Los Angeles is famous for its sunshine, palm trees, and endless coastline. However, choosing where to dip your toes in the Pacific can feel overwhelming. There are so many options along this stretch of California coast. Therefore, we’ve put together this guide to the best beaches near Los Angeles, so you can skip the guesswork and head straight for the sand.
Whether you want big waves, quiet coves, or a lively boardwalk scene, LA has it all. From Malibu’s dramatic cliffs to Venice’s colorful boardwalk, this list covers something for everyone. So, grab your sunscreen and let’s explore these 15 stunning coastal gems.
Why Los Angeles Beaches Are Worth Visiting
Los Angeles boasts over 75 miles of coastline. As a result, visitors can find a beach to match nearly any mood or activity. Some spots are perfect for surfing, while others suit families looking for calm waters.
Additionally, the weather here is hard to beat. Sunny days are common most of the year, making beach trips possible even in winter. Consequently, LA beaches attract both locals and tourists throughout every season.
A Coastline for Every Type of Traveler
Some travelers crave adventure, while others want relaxation. For example, surfers head to Malibu, and sunbathers prefer Manhattan Beach. Meanwhile, families often choose calmer shores like Will Rogers State Beach.
Easy Access From the City
Most beaches near Los Angeles are within an hour’s drive from downtown. This makes day trips simple and stress-free. Furthermore, public transportation options exist for several popular beach towns.
Malibu Beaches: Where Luxury Meets Nature
Malibu is one of the most iconic names on this list. It combines celebrity glamour with untouched natural beauty. Consequently, it remains a top choice among the best beaches near Los Angeles.
The coastline stretches for 21 miles, offering plenty of spots to explore. Moreover, the dramatic cliffs and clear water create a postcard-perfect setting.
Surfrider Beach: A Surfer’s Paradise
Surfrider Beach is legendary among surfers worldwide. The gentle, rolling waves are ideal for beginners and experts alike. In addition, the scenic pier nearby adds charm to any visit.
Malibu Pier and Its Surroundings
Malibu Pier offers stunning ocean views and several dining options. Visitors can fish, stroll, or simply watch the sunset. Nearby, you’ll find small shops and cafes worth exploring.
Santa Monica Beach: The Iconic LA Shoreline
Santa Monica Beach is perhaps the most recognizable beach in Los Angeles. Its wide sandy shore stretches for miles. Furthermore, the famous pier makes it instantly identifiable in photos and films.
This beach suits nearly every type of traveler. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find something to enjoy here.
Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park
The pier features an amusement park, complete with a Ferris wheel and roller coaster. Kids especially love this spot. Meanwhile, adults enjoy the arcade games and food stalls.
Beachfront Activities and Bike Paths
A long bike path runs along the coast here. Therefore, renting a bike is a great way to see more of the shoreline. Volleyball courts and playgrounds are also available nearby.
Venice Beach: Where Beach Meets Boardwalk Culture
Venice Beach is known for its eclectic, artsy vibe. Street performers, artists, and vendors line the famous boardwalk. As a result, this beach offers more than just sand and surf.
It’s one of the more unique entries among the best beaches near Los Angeles. The energy here is unmatched anywhere else in the city.
The Famous Venice Boardwalk
The boardwalk buzzes with activity throughout the day. Skaters, musicians, and artists create a lively, colorful scene. Additionally, you’ll find plenty of quirky shops and food carts.
Muscle Beach and Skate Park
Muscle Beach is an outdoor gym where bodybuilders have trained for decades. Nearby, a popular skate park draws skilled riders daily. Both spots make for excellent people-watching.
Manhattan Beach: A Family-Friendly Favorite
Manhattan Beach offers a more upscale, relaxed atmosphere. Clean sand and calm waters make it ideal for families. Consequently, it consistently ranks among the top beaches near Los Angeles for visitors with kids.
The town itself feels charming and walkable. Cafes, boutiques, and restaurants sit just steps from the sand.
Manhattan Beach Pier
The pier stretches out over the ocean, offering beautiful views. It’s a popular spot for fishing and evening walks. Similarly, sunsets here are consistently spectacular.
Downtown Manhattan Beach
Just a short walk from the sand, downtown offers great shopping and dining. Many visitors combine beach time with a stroll through local shops. This makes for a well-rounded day trip.
Hermosa Beach: Fun in the Sun for Everyone
Hermosa Beach has a lively, youthful energy. It’s known for volleyball courts, bike paths, and a bustling pier. Moreover, its wide sandy beach makes it easy to find your own space.
This beach attracts a younger crowd, but families enjoy it too. There’s truly something for everyone here.
Beach Volleyball Culture
Hermosa Beach is a hub for competitive and casual volleyball. Courts line the sand, and games happen daily. In fact, professional tournaments are sometimes held here.
Hermosa Beach Pier and Pier Plaza
The pier offers great photo opportunities and ocean views. Pier Plaza nearby features restaurants, bars, and shops. Consequently, it’s a great spot for evening entertainment.
Redondo Beach: A Quieter Coastal Escape
Redondo Beach offers a calmer alternative to its busier neighbors. It combines a relaxed shoreline with a charming harbor area. Therefore, it’s a great option for those seeking a slower pace.
Fishing, dining, and simple beach walks define this destination. It remains an underrated pick among the best beaches near Los Angeles.
