I've lived up and down the west coast of California a hell of a long time. Each city/town has its own reason to like it, but each has been expensive if you want a nice home near the beach. I've lived near the beach in San Francisco (the Sunset), a block from the ocean in Santa Cruz, a half block to the beach in Santa Barbara, directly over one of Laguna Beaches finest surfing spots, up the hill from the beach in San Clamente, and finally a half block from what many people consider to the the finest beach in the world (I don't agree) - Waikiki Beach. I've probably been on that beach more than any other presently living individual. And that includes the Duke!
I tend to lose my sense of direction when I am more than a couple of miles from the ocean.
I've never lived more than a couple of blocks from the ocean or a major river, but for family reasons I now find myself in a desert (Las Vegas) and I'm enjoying it a lot because it has been a major change with an unlimited number of things to do and the have an artificial wave pool at the Mandalay Bay which is relaxing during the summer months.
If you can afford it, get a home on a cliff overlooking the Pacific with a beach below. It's the most peaceful feeling in the world to wake up to that view and the sound of the incoming waves. These homes are expensive but readily available in the South Laguna Beach Area
Looking back, I'd say that the best places to live are located in Southern California ... either Laguna Beach or Malibu with more emphasis on Laguna Beach.
But both are expensive so I don't advise any beach town/city without a heavy wallet.
