California's glorious sun, sand, and sea are the stars of the West Coast show, attracting visitors to the Golden State's shores to soak up the summer serenity. With over 3,000 miles of coastline, there's more than enough beach for everyone, but that doesn't stop many of California's sandy shores from becoming overtaken by crowds.

Despite California being one of the USA's best beach vacation destinations, it is possible to find a stretch of sand and surf all to oneself - even in peak season. Whether a relaxing stroll along the shores is on the cards, or a fun day frolicking in the sea, there are a number of secluded beaches to enjoy away from hoards of people. From calm SoCal seasides to NorCal's rocky, rugged coastlines, these remote beaches in the sunshine west coast state are some of the best spots to enjoy some much-needed peace and quiet.

8 Marshall's Beach

Ever wanted panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge all to yourself? At Marshall's Beach, one can enjoy just that. This beautiful San Francisco beach offers photographers and Instagram addicts unbelievable vistas of the bridge along with its stunning sand and sea coastline without the masses of tourists in the way. And it gets even better; it's very accessible at only a few minutes from the city and is located just north of the more popular Baker Beach.

The cherry atop the cake? Head to Marshall's Beach as the sun goes down to be rewarded with some of the best sunset scenes in the entire San Francisco area - and of course, without the crowds. One thing to be aware of, though, is that it is actually a nudist beach, so anyone who doesn't fancy the potential of seeing a few birthday suits should probably give this one a miss (or at least pack a pair of blinkers just in case).

Related: These Are California's Best Beaches, According To Your Favorite Beach Activity

7 South Ponto Beach

San Diego's beaches boast inviting transparent waters and perfect weather all throughout the year, which make them highly rated and visited by locals and tourists no matter the season. On the other hand, however, the superbly secluded beach of South Ponto offers all that its frequented San Diego counterparts do, but without the flocks of folks.

Nestled just 35 miles north of San Diego on the border of Carlsbad and Encinitas, South Ponto Beach is a top contender for any California beach vacation and is undoubtedly one of the state's most underrated, pristine, and wild seaside gems. There's tons of space for beach games, picnics, sunbathing, and sandcastle building, along with lovely water that entices beach-goers for a swim.

6 Carmel Meadows Beach

Carmel Meadows Beach is wide-open and vast, and rivals its popular nearby neighbors of Monastery Beach and Carmel River Beach in terms of spectacular views and crystal clear water prime for paddling, in addition to some tranquil hiking trails nearby.

It's also ideal to include this secluded beach as part of a Central Coast escapade, which includes spending a day or two exploring Carmel-by-the-Sea. Don't forget to take the time to witness the mighty Keyhole Arch while strolling on the purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach, which is famous for being one of the world's most spectacular pink and purple beaches.

5 Pfeiffer Beach

Already mentioned - and for good reason - Pfeiffer Beach is one of the most unique sun-sand-and-sea spots to visit in all of California, or even more accurately, the entire USA. It's not just its serene remoteness that makes it the perfect retreat for folks looking for peace and quiet and photogenic scenery along Big Sur’s rugged coasts - it's also incredibly special; it's one of the planet's prettiest pink and purple sandy beaches.

The extraordinary color of the sand makes it a surreal treat for the eyes, without even mentioning its mighty rock formations and rugged coastline. Found at the beach's north end, visitors can marvel at the purple-pinkish hued sand - a color that's the result of the manganese garnet rocks of nearby cliffs.

Plus, the beach's mountain scenery and outdoor activities make it an even more attractive hidden gem, which includes hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and of course, amazing sunsets through the famous Keyhole Arch - one of the most photography-worthy natural features of any beach in California.

Related: You Don't Necessarily Need A Passport To See A Pink-Sand Beach, There's One Right In California

4 Pinnacle Gulch Beach

The tucked-away Pinnacle Gulch Beach is the perfect stop for any California road trip itinerary -, particularly one that incorporates a visit to Bodega Bay. Secluded, tranquil, and oh-so-beautiful, this gorgeous section of shoreline is a winner for anyone scoping out breathtaking sunsets, a clean beach, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling tourist traps.

This quarter-of-a-mile-long sandy beach is also great to visit at low tide for its interesting rocks, tidepools, and impressive rock formations, which not only make for superb photography, but also for critter hunting.

3 Torrance Beach

If a long, soft sandy beach is in need, then look no further than Torrance Beach - the one and only beach in California's Torrance City. This shore is locally nicknamed "RAT Beach," which, thankfully, has nothing to do with furry little rodents; it's an abbreviation of various similar things that many locals can't seem to put their finger on. The meaning ranges from "Right At Torrance," to "Right After Torrance," but while the nickname may vary depending on who is asked, it doesn't change the beach's beauty and ideal location that, surprisingly, rarely sees lots of people.

Torrance Beach is relatively secluded, however, it does offer great amenities, including ample parking, lifeguards, and plenty of pathways for strolling and biking. It's also an idyllic beach for cyclers, being situated at the start of The Strand - a well-established 22 mile-long path bordering the Pacific coastline up to Malibu.

Related: These Lesser-Known Beaches In California Are So Much Better Than Santa Monica Or Venice

2 Seal Beach

Laguna Beach or Long Beach is Orange County's most popular, but what most folks don't know is that Seal Beach is an equally stunning coastal spot, but without the overbearing crowds. Fairly hidden and out of the way, this sensational and secluded Southern California beach offers everything that Cali beach-lovers desire; pristine white sands; blue ocean; wondrous seaside views; and awesome surfing waves. Imagine all this but without the masses of people, and it's easy to say that Seal Beach in the state's northernmost parts should not be missed.

1 Black Sands Beach

With its rich black sand that contrasts with the turquoise sea, Black Sands Beach is one of California's most photogenic shores and is about as secluded as it gets in the Golden State. Located in Humboldt County at the end of the dazzling 20-mile-long Lost Coast Trail, this quiet remote seaside haven truly looks as if it's been airlifted over from Iceland.

It's an especially favorite peaceful place for those who love outdoor activities, such as camping and hiking, however, the tides can often block sections of the sand - so planning one's visit accordingly is advised. Not only a mesmeric area for adventurers, but this particular beach is also fantastic for wildlife photography, with many native bird and fish species thriving along the stunning 3.5 mile-long dark sandy section of shoreline.

Next: This Sleepy Town Is Home To One Of The Most Underrated Beaches In Southern California