Big Dreams. Bigger State.

Best beaches for avoiding crowds in Northern CA

Zoe Palmero 7/19/2026 3:59pm

Just got back from a solo road trip up the coast and I'm still thinking about those quiet mornings at Stinson Beach near Muir Woods - no idea how people even fit a beach towel on that tiny strip of sand but it was amazing. Has anyone else found any hidden gems like that? Looking for some advice on beaches in Northern CA that are less touristy than the ones in SF.

Weekly California Flair travel guides, straight to your inbox.