California- Southern California Beaches
Southern California Beaches
Oceanfront gems worthy of your California itinerary
The waterfront playground of Long Beach sits right in the heart of Southern California. Home to 11 miles of sandy shoreline, discover family-friendly beaches like Alamitos Beach and Marine Park plus all manner of ways to have fun on the water, plus tours are available taking you out to sea in the hope of spotting whales. Other notable attractions include the Queen Mary, El Dorado Nature Centre and the Battleship USS Iowa Museum. You can also look forward to shopping in unique city districts, a vibrant foodie scene, coastal breweries and so much more.
Nicknamed Surf City USA, Huntington Beach is very much a surfing hotspot. Even if you don’ t fancy taking a board out yourself, it’ s fun to watch locals show off their skills as they ride the waves alongside the landmark pier. Talking of which, the much-photographed pier serves as a vibrant hub connecting the 10 miles of uninterrupted beaches with scenic walking paths, shops and dining. Other attractions include Huntington Harbour, Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum, Newland House Museum and Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve.
The coastal haven of Newport Beach lures visitors with renowned beaches and an expansive recreational harbour. The calm waters of Lower Newport Bay are the place for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and boat rentals, while for experienced surfers The Wedge is worldrenowned for its massive waves. Activities abound on land too, with picturesque hiking at Crystal Cove State Park, golf with a view and scenic bike trails to connect with nature. On man-made Balboa Island, reached via a pedestrian boardwalk, bridge or ferry, soak up the charming smalltown atmosphere whilst exploring the lovely shops and restaurants. Here also is the Balboa Fun Zone, one of the region’ s oldest and last great coastal amusement areas with a waterfront Ferris wheel, arcade and nautical museum. If time allows, perhaps take the Catalina Flyer across to nearby Santa Catalina Island.
• Santa Catalina Island
LOS ANGELES
• Long beach
• Battleship USS Iowa Museum
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve • Huntington pier •
Huntington beach
Newport pier •
• Newport Balboa Island • beach
Getting there: From Los Angeles airport, it’ s around 30 minutes drive to Long Beach or just under an hour to both Huntington Beach and Newport Beach.
Best time to go: All beaches enjoy mild sunny winters and cool, comfortable summers tempered by ocean breezes. Rainfall is low, mostly occurring between November-March.
Santa Catalina Island
Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
from £ 66 per person per night from £ 122 * per person per night from £ 197 * per person per night
Hotel Maya
4H Long Beach
NEW
Set amidst 14 acres of lush tropical gardens, this Latin American inspired property is located across Queensway Bay in Downtown Long Beach. A free shuttle gives you easy access to shopping at The Pike Outlets, sightseeing at Shoreline Village or strolling Historic Pine Avenue.
Spend the day at the hotel’ s waterfront pool or on the man-made beach, Playa at the Maya. Alternatively, hire a bike or unwind with sunset yoga. Those with a sense of adventure can rent a jet ski, paddleboard or boat.
Explore Latin infused culinary creations at Fuego, the hotel’ s indoor-outdoor restaurant and lounge. The stunning views and expansive patio seating include the ocean, Long Beach skyline and Queen Mary.
Topping it all off are 199 contemporary guest rooms, complemented with earthy, organic furnishings, dynamic colours and a variety of views. Amenities include a hairdryer, coffee maker, iron & ironing board and safe. Many rooms also have a balcony.
The hotel actively seeks to reduce its environmental footprint through a host of practices.
Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa
4HPLUS Huntington Beach
With a prime location overlooking miles of sun-splashed beaches lapped by the Pacific Ocean, the Hyatt is ideal for those seeking an elegant seaside getaway. What’ s more, you’ ll be within a five minute walk of 10 Mile Beach, Huntington Beach Pier and Pacific City.
Contemporary Spanish-inspired architecture sets the scene for a memorable retreat with an incredible selection of leisure amenities. Fill your day with adventures such as surfing lessons, relax beside the two swimming pools( one with waterslides), workout at the gym or treat yourself to a blissful pampering treatment at Pacific Waters Spa.
Savour fine dining at Watertable, feast on coastal flavours at Pete’ s Sunset Grille or opt for casual poolside dining at Shor. There’ s also Surf City Grocers which is your go to spot for coffee and snacks, and Tower 15 for Italian favourites.
The 519 coastal-chic rooms each provide a mini fridge, hairdryer, coffee maker, iron & ironing board, safe and balcony or patio.
* Price payable to Premier £ 105 with an additional £ 17 mandatory fees payable locally in US $.
VEA Newport Beach, A Marriott Resort & Spa
4H Newport Beach
NEW
This chic social sanctuary is where revelry and relaxation mingle to Southern California perfection. You’ re mere minutes from everything, including golden beaches, buzzy restaurants and luxury shopping at Fashion Island.
The sweeping poolscape offers somewhere to chill by day and enjoy sultry beats at night. Find serenity at SPA VEA, which has a saltwater pool and yoga studio. Bicycle rentals and a fitness centre are also available, plus there’ s golf on the doorstep.
Gather at VIEW Restaurant & Lounge for California coastal cuisine, enjoy poolside dining at Edge Bar, have snacks at Elan Café and enjoy vibrant evenings at Reveal with crafted cocktails, bar bites and music.
Guest rooms and suites are scattered across the resort and include a hairdryer, tea / coffee maker and safe, plus many rooms also have a balcony.
* Price payable to Premier £ 178 with an additional £ 19 mandatory fees payable locally in US $.
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