Beaches are one ultimate destination to wind up with friends, family or even when alone. They are one of the most majestic creations of Nature, where she shows the land slowly disappearing into the vastness of the water. The wide blue ocean lying stretched to endless miles and touching the sky at its horizon, is one cool and soothing sight for the eyes. How does it feel to stand knee deep in the cool clear waters of a beach and gazing at the approaching waves of the sea? Splendid, isn't it? Sunsets may be a common feature for everyone. But, watching the same at a beach is just another awe inspiring illusions of Nature. It seems as if the great red sun which lights the entire world, is becoming weaker and helpless in front of the depths of the ocean; so helpless that it shrinks into darkness and deep sleep. For Surfing and Swimming Clean water and good waves are among the most important requirements which people look forward to when deciding to go for swimming or surfing in beaches. Here are some popular and most visited beaches in California for swimming and surfing. Ocean Beach Located about 3.5 miles along the western shore of San Francisco, the ocean beach is the favorite for hard core surfers. This is due to its characteristic strong currents and fierce waves. Having said that, it does not go with beginner's luck and so not suitable for drop-in surfers. Windansea Beach Windansea Beach is popular due to its scenic attractions. It is also one of the best surfing beaches, however, not for the ones who have little experience. If you make up your mind to visit this beach, not only surf the waters, but also enjoy whale-watching. Rincon Beach You may find a good crowd of surfers on the weekends. This long, sandy beach attracts surfers due to its continuous hits of waves which keep coming and favoring the surfers. The Ricon beach has been attributed as America's top surfing destination as surfers from all around the world visit this place to have a wild time on the waves. Zuma Beach Talking about clear waters and good waves, the Zuma beach has been a favorite among the locals. It is in Malibu and is one of the most visited beaches in the Los Angeles county. It is also known for being the healthiest beach in the county. No wonder, it attracts all those health conscious surfers and watchers! For Families The following beaches are among the best spots in California where you can have some leisure time with your kids and family. Redondo Beach If you can plan out your visit to this beach on a weekday, then it would be a better choice. Weekends are generally crowded and seems busy. It is one of the three beach cities in Los Angeles County and located in the South Bay region of the greater Los Angeles area. The beach's long, paved path and abundant heaps of sands make it ideal for a family time out and for the kids to play. Rodeo Beach The Rodeo beach stretches as far as 1000 yard long and it is of a crescent shape. The beach is a storehouse of dark pebbly sand (red and green) and a popular spot for kids to collect semi-precious stones. Monterey State Beach The amenities provided by this protected beach in California, include fishing, tidepools, scuba diving, kite-flying, volleyball and beachcombing, making it one of the beaches which is a family's favorite. Coronado Beach The beach has the hotel del Coronado and the downtown Coronado located nearby. After spending a good time on the sands and water, you can enjoy biking, rollerblading and shopping at the hotel. Now to mention, you can treat yourself and your family with some delicious scoops of ice cream at the hotel. The beach adheres to complete safety for its visitors, by detaining people to drinking alcohol on the beach and from carrying any kind of glass, as well. So these were among the amazing beaches in California, which you can pay a visit to and enjoy the tranquility and peaceful atmosphere provided by nature. So, the next time you plan out for a holiday, just chill out at these places!