boardwalk.

Visitors to both beaches can enjoy the active outdoor life and unique social scene that LA brings, along with plenty of nightlife and constant year-round events. Soak up the sun while enjoying fewer crowds during the winter months.

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie Board & Sea Lions Spotting
Electric Bicycle Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach
Santa Monica Bar & Club Crawl

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Viceroy Santa Monica

#9 – Malibu

Malibu is another popular beach destination for visitors to Los Angeles. The beach town is known for its celebrity homes and beaches, including the popular Zuma Beach and Surfrider Beach. For a great indoor activity, tour the Spanish Revival–style Adamson House, which adjoins with the Malibu Lagoon Museum featuring local history displays.

Just a bit inland, hikers can find trails weaving through canyons, waterfalls, and grasslands in the Santa Monica Mountain. December is a great time to visit Malibu, as the weather is cool and the crowds are thin. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches and scenery without having to deal with large crowds.

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Malibu Wine Hike
Santa Monica Mountains Guided Hike

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: The Surfrider Malibu

#10 – Leadbetter Beach in Santa Barbara

Leadbetter Beach is one of the top destinations in Santa Barbara for tourists and locals alike. The beach is an excellent surf spot for beginners. It’s also located near the Santa Barbara Harbor which has restaurants, shopping, and an aquarium along the wharf.

In addition, the beach is a great place to lounge in the sun and enjoy the beautiful views. December is an excellent time to visit Leadbetter Beach, as the weather is generally sunny and warm. However, visitors should be aware that the water can be quite cold at this time of year, and a wetsuit will certainly be required for any water activities.

Santa Barbara hosts many fun holiday events in December as well. Some of the most popular ones include ZooLights at the Santa Barbara Zoo and Lane Farms Christmas Patch, plus multiple holiday parades, light shows, markets, and live performances.

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Sea Lion Kayak Tour – Santa Barbara Harbor
Wine Tasting Tour
Downtown Santa Barbara Food Tour

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Incredible Beaches in Central California for Cold Weather

#11 – Avila Beach

Just a short drive from San Luis Obispo (SLO), Avila Beach is a beautiful seaside town that offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town of SLO is home to the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, as well as a charming downtown area with plenty of shops, restaurants, and wine-tasting rooms.

In addition to its historic charm, Avila Beach is also known for its world-class spas, mineral hot springs, yoga instruction, and outdoor activities. Make sure to spend some time enjoying the beautiful vineyards in the area as well. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an exciting family vacation, Avila Beach is the perfect place to enjoy all that California’s Central Coast has to offer.

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Avila Lighthouse Suites

#12 – Morro Bay

Morro Bay is a hidden gem of the Central Coast. This quaint seaside fishing village is alive in the winter with its bustling waterfront and acres of eucalyptus trees that provide a therapeutic aroma.

The giant Morro Bay Rock towers over the landscape and provides a stunning backdrop for photographs. There are also numerous trails that wind through the hillsides, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the coastline.

From ocean-side golf, sailing, fishing, biking, and bird watching, to kite flying there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Or, go shopping, dine in world-class restaurants and wine bars or try out local craft brews after exploring miles of unspoiled beaches. There is something for all ages to enjoy, at any time of the year.

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Paso Robles Wine Adventure
Guided E-Bike Tour of Morro Bay

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Beach Bungalow Inn and Suites

#13 – San Simeon

San Simeon is a beautiful coastal town in California that offers visitors a variety of activities, regardless of the season. In winter, Pico Creek beach is a great spot for walks and picnics, and the protected cove also offers pier fishing.

Of course, no visit to San Simeon would be complete without a stop at Hearst Castle (a Mediterranean Revival mansion known for its opulence). Or, check out the Coastal Discovery Center at San Simeon Bay, another great winter activity that provides educational exhibits about San Simeon Cove and the local wildlife, whaling history, marine mammals, and more.

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Oceanpoint Ranch

#14 – Big Sur

Big Sur is an absolutely stunning place to visit year-round, but it’s especially magical in the winter. The winding turns and seaside cliffs lined with gorgeous redwood trees are known for providing breathtaking views of the often-misty coastline.

In addition, Big Sur has numerous state parks that offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and beachcombing. However, campsites are always booked way in advance, so a benefit of visiting in December would be that you have a better chance of getting a site.

