A delightful beach in Norfolk shares its moniker with one of the world’s most renowned destinations. While California Beach near Great Yarmouth may lack some of the glitz and glamour of its American counterpart, it remains a fantastic spot for a visit.

Located just down the coast from the less exotically named Scratby, this stunning stretch of Norfolk beach reportedly got its intriguing name following the discovery of 16th-century gold coins on its shores in 1848. This coincided with the excitement of the California Gold Rush, sparking the imagination of locals and leading to the beach’s unique name. Tucked at the base of sloping cliffs, the beach might not be flanked by Malibu mansions or Venice Beach palm trees, but it is backed by an extensive array of caravan parks, making it a favourite amongst families.

Access to the beach is via a slope with steps at the bottom, leading to a broad, sand-and-shingle shoreline. Visitors can also reach California Beach by navigating their way down the sandy cliffs or by taking a leisurely stroll along the beach from Caister.

The beach blends seamlessly with Scratby Beach, creating a tranquil and scenic part of the coastline. At the beach entrance, light refreshments are available, along with public and disabled toilets, reports the Mirror. 

Parking is available but it is quite limited, so visitors are advised to plan accordingly.

For a charming break, tourists can drop by the Tastebud Tearooms. This cosy café, renowned for its warm service and delicious nibbles, boasts an impressive 4.5 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor. One satisfied customer described it as a “Lovely quaint place”, adding “the best toasted cheese scones we’ve ever had. Lovely staff, can be a bit of a wait but it’s worth waiting for.”

There’s also a local pub, aptly named The California Tavern, offering real ales and hearty meals, complete with a beer garden and occasional live performances.

Just a stone’s throw away is the vibrant seaside town of Great Yarmouth, famous for its Golden Mile. This bustling stretch is crammed with over a mile of attractions and amusements nestled between two classic seaside piers.

Marine Parade, the lively hub of the seafront, is packed with adventure golf, pubs, and eateries and provides a breathtaking view across the beach and out to sea. Come evening, the seafront sparkles with decorative sails stretching from Britannia Pier to the Pleasure Beach.

For guest who would like to stay for more than a day, the area is ripe with lovely places to stay. The Potting Shed, for example, is a beautifully renovated bolthole located  nearby on the picturesque Norfolk Broads.

Elsewhere, The Jasmine is a splendid barn conversion compete with vaulted ceilings and a hot tub that sleeps up to six visitors. Beautifully appointed, it is the perfect base for visiting California Beach and the stunning Heritage Coast villages and Norfolk Broads beyond. 

Drifters is another spacious property that’s perfect for larger groups, with contermporary interiors and incredible, far-reaching views of the sand dunes and sea at Winterton Beach, as is West Farm – a modern farm house in a stunning rural position. 

For travellers on a budget, the area is also home to some family-friendly holiday parks including the California Cliffs resort that offers lodge and caravan accommodation overlooking California Beach. Seashore Holiday Park is just a short drive away with a water park, activity centre and direct access to a long sandy beach. 

Visitors to the region have left glowing reviews on Tripadvisor, being especially impressed by the nearby beach at Caister. One said: “Amazing sunrises.  Caister-On-Sea & Great Yarmouth North Denes Beach are just perfect for enjoying an early morning sunrise walk in company of your 4 legged friend.”

Another added: “Ideal for families. The beach is beautiful, long, golden sands it’s our own little California. The offshore windmills may be off putting but there is a certain fascination with them.”

A third agreed, saying: “We frequently visit Caister on Sea. The beach here goes on for miles with gorgeous sand dunes and endless coastline. It’s truly gorgeous and wonderful to see my little one enjoying her surroundings.”

Not every visitors was quite so impressed however, with one three-star review explaining: “Went here as an alternative to gorleston beach…big mistake. Beach dirty and full of stones you need proper beach shoes at all times”

Five-star reviews also extend to Gorleston Beach, about 5 minutes North, with one visitor adding: “Sea is lovely to swim in, you will spot plenty of seals and they come quite close to the beach.”

READ NEXT: