If you're looking for a perfect beach day trip from Sacramento to explore Northern California’s gorgeous coastline or the San Francisco Bay Area, these 25 ocean and bay beaches are less than 115 miles from the capital city. This set of 25 contains a wide range of landscapes and water activities, from white sand stretches to dramatic cliffs and rocky tide pools.
Kehoe Beach - 109 Miles from Sacramento
Located in the Point Reyes National Seashore, Kehoe Beach is a true gem of Northern California’s coastline, known for its natural beauty. With rolling sand dunes and rugged cliffs, the Kehoe Beach landscape feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life. At low tide, the tide pools of Kehoe Beach are interesting little microcosms of marine life. Visitors can spot colorful sea anemones, starfish, crabs, and other ocean creatures.
Kehoe Beach runs about 3-4 miles and is a haven for birdwatchers, as it is part of the Point Reyes National Seashore. The surrounding marshes and coastal bluffs provide habitats for a plethora of bird species, like herons, egrets, and the occasional peregrine falcon. The sand beach is accessible via a gentle, one-mile trail that meanders through the landscape emerging at a beautiful view of the coastline. This peaceful trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels, however swimming and surfing is discouraged as the currents and undertow can be dangerously strong.
Kehoe Beach's relative seclusion makes it a great place to unwind, explore tide pools, or simply take in the beautiful ocean views or connect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of the coast.
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Santa Maria Beach - 106 Miles from Sacramento
Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, Santa Maria Beach runs along the rugged Northern California coastline. This remote beach is on Drake's Bay in the Point Reyes National Seashore and is celebrated for its breathtaking views of the vast Pacific Coast. The surrounding cliffs and coastal bluffs stand as an impressive backdrop, making Santa Maria Beach a beach destination that feels both serene and untouched by the busy world beyond.
You can reach Santa Maria Beach by walking south from Limantour about a mile along the shore. Santa Maria Beach is loved for its peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere, a beautiful spot for those seeking solitude or a quiet day by the water. If you're there at low tide, you can walk south a half mile to Sculptured Beach and find some of California's best tide pools, as well as 'sculptured' rocks, like the well known rock arches.
Limantour Beach - 106 Miles from Sacramento
Situated in the Point Reyes National Seashore, Limantour Beach is a sandy shoreline that draws nature lovers and beachgoers. This long, expansive beach is nestled between the Limantour Spit and the Drakes Estero. Here the calm waters of the estuary meet the more hostile waves of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is backed by sand dunes, giving it a natural barrier that makes it feel secluded. As you walk along the soft sand, you’ll see panoramic views of the coast and the rugged cliffs of Point Reyes in the distance.
Limantour Beach is particularly beloved for its wildlife, and it is a prime location for bird watching. The surrounding wetlands and estuaries are home to a wide variety of bird species, including snowy plovers, herons, and pelicans, creating a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers. The beach’s large waves also make it a popular place for surfers looking to ride the cool, crisp waters of the Northern California coast. Families and solo travelers can enjoy activities like beachcombing, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
The beach is connected to several scenic hiking trails, including the Limantour Spit Trail, which provides amazing views of the surrounding dunes, marshes, and ocean. These trails are popular among both casual hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Agate Beach - 110 Miles from Sacramento
Situated in the scenic Bodega Bay Area, Agate Beach is a hidden gem with rugged beauty. This beach is known for its dramatic cliffs that rise above the shoreline. The landscape has rocky outcrops and smooth, weathered stones scattered along the sand. The beach’s namesake,
agate stones, can often be found along the shoreline, so it's a beloved area for beachcombers and rock enthusiasts. The secluded nature of Agate Beach gives a calming connection to the untamed beauty of the Northern California coast, the crashing waves and salty air.
Agate Beach also has wonderful tide pools, teeming with marine life. Visitors can explore these pools, discovering anemones, starfish, crabs, and more. The beach’s dramatic cliffs make it a popular site for photography and nature walks. The nearby hiking trails give ocean views, while the beach itself makes for a quiet picnic area or your may decide to go for a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Bolinas Beach - 109 Miles from Sacramento
Bolinas Beach, located in the coastal town of Bolinas, is a public beach also called Brighton Beach. The beach is at the mouth of the Bolinas lagoon, and on sunny weekends, parking can be a problem.
