Southern California, a land of sun-kissed beaches and vibrant coastal communities, might seem an unlikely place to find solitude and a connection with nature through camping. With its densely populated coastline, often dominated by towering condos and sprawling estates, the prospect of pitching a tent near the crashing waves can feel like a distant dream. However, for those willing to venture beyond the obvious and seek out the hidden gems, Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California becomes a rewarding quest.
This guide unveils some of the finest locations in Southern California where the rhythmic lull of the ocean becomes your nightly serenade and the golden sands your doorstep. We’ll navigate the coastal landscapes of Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, highlighting campgrounds that offer genuine beachfront experiences, not just a distant view across a bustling highway. Prepare to discover the magic of Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California.
Dockweiler State Beach
Nestled beneath the flight path of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), between the upscale Marina Del Rey and the lively Manhattan Beach, lies Dockweiler State Beach, a unique and somewhat paradoxical camping destination. As Los Angeles’ only beach campground, Dockweiler offers an experience unlike any other. Imagine setting up camp with the Pacific Ocean stretching out before you, while the roar of jet engines fills the air as planes take off and land nearby.
This west-facing beach provides panoramic views of Santa Monica Bay, offering stunning sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant colors. The beach is also conveniently located along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, a paved path that extends from Redondo Beach to Santa Monica, perfect for leisurely cycling or invigorating morning runs.
Dockweiler State Beach is exclusively for RV camping. This means no tents are allowed. It caters specifically to recreational vehicles, providing a designated space where travelers can park their homes on wheels and enjoy the beachfront lifestyle. While the proximity to LAX might not appeal to everyone, the sheer novelty of camping so close to a major airport, combined with the breathtaking ocean views, makes Dockweiler a memorable and unconventional Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California experience.
Address: 12000 Vista Del Mar, Playa Del Rey, CA 90293-8518, USA
Phone: +1 424-526-7777
San Clemente State Beach
Further south, in Orange County, San Clemente State Beach beckons with its stunning scenery and breathtaking ocean vistas. Situated at the base of a dramatic bluff, this mile-long stretch of coastline offers a more traditional beach camping experience.
The campground at San Clemente State Beach is designed to accommodate both tent campers and trailers, up to 30 feet in length. With convenient hookups and a dump station available, it provides a comfortable and well-equipped base for exploring the surrounding area.
Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves, stepping out of your tent to feel the soft sand between your toes, and spending your days swimming, surfing, or simply basking in the California sunshine. San Clemente State Beach offers a quintessential Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California getaway, where the natural beauty of the coastline takes center stage.
Address: 225 Avenida Calafia, San Clemente, CA 92672, USA
Phone: +1 949-492-3156
Bolsa Chica State Beach
Located in Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City USA," Bolsa Chica State Beach presents another appealing option for beach camping in Southern California. This popular destination is renowned for its excellent surf fishing and picturesque shoreline.
However, similar to Dockweiler, Bolsa Chica State Beach caters exclusively to RV campers. Tent camping is not permitted here. This limitation aside, the park offers a unique experience, particularly for wildlife enthusiasts. Bolsa Chica is one of the best beaches in Orange County for birdwatching, with numerous species inhabiting the adjacent Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve.
Imagine setting up your RV, casting a line into the surf, and observing a diverse array of birds soaring overhead. Bolsa Chica State Beach offers a unique blend of recreational activities and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for RV travelers seeking a Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California adventure.
Address: Bolsa Chica State Beach, California, USA
Chula Vista RV Resort
Moving further south into San Diego County, the Chula Vista RV Resort provides a more luxurious and amenity-rich camping experience. Unlike the state beaches, this is a privately owned resort, offering a range of facilities and services that cater to discerning travelers.
The resort boasts 237 spacious sites, all equipped with full hookups. What sets it apart is its location adjacent to a private marina, featuring 552 slips. This makes it an ideal destination for boaters and water sports enthusiasts.
Beyond the marina access, the Chula Vista RV Resort offers a wide array of amenities, including a general store, a ladies’ boutique, a picnic area, a swimming pool and spa, laundry facilities, full restrooms, club rooms, and two full-service restaurants with waterfront dining. It’s a far cry from roughing it, offering a comfortable and convenient way to enjoy the Southern California coast. While it might not be the traditional "camping" experience, it provides a unique alternative for those seeking a Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California vacation with all the comforts of home.
Address: 460 Sandpiper Way, Chula Vista, CA 91910-4052, USA
Phone: +1 619-422-0111
Doheny State Beach
Doheny State Beach, located in Dana Point, is a large and popular park offering a classic beach camping experience. The campground is situated on the south side of the park, with some campsites located just steps away from the sandy shore.
Doheny State Beach accommodates both RVs and trailers, up to 35 feet in length. This makes it a versatile option for a variety of campers. The proximity to the beach is a major draw, allowing visitors to easily enjoy swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and exploring the tide pools.
However, it’s important to be aware that Doheny State Beach hosts significant events throughout the year, such as the Doheny Blues Festival, which can disrupt camping and vehicle access. It’s advisable to check the event schedule before making reservations. Despite this potential drawback, Doheny State Beach remains a popular choice for those seeking a Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California adventure.
Address: Doheny State Beach, Dana Point, CA 92624, USA
Silver Strand State Beach
Located on the Coronado Peninsula, Silver Strand State Beach offers a unique camping experience with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Diego skyline. The beach is known for its wide sandy expanse and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
The campground at Silver Strand State Beach can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 40 feet in length. For those with larger vehicles that might block two campsites, the park offers an oversized vehicle rate. A key feature of this campground is that all RVs must be self-contained, meaning they must have their own bathroom and water systems.
Sites 101 through 137 are located immediately next to the beach, providing unparalleled access to the sand and surf. However, even the campsites further back are only a short walk from the water. Silver Strand State Beach provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Coronado Peninsula and experience the magic of Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California.
Address: 5000 CA-75, Coronado, CA 92118, USA
Phone: +1 619-435-5184
San Elijo State Beach
Nestled between Del Mar and San Elijo, just north of San Diego, near the charming community of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, lies San Elijo State Beach. This campground offers a clifftop camping experience with panoramic ocean views.
The facilities at San Elijo State Beach can accommodate campers up to 35 feet in length. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves, stepping out of your tent or RV to gaze at the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and spending your days exploring the nearby tide pools, surfing the waves, or simply relaxing on the beach. San Elijo State Beach provides a quintessential Southern California camping experience, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities, making it a top choice for Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California.
Address: San Elijo State Beach, Encinitas, CA 92007, USA
These seven locations offer a diverse range of experiences for those seeking to fulfill their dream of beach camping in Southern California. From the urban spectacle of Dockweiler State Beach to the luxurious amenities of Chula Vista RV Resort, there’s a campground to suit every taste and preference. So pack your bags, book your reservations, and prepare to discover the magic of Where to Go Beach Camping in Southern California.
