Half Moon Bay State Beach

Cost: $6

This popular beach is located west of Highway 1. Park hours are not specific as campgrounds are provided for those who wish to spend the night. Bonfires are prohibited, but there are fire rings available at each camp site. Dogs on leashes are allowed only on campgrounds, picnic areas and coastal trails. Although the sand is extremely grainy and coarse, this four-mile long beach is one of the best-known in the Bay Area. Summer temperatures here reach the mid-60s and the water is cold year-round, so swimming without a wet suit at his beach is not recommended. This is the best beach for camping of the four, and its convenient AT&T Wi-Fi service makes it the most high-tech as well.

4.5 suns/ 5 suns

Ocean Beach

Cost: Free

Ocean Beach is located at the intersection of Great Highway and Fulton Street in San Francisco. Its super smooth sand and lenient rules attract many visitors. Both dogs and bonfires are permitted on the beach, and park hours are not specified. This beach is a hotspot for serious surfers who like to ride its fierce waves. However, since it is located right by the city, the beach is polluted and the drive can be grueling during rush hours.

The water and overall temperature is the coldest of the four beaches listed here. Even in the summer, temperatures reach about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The rip currents are the worst at this beach and the waters are extremely unsafe for swimmers. Still, the permitted bonfires here make for a worthwhile visit to a perfect location for a night time get-together.

3 suns/ 5 suns

Montara State Beach

Cost: Free

Located just past Half Moon Bay on Highway 1, this beach is gorgeous because of its small number of visitors, absence of trash and grassy mountains on either side. Park hours are from 8 a.m. to sunset and camping is forbidden though Point Montara has a lighthouse with available overnight accommodations. While fires are not allowed on the beach, dogs are allowed as long as they are on leashes.

Many warning signs are posted around the beach addressing the danger of rip currents in the water. While the waters are calm, the waves are not. The sand and the ocean at this beach have vivid colors, and overall, Montara beach best serves as a relaxing getaway to escape the business and stresses of everyday life. 4 suns/ 5 suns

San Gregorio State Beach

Cost: $6

Located on Highway 1 and just south of Half Moon Bay, this beach is not frequently visited by tourists. Park hours are from 8 a.m. to sunset. No dogs, camping or fires are permitted here. San Gregorio has several unique features, such as play houses constructed of driftwood and large limestone cliffs to conquer or sit on. There is also a large cave-like area to explore. The weather is known to be variable and rip currents form occasionally. While swimming is not recommended, wading in the water is fine. The sand is soft, littered with bits of driftwood in certain areas further away from the ocean. The natural structures at San Gregorio make this a fun beach to hike and climb. This beach is the closest of the four to Palo Alto and would be best for a short day trip with friends or family.

3.5 suns/5 suns