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These 2 California beaches ranked among the best in the nation — and one is in SLO County

The first day of summer which produce some dramatic lighting along Moonstone Beach in Cambria.
The first day of summer which produce some dramatic lighting along Moonstone Beach in Cambria.

We in San Luis Obispo County often brag that we have some of the best beaches out there, but now we have proof.

TripAdvisor recently released its 2022 “Best of the Best Beaches” annual ranking, and guess which SLO County spot made the list?

Moonstone Beach in Cambria came in at No. 4 on the list, which was compiled “based on the quality and quantity of reviews and ratings” from TripAdvisor users in 2021.

The North Coast beach received a score of 4.5 stars out of more than 2,100 reviews, according to TripAdvisor, with many users praising its walkability and nearby boardwalk.

Others praised its “stunning” views and lack of crowds.

“California has many beautiful beaches,” one user wrote. “This one is rugged and natural and beautiful and I love it. A perfect place for a stroll.”

(Fun Fact: Moonstone Beach made it to the top four of The Tribune’s Best Beaches Bracket, but missed out on the final round to Morro Strand).

Moonstone Beach previously ranked as No. 3 on the same list in 2021.

Meanwhile, La Jolla Cove near San Diego ranked No. 9 on the 2022 list, with users praising the views of sea lions.

“If you are animal lover, it is a must. We spent hours watching the seals and sea lions and their frolicking around,” one reviewer said. “You can get to them quite close.”

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area in Puako, Hawaii, ranked No. 1 on the list.

This story was originally published February 26, 2022 at 5:00 AM.

Kaytlyn Leslie
The Tribune
Kaytlyn Leslie writes about business and development for The San Luis Obispo Tribune. Hailing from Nipomo, she also covers city governments and happenings in San Luis Obispo. She joined The Tribune in 2013 after graduating from Cal Poly with her journalism degree.
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