Pelican State Beach
Smith River, CA
Pelican State Beach sits half a mile south of the Oregon border, technically California's northernmost beach, a wide stretch of sand backed by dune grass and scattered with driftwood. It's day use only, no camping, which keeps the crowd to locals out for a walk rather than anyone settling in for the day.
A genuinely quiet, undeveloped stretch of sand at the very top of the state, though the lack of facilities and day use only rule make it a stop rather than a destination in itself.
How we score beachesThere's no fee and no facilities here, so treat it as a walk and photo stop along Highway 101 rather than a full beach day with the kids.
Parking is free right off Highway 101, with no gate or fee booth.
A path leads from the parking area down to the sand; the exact grade isn't documented, so allow extra time with a stroller.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach at Pelican State Beach, with an exception only for service animals.
California's far north coast keeps a marine layer through summer and water in the 50s year round, so this stretch near the Oregon border is better for a walk than a swim most of the year. Fall tends to bring the clearest, calmest days.
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