7 Pristine Hidden Beaches Throughout Southern California You’ve Got To Visit This Summer

Nothing captures Southern California's beauty quite like spending a day at the beach. This is why we've compiled this list of seven pristine beaches that you can have all to yourself this summer as they are some of SoCal's most hidden gems. From relaxing on the sand to taking a swim in the ocean to enjoying a stroll at sunset, these hidden beaches in Southern California will be the highlight of your summer.

1. La Piedra State Beach, Malibu

Time your visit to La Piedra State Beach just right and you may have one of the most beautiful hidden beaches in Southern Californial all to yourself. Easily reachable from the bluff-top trail, this secret beach in SoCal is where you'll want to spend a quiet day relaxing on the sand.

Address: 32628 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265.

2. Pirate's Cove Beach, Newport Beach

Located in Newport Beach, Pirate's Cove Beach is one more reason to love spending an afternoon at one of SoCal's most pristine beaches. Take a swim in the crystal clear ocean or stroll along the soft sand and soak up the ocean views. It's the perfect place to do a little relaxing on a hot summer day in SoCal.

Address: 3001 Ocean Boulevard, Newport Beach, CA 92625.

3. Swami's Beach, Encinitas

Tucked inside the town of Encinitas, Swami's Beach may be more well known than the rest of the beaches on the list, but it's still a bit of an insider secret. With plentiful parking nearby and a short wooden staircase that leads you straight to the sand, this hidden beach is a must for anyone seeking out the perfect SoCal beach day. This is one of the most beautiful secret beaches in Southern California.

Address: 1298 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024.

4. El Matador Beach, Malibu

Located in Malibu, El Matador Beach is a magnificent stretch of coastal heaven offering crystal clear water, rugged rock formations, and adventurous sea caves to explore. Less populated than many nearby beaches, this is a great spot to visit when you want to have the beach all to yourself. It's one of the most secluded Southern California beaches to visit.

Address: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265.

5. Lechuza Beach, Malibu

Another Malibu hidden gem not far from El Matador Beach is Lechuza Beach. Although open to the public, this tranquil setting feels more like a private beach that's an inside secret only the locals know about. With its serene setting that provides a perfect summer in SoCal breeze, you could easily turn a lazy afternoon into an entire day at this beautiful beach in SoCal.

Address: Malibu, CA 90263.

6. Thousand Steps Beach, Laguna Beach

If you don't mind the long trek to Thousand Steps Beach that requires navigating over 200 steps to reach, then you'll find the adventure to experience this hidden beach well worth it. Perfect for relaxing and taking in the stunning ocean view, this piece of paradise is one stretch of sand that will completely enchant you. It's one of the most stunning hidden beaches in Southern California.

Address: 1000 Steps Beach, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.

7. Bluff Cove Beach, Palos Verdes Estates

Although Bluff Cove is best known for its excellent surfing, this hidden spot is also a dreamy place to soak up the rugged beauty of the landscape. Make sure to bring comfortable and sturdy beach shoes so you can do some exploring along the rocks while you're here.

Address: 609 Paseo Del Mar, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274.

What do you think of the hidden beaches in Southern California on this list? Do you have a favorite place to dip your toes in the ocean and take a walk along the sand in SoCal? We'd love to know where you go to get your dose of sea and sand so please share in the comments.

If you like beachcombing for sand dollars, you must visit Silver Strand State Beach located in Coronado.