Are you ready to hit the beach with your family and soak up the sunshine on the amazing West Coast of the USA? You’re in for a treat because the coastline is absolutely breathtaking, and there are so many beaches to choose from.
The West Coast of the United States – (also known as the Pacific Coast, the Pacific Seaboard, and the Western Seaboard), has so many options for your family. No worries, though! We’ve got you covered with our list of the best beaches on West Coast USA.
So, grab your swimsuits and sunscreen and get ready to make some unforgettable memories together in the sand and waves!
Best West Coast beaches for families
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Best Family-Friendly Beaches on West Coast USA: Alaska
Homer Spit Beach in Homer, Alaska:
Homer Spit Beach in charming Homer, Alaska is a stunning family-friendly beach with breathtaking views of the mountains and glaciers. With its 4.5-mile stretch of soft sand, gentle waves, and ample space to play and swim on warmer days, it’s perfect for families with young children.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of seals, sea otters, or even beluga whales from the shore!
What makes Homer Spit Beach even more family-friendly is its convenient facilities and amenities. Public restrooms, car parking, picnic spots, and playgrounds are all available. And when hunger strikes, the nearby LA Baleine Café serves up delicious food and drinks.
Families looking to explore the local wildlife will love taking whale-watching and bird-watching tours, or a hike in Kachemak Bay State Park for incredible views. So pack up the family, grab some sunscreen, and get ready for a fun-filled day at Homer Spit Beach!
Resurrection Bay in Seward, Alaska:
Resurrection Bay in Seward, Alaska is a gorgeous beach located in the Chugach National Forest. Known for being a nature-lover’s paradise and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and forests, this beach is the one to visit if spotting marine mammals is high on your list of things to do.
Here, you’ll get to wave hello to whales, sea otters, and seals, as well as a variety of seabirds. The bay is also home to salmon and halibut, which makes it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
In addition to all this, the beach also has several boat launches, camping areas, and picnic sites. Plus, there are guided tours available to explore the bay’s natural beauty and wildlife up close!
Don’t skip out on visiting the Kenai Fjords National Park before leaving, which is home to several glaciers and amazing wildlife like humpback whales and sea otters.
Kenai River Beach in Soldotna, Alaska:
Kenai River Beach in Soldotna, is a fantastic destination for families who want to unwind on the sandy banks of the Kenai River. After all, what’s better than enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, while the kids burn off some steam at the nearby playground at Soldotna Creek Park? Little else, I’d say!
For more adventures and the chance to explore stunning natural landscapes, visit the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and be met by a variety of wildlife. History buffs must visit the Soldotna Historical Society Museum to learn about the rich history of the area.
Once everyone is all tuckered out, pick out a place to eat from the dining options nearby like The Moose Is Loose Bakery and Buckets Sports Grill.
Prince William Sound in Whittier, Alaska:
Prince William Sound is a charming beach in Whittier, Alaska surrounded by glaciers and mountains! Families can enjoy activities like kayaking, fishing, and whale watching, with facilities like campgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms, and boat launches available to make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Explore the nearby town of Whittier for some delicious food, shopping, and a friendly atmosphere. Later, head to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see some of Alaska’s native wildlife up close.
Accommodations near Prince William Sound include camping and RV sites, lodges, and vacation rentals, with top-rated places such as Trinity Escapes, Turnagain Guest House, and Susitna Place.
Just remember to pack appropriately for the mild, cool, and rainy climate, and get ready for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure at Prince William Sound!
Mendenhall Lake in Juneau, Alaska
This gorgeous glacial lake is perfect for a fun family day out. The crystal-clear water in the lake is fed by the Mendenhall Glacier, which is situated only a short walk from the lake and a popular attraction in the area itself.
Visitors can check out the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center to learn more about its formation and history.
For some family-friendly fun, take a hike on one of the many trails around the lake, such as the Nugget Falls Trail. Perfectly suitable for children to attempt, it leads adventurers straight to a spectacular waterfall!
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, rent a kayak and explore the surroundings
Best Family-Friendly Beaches on West Coast USA: California
Coronado Beach in San Diego, California:
Coronado Beach is the ultimate family-friendly beach in San Diego and one of the best beaches on the west coast of California. With 1.5 miles of gorgeous white sand and gentle waves, it’s no wonder it’s considered one of the best beaches on west coast USA. And the ocean views? Stunning!