One of the main draws of Bolinas Beach is its excellent conditions for surfing. On any given day, you’ll see surfers riding the waves. Beyond surfing, Bolinas Beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll, beachcombing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding or sunbathing. The nearby tidal flats and estuaries also make it a great region for birdwatching.
You'll find public bathrooms and tennis courts. Plus, it is one of the area's dog-friendly beaches as dogs are allowed on the beach off-leash.
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Stinson Beach - 109 Miles from Sacramento
Located just 109 miles from Sacramento, this beautiful beach has soft, white sand that stretches for nearly three miles along the coast, plenty of space for sunbathing, picnicking, and beach games. The beach is nestled in Marin Headlands, filled with the rugged cliffs and rolling hills of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
The 3.5 mile shoreline is perfect for long, leisurely walks along the Pacific Ocean. The nearby town of Stinson Beach is home to quaint shops, cafes, and art galleries.
The beach is popular for swimming, boogie boarding, and surfing, especially during the warmer months. For those who prefer to stay dry, the surrounding area has several scenic hiking trails that wind through the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, where hikers can enjoy the natural landscape and spot local wildlife. The Dipsea Trail, famous for its challenging route and incredible scenery, starts near Stinson Beach and is a favorite among hikers and trail runners. Because of its popularity, the beach’s parking lot fills up quickly during the summer months, so arriving early is essential to secure a good place.
Despite the crowds, Stinson Beach has a relaxed and friendly vibe that keeps people coming back year after year.
Red Rock Beach - 101 Miles from Sacramento
Just north of the popular Stinson Beach, Red Rock Beach is another stretch of the Marin County coastline's natural beauty. The beach is a clothing optional destination and the access terrain is rough, so sturdy shoes are recommended. The beach is part of the Mount Tamalpais State Park, and since it's so secluded there are no facilities, an important fact to consider before your visit.
The landscape here is rugged and untouched rocky shoreline. At high tide the beach will be all wet, so be informed about the tidal changes.
You may encounter folks bouldering here, that is rock climbing without ropes. Even if you're not into bouldering, you may find yourself becoming a curious spectator.
San Quentin Beach - 79 Miles from Sacramento
San Quentin Beach, located just 79 miles from Sacramento, is a small, lesser-known beach along the San Francisco Bay, adjacent to the San Quentin State Prison in Marin County, California. Despite its proximity to the prison, the beach is public access and lets you get unique views of the San Francisco Bay.
The beach is relatively secluded, making it a quiet corner for visitors who prefer a more peaceful environment. It is also a popular location for birdwatching, as the area attracts various species of shorebirds and waterfowl.
The beach itself is composed of a mix of sand and pebbles, with calm waters that are suitable for kayaking and paddleboarding. There are no facilities or amenities on the beach, so visitors should plan to bring their own supplies.
Access to the beach is somewhat limited, requiring a short walk from nearby parking areas. The beach’s location offers a unique perspective of the bay, and it’s an area often overlooked by tourists. It's a great off-the-beaten path beach.
Albany Beach - 75 Miles from Sacramento
Located in the East Bay, Albany Beach is a secluded coastal treasure that gives visitors amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Just 75 miles from Sacramento, this small beach is part of the Albany Bulb, a reclaimed landfill area that has been transformed into a vibrant community space.
The beach itself is a mix of soft sand and pebbles, gently sloping into the calm waters of the San Francisco Bay. The views can't be overstated: the distant hills of Marin County, the striking silhouette of the Golden Gate Bridge, perfect for photography or just contemplating.
Albany Beach is particularly popular with water sports enthusiasts, thanks to the calm and shallow waters that are ideal for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The beach’s easy access to the bay makes it great for beginners and experienced adventurers alike.
Nearby, the Robert W. Crown Memorial State Beach offers even more recreational opportunities, with its expansive sandy shoreline, picnic areas, and open spaces for family gatherings, beach volleyball, or a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge. The park is also home to local wildlife and is popular for birdwatching and nature walks.
Kirby Beach - 94 Miles from Sacramento
Kirby Beach is located within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge and is accessible by a relatively steep hike, typically starting from the parking area near Battery Spencer. The trail down to the beach is about one mile long, winding through coastal vegetation where you'll get views of the bay and the bridge. Due to its secluded location and the effort required to reach it, Kirby Beach is often less crowded than other nearby beaches, making it a quieter place to visit.
