Which Native American group primarily inhabited the coastal regions of California?

The Chumash are recognized as the Native American group that primarily inhabited the coastal regions of California. They lived in the areas along the central and southern California coastline, from around present-day San Luis Obispo to Malibu. The Chumash were known for their advanced maritime culture, skillful boat building, and extensive trade networks. They relied heavily on the resources provided by the ocean, engaging in fishing and gathering marine life, as well as cultivating lands inland.

In contrast, the other groups listed—such as the Navajo, Sioux, and Iroquois—are not associated with California's coastal regions. The Navajo primarily reside in the Southwestern United States, the Sioux are native to the Great Plains, and the Iroquois are rooted in the northeastern U.S. Each of these groups has their own distinct cultures and geographic territories, which differ significantly from that of the Chumash. Thus, the association of the Chumash with California's coastal areas highlights their unique adaptation to and use of marine resources.