Facilities and features include public restrooms, an abundance of car parking spots, and lifeguards on duty, so you can relax and let the kids play safely in the water.
Make sure to check out the charming town of Coronado while here. There are tons of great restaurants, cafes, and shops to discover, along with historical landmarks like the iconic Hotel del Coronado.
La Jolla Cove Beach in San Diego, California:
Located in the affluent neighborhood of La Jolla, this small but stunning beach boasts clear blue waters, picturesque cliffs, and abundant marine life. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities here, and the calm waters are perfect for families with young children.
La Jolla Cove Beach offers plenty of facilities, including restrooms, showers, and nearby parking. Kids will love playing in the sand and building sandcastles while you relax and soak up the sun.
When you’re ready to explore, head into the charming town of La Jolla. There are tons of great restaurants, cafes, and shops to discover, as well as nearby playgrounds and parks. Ellen Browning Scripps Park is a must-visit for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles, California:
Looking for the most popular and best beaches on West Coast USA for families? Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles definitely makes our list.
Not only are lifeguards present all along the beach, but there are also several picnic areas present for families to enjoy meals together. Moreover, this beach is well-equipped with restrooms, showers, and changing areas, making it easy for parents to clean up after a day spent playing in the sand and water.
The lively town of Santa Monica has plenty of attractions for families too, such as the Santa Monica Pier with its Ferris wheel, aquarium, arcade games, and a wide variety of shops and boutiques to browse. There’s also the Venice Boardwalk where you’ll get to board a helicopter and tour California’s coastline.
You will find parking at several lots along the 2nd and 4th streets within Downtown Santa Monica. However, these can fill up quickly during the summer season, so make it a point to arrive early or consider taking public transportation.
Newport Beach in Orange County, California:
Newport Beach in Orange County is more than just a picturesque beach. It has plenty of activities and attractions to keep you and your loved ones occupied for your whole trip!
Start with a leisurely stroll on the Newport Beach Pier to take in the beautiful views of the ocean. Find Ruby’s Diner at the end of the pier and grab a meal while there. Balboa Pier and Newport Pier are favorites among fishing enthusiasts for how deep the water is at the deep ends.
At the beach, you can enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles with the kids. If you prefer being out on the water over lounging in the sand, rent a boat from one of the many boat rental companies in Newport Beach. Newport Beach Boat Rentals and Vision Electric Boat Rental of Newport Beach are popular choices.
Those who want to get their hearts racing, should check out the water sports at Newport Beach. Kayaking, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and other water sports are available all year round.
Rent a bike and ride along the boardwalk or the Balboa Peninsula. And for a day of thrills, head over to the Balboa Fun Zone, an amusement park with attractions like a carousel, Ferris wheel, and arcade.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, California:
Looking for a fun-filled day at the beach? Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the perfect destination for you and the family!
With a mix of classic beach activities and exciting amusement park rides, it’s definitely one of the best beaches on west coast USA. Challenge your friends to a game of mini-golf, show off your skills at the arcade, or try your luck at the carnival games.
Of course, the beach is a big draw in itself, with plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. And if you get hungry, there are lots of options nearby like the Santa Cruz Wharf, where you can sample some delicious seafood or watch the sea lions playing in the water.
You’ll find two paid boardwalk lots near the beach, but those can fill up quickly on busy days during the summer months. To avoid any hassle, it’s recommended that you arrive early or consider taking public transportation.
Additionally, before heading out, be sure to check in advance that the rides and attractions are open on the day you plan to visit.
Another highlight of Santa Cruz is the Surfing Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of this iconic California sport.
Natural Bridges States Beach in Santa Cruz, California:
Few rival the likes of Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz, California when it comes to picturesque beaches on the west coast! You’ll be blown away by the stunning rock formations, tide pools, and natural bridges that are unique to this beach.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the various marine life, such as sea stars, anemones, and crabs.
When nature calls, there are restrooms with flush toilets and running water located near the parking lot, making it convenient for you and your family. The beach is also perfect for young children to swim, as it is protected from large waves by a natural rock formation.
If you’re interested in learning more about marine life, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, located about 2 miles away, features exhibits and programs that are both fun and educational.
