Los Angeles is home to some of California’s most spectacular coastline, offering everything from world-class surfing spots to family-friendly sandy shores. Whether you’re a local looking to explore new coastal gems or a visitor planning your perfect beach day, this comprehensive guide to the best beaches in Los Angeles will help you discover the perfect stretch of sand for your needs.
Why Los Angeles Has Some of the World’s Best Beaches
The best beaches in Los Angeles offer an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, perfect weather, and diverse activities. With over 75 miles of coastline, LA’s beaches provide something for everyone – from secluded coves perfect for romantic sunsets to bustling boardwalks filled with entertainment and dining options.
Top 12 Best Beaches in Los Angeles
1. Venice Beach – The Iconic LA Beach Experience
Venice Beach tops many lists of the best beaches in Los Angeles for good reason. This world-famous destination offers the quintessential Southern California beach experience with its eclectic boardwalk, street performers, and vibrant atmosphere.
What makes Venice Beach special:
- The famous boardwalk stretching 2.5 miles
- Muscle Beach outdoor gym
- Street art and murals throughout the area
- Venice Skate Park for skateboarding enthusiasts
- Wide sandy beach perfect for volleyball and sunbathing
Best for: First-time visitors, people-watching, street entertainment, and experiencing LA’s beach culture.
2. Santa Monica Beach – The Crown Jewel
Santa Monica Beach consistently ranks among the best beaches in Los Angeles thanks to its pristine sand, excellent facilities, and the iconic Santa Monica Pier. This 3.5-mile stretch of coastline offers everything from family fun to romantic walks.
Highlights include:
- Santa Monica Pier with its famous Ferris wheel
- The 22-mile bike path (The Strand)
- Excellent dining and shopping at Santa Monica Place
- Clean, well-maintained facilities
- Perfect waves for beginner surfers
Best for: Families, tourists, dining, and classic California beach experiences.
3. Malibu Surfrider Beach – A Surfer’s Paradise
For those seeking the best beaches in Los Angeles for surfing, Malibu Surfrider Beach is legendary. This world-renowned surf spot has been featured in countless movies and is considered the birthplace of modern surfing culture.
Why surfers love it:
- Consistent, world-class waves
- Perfect for both beginners and professionals
- Beautiful point break waves
- Rich surfing history and culture
- Equipment rental available on-site
Best for: Surfing, watching surfers, and experiencing authentic California surf culture.
4. Manhattan Beach – The Volleyball Capital
Manhattan Beach is widely considered one of the best beaches in Los Angeles for sports enthusiasts. This upscale beach community offers pristine sand, excellent volleyball courts, and a sophisticated beach town atmosphere.
What sets Manhattan Beach apart:
- Professional and amateur volleyball tournaments
- The famous Manhattan Beach Pier
- Upscale dining and shopping options
- The Strand bike path
- Clean, family-friendly environment
Best for: Volleyball players, families, upscale beach experiences, and cycling.
5. Hermosa Beach – The Nightlife Hub
Among the best beaches in Los Angeles for nightlife, Hermosa Beach stands out with its vibrant party scene and energetic atmosphere. This beach town comes alive after dark with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Hermosa Beach features:
- Bustling nightlife scene
- Beach volleyball courts
- Wide sandy beach
- Hermosa Beach Pier
- Numerous bars and restaurants along the strand
Best for: Young adults, nightlife, beach volleyball, and social activities.
6. El Matador Beach – The Photographer’s Dream
El Matador Beach is consistently listed among the best beaches in Los Angeles for its dramatic natural beauty. This secluded Malibu gem offers stunning rock formations and some of the most photographed sunset views in Southern California.
What makes El Matador special:
- Dramatic sea stacks and rock formations
- Incredible sunset photography opportunities
- Tide pools during low tide
- More secluded and peaceful atmosphere
- Natural beauty and rugged coastline
Best for: Photography, romantic walks, tide pooling, and peaceful relaxation.
Celebrity Spotlight: El Matador Beach has been a favorite filming location for many Hollywood productions. Speaking of Hollywood stars, actress Brianne Howey, known for her roles in “Ginny & Georgia” and “The Exorcist,” has been spotted enjoying LA’s beautiful coastline. Her love for the city’s beach culture reflects what many celebrities appreciate about Los Angeles’ stunning seaside offerings.
