Beach Guide: Bolsa Chica

Last weekend was the first time my toes touched the sand at Bolsa Chica State Beach and I’m stoked to share our afternoon adventure. I am instantly transformed to a grade school kid and in my happy place the minute my toes hit the sand.  I become that 8 year old kid who just wants to bounce around the waves and doesn’t care that my hair is a gnarly, curly, salty mess or that the sand is caking on my skin.

My favorite childhood memories are those exploring the beach and I’m so happy to create new memories with my daughter. Shell collecting, sand castle building, crab digging are just a few ways we fill our beach days including our time at Bolsa Chica. I’m happy to report that after my first beach outing at Bolsa Chica, I’m hooked.

This beach keeps it simple with ample sand space for your umbrellas, towels, coolers and of course beach toys. If you’re looking for a beach area lined with restaurants, boutiques and entertainment this is probably not the best destination for you. Bolsa Chica will not disappoint if you want a great stretch of sand and lots of waves. Plus there are bonfire pits which all Cali people know is a rare find these days.

You don’t have to worry about trekking all your beach gear too far because parking lots line the beach. Drive through the main entrance, be prepared for the $15 all day parking fee (one negative: no pick-up or drop off zone) and keep driving along the shore line until you find a parking space. One tip, keep driving, don’t waste time going through each lot. I promise you’ll find a spot on the far sides.

This beautiful state park is located north of Huntington Beach in the Sunset Beach community along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) at Golden West to Warner Avenue. Learn more about Bolsa Chica including bonfire rules and camping details at www.parks.ca.gov.

The best remedy for summer heat, take a dip in the Pacific. I highly recommend a little body surfing, wave riding and sand castle fun at Bolsa Chica to cool off and lift your spirits. I may see you there as I’ve already added this to my official beach guide as a great spot for family fun.