During the winter months, the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve is an absolute must-see. You’ll witness thousands of migrating butterflies in their natural habitat.
When it comes to accommodations, you have several options to choose from, including the Dream Inn Santa Cruz, the West Cliff Inn, and the Beach Street Inn and Suites. So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable beach adventure at Natural Bridges State Beach!
Carmel Beach in Monterey County, California
Carmel Beach in Monterey County, California is a wonderful destination for families for several reasons. Firstly, the beach has a beautiful and serene setting. Imagine lounging around on powdery white sand with nothing but the turquoise waters before you. It’s an excellent spot for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing.
Carmel Beach is also known for being very family-friendly, with plenty of amenities available, such as public restrooms, showers, and fire pits for making s’mores or warming up on chilly evenings. The beach is also dog-friendly, which means that you can bring your furry friend along with you for a day of fun.
Another great feature of Carmel Beach is its excellent facilities for water sports. Visitors can try their hand at kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and surfing, and equipment rentals are readily available at several nearby businesses.
As for parking and dining options, there is a large parking area near the beach that can fill up quickly, especially during the peak summer season and weekends. Visitors should plan to arrive early or consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Additionally, Carmel-by-the-Sea has a variety of restaurants and cafes, including seafood restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops, making it easy to grab a meal or a snack before or after your beach activities.
Asilomar State Beach in Monterey County, California:
With its calm waters and gentle waves, kids can safely play in the water and build sandcastles at Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove, California. Families with young kids especially enjoy exploring the tide pools and going for strolls along the beach. The various picnic areas make it a great spot for a family lunch or barbecue.
The beautiful coastal trails offer stunning views of the ocean and are perfect for a family hike. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of some marine wildlife such as sea otters, harbor seals, and whales. This beach is also a popular spot for birdwatching due to the variety of bird species that call it home.
Asilomar State Beach is located just a few miles south of Monterey and is in close proximity to popular attractions such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. History buffs should make the time to explore or even stay at the Asilomar Conference Grounds, a historic meeting place for scientific and cultural figures in the early 20th century.
With so much to see and do, Asilomar State Beach is a must-visit destination for families in the Pacific Grove area.
Half Moon Bay State Beach in San Mateo County, California
Half Moon Bay State Beach is a beautiful destination that is located in San Mateo County, California. Perfect for families, this 4-mile stretch of coastline is made up of four distinct beaches, each with a unique character and charm. Visitors can choose between Francis Beach, Venice Beach, Dunes Beach, or Roosevelt Beach, depending on their preference.
Those looking to explore the area will be excited to learn that Half Moon Bay has plenty of attractions to see. The Half Moon Bay Art Glass Studio is a popular spot to visit if admiring beautiful glass creations made by local artists sounds like your cup of tea.
The Half Moon Bay Brewing Company is another nearby attraction that parents, especially, will love visiting for a refreshing beer. But, don’t worry, the joint has a game room too for keeping the kids busy.
If you’re planning to stay a while, pick a place from the several lodging options available to you like beachfront hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. The Half Moon Bay Lodge and Beach House Hotel at Half Moon Bay are both popular choices for the comfortable accommodations and easy access to the beach they offer their guests.
Best Family-Friendly Beaches on West Coast USA: Hawaii
Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii:
You definitely don’t want to miss out on Kaanapali Beach, located on the west coast of Maui, Hawaii. This three-mile stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters offers year-round sunshine and a wide range of activities for families to enjoy.
Sunbathe, swim, snorkel, surf, paddleboard, or even try scuba diving at nearby Black Rock to explore the diverse marine life Hawaii has to offer! If you’re interested in renting equipment, several rental shops offer paddleboards, kayaks, and more.
When it comes to accommodations, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly options near Kaanapali Beach. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa and the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa are two great choices, both located right on the beach and offering stunning ocean views and amenities for families.
Another option is the Kaanapali Beach Hotel, which features a cultural program to educate visitors about Hawaiian culture. Opting for one of these stays will make it easier to secure free parking.
During the winter months, don’t miss the chance to go whale watching and witness humpback whales up close as they migrate to the warm waters off the coast of Hawaii.
Kamaole Beach Park III in Maui, Hawaii:
Kamaole Beach Park III is a popular beach destination, especially for families. It strikes a great balance between popularity and tranquility, making it a great choice for those looking for a more low-key beach experience.
The beach itself is absolutely beautiful, with gentle waves and calm waters, perfect for young children to play in. Plus, with lifeguards on patrol, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and even beach volleyball courts, you will have everything you need for a fun day at the beach.
Looking forward to snorkeling or scuba diving? Kamaole Beach Park III is a great spot to explore the underwater world. You might even get lucky and spot some colorful fish and sea turtles swimming in the clear waters!
When you’re ready to take a break from the beach, the nearby town of Kihei has plenty of shopping and dining options to explore. It also provides easy access to other popular attractions like Haleakala National Park, the Maui Ocean Center, and the Road to Hana.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area in Big Island, Hawaii:
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area in Big Island, Hawaii is a half-mile-long beach that is a popular spot among both locals and tourists for its pristine white sand, blue-green waters, and stunning coastal views. In fact, it’s one of the best white sand beaches in US. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing together, and rent equipment such as snorkels, fins, and boogie boards to fully experience the water activities.
One of the best things about Hapuna Beach is its peaceful atmosphere. While it is a popular destination, the beach is relatively secluded from nearby towns. Plus, there are no buildings or commercial establishments directly on the beach.
This makes it easy to find a spot that’s not too crowded, even during peak tourist season. The multiple restrooms located throughout the park, including near the parking lot, beach access paths, and picnic areas, make staying comfortable throughout the day even more convenient.
If you’re looking for more things to do, you can explore nearby attractions such as the Pu’ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, a significant cultural landmark in Hawaii, and the Mauna Kea Observatory, which offers stunning views of the night sky.
Waikiki Beach in Oahu, Hawaii:
This 2-mile stretch of white sand beach offers a plethora of water sports and activities, including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Especially known for its clear, warm waters and colorful marine life, Waikiki Beach is one of the best west coast beaches for families.
For those who prefer to stay on land, Waikiki Beach also offers several family-friendly attractions nearby. Why not take a short walk to visit the Honolulu Zoo or Waikiki Aquarium for a fun and educational experience that both kids and adults will enjoy.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, hiking up the Diamond Head State Monument will give you breathtaking views of the coastline.
However, parking at Waikiki Beach can be a bit tricky as it is a popular destination, and parking spaces are limited. But don’t worry, there are several paid parking options available nearby, such as the Waikiki Business Plaza, which offers affordable parking just two blocks away from the beach. Do keep in mind that parking can be expensive during peak tourist season, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Poipu Beach Park in Kauai, Hawaii:
Poipu Beach in Kauai, Hawaii is a wonderful family vacation spot and one of the best beaches on west coast USA. Made up of a series of gold sand crescents, this popular beach offers its visitors a unique and beautiful landscape to explore.
The picturesque beach has everything you could want from a family-friendly beach, from crystal clear waters and soft sands, to plenty of opportunities for water-based activities. The water is generally calm, making it a safe spot for kids to swim and play too. Plus, there are lifeguards on duty every day of the week.
There are plenty of things to do and attractions to explore apart from the beach activities as well. The Spouting Horn, a natural blowhole, is one popular spot to check out, and the nearby Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden are your best shot at experiencing Kauai’s beautiful flora and fauna.
Families with young children will love visiting the Kaua’i Ocean Discovery Center for its interactive exhibits that are both educational and fun.
When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of options to choose from to suit your needs and preferences. Opt for a luxury resort like the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, or choose a cozy vacation rental for a more home-like feel. Another great option is the Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, or the Sheraton Kauai Resort. Whatever your choice, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in Poipu Beach, Kauai!
Kailua Beach in Oahu, Hawaii:
Kailua Beach is located on the windward coast of Oahu in Hawaii, and is ever-ready to awe its visitors with its blue waters lined with shady ironwood trees and coconut palms on the shores. Families will enjoy swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling in the gentle waves.
For a more rewarding experience, families can hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and mountains.
Popular family-friendly attractions in the vicinity include the USS Arizona Memorial, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and the nearby Kailua town, which has an array of shopping and dining options. Island Snow is a must-visit spot for shave ice, and Kalapawai Cafe and Deli and Buzz’s Original Steakhouse are great family-friendly restaurants.
The Nu’uanu Pali Lookout is a scenic spot that offers stunning views of the coast and is perfect for hiking and picnicking. Nature-loving families might also enjoy exploring the nearby Kawainui Marsh which is home to many native Hawaiian birds.
Kahekili Beach Park in Maui, Hawaii
Kahekili Beach Park is a true Hawaiian gem located on the west coast of Maui. It offers visitors a stunning and tranquil setting to enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
The beach itself boasts soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Families with little ones will appreciate the shallow areas of the beach for the safe and fun environment they offer.
A unique feature of Kahekili Beach is the nearby Black Rock, which provides an exciting opportunity for adrenaline junkies to try cliff jumping. Brave visitors can climb the rock and jump into the deep blue waters below! If that sounds too thrilling for you, simply sit back and watch the action from the beach.
The surrounding palm trees create a relaxing and tropical atmosphere perfect for a day of relaxation in the sun. However, those who enjoy exploring the underwater world will be pleased to know that Kahekili Beach is a popular spot for snorkeling as well. Divers get to see a variety of colorful fish and even sea turtles in the clear waters!
In addition to the beach activities, Kahekili Beach Park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, which makes it easy for families to enjoy a meal together. There are also restrooms, showers, and lifeguards on duty, which makes it a safe and convenient place to spend the day.
Best Family-Friendly Beaches on West Coast USA: Oregon
Lincoln City Beach in Oregon:
Lincoln City Beach has over seven miles of sandy beaches, which means plenty of space for families to spread out, play, and relax. Leisurely activities like kite flying, beachcombing, and sandcastle building are always a hit with kids at this beach.
It’s also home to an abundance of natural tide pools, which are great for exploring and spotting various sea creatures with little ones. Additionally, there are several nearby state parks, such as Devils Lake State Park and Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge, that offer opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
The town of Lincoln City itself is also family-friendly, with many shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore. Kids will love attending an art class at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, visiting the nearby Oregon Coast Aquarium, and checking out the Connie Hansen Garden Conservancy which showcases various species of plants, flowers, and trees.
Rockaway Beach in Oregon:
Rockaway Beach, Oregon is an amazing seven-mile Pacific coast beach on the Oregon coast that’s perfect for visiting with family. You can try kayaking, paddleboarding, and kiteboarding, or just relax by sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months for extra safety, and there’s even a playground nearby for the kids.
Spend your time taking strolls on the beach or biking on the adjacent path while enjoying the picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby Twin Rocks. There’s something for everyone here, like crabbing at Nehalem Bay, exploring tide pools, playing mini-golf, renting a boat to explore the bay, or hiking at nearby Oswald West State Park, where you will find trails that lead to the stunning Short Sand Beach.
Ready for a break from the beach? Explore the town of Rockaway Beach, which has plenty of shops and restaurants to check out. And don’t forget about the nearby attractions like the Tillamook Cheese Factory, where you can learn about cheese-making and sample different cheeses, and the Tillamook Air Museum, which has a cool collection of vintage aircraft.
Nye Beach in Oregon:
Nye Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand located in the heart of Newport, Oregon. It’s a great place to bring the family for a fun day in the sun and the many enjoyable activities it offers like tide pooling and whale watching.
The nearby Newport Historic Bayfront has many shops, galleries, restaurants, and attractions such as the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Yaquina Bay Lighthouse. There is also the Hatfield Marine Science Center just a few miles south of Nye Beach, which houses interactive exhibits and displays about marine life and ecosystems.
Need another reason to make the trip out? There are numerous storybook lodges and resorts to stay at near the beach. The Elizabeth Oceanfront Suites, located right on the beach offers spacious suites with ocean views. And the Sylvia Beach Hotel is located just a few blocks from Nye Beach and features themed rooms based on famous authors!
Pacific City Beach in Tillamook County, Oregon:
If you’re looking for a spectacular family-friendly beach on the West Coast of the United States, Pacific City Beach in Tillamook County, Oregon should definitely be on your list. It’s the perfect choice for families due to the amazing views it offers of the Pacific Ocean and towering sand dunes.
Families will have a blast trying out different water activities such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding or simply relaxing and enjoying the sun.
One of the best things about this Beach is that it offers plenty of facilities for visitors to use. No worrying about finding a place to park as there’s ample car parking available. Plus, there are several restrooms located near the beach, so you won’t have to go far if you need to use the facilities.
