Head for the Coast

As summer begins, it’s time to hit the beach. So pack your towels, books, and tunes for a seaside escape to one of our favorite spots along the West Coast. Whether your destination is sunny California or rugged Oregon, dig your toes into the sand, take a deep breath of salty Pacific air, and relax.

Big Sur, Calif. [1]: Caribbean-blue coves, juicy burgers, and hiking trails

Best Beach Towns [2]: Six places to dig your toes in the sand

Monterey Peninsula [3]: From world-class golf courses to Cannery Row, six towns with different vibes

Oregon's North Coast [4]: Dramatic shorelines and laid-back towns, rain or shine

Tide pools [5]: Intertidal beauty in six spots on the Pacific Coast

Cambria, Calif. [6]: A Central Coast hamlet on Highway 1

Photography by David H. Collier [7]

This article was first published in March 2013. Some facts may have aged gracelessly. Please call ahead to verify information.