The beach itself provides a unique vantage point for viewing the Golden Gate Bridge from below. Visitors can also see Alcatraz Island and the San Francisco skyline from the beach. The beach has a small sandy area, an ideal spot for picnics or relaxing.
Tide pools can be explored during low tide, and the area is known for its cool, foggy climate, so visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions. There are no facilities at Kirby Beach, so it’s advisable to bring everything needed for a visit, including food, water, and appropriate clothing.
Crissy Field East Beach - 98 Miles from Sacramento
Crissy Field East Beach, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, was once a U.S. Army airfield before being transformed into a public park in the late 1990s. Visitors to this beach can enjoy views of iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Marin Headlands. The waters are calm, making the beach popular for paddleboarding, kayaking, and wading. Crissy Field East Beach is also one of the few places in San Francisco where dogs are allowed off-leash, making it a favorite locale for dog owners.
The beach is connected to a network of paved trails, including the Golden Gate Promenade, which is ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling. These trails provide access to other attractions within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, such as Fort Point and the Warming Hut Café. Public restrooms and picnic areas are available, making it convenient for families and those planning to spend the day. Parking is available but can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and holidays, so early arrival is recommended.
Muir Beach - 96 Miles from Sacramento
Muir Beach is a small, secluded beach located within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, just 96 miles from Sacramento. The beach is situated in a sheltered cove, making it a calm and quiet setting for visitors looking to escape the city. The area surrounding Muir Beach includes several hiking trails that offer striking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding Marin County hills. These trails range in difficulty, providing options for both casual walkers and more experienced hikers.
The beach is also notable for its proximity to the Redwood Creek restoration area, which is part of a larger effort to preserve the natural habitat of the region. Muir Beach has limited facilities, including a small parking lot, restrooms, and picnic areas. The beach is popular for picnicking, sunbathing, and exploring the tide pools that are exposed during low tide. Due to its secluded nature, Muir Beach tends to be less crowded than other nearby beaches, but visitors should plan ahead as parking is limited.
Tennessee Beach - 97 Miles from Sacramento
Tennessee Beach is located within the Marin Headlands, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, about 97 miles from Sacramento. The beach is accessible via a relatively easy hike along the Tennessee Valley Trail, which is a popular route for both locals and visitors. The trail to Tennessee Beach is about 1.7 miles long and passes through a scenic valley, making it a great option for a leisurely hike. The beach itself is set in a cove and is known for its dramatic cliffs and natural beauty.
Visitors to Tennessee Beach should be aware that the waters are not safe for swimming due to strong currents and the potential for large waves. However, the beach is an excellent area for picnicking and enjoying the coastal scenery. The area is also popular with birdwatchers, as the surrounding cliffs and wetlands are home to a variety of bird species. There are no facilities at Tennessee Beach, so visitors should come prepared with their own supplies, and be sure to pack out all trash to preserve the natural environment.
Rodeo Beach - 97 Miles from Sacramento
Rodeo Beach is located within the Marin Headlands, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, approximately 97 miles from Sacramento. The beach is unique for its dark, pebbly sand, which is composed of a variety of minerals, including green and red chert. Rodeo Beach is a popular destination for surfers, due to its consistent waves, and for those interested in geology and rock collecting. The beach is also a great area for watching the sunset, with the rugged cliffs providing a dramatic backdrop.
Rodeo Beach is a dog-friendly beach, allowing dogs to be off-leash as long as they are under voice control. The beach is also a popular place for picnicking, with picnic tables and restrooms available nearby. The area around Rodeo Beach is crisscrossed with hiking trails, including routes that lead to historic military installations like Battery Townsley and the Point Bonita Lighthouse. Parking is available, but the beach can become crowded on weekends and holidays, so early arrival is advised.
Black Sands Beach - 97 Miles from Sacramento
Black Sands Beach is located within the Marin Headlands, about 97 miles from Sacramento. The beach is named for its dark, almost black sand, which is composed of pebbles and tiny fragments of dark-colored rocks. The beach is accessed by a steep trail that descends from Conzelman Road, making it less crowded than other beaches in the area. The steep descent and climb back up mean that visitors should be prepared for a bit of a workout.
Black Sands Beach is known for its striking natural beauty and offers marvelous views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding cliffs. The beach is a peaceful location, perfect for those looking to escape the busier beaches nearby. However, the beach is not recommended for swimming due to the strong currents and cold water. There are no facilities at Black Sands Beach, so visitors should come prepared with everything they need and be mindful to pack out any trash.
