Usal Beach
Whitethorn, CA
Usal Beach sits at the southern edge of Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, reached by a rough dirt road that keeps the crowd thin even in summer. Car camping is allowed right near the sand here, unlike most of the park's more remote hike-in sites, which makes it the easiest way to spend a night on this stretch of the Lost Coast.
Genuinely easy car camping on a remote stretch of coast most people only reach on foot, though the rough access road is a real commitment before you even get there.
How we score beachesThe access road in is unpaved and slow going, so budget more driving time than the map distance suggests, especially after rain.
A day use fee applies; the exact amount is best confirmed at the entrance station.
The path from parking to the sand isn't documented in detail, so allow extra time on unpaved terrain.
Dogs are allowed on leash at Usal Beach and its campground, though not on the park's hiking trails.
Summer and fall bring the most stable weather and the driest access road, while winter rain can make the dirt road in difficult. Water stays cold year round.
More Pacific Coast beaches
Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.
Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.