Redondo Beach Pier and Harbor
The horseshoe-shaped pier is home to seafood restaurants and shops. Visitors often combine a beach day with fresh seafood here. Additionally, the harbor offers boat rentals and fishing charters.
Veterans Park and Seaside Lagoon
Veterans Park provides a peaceful green space near the shore. Nearby, Seaside Lagoon offers a protected swimming area for kids. Both spots are perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
El Matador State Beach: A Hidden Gem
El Matador State Beach feels like a secret escape. Towering rock formations and sea caves create a dramatic landscape. As a result, it has become a favorite for photographers.
This beach requires a short walk down a cliffside staircase. However, the view at the bottom makes the effort worthwhile.
Dramatic Rock Formations
Large sea stacks rise from the sand, creating natural photo backdrops. Tide pools also form around these rocks during low tide. For instance, sunset photography here is especially popular.
Tips for Visiting El Matador
Parking is limited, so arrive early if possible. Additionally, there are no lifeguards on duty. Therefore, swimming caution is strongly advised at this location.
Zuma Beach: Wide Sands and Big Waves
Zuma Beach is one of the largest beaches in Los Angeles County. Its wide, sandy shore offers plenty of room to spread out. Furthermore, strong waves make it popular among surfers and boogie boarders.
This beach suits active travelers looking for space and excitement. It rarely feels overcrowded, even on busy weekends.
Watersports and Surfing Spots
Surfing conditions here are consistently good for intermediate riders. Boogie boarding and swimming are also popular activities. Lifeguards are on duty throughout the summer season.
Amenities at Zuma Beach
Restrooms, showers, and picnic areas make this beach convenient for families. Food trucks often park nearby during peak season. Consequently, visitors rarely need to leave for supplies.
Leo Carrillo State Beach: Tide Pools and Sea Caves
Leo Carrillo State Beach combines natural beauty with outdoor adventure. Sea caves, tide pools, and rocky reefs define this coastline. Meanwhile, nearby trails offer scenic hiking opportunities.
This beach appeals to nature lovers and curious explorers alike. It’s one of the more adventurous entries on this list.
Exploring Sea Caves and Tide Pools
Low tide reveals fascinating marine life in the tide pools. Sea caves nearby are fun to explore on foot. However, always check tide schedules before heading out.
Camping Near Leo Carrillo Beach
A campground sits just across the road from the beach. This makes overnight stays possible for those wanting more time here. Similarly, RV sites are available for larger groups.
Point Dume: Coastal Views and Hiking Trails
Point Dume offers some of the best panoramic views in Malibu. A rocky headland juts out into the ocean here. As a result, hikers and photographers flock to this scenic spot.
This location combines beach access with a rewarding short hike. It’s perfect for travelers wanting variety in one visit.
Point Dume Nature Preserve
The preserve features trails leading to stunning ocean overlooks. Whale watching is possible here during migration season. Additionally, the preserve protects native coastal vegetation.
Pirate’s Cove and Little Dume
Just beyond the point, two smaller coves offer quieter beach time. These spots are less crowded than nearby main beaches. Therefore, they’re ideal for a peaceful afternoon.
Will Rogers State Beach: Simple and Scenic
Will Rogers State Beach offers a straightforward, no-fuss beach experience. Its long, flat shoreline is easy to access from the road. Moreover, it sits close to Santa Monica, making it convenient for visitors.
This beach works well for casual beach days. It doesn’t have the crowds found at more famous spots nearby.
History and Location
The beach is named after actor and humorist Will Rogers. His former estate sits just up the hill. Consequently, history buffs may want to combine both stops.
Best Activities at Will Rogers Beach
Swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball are all popular here. The bike path connecting to Santa Monica is also nearby. This makes it easy to explore further along the coast.
FAQs
What is the most popular beach near Los Angeles?
Santa Monica Beach is generally considered the most popular. It’s known for its iconic pier, amusement park, and easy access from the city.
Which LA beach is best for families?
Manhattan Beach and Will Rogers State Beach are excellent choices. Both offer calm waters and family-friendly amenities.
Are LA beaches free to visit?
Yes, most beaches near Los Angeles are free to enter. However, parking often requires a fee at paid lots or meters.
What is the best beach for surfing near LA?
Malibu’s Surfrider Beach and Zuma Beach are top choices for surfers. Both offer consistent waves suitable for various skill levels.
Which beach is best for a quiet, peaceful visit?
El Matador State Beach and Leo Carrillo State Beach offer quieter, less crowded experiences. Both feature dramatic scenery and fewer visitors.
Conclusion
Los Angeles offers an incredible variety of coastal experiences. From Malibu’s dramatic cliffs to Venice’s vibrant boardwalk, there’s truly something for every traveler. Similarly, quieter escapes like El Matador and Leo Carrillo provide a peaceful contrast to the busier shores.
Overall, exploring the best beaches near Los Angeles rewards you with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re chasing waves, sunsets, or simply a relaxing afternoon, this coastline delivers. So, pack your beach bag, pick a spot from this list, and start planning your next Los Angeles beach adventure today.
Read more: Best Beach Hotels in California: Top Oceanfront Stays for 2026
Maaz Khan is the founder and lead writer at TheTrailova, where he shares travel guides, hidden gems, and practical tips for beach getaways, luxury escapes, and family adventures around the world. When he’s not planning his next trip, he’s researching the details that make travel easier for others.
