As the weather gets hotter and summer kicks off, it’s no surprise if you’re dreaming of jetting off to some far-flung island in the Caribbean or Southeast Asia. But, before you travel too far, know that there are plenty of excellent beach getaways right here in the United States to take advantage of. Hawaii and the East Coast tend to attract the most attention (we get it), but there’s something about West Coast beach towns that just hits differently. Maybe it’s the raw power of the Pacific, or maybe it’s their proximity to some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Regardless, these coastal towns in Washington, Oregon, and California are well worth planning a trip around.
Thanks to the geographical diversity out west, there are stretches of sand—and charming adjacent cities—to suit every style. As you move your way up the coastline, you’ll find classic surf spots, rocky shores with sweeping dunes, and forested islands that totally capture the moody vibes of the Pacific Northwest. Here, we’ve rounded up 13 of the best West Coast beach towns, with some recommendations for where to stay and what to do during your visit.
