Biking California: Cycling Southern CA vs Northern CA

There’s nothing quite like cruising California on a bike. From scenic beach rides to short urban commutes to shoreline trail riding, there are endless journeys to take on a city bike that capture the state’s beauty.

With abundant options in every part of the state, you can take a beach cruiser bike all over Northern and Southern California. Each region offers a mix of scenic and city rides.

Northern California: City Routes

San Francisco and the Bay Area offer cyclists stunning views, national landmarks and unique city landscapes. Hop on a versatile hybrid bike to take on the iconic hills while cruising the bay. Here are a few recommended rides in Northern California cities:

• Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco: Take in one of San Francisco’s most recognisable landmarks on a city bike, heading from San Francisco to the small town of Sausalito. The most popular path starts at Fisherman’s Wharf on the northern waterfront.
• San Francisco Bay Trail: Covering 350 miles, 47 cities and nine counties, the San Francisco Bay Trail connects remote and urban areas and routes through varied terrains. You can take the trail through state parks, across bay bridges and through bustling neighbourhoods. With an ultimate plan to span 500 miles, the trail is a great choice for a ride of any length. 

Northern California: Coastal Pathways

Outside of the larger metro areas, Northern California has a diverse landscape and loads of options for bike rides. Head into a more remote area with one of these rides:

• Almaden Quicksilver Park: Located near the North Coast in Humboldt County, this park trail is a 10.5-mile loop on dirt roads with one large hill. It’s one of many family-friendly options for a more rugged journey that can be tackled on a hybrid bike.
• Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail: Running from Pacific Grove to Castorville, this 18-mile, paved trail follows an old railroad route and passes several attractions. Catch views of the Pacific Ocean on your city bike or beach cruiser. 

Southern California: Urban Pathways and Beach Rides

From beachside paths to bayside trails, Southern California gives cyclists plenty of choices for a leisurely ride. Start from Los Angeles or San Diego to try one of these rides:

• Cruise the beaches in Los Angeles: Take the Marvin Braude Bike Trail to take in some of LA’s favourite beach towns. The 20-mile route passes Santa Monica, Venice Beach and Marina del Rey, and is cruiser-friendly the whole way.
• South Bay Bicycle Trail: This 22-mile stretch starts at Will Rogers State Park and heads south to Torrance County Beach. The nice, wide trail runs mostly next to the beach and connects many piers. 
• San Diego’s Bayshore Bikeway: Enjoy year-round cycling weather while you cruise a portion of this 24-mile trail that makes a circle around San Diego Bay. The trail is a mix of bike paths and on-street bike lanes, with a view of the bar all the way around.

Whether you’re headed for a Southern California beach path or a NorCal roadway, a sturdy city bike is essential for a smooth ride. Look for a solid beach cruiser or hybrid bike from a trusted bicycle manufacturer, and get cruising!

This is a collaborative post.