California beaches aren’t just a summer thing. In fact, the holiday season is one of the best times to visit if you want fewer crowds, softer light, cooler temperatures, and a calmer, more reflective energy.

Whether you’re craving a peaceful reset or a festive coastal escape, these beaches shine during late November through December.

Here are three of the best California beaches to visit during the holidays — and exactly why they’re worth the trip.

Laguna Beach — cozy, artistic, and quietly festive

Laguna Beach feels especially magical during the holidays. The crowds thin out, the ocean air turns crisp, and the town leans into its artsy, small-community charm.

Why it’s perfect during the holidays:
• Mild winter weather that’s ideal for walking and exploring
• Fewer tourists, making beaches like Thousand Steps and Victoria Beach feel intimate
• Holiday art events, local galleries, and seasonal decor throughout town
• Dramatic cliffs and coves that feel extra cinematic in winter light

Laguna is perfect if you want a peaceful, reflective beach trip that still feels elevated and inspiring. It’s less about swimming and more about slowing down, walking the shoreline, and soaking in the atmosphere.

Santa Monica — classic California with holiday energy

If you want a beach destination that still feels lively during the holidays, Santa Monica is the move. It blends coastal scenery with festive city energy, making it ideal for travelers who want options.

Why it works so well this time of year:
• Cool, comfortable temperatures without the summer crowds
• Holiday lights and events near the pier and Third Street Promenade
• Beach walks that pair well with coffee stops and shopping
• Iconic sunsets and wide sandy beaches that feel timeless year-round

Santa Monica is great if you’re visiting with friends or family and want flexibility — beach time, city vibes, and holiday cheer all in one place.

Carmel-by-the-Sea — storybook vibes and dramatic winter beauty

Carmel-by-the-Sea feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. During winter, the coastline becomes moodier and more dramatic, and the town embraces a cozy, fairytale-like atmosphere.

Why it’s unbeatable during the holidays:
• Stunning coastal views with misty mornings and glowing sunsets
• Fewer visitors, making the town and beach feel serene
• Festive decorations, fireplaces, and holiday charm throughout Carmel
• Perfect weather for long walks along Carmel Beach and scenic drives

Carmel is ideal if you want a slower, romantic, or soul-reset kind of holiday trip. It’s less about beach lounging and more about beauty, presence, and quiet magic.

Why California beaches hit differently during the holidays

Winter beach trips aren’t about chasing summer energy. They’re about contrast — ocean air mixed with sweaters, quiet mornings, reflective walks, and space to breathe before the new year.

California’s mild climate makes it one of the few places where a holiday beach trip feels both grounding and refreshing. No extreme cold. No overwhelming heat. Just balance.

If you’re craving a holiday getaway that feels calm, scenic, and restorative, a California beach might be exactly what you need.