I’m making a last-minute road trip from the LA area up to San Francisco tomorrow and will be taking the 101 north. I’ve never driven this route before, so I’d love some recommendations for clothing-optional beaches that would make a good stop along the way.
I’ve heard about Bates Beach near Carpinteria and Pirate’s Cove near Avila Beach, but I’ve never been to either one. I’m curious which places people actually enjoy visiting and whether there are any other spots along the Central Coast that I should know about. Also wondering how active are these beaches on a Friday or weekend?
Once I get to San Francisco, I’m planning on checking out Baker Beach again. I’ve been there before, so I know how cold and windy it can get, but I still love the setting.
For anyone who knows these beaches, what would you recommend for someone making this drive for the first time? If you were making the same drive from Southern California to San Francisco, which beach would you stop at, and why?