Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
North Coast
Sonoma Coast State Beach, Lost Coast, Trinidad State Beach
Swimming
If lazing on the beach and taking a dip in the Pacific is what your California dreams are
made of, look no further than Southern California (SoCal). With miles and miles of wide,
sandy beaches, you will find it easy to get wet and wild almost anywhere between Santa
Barbara and San Diego. Ocean temperatures in SoCal become tolerable by May or June,
peaking in July and August.
Northern California (NorCal) beaches are generally rocky, with dangerously high swell
in some places and windy conditions that make swimming less than inviting. NorCal
beaches remain chilly year round - bring or rent a wetsuit!
Building bonfires on the beach at sunset is a California tradition, but they're no longer
permitted at most beaches for environmental reasons. Legally, you can build bonfires only
in designated firepits - show up early in the day to snag one (no reservations) and bring
your own firewood. Unless otherwise posted, drinking alcohol is usually prohibited on
beaches, except at campgrounds.
During the hottest dog days of summer, another way to keep cool is by swimming at
714-220-5200;
www.knotts.com
; adult/child 3-11yr & senior $27/22;
mid-May-Sep;
)
in Anaheim, near Dis-
neyland; or
Wet 'n' Wild Palm Springs
in the desert.
Safety Tips
Most beaches, especially in Southern California, have flags to distinguish between surfer-
only sections and sections for swimmers. Flags also alert beachgoers to dangerous water
conditions.
Popular beaches (again, mostly in Southern California) have lifeguards, but can still be
dangerous places to swim. Obey all posted warning signs and ask about local conditions
before venturing out.
