Hidden Beaches in California

Hidden Beach in Mendocino County, California

With 840 miles of coastline*, the opportunity to find hidden beaches in California is very good. An easy way to do this is to drive down highway 1 (Coastal Highway, PCH, etc.) and look for signs marked “Coastal Access“. There is usually a symbol with the text, that looks like binoculars. Be wary of signs that seem to go over private property, or involve crossing any fences or gates. Usually they are only displayed when there is a public right-of-way to the coastline (it doesn’t always mean there will be a beach!), and some routes may have been eroded over time so please use caution. The signs don’t always pan out, but when they do it’s glorious.

When we were in Mendocino, we followed a trail through a forested area and across a muddy area from a small stream to a cliffy shoreline with the most remarkable sunset. We were the only ones out on the bluff and it was one of my better California ‘beach’ moments. We love to find the more secluded or off-the-beaten-path areas when we travel, not because we are thrill-seekers or very adventurous, but because I love the serenity that it provides.

Hidden Beach in Mendocino County, California Hidden Beach in Mendocino County, California

Hidden Beach in Mendocino County, California

Hidden Beach in Mendocino County, California Hidden Beach in Mendocino County, California

How to find hidden beaches in California

Hidden Beach in Mendocino County, California How to find hidden beaches in California
How to find hidden beaches in California How to find hidden beaches in California
How to find hidden beaches in California How to find hidden beaches in California

How to find hidden beaches in California
As always, aerial photos by my husband, Steve Doll.

If you’re looking for the exact trail in the photos it can be found here:

16401-16801 Ocean Dr
Fort Bragg, CA 95437
39.388738, -123.812601

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Responses to “Hidden Beaches in California”

  1. These are beautiful photos which make me quite nostalgic, but I will be in LA pretty soon so I can enjoy the ocean from the strand 😉 xx adaatude.com

  2. These photos are gorgeous! What beautiful coastline!
    Kari
    http://www.sweetteasweetie.com

  3. OMG! beautiful pics! I’ll definitely have to make a trip out!

  4. OMG this is so pretty! It’s always the hidden things that seem to have the best views!

  5. Such amazing / stunning photos! Nothing compares to California coast!!

    Sportsanista

  6. […] hiking to get down to a good beach. We’ve chased down numerous beaches after hiking from a coastal access sign, and we’ve visited beaches that were readily accessible. Davenport Landing Beach is one of […]

  7. […] the parking lot for it sits on top of the cliff, and isn’t clearly marked. Remember those coastal access signs I mentioned before? You follow one to get here. The parking lot is huge by local beach standards, […]

  8. Michelle Huseonica

    Do you remember the marker at which you got off to see this beautiful place? I am driving through California and WOULD LOVE to find this place. Just gorgeous.

    1. Yes! This is EXACTLY where you park and follow the trail:

      16401-16801 Ocean Dr
      Fort Bragg, CA 95437
      39.388738, -123.812601

      Have fun!

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