There are many attractions nearby that are worth checking out as well. The Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area is a must-visit, with its hiking trails, dune climbing, and gorgeous views of the coastline. If you’re into birdwatching, head to the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge. And don’t forget to visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory for tours and samples of their famous cheese.
Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area in Tillamook County, Oregon
Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area has it all! In addition to stunning rock formations and beautiful views, this beach is home to a wide variety of seabirds and marine wildlife, such as seals, sea lions, and whales, that you can often spot from the beach or nearby overlooks.
With a gently sloping shoreline, Cape Kiwanda is a safe and fun spot for kids to play in the waves and build sandcastles while you relax and soak up the sun. There are also plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained, from hiking the Cape Kiwanda Trail and exploring tide pools to sandboarding down the dunes or renting a kayak to explore the Nestucca River.
Wrap up the day by enjoying a delicious seafood meal and craft beer at the Pelican Pub & Brewery. Your kids will certainly be thankful for the kids’ menu!
Cannon Beach in Oregon:
If you’re looking for a perfect destination for the best west coast family vacation, Cannon Beach in Oregon is definitely worth considering. Here, you’ll find a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to all ages.
One of the most popular attractions is Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack that is home to numerous seabirds, marine mammals, and tide pool creatures. During low tide, you and your family can explore the rock and the tide pools surrounding it, making for a fun and educational experience.
If you’re more of an outdoorsy family, then you’ll enjoy the hiking trails in Ecola State Park and Oswald West State Park. These parks offer breathtaking views of the coast and lead to secluded beaches, making for a great day out in nature.
But, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can always check out the charming town of Cannon Beach, with its art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants. Kids will love browsing the unique shops and galleries, while parents can indulge in some local cuisine.
One of the main draws of Cannon Beach is, of course, the miles of sandy shoreline. This is an excellent spot for beachcombing and building sandcastles.
You and your family can also take a dip in the relatively calm waters but do keep in mind that the water can be cold. If you plan to swim, it’s best to bring wetsuits or visit during the warmer summer months. Luckily, several lifeguard stations are present along the beach during peak season, providing a safe swimming experience for families.
Seaside Beach in Oregon:
Seaside Beach is a coastal town in Oregon that has a lot to offer. With over two miles of golden sand and beautiful scenery, it’s a great spot for families with kids. The beach has clean restrooms, showers, and changing rooms, so you can freshen up after a long day of fun in the sun.
Water sports enthusiasts both young and old will love the kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing lessons available at Seaside Beach. And don’t worry if you don’t have your own equipment, because rental shops like Wheel Fun Rentals and Seaside Surf Shop offer equipment for rent.
Seaside Beach in Oregon offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors, including camping and exploring the trails at the nearby Fort Stevens State Park. If you want a more laid-back experience, check out the Seashore Inn, located right on the Seaside Beach boardwalk.
Best Family-Friendly Beaches on West Coast USA: Washington
Long Beach in Pacific County, Washington:
Apart from being one of the best beaches in USA west coast, Long Beach in Pacific County, Washington, is famous for being one of the longest beaches in the US, spanning 28 miles with soft sand and gentle waves. The beach offers picturesque views, including the famous “World’s Longest Beach” sign, a must-visit spot for photos. The facilities are top-notch, with ample parking and clean public restrooms.
Tourist attractions in Long Beach include the World Kite Museum & Hall of Fame, which displays a wide variety of kites from all around the world, and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which provides information about the historic journey of the famous explorers.
Nearby popular places include the Oysterville Historic District, a quaint village that is home to several historic homes, churches, and buildings.
Ocean Shores, in Grays Harbor County, Washington:
Ocean Shores has more to offer than just its long stretches of pristine coastline and family-friendly atmosphere (which we love!). In addition to swimming, this is one of the best west coast beach towns for outdoor enthusiasts with its abundance of activities like horseback riding, hiking, biking, and kayaking.
The town boasts several parks and trails too, one of these being the Damon Point Trail, which offers stunning views of the ocean and wildlife.
Ocean Shores is also home to unique attractions such as the Coastal Interpretive Center, which showcases the area’s history and ecology, and Chance A La Mer State Park, where visitors can explore the park’s natural surroundings and marine life.