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Big Sur Lodge

#15 – Monterey Bay and Carmel

Monterey Bay and Carmel are two of California’s most beloved tourist destinations. The area is known for its beautiful weather, stunning scenery, and rich history. Monterey Bay is home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, a world-renowned facility dedicated to marine conservation. Cannery Row, meanwhile, is a popular shopping and dining district overlooking the bay.

Just south of Monterey is Carmel, a charming village filled with art galleries and museums. The two cities are connected by the popular 17-mile drive that features gorgeous oceanside bluffs and beaches.

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Victorian Inn

Top Northern California Winter Beaches

#16 – Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a popular beach city known as a mecca for surfers, hippies, and families looking to escape the Bay Area city life for some beach fun. The long, rolling waves here are some of the best in California and the weather is relatively mild, making it a popular destination for ocean lovers.

Visitors can also enjoy playing games on the boardwalk at Main Beach (Boardwalk Beach), riding the rollercoaster or the carousel, and indulging in delicious sweet treats. A short walk from Main Beach is the Santa Cruz Wharf which has restaurants, boutiques, and shops that offer boat and kayak rentals.

In December, Santa Cruz is the perfect family-friendly place to celebrate the holidays. Santa Cruz hosts plenty of events such as a the Holiday Lights Train, Winter Wonderland at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, tons of outdoor Holiday Markets, Drive-In Holiday Movies, and more!

👉 ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Capitola (Adorable Sea-Side Town) Walking Tour

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: West Cliff Inn

#17 – Half Moon Bay (Mavericks)

Half Moon Bay is a beautiful spot to visit any time of year, but there’s something special about it in the winter. Just south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay offers many trails along its dramatic sea bluffs. In the winter, Mavericks is where you can catch the biggest surf on the West Coast and watch big-wave surfers tackle impressively dangerous waves.

Half Moon Bay is also known for growing Christmas trees! The entire town has an adorable Christmas spirit that’s worth experiencing at least once. And don’t forget to visit the Pidgeon Point Lighthouse. It’s one of the most iconic sights in Half Moon Bay. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a relaxing getaway, Half Moon Bay should definitely be on your list this winter.

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Nantucket Whale Inn

#18 – Mile Rock Beach (San Francisco)

San Francisco offers a wealth of winter activities, and one of the best is a visit to Mile Rock Beach. This secluded beach is located at Lands End, and it’s known for its dramatic views and unique rock formations. The rocks here have been stacked by visitors over the years, and they create a beautiful labyrinth above the shore.

The Golden Gate Bridge is also visible from the beach, making it a perfect spot for snapping some holiday photos. While Mile Rock Beach can be a bit chilly in the winter months, it’s still a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of San Francisco.

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: Stanyan Park Hotel

#19 – Stinson State Beach

Stinson State Beach is a great place to visit year-round. The beach is open every day, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from camping to hiking to beach combing and marine life spotting.

The hot springs in the ravine are especially popular in the colder months when visitors can enjoy soaking in the warm water while enjoying the stunning views. In addition, the beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and pelicans. Located just north of San Francisco, Stinson State Beach is sure to please.

>>> Stay in San Francisco or check online for information on nearby camping.

#20 – Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is a small town located on the northern California coast, about an hour and a half north of San Francisco. The town is known for its beautiful scenery, with rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and clear blue waters. It’s also a popular tourist destination with many shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.

October through February is the best time to visit Bodega Bay, as this is when gray whales can be seen migrating along the coast. During this time of year, the town is also quieter and more relaxed, making it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. There are also many hiking and biking trails in the area, providing ample opportunity to explore all that Bodega Bay has to offer.

⭐ BEST PLACE TO STAY: The Lodge at Bodega Bay

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If you’re looking for a beautiful beach to visit during December (or January!), both southern and northern California have some great options. The beaches in the south are warmer, but the north has quieter towns with adorable shops and restaurants. Whichever part of California you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a lovely day by the ocean!

☀️ California FAQs ☀️

✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal

❗Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing. It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO

☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit California?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).

🏠 Where Should You Stay in California?
Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Vrbo
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)

🌴 Where Can You Find Tours?
I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.

🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California?
I very highly recommend renting a car in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option.
>>> Best car rental rates and deals