22 Best Beaches in LA
Discover the best beaches in Los Angeles with this curated list! From the vibrant energy of Venice Beach Boardwalk and the family-friendly shores of Manhattan Beach to the dramatic cliffs of El Matador and the artistic charm of Laguna Beach, find your perfect coastal escape. Explore hidden gems and popular spots for sun, sand, and unforgettable ocean views.
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We've done exactly what you would have done—spent hours scrolling through TikTok, Instagram, and Reddit to find the absolute best experiences. These 31 recommendations come from real travelers sharing their unfiltered takes, hidden gems, and insider secrets. No travel agency fluff, just the wisdom of people who've actually been there. This is how everyone really plans their trips these days.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant and eclectic atmosphere of Venice Beach. This famous stretch is a hub of street performers, artists, unique shops, and the iconic skate park, offering endless people-watching opportunities.
Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds and experience a more relaxed vibe.
Experience a laid-back Southern California beach day at Manhattan Beach, known for its wide sandy shores, picturesque pier, and upscale yet friendly atmosphere.
Tip: Rent a bike and cruise along the Strand for stunning ocean views.
Marvel at the breathtaking natural beauty of El Matador State Beach, famous for its sea stacks, caves, and stunning rock formations that create a truly dramatic coastal landscape.
Tip: Check the tide times before you go; low tide offers the best access to explore the caves.
Hermosa Beach offers a clean and inviting stretch of sand with a lively pier and a vibrant downtown area, making it a great spot for families and those seeking a classic beach town feel.
Tip: The Strand bike path is perfect for a leisurely ride with ocean views.
Explore the pristine shores and tide pools of Crystal Cove State Park, a protected stretch of coastline offering a more natural and less crowded beach experience.
Tip: Consider visiting the historic district with its charming beach cottages.
Experience the quintessential LA beach scene at Santa Monica, featuring its famous pier with an amusement park, aquarium, and lively atmosphere, plus a wide sandy beach.
Tip: Park at Lot 8 for easy access to the beach and a nearby playground.
Dockweiler State Beach offers a unique experience with its proximity to LAX, allowing you to watch planes land and take off while enjoying the sand and surf.
Tip: This beach is known for its RV camping facilities and bonfire pits.
Point Dume offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean, with dramatic cliffs and a popular bluff trail perfect for scenic walks.
Tip: It's a great spot for whale watching during migration seasons.
Heisler Park in Laguna Beach boasts incredible ocean vistas, beautiful walking paths, and access to several small coves, making it a picturesque spot for relaxation.
Tip: Look for the public art installations scattered throughout the park.
Playa Del Rey Beach provides a more low-key and less crowded beach experience, perfect for a peaceful day by the ocean with opportunities for biking and walking.
Tip: It's a great spot for a quiet walk or bike ride along the coast.
Leo Carrillo State Park is a gem for nature lovers, featuring diverse tide pools, sea caves, and hiking trails with stunning ocean views.
Tip: Explore the different sections of the park, each offering unique geological features.
Laguna Beach is renowned for its artistic community and beautiful coastline, offering a variety of charming coves and stunning ocean views.
Tip: Explore the numerous art galleries and boutiques in the downtown area.
Redondo Beach offers a lively pier experience with fishing, dining, and entertainment, alongside a pleasant beach area perfect for a relaxed day by the sea.
Tip: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the restaurants on the pier.
Will Rogers State Beach is a popular and accessible beach known for its wide sandy shores and family-friendly environment, offering plenty of space for recreation.
Tip: It's a great spot for a picnic or a game of beach volleyball.
Also known as Torrance Beach, Rat Beach offers a more rugged and less crowded coastal experience with interesting rock formations and tide pools.
Tip: This beach is known for its surfing and bodyboarding conditions.
The Palos Verdes Peninsula offers dramatic coastal drives and stunning ocean vistas, with several smaller beaches and coves perfect for scenic exploration.
Tip: Drive along Palos Verdes Drive for breathtaking views of the Pacific.
Zuma Beach is one of Malibu's most popular and expansive beaches, offering wide sandy shores, excellent swimming conditions, and plenty of space to relax.
Tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.
This unique beachfront facility offers a public pool, splash pad, playground, and direct beach access, making it a fantastic destination for families.
Tip: Reservations may be required for the pool, check their website in advance.
Alamitos Beach in Long Beach provides a pleasant stretch of sand with gentle waves, perfect for a relaxed day by the water, and is conveniently located near amenities.
Tip: Enjoy the rooftop view from the restaurant located just steps from the beach.
The Venice Breakwater offers a unique perspective of the coastline, providing a scenic spot to enjoy the ocean and observe the waves.
Tip: It's a great spot for a peaceful walk and to enjoy the ocean breeze.
Malibu is dotted with numerous beautiful beaches and hidden coves, each offering its own unique charm and stunning Pacific Ocean views.
Tip: Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to discover various beach access points.
Cabrillo Beach offers a calm and protected swimming area, making it ideal for families, and features a free aquarium for added educational fun.
Tip: The aquarium is small but charming and a great addition to a beach day.