For those looking for some indoor entertainment, the town has a range of museums, galleries, and shops selling local artisanal goods. Ocean Shores is also located near other popular tourist destinations such as the Olympic National Park and the Quinault Rainforest.
Families who wish to extend their stay have a number of nearby hotels and camp spots to choose from, as well, like Wanderlust Inn and Sea Breeze Cottages.
Ruby Beach in Jefferson County, Washington:
With its breathtaking coastal cliffs, sea stacks, and crystal-clear water, the stunning Ruby Beach is the perfect spot for exploring and discovering nature together. While swimming is not recommended due to dangerous surf conditions and strong currents, your family can still enjoy the breathtaking scenery, go beachcombing, and take leisurely walks on the beach.
Your kids will have a blast searching for starfish, crabs, and sea anemones in the tide pools along the shore, but it’s important to remind them to be mindful of their surroundings and not to disturb any wildlife. Watch for bald eagles and tufted puffins soaring above the water or nesting on the rocky outposts.
If you’re up for more adventure, the nearby Hoh Rainforest and Olympic National Park offer endless opportunities for hiking and exploring. The Hoh Rainforest is just a short drive away and has trails suitable for all skill levels.
Olympic National Park has some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country, including alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and old-growth forests. With so much to see and do, Ruby Beach and the surrounding areas are a must-visit for any nature-loving family.
Kalaloch Beach in Jefferson County, Washington:
Kalaloch Beach in Jefferson County, Washington has breathtaking views of the coastline, lush greenery, and abundant marine wildlife, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. Although the water may be a bit chilly and the currents a little strong for swimming, you can still have fun tide pooling, beachcombing, and fishing.
The destination’s convenient facilities, which include picnic areas, restrooms, and showers, make it one of the best beaches west coast USA has to offer. But if you’re looking to stay overnight, the Kalaloch Campground is perfect for camping with its easy beach access and beautiful ocean views.
Don’t forget to explore other popular attractions in the area like the Hoh Rainforest and the Quinault Rainforest, as well as the nearby towns of Forks and Port Angeles. Nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss the chance to see the large Sitka Spruce tree on the edge of Kalaloch Beach.
This incredible tree is one of the largest in the region and is truly awe-inspiring. Remind the kids to be respectful of the tree and its surroundings as it is a delicate ecosystem. It’s the perfect opportunity to go over the importance of staying on designated trails, not littering, and avoiding interaction with wildlife.
Those looking for accommodation should consider staying at the historic Kalaloch Lodge for its cozy cabins and stunning ocean views.
Rialto Beach in Clallam County, Washington
With rocky shorelines, massive driftwood logs, and breathtaking sunsets, Rialto Beach is a must-visit for families that love the outdoors. While you’re there, be sure to explore the nearby Hole in the Wall rock formation.
It’s a popular spot among photographers, so remember to bring your camera and strike a couple of poses as a family. You’ll also want to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as sea otters, seals, and bald eagles!
Keep in mind that swimming is not recommended. It’s also important to be aware of the tide schedule and stay away from the water’s edge during high tide. Remember to read and follow all posted signs and warnings to stay safe at the beach.
For a break from the sand and surf, take a short drive to the charming town of Forks. Here, you can take a Twilight tour with your teen, explore the town’s quaint shops, or visit the Forks Timber Museum to learn about the region’s rich logging history.
La Push Beach in Clallam County, Washington:
La Push Beach is a stunning destination for families seeking a fun day in the sun. Located in Clallam County, Washington, it is hands-down one of the nicest beaches on the West Coast of the United States. Situated on a patch of the Quileute Indian Reservation, the beach is the perfect fusion of breathtaking waves and untamed beauty.
La Push Beach offers a variety of tourist attractions, including whale viewing, beachcombing, and hiking. During the migratory season, tourists can view grey whales, humpback whales, and orcas from the coast!
Excellent options for trekking along the shore and exploring the neighboring woodland areas can also be found at the beach. Later, families can enjoy a meal or snack at various picnic areas on the beach while admiring the stunning scenery.
La Push Beach is conveniently located near several lodging options, including the Quileute Oceanside Resort and the neighboring Mora Campground. These options provide camping alternatives, including RV and tent camping spots, as well as lodge rooms and cabins, making it easy for families to stay close to the beach and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
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