Paradise Beach Park - 92 Miles from Sacramento
Paradise Beach Park is a county park located in Tiburon, California, approximately 92 miles from Sacramento. The park is situated along the shores of the San Francisco Bay and features a small, sandy beach that is ideal for picnicking and relaxing. The beach area is equipped with picnic tables, barbecue grills, and shaded areas, making it a popular spot for family gatherings and day trips. The calm waters of the bay also make it a good place for kayaking and paddleboarding.
One of the key attractions of Paradise Beach Park is the fishing pier, which extends into the bay and offers excellent fishing opportunities. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including shorebirds, and the surrounding area offers hiking trails with views of the bay and the Marin County hills. Restrooms and parking are available, but the park can become crowded on weekends and holidays, so visitors should arrive early to secure a good spot.
Golden Gate Beach - 94 Miles from Sacramento
Golden Gate Beach, located within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, is approximately 94 miles from Sacramento. The beach offers sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands, making it a popular site for photography and sightseeing. The beach is part of the larger Presidio of San Francisco, a historic military post that has been transformed into a public park. Golden Gate Beach is easily accessible and offers a wide, sandy shoreline that is ideal for walking and beachcombing.
The beach is also popular for picnicking, with several picnic areas located nearby. Visitors can explore the surrounding trails, which offer views of the coastline and access to historic sites such as Fort Point. While swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and cold water, the beach is a great location for kite flying and enjoying the coastal breeze. Parking is available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during tourist season.
Baker Beach - 93 Miles from Sacramento
Baker Beach is located within the Presidio of San Francisco, about 93 miles from Sacramento. The beach gives magnificent views of the Golden Gate Bridge, making it one of the most popular beaches in San Francisco for both locals and tourists. Baker Beach features a wide, sandy shoreline that is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. The northern section of the beach is clothing-optional, which is something visitors should be aware of before arriving.
Baker Beach is also a popular place for fishing, with anglers often seen casting their lines from the shore. The beach is not recommended for swimming due to strong currents and the possibility of rip tides. The surrounding area offers hiking trails with views of the coastline and access to Battery Chamberlin, a historic coastal defense installation. Picnic tables and restrooms are available, and parking is provided, though it can become crowded, particularly on weekends.
Mile Rock Beach - 95 Miles from Sacramento
Mile Rock Beach is a small, secluded beach located within the Lands End area of San Francisco, about 95 miles from Sacramento. The beach is accessed via a steep trail that descends from the Lands End Lookout, allowing spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline along the way. The beach is known for its rocky shoreline and large boulders, making it a great area for exploring tide pools and searching for marine life.
Mile Rock Beach is part of the larger Lands End trail network, which offers a variety of hiking options with panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and the San Francisco Bay. The beach itself is often uncrowded, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors who make the trek down the trail. There are no facilities at Mile Rock Beach, so visitors should bring everything they need and be prepared to carry it back up the steep trail. The beach is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents and the rocky shoreline.
Ocean Beach - 98 Miles from Sacramento
Ocean Beach is a vast, sandy beach located along the western edge of San Francisco, approximately 98 miles from Sacramento. Stretching for over three miles, it is one of the largest beaches in the city and is popular for its wide-open spaces and expansive shoreline. The beach is one of the top beaches of the Bay Area and a favorite spot for surfers, thanks to its consistent waves, though the cold water and strong currents make it less suitable for casual swimming. Ocean Beach is also popular for beachcombing, kite flying, and taking long walks along the shore.
The beach is adjacent to the Golden Gate Park, providing easy access to the park's many attractions, including the Windmills, the Beach Chalet, and the Great Highway. Public restrooms, parking, and picnic areas are available, making it convenient for visitors planning to spend the day. However, the beach can be windy and foggy, particularly in the summer months, so visitors should come prepared for cooler temperatures. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer season, but swimming is generally not recommended due to the dangerous rip currents.
On the north end of Ocean Beach sits the Cliff House, a historical site with restaurants and bars run since the late 1800s. The Cliff House closed in 2020 due to the pandemic, but remains a well known place that's been featured in many films.
Thornton Beach - 95 Miles from Sacramento
Thornton Beach is a small, lesser-known beach located in Daly City, about 95 miles from Sacramento. The beach is part of the larger Thornton State Beach, which lets you take in the fabulous Pacific Ocean and the surrounding cliffs. The beach is accessed via a steep trail that descends from the parking area, making it a bit of a challenge to reach. However, the effort is rewarded with a quiet, uncrowded beach that is perfect for those looking to escape the more popular beaches in the area.
Thornton Beach is popular with hikers and dog walkers, as the surrounding trails offer panoramic views of the coastline and the nearby San Bruno Mountain. The beach itself is not recommended for swimming due to strong currents and the rocky shoreline.
There are no facilities at Thornton Beach, so visitors should bring their own supplies and be prepared for a steep climb back up to the parking area. The beach's seclusion and natural beauty make it a favorite location for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the ocean.
Pacifica State Beach - 102 Miles from Sacramento
Pacifica State Beach, also known as Linda Mar Beach, is located in the city of Pacifica, about 102 miles from Sacramento. The beach is one of the most popular surfing spots in the Bay Area, attracting surfers of all skill levels due to its consistent waves and relatively mild conditions. The crescent-shaped beach is backed by the scenic coastal hills, providing a picturesque setting for beachgoers. In addition to surfing, the beach is popular for beachcombing, sunbathing, and picnicking.
The beach is equipped with restrooms, showers, and a parking lot, making it convenient for visitors planning to spend the day. There are also several nearby cafes and restaurants where visitors can grab a bite to eat. The Pacifica State Beach Trail runs along the length of the beach, offering a scenic walking or biking route with views of the ocean. During the summer months, the beach can become crowded, so early arrival is recommended, especially on weekends.
Montara State Beach - 106 Miles from Sacramento
Montara State Beach is located in Montara, California, about 106 miles from Sacramento. The beach is known for its wide, sandy shoreline and dramatic cliffs that overlook the Pacific. Montara State Beach is a popular destination for beachcombing, sunbathing, and exploring the tide pools that are exposed during low tide. The beach is also a great location for photography, with its scenic cliffs and ocean vistas providing a picturesque backdrop.
The beach is accessible from Highway 1, and parking is available in a
small lot near the entrance. Restrooms are also provided, making it a convenient spot for a day trip. While the beach is not recommended for swimming due to strong currents and cold water, it is popular with surfers who come to take advantage of the consistent waves. The nearby Montara Mountain offers hiking opportunities with trails that provide panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding area.
Mavericks Beach - 110 Miles from Sacramento
Mavericks Beach, located in Half Moon Bay, about 110 miles from Sacramento, is famous for its massive waves that attract some of the world’s best big-wave surfers. The beach itself is relatively small and is situated near Pillar Point Harbor, with access to the infamous Mavericks surf break located just offshore. During the winter months, waves at Mavericks can reach heights of 25 to 60 feet, making it a renowned destination for professional surfers and surf enthusiasts.
Visitors to Mavericks Beach can watch the surfers from a safe distance on the shore or from nearby vantage points along the cliffs. The beach is also a popular area for tide pooling, beachcombing, and enjoying the rugged coastal scenery. There are no facilities directly on the beach, but restrooms and parking are available nearby at Pillar Point Harbor. Due to the challenging conditions, Mavericks is not a beach for swimming, but it offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of the ocean and the skill of the surfers who take on its legendary waves.
Alameda Beach - 87 Miles from Sacramento
Alameda Beach, located in Alameda, California, about 87 miles from Sacramento, is a family-friendly beach with calm waters and a wide sandy shoreline. The beach is part of the larger Crown Memorial State Beach, which stretches for 2.5 miles along the shores of San Francisco Bay. The beach is popular for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking, thanks to the protected bay waters that are much calmer than the open ocean. The beach also features a paved promenade that is a perfect place for walking, jogging, or cycling with views of the bay.
The beach is equipped with restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue pits, making it an ideal place for a day out with family or friends. There are also several grassy areas adjacent to the beach, providing additional space for picnicking and recreation. The nearby Crab Cove Visitor Center offers educational exhibits about the local marine environment, making it a great stop for families with children. Parking is available, but the beach can become crowded on warm weekends, so early arrival is recommended.
So whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, an adventurous day in the surf, or simply a scenic spot to unwind, these 25 ocean and bay beaches within 115 miles of Sacramento offer you a lot to choose from. From the rugged beauty of Marin County's coastline to the tranquil shores of the East Bay, each destination provides a unique way to experience Northern California's coastal charm. Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the perfect beach for your next getaway.