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Map of SoCal coast

 

Although Southern California gets ample praise for its gorgeous beaches and year-round sunshine, the region also bursts with a wide array of cultural attractions for visitors of all ages. From legendary surfing spots to world-class museums, here are a few SoCal coastal favorites you won’t want to miss.

 

1. Malibu

Starting Point • History, Nature, Outdoor Recreation, Sports

Skip Los Angeles and head straight north along the coast to Malibu, a longtime favorite of Hollywood stars and world-class surfers alike. Walk the sands of Zuma Beach, renowned for swimming and surfing, as well as the picturesque El Matador State Beach, celebrated for its beautiful sea caves. Culture buffs will want to stop by the Getty Villa, a sprawling mansion filled with art and artifacts from ancient Rome and Greece.

 

Recommended Stopovers

Dockweiler RV Park • Playa Del Rey, CA – (800)950-7275

 

2. Newport Beach

Drive 70.5 miles, 1 hour, 26 minutes • Entertainment, Food, History, Shopping

Orange County’s Newport Beach is an upscale coastal enclave filled with lovely little boutiques and restaurants, not to mention plenty of trails for hiking and bicycling. Popular attractions include the Orange County Museum of Art, which showcases contemporary works, and the Balboa Island Museum and Historical Society, home to old photos and artifacts from the region. Walk the sands along the shore, or go on a shopping spree on aptly named Fashion Island.

 

3. San Diego

Drive 89.7 miles, 1 hour, 25 minutes • Outdoor Recreation, Sports

California’s southernmost major city has long been a favorite among SoCal travelers for its gorgeous beaches, beautiful Mission-style architecture, and abundance of artistic and cultural attractions. Kids will love the San Diego Zoo, home to an impressive population of animals, along with the anthropology-focused Museum of Man. Sun-lovers will appreciate easy access to long stretches of sandy coastline, including the quaint, surfer-friendly Ocean Beach.

 

Recommended Stopovers

Olive Ave RV Resort • Vista, CA – (877)633-3557

Chula Vista RV Resort • Chula Vista, CA – (800)759-0148

Mission Bay RV Resort • San Diego, CA – (877)219-6900

Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve • Santee, CA – (619)596-3141