On a hot summer day, there’s nothing like a hike at the beach to cool you off. Good thing you live in Southern California (or love to visit our neck of the woods) because we have an endless amount of beach trails that will get you out on the sand so you can dip your toes in some refreshing water. Ready for a look at our top picks for where to find the best beach hiking? Here are 7 of the best hikes in Southern California that we know you will love.

1. San Onofre State Beach
San Onofre Beach, California, USA
flickr/justin meissen
Three miles south of San Clemente you will find this rugged beach that's perfect for hiking, camping, fishing and snorkeling. The trail distance is up to 8 miles long depending on the route you take. San Clemente State Beach is one of your best bets for summer hiking in SoCal!
2. Malibu Lagoon State Beach Hike
Malibu Lagoon State Beach, California 90265, USA
flickr/shinya suzuki
If you need a quick beach fix, this easy 2-mile beach hike at Malibu Lagoon State Beach will take you under an hour. It may be short and sweet, but there's plenty to see along the way including great bird watching, tide pools and, of course, the lagoon.
3. Carlsbad State Beach
yelp/Caroleann B.
Carlsbad State Beach, Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
yelp/Samahna S.
Whether you choose to walk directly along the beach or take the cliffs high above the sand, Carlsbad State Beach is a perfect option for an easy hike in Southern California.

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4. Crystal Cove Beach
Crystal Cove State Park, 8471 N Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA
flickr/mitch barrie
Head over to Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County and take in the oceanfront scenery while you enjoy one of the best hikes in Southern California along this 3-mile stretch of beach.
5. San Clemente Beach Trail
San Clemente State Beach, San Clemente, CA 92672, USA
flickr/rails to trails conservancy
This stunning beachfront trail in San Clemente is one of the scenic hikes in Southern California. It provides a unique and rugged setting along the train tracks. Start in North Beach and make your way to San Clemente State Beach for a scenic 2-mile hike/walk that will completely refresh you.
6. Cabrillo National Monument Bayside Trail
Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
flickr/jill
Although the bayside trail at Cabrillo National Monument isn't technically a beach hike, it would be a shame to exclude this waterfront trail from the list as it's an absolute must in San Diego. With a distance of only two miles, it's also the perfect hike for most skill levels making it one of the kid-friendly hikes around Southern California. Once you reach the visitor's center at Cabrillo National Monument, just head toward the lighthouse, and you will be on your way to one of the most breathtaking hikes in SoCal.
7. Treasure Island Park/Beach -- Laguna Beach
flickr/paul hamilton
South Coast Highway, S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA
yelp/chris s.
Located in Laguna Beach, Treasure Island Park is home to several easy walking trails that provide soaring views of the surrounding area and easy access down to the picturesque beach below. This isn't the type of hike that will challenge you, but it will get you out in nature for fresh air and a perfect stroll. Time your hike just right and you will experience one of the most breathtaking sunsets on the planet.

How’s that for a refreshing afternoon? You can get outside for a little exercise and treat your senses to an incredible view at the same time while checking out some of the best hikes in Southern California. If you’re looking for more ways to experience the best of SoCal, here are 8 more hikes in Southern California to add to your list of hiking trails near me. The best part? They are all under 5 miles.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes In Southern California

Libby Monson | March 27, 2022

Which hikes in Southern California are short and sweet?

Big Pines Nature Trail is one of the best hikes in Southern California if you are looking for something short and sweet. You'll find this trail in Angeles National Forest. The mountain is home to giant pine trees that create a canopy of dappled shade. Big Pines Nature Trail is a loop that is less than half a mile long. However, the trail does include some stone stairs that might be an obstacle for some. Bring your little ones because this is truly one of the kid-friendly hikes around Southern California.

What are the best wildflower hikes in Southern California?

There is something truly magical about hiking through fields of wildflowers! You'll find carpets of beautiful wildflowers at Diamond Valley Lake Wildflower Trail in Hemet, California. This 2-mile trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Southern California, with its stunning views of the flower-filled hills and Diamond Valley Lake. For optimum flower viewing, hike this trail from March to June.

What are the most accessible hikes in Southern California?

The Jas Arnold Trail For All People in the Black Mountain Regional Park is a fully ADA accessible loop. The trail is wheelchair friendly and includes four shade structures and interpretive signage. Located in the City of San Diego, the trail winds through the natural sage-covered landscape. For people with mobility issues, this is one of the easy hikes in Southern California that allows for total access to nature.

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