Drink and Be Merry, Just Do It Responsibly!
Written By: Ashlee Polarek
California beaches are traditionally known for their surf, beautiful sunbathers and long stretches of sand ideal for beach volleyball. When it comes down to a perfect day at the beach, you’re really only missing one thing—drinks. Most Cali beaches ban alcohol on their sandy shores, but never fear! Pack those ice chests full of Corona Extra and Modelo Especial! Instead of trying to pass your wine off as grape juice in an old Coca Cola can, head to these alcohol-friendly beaches instead! Now you can properly enjoy a buzzed day at the beach with friends without the fear of beach patrol coming to get you. So crack open a cold one with the gang, kick your feet up and enjoy!.
There is only one rule for the sake of our planet and sea life, which is to leave the beach cleaner than when you got there. Pick up all your trash, recycle and if you see any garbage (even if it’s not yours), toss that in the bin too!
Mali-Boom Boom
From 10 a.m. until the beach closes at sunset, this beautiful spot allows visitors to indulge in wine and beer. Sorry friends, but no hard alcohol here. Fun Fact: This beach has been the setting for many Hollywood movies. Explore the quaint pier and the gorgeous cliff line or relax in the sand all day.
Native Knowledge: If you park at Paradise Cove Cafe and eat at the restaurant, parking is free for four hours. Otherwise, parking prices can be a bit high, so plan accordingly.
Paradise Cove Beach
28128 Pacific Coast Hwy
Malibu, CA 90265
310.457.2503
Meet Me at the Club
Descanso Beach Club, Catalina Island
Plan a weekend with friends and escape to this paradise just a Catalina Express ride away. While you can’t bring your own beverages here, and have to order from their beach bar, this private beach with public access is a beautiful daydream. Reserve chaise lounges or one of the luxurious cabanas. And with easy access to snorkeling and kayaking, Descanso Beach Club has something for everyone.
Native Knowledge: The pristine sand at the Descanso Beach Club is imported into the beach.
Descanso Beach Club
1 St Catherine Wy
Avalon, CA 90704
877.778.8322
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Some Shade and a Vacay
Take a drive up the California coast until you reach the picturesque city of Carmel. Head to Carmel City Beach for white sand, surfing and alcohol, of course. This all alcohol (no kegs allowed) beach closes at 10 p.m and is perfect for a weekend away soaking up some rays and mimosas. Once the sun sets, light a bonfire and cozy up to your pals with a nice Pacifico.
Native Knowledge: Bring your pup so they won’t have major FOMO when you and your friends go on vacation.
Carmel City Beach
Ocean Ave and Scenic Rd
Carmel, CA 93923
831.649.2836
Beach, Please!
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Accessed by a short trail over the sand dunes, streams and marshes, Kehoe Beach opens up to a quiet and beautiful shoreline. Spend the day relaxing in the sun with a drink in your hand and your pup at your side. That’s right, this beach is dog-friendly north of the trail so long as they are on a leash. Explore the cliff sides and sand dunes and bask in the sweet tranquility of this natural beauty. Alcohol is allowed but please leave your kegs at home.
Native Knowledge: Strong rip currents plague this beach, so if you’re going out in the water, be careful and remember if you get caught in one, swim parallel to the shore.
Kehoe Beach
Point Reyes National Seashore
Tomales Bay, CA 94937
415.464.5100
About the author
Ashlee is a freelance writer with a focus on travel, lifestyle and food. After obtaining her degree in Journalism she took the world by storm teaching in South Korea and giving motivation speeches across the United States. She can often be found on road-trips, plane rides and cooking up her favorite meal from her most recent travels. The anti-homebody loves a good hike, good book and a day spent with friends.