7. Zuma Beach – The Swimming Paradise
Zuma Beach is renowned as one of the best beaches in Los Angeles for swimming, thanks to its wide sandy shoreline and generally calm waters. This popular Malibu destination offers excellent facilities and consistent beach conditions.
Zuma Beach advantages:
- Wide, pristine sandy beach
- Excellent swimming conditions
- Lifeguards on duty
- Ample parking
- Great for sunbathing and beach games
Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, families, and beach sports.
8. Dockweiler State Beach – The Bonfire Destination
Dockweiler State Beach is unique among the best beaches in Los Angeles as one of the few places where beach bonfires are still permitted. This 3-mile stretch of sand offers a classic Southern California beach experience.
Dockweiler highlights:
- Over 70 fire pits available
- Wide sandy beach
- RV camping facilities
- Great for group gatherings
- Spectacular sunset views
Best for: Bonfires, group gatherings, camping, and sunset watching.
9. Leo Carrillo State Beach – The Camper’s Choice
Leo Carrillo State Beach stands out among the best beaches in Los Angeles for its unique camping opportunities and natural beauty. This protected beach offers both day-use and overnight camping options.
Special features:
- Overnight camping available
- Tide pools and marine life
- Hiking trails
- Less crowded than other beaches
- Natural rock formations
Best for: Camping, hiking, tide pooling, and nature lovers.
10. Carbon Beach (Billionaire’s Beach) – The Exclusive Escape
Carbon Beach, also known as Billionaire’s Beach, is one of the best beaches in Los Angeles for those seeking privacy and luxury. Despite its exclusive reputation, this beach is public and offers a more upscale beach experience.
Why Carbon Beach is special:
- Exclusive, less crowded atmosphere
- Beautiful homes and architecture
- Excellent swimming conditions
- Proximity to high-end dining
- More intimate beach experience
Best for: Couples, luxury seekers, and those wanting a more exclusive beach experience.
11. Redondo Beach – The Family-Friendly Option
Redondo Beach consistently ranks among the best beaches in Los Angeles for families, offering excellent facilities, calm waters, and plenty of activities for all ages.
Family-friendly features:
- Wide sandy beach
- Redondo Beach Pier with restaurants and shops
- Calm waters perfect for children
- Bike rental options
- Various water sports activities
Best for: Families with children, fishing, water sports, and casual dining.
12. Will Rogers State Beach – The Local’s Secret
Will Rogers State Beach is often overlooked but deserves recognition among the best beaches in Los Angeles. This peaceful beach offers a more local experience away from the tourist crowds.
What locals love:
- Less crowded than other beaches
- Great for surfing and volleyball
- Beautiful stretch of sand
- Proximity to Pacific Palisades
- Excellent parking availability
Best for: Locals, surfing, volleyball, and peaceful beach days.
Best Times to Visit LA’s Beaches
The best beaches in Los Angeles can be enjoyed year-round, but certain times offer optimal conditions:
Peak Season (June-August):
- Warmest weather and water temperatures
- Busiest crowds and highest prices
- Best for swimming and water activities
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October):
- Ideal weather with fewer crowds
- Better parking availability
- Perfect for all beach activities
Off-Season (November-March):
- Cooler weather but still pleasant
- Smallest crowds and lowest prices
- Great for surfing and peaceful walks
Essential Beach Activities and Amenities
The best beaches in Los Angeles offer a wide range of activities:
Water Sports:
- Surfing lessons and board rentals
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Kayaking and jet skiing
- Swimming and bodyboarding
Land Activities:
- Beach volleyball
- Cycling along The Strand
- Beach walking and jogging
- Tide pooling and marine life observation
Dining and Entertainment:
- Beachfront restaurants and cafes
- Street performers and live music
- Shopping at beach towns
- Nightlife and bars
Tips for Visiting the Best Beaches in Los Angeles
Parking:
- Arrive early during peak season
- Consider public transportation or ride-sharing
- Some beaches offer free parking with library cards
- Beach towns often have paid parking lots
Safety:
- Always swim near lifeguard stations
- Check current conditions and weather
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen
- Be aware of tide schedules for tide pooling
What to Bring:
- Sunscreen and protective clothing
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Beach chairs and umbrellas
- Camera for capturing memories
Conclusion: Experience the Best Beaches in Los Angeles
The best beaches in Los Angeles offer an incredible diversity of experiