The Most Scenic Oceanfront Camping Spots In California

Camping by the ocean hits different in California. Picture drifting off to the sound of waves, then unzipping your tent to sunrise over the Pacific. Some spots feel tucked away, others sit right on the sand—but all deliver views you’ll brag about. Ready to claim your bluff-top sunrise?

Sweeping Panoramas At New Brighton State Beach

Just imagine a morning where you wake up to a postcard view of Monterey Bay. This spot sets over one hundred campsites on forested bluffs, giving you a quiet perch high above the water. A short stroll also takes you down to sandy shores, which offer a chance to enjoy the rich marine life waiting there.

Dockweiler State Beach’s Front-Row Pacific Camping

Dockweiler isn’t your typical beach campground—it’s L.A. at its most unique. With RV sites stretched across the sand, full utility connections, and a view that goes straight out to the Pacific, it’s as convenient as it is beautiful. Bonfires keep the nights lively, while the roar of departing planes adds a twist you won’t find anywhere else.

Big Sur’s Kirk Creek

Once your camp is ready, you may enjoy breathtaking sunset views and even spot migrating whales during the right season. For a truly dramatic experience, head to Kirk Creek, where 33 campsites cling to a bluff 100 feet above the coast.

Oceanside Comfort At San Elijo State Beach

Think “beach house,” but make it camping. San Elijo State Beach sets you up on bluffs with ocean views from nearly every site. Need supplies? The on-site store has you covered. Hungry? Locals swear by the taco stand. With RV hookups and showers nearby, it’s the beach without the hassle.

Silver Strand State Beach

Water, power, and a prime spot by the sand—you’ll get all three at Silver Strand State Beach. The grunion runs add a quirky seasonal highlight, but the real star here is the lineup of 120 RV sites sitting just steps from the surf. Talk about front-row camping.

Leo Carrillo’s Rocky Tides And Sea Caves

Set along 1.5 miles of Malibu coastline, Leo Carrillo State Park features 130 shaded campsites near dramatic sea caves and tide pools. At low tide, you can wander through grottos filled with sea stars and hermit crabs. Add surfing and ranger-led programs, and you’ve got a campsite that keeps both kids and adults entertained.

Scenic Serenity At Oceano County Park

Who says camping has to mean “roughing it”? At Oceano County Park, your RV can plug right in at one of 24 sites, while you take it easy by the park’s private fishing lagoon. When the fish stop biting, grab the family for a game of basketball, horseshoes, or just a lazy afternoon picnic.

Historic Refugio State Beach Bluff Sites

Palm-lined campsites at this Santa Barbara County spot invite you in with stunning sunsets that fall over the channel. It also provides easy access for kayaking or snorkeling above the kelp forests, which allows you to directly connect with nature.

Beachside Glamping At Treebones Resort

For a more luxurious trip, Treebones offers yurts and campsites with high-end comfort and 180-degree vistas over the coast of Big Sur. You can dine at the organic restaurant on-site or even stay in the iconic “Human Nest” art structure.

Sycamore Canyon

This is a place where people can easily transition between beach life and backcountry hiking. At Point Mugu State Park, oceanfront campsites are just a stone’s throw from rolling hills and trails. Plus, it even allows you to have a campfire right on the beach.