The best beach camping in Southern California combines oceanfront views, salty air, and the kind of freedom you can’t get in a hotel room. From tent spots right on the sand to full-hookup RV sites with stunning coastal backdrops, these campgrounds deliver the real SoCal experience. But here’s the catch: they book out fast—especially the good ones.
In this guide, you’ll find the most sought-after spots to camp by the beach, plus tips on when to book, what to bring, and how to avoid the rookie mistakes. If beach camping’s on your list this year, start here.
Why Beach Camping in SoCal Is Unique
Southern California’s coastline isn’t just beautiful—it’s wildly diverse. And that diversity shows up in the camping experience. From sandy beachfronts to pine-covered bluffs, every site offers a different kind of escape.
Sand vs. Bluff: Two Very Different Vibes
- Beachfront sites (like Doheny or Silver Strand) let you camp right on the sand, just steps from the water.
- Bluff-top campgrounds (like South Carlsbad or El Capitan) offer panoramic views, cooler breezes, and stair access to the beach below.
- Your choice will shape your whole trip—do you want to wake up to crashing waves or overlook them from above?
Tent, RV, Walk-In, or Glamp
- RV-friendly sites come with hookups, dump stations, and drive-up access.
- Tent sites range from primitive (no power) to full-featured (hot showers, camp stores).
- Walk-in sites like those at Crystal Cove offer more privacy and a rugged, peaceful feel.
- Glamping and cabin options exist at some state parks and private campgrounds for a softer landing.
Whether you want barefoot-in-the-sand mornings or a bluff-top coffee view, SoCal beach camping delivers more variety than most coastal destinations.
Top Coastal Campgrounds to Reserve Early
Southern California’s coastline is lined with beach campgrounds that offer incredible views, easy water access, and unforgettable stays. Below are some of the best—each with its own vibe, amenities, and ideal season to book. Campland on the Bay leads the list not just because it’s one of the most popular, but because it delivers a full resort-style experience steps from the water. When you plan ahead, you can also save money. Like the airline industry, last-minute reservations during high occupancy periods will cost you more.
Campland on the Bay (San Diego, Mission Bay)
Why it’s special: A legendary waterfront campground with full amenities and family-focused fun, Campland is more than a campsite—it’s a coastal vacation hub.
- Amenities: Full hookups, pools, hot tubs, a marina, restaurant, ice cream parlor, arcade, skatepark, daily activities, dog park, watersports rentals, and live music.
- Site types: Tent and RV sites, from basic to a supersite with private spa and BBQ.
- Best time to go: Spring through fall; summer books up fast.
- Booking tip: Reserve 6–12 months in advance for weekends or waterfront sites. Check their list of trusted RV delivery providers if you’re renting.
Silver Strand State Beach (Coronado)
Why it’s special: One of the few spots where you can park your RV right on the beach with nothing between you and the Pacific.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, outdoor showers, picnic tables, beach access, and a paved bike path to Coronado.
- Site types: RV-only (no tents), dry camping with no hookups.
- Best time to go: Late spring and early fall for mild temps and less wind.
- Booking tip: Use ReserveCalifornia and set alerts—beachfront RV sites sell out quickly.
San Elijo State Beach (Encinitas)
Why it’s special: A bluff-top campground with stairs down to a wide surf beach. Walkable to cafes and shops in town.
- Amenities: Showers, restrooms, camp store, fire rings, and picnic tables.
- Site types: Tent and RV sites, many with ocean views.
- Best time to go: Spring and early summer. Fall for fewer crowds.
- Booking tip: South bluff sites offer the best views; some noise from Highway 101 is common.
South Carlsbad State Beach
Why it’s special: A long bluff campground with consistent surf, big skies, and gorgeous sunsets.
- Amenities: Full restrooms, showers, dump station, and food truck access.
- Site types: Tent and RV sites with both bluff-edge and inland options.
- Best time to go: Summer and early fall for the best ocean conditions.
- Booking tip: The edge sites go first—site numbers in the 160s are closest to the bluff.
Doheny State Beach (Dana Point)
Why it’s special: Right on the sand with easy access to tide pools, grassy day-use areas, and Dana Point Harbor.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, fire pits, volleyball courts, and visitor center.
- Site types: Tent and RV, with beachfront and inland sites.
- Best time to go: Late spring and fall (less fog and better availability).
- Booking tip: The beachfront spots (sites 1–22) are the prize—book the day reservations open.
Carpinteria State Beach (Santa Barbara area)
Why it’s special: A charming beach town vibe, perfect for families with young kids and quiet evenings by the fire.
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, interpretive programs, tide pools, and town access.
- Site types: Tent and RV, with four campground loops (Santa Cruz, Anacapa, Santa Rosa, San Miguel).
- Best time to go: Summer for beach weather; fall for calmer, less crowded stays.
- Booking tip: Santa Cruz loop has premium oceanfront sites. Book early or try shoulder season.
Point Mugu State Park (Malibu – Thornhill Broome & Sycamore Canyon)
Why it’s special: A dual-experience park with one campground on the beach and one tucked into the canyon.
- Amenities: Thornhill Broome: right on the sand, minimal amenities. Sycamore: restrooms, hiking trails, shaded canyon.
- Site types: RV and tent, dry camping only.
- Best time to go: Spring for wildflowers, early summer for beach weather.
- Booking tip: Thornhill is more rustic and often easier to book last-minute. Bring shade and wind protection.
Refugio State Beach (Santa Barbara County)
Why it’s special: Palm-lined beaches, mellow waves, and a laid-back feel that’s hard to beat.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, coin-operated showers, picnic areas, and camp store.
- Site types: Tent and RV, many with beachfront access.
- Best time to go: Late spring through early fall.
- Booking tip: Less crowded than Carpinteria or El Capitan nearby, but still fills fast.
Crystal Cove State Park (Laguna Beach – Walk-In Sites)
Why it’s special: A truly unique experience—remote, backcountry sites you hike into, with ocean views and total quiet.
- Amenities: Vault toilets, no water, pack-in/pack-out only.
- Site types: Walk-in backpack camps only; no RVs.
- Best time to go: Fall and spring (summer can be too hot for hiking in).
- Booking tip: Reservations open 6 months ahead. Bring all your water and prepare for coastal fog.
Seasonal & Regional Considerations
The best beach camping in Southern California depends not just on where you go—but when. Seasonal shifts and regional weather patterns can affect everything from availability to comfort.
Summer vs. Shoulder Season
- Summer (June–August): High demand, premium pricing, limited availability. Book 6+ months in advance.
- Spring/Fall (March–May, September–October): Fewer crowds, more availability, mild weather, lower rates. Ideal for flexible travelers.
Regional Weather Differences
- Coastal areas: Expect a marine layer in late spring/early summer (“May Gray,” “June Gloom”).
- Inland & bluff sites: Warmer, sunnier, but may lack shade. Bring sun protection and hydration.
Surf Season Notes
- Fall and winter bring stronger swells and cleaner surf.
- San Onofre, San Elijo, and Doheny are popular among surfers—expect increased demand from the surf crowd during peak wave season.
Fire Risk & Road Closures
- Always check for fire bans during late summer and fall.
- While not in SoCal, Big Sur closures remind us that California’s coastlines are sensitive to seasonal fire and erosion hazards.
Gear & Prep for Beach Camping
Beach camping in Southern California is stunning—but the coastal environment brings a few unique challenges. To stay comfortable and protected, it pays to come prepared.
Must-Have Gear
- Wind-resistant tents are essential, especially at bluff-top or open-sand campsites where gusts can pick up fast.
- Bring extra stakes or sand anchors to keep your tent secure on loose ground.
- Waterproof tarps or ground cloths protect against morning condensation and damp sand.
- Don’t forget shade structures—some sites lack natural cover, and SoCal sun can be relentless.
Environmental Awareness
- Always follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, avoid trampling dunes, and respect wildlife.
- Set up your tent above the high-tide line—especially at primitive or unmarked beach sites.
Wildlife Tips
- Tidepools are a highlight, but be cautious of jellyfish, especially at spots like San Elijo. Keep vinegar on hand and teach kids to watch where they step.
- Seagulls and raccoons are skilled food thieves—store everything in sealed bins or locked containers.
With the right gear and mindset, your beach camping trip will be more peaceful, safer, and far more enjoyable.
Final Takeaway: Book Early, Camp Smarter
Beach camping in Southern California offers an unbeatable mix of natural beauty and coastal adventure—but it rewards those who plan ahead. From securing your spot early to choosing the right gear and understanding seasonal patterns, a little preparation goes a long way.
If you’re looking for a campground that combines water access, full amenities, and a true community vibe, Campland on the Bay is hard to beat. With its waterfront location, resort-style extras, and family-friendly energy, it’s one of the few beach campgrounds where you can have it all—without sacrificing comfort. Reserve your campsite today and start planning for an awesome family experience!
