We’re hardly going to blame you if the first thing that comes to mind, when thinking of California, is its beaches.

After all, they’re well-known for a reason – some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire world, in the most stunning surroundings. And it’s not as if there’s only a few of them; with over 700 miles of coastline, California can boast of over 200 beaches. From Del Norte County in the north, to San Diego County in the south, you’ll find perfect stretches of sand everywhere.

And the thing is, they’re all different, each with their own particular moods and attractions. Lively beaches, lonely beaches, beaches which are great for a bit of sporting activity, beaches where you can get a great look at some of the local wildlife. They’re all here, just waiting for you.

World-famous Venice Beach in Los Angeles is of course one of the places where you’ll always find an exciting and entertaining atmosphere, but exactly the same can be said of Main Beach in Santa Cruz and Mission Beach in San Diego, with its nearby amusements and rides. And when it comes to a quieter, more relaxing time in the sun, there’s scarcely any less choice here. Butterfly Beach in Santa Barbara and Main Beach in Orange County are just two of the more tranquil spots you’ll find in California. And when it comes to a bit of surfing, California Street in Ventura and Surfrider Beach are two of the best, but they’re hardly alone!