Even though Pacific Coast beaches are significantly colder than other beaches located along the Gulf Coast or Atlantic Coast, there is still much to see and experience. Especially if you do not want to venture outside of the United States, these West Coast beaches can make it extremely convenient for when you want to take a family vacation, a girls trip, or you want a day by the beach just for yourself. These 15 beaches on the West Coast are perfect to engage in fun activities, or simply lounging on the sand, and are definitely worth a visit for the upcoming summer months. RELATED: 15 Best Beaches On The East Coast The beach stretches on for miles, and the sand, which contains mineral mica, quite literally sparkles in the sunlight. RELATED: 19 Quick (And Effective) Workout Routines To Get You Ready For Summer There is also diverse wildlife and the Haystack Rock, one of Oregon Coast’s most recognizable attractions. RELATED: 25 Of The Best Beaches In The World To Travel To For Your Next Summer Vacation There are also wildlife on the beach, including otters, whales, and seals, which can be seen regularly. RELATED: Sexy Tan, No Tanlines: Here Are America’s Top 10 Nude Beaches The beach offers a three-mile-long path of golden sand, as well as some activities to do, including snorkeling, whale-watching, surfing, and sunbathing. RELATED: 22 Best Slimming Swimsuits That Hide Tummy Bulge & Boost Confidence The secluded sea caves are accessible by kayak, and snorkelers can even spot some gorgeous fish in the waters. RELATED: 30 Best Summer Nail Ideas That Are Beautiful And Beach-Ready The beach was even recognized by National Geographic as being one of the best beaches in the world. It’s also dog friendly and incredible for surfing. RELATED: Where To Go When You Need A Break, By Zodiac Sign The beach is also dog friendly and is a favorite among locals who go surfing, swim, and sunbathe. RELATED: Why You Need To Take A Vacation, By Zodiac Sign Visitors can also paddle through the shallow waters in search of wildlife along the rocky shores. RELATED: 4 Zodiac Signs Who Are The Funnest People To Travel With, According To Astrology The beach is divided into two sections. North Beach attracts surfers, while South Beach is known for its 2 miles of sand, which draws people looking to sunbathe and have picnics. RELATED: 5 Reasons Why Voluntourism Should Be The Way You Spend Your Next Vacation The Giant Big Dipper roller coaster is a must for anyone who decides to go to this beach, it even gives you a great view of Monterey Bay. RELATED: 5 Best U.S. Vacation Destinations For Couples To Explore In 2019 There’s plenty to do as well, including surfing, hiking, swimming, fishing, and overnight camping. RELATED: 3 Best U.S. Small-Town Summer Vacation Ideas For A Couple’s Getaway In 2019 It’s also a popular place for photographers looking to capture the Twin Rocks offshore. At nightfall, crowds of people gather around bonfires to watch the starry sky. RELATED: How To Use The “3-Day Effect” Vacation Plan To Boost Your Health, Happiness, & Creativity On the northern end, surfers can find the perfect waves, and on the opposite end, there are campsites available just a few feet from the sand. RELATED: What To Do On Your Next Cruise, By Zodiac Sign Beach volleyball is also a must, with courts being found up and down the sand. There’s also a 22-mile bike trail that leads through many neighboring neighborhoods. RELATED: 18 Best Travel Locations In The U.S. That Feel Just Like Europe You can relax in your own tide pool, explore age-old caves, and even go hiking. There’s also volleyball and even just plain old people watching. RELATED: Why I Didn’t Miss My Kids At All When I Went On Vacation Nia Tipton is a writer living in Brooklyn. She covers pop culture, social justice issues, and trending topics. Follow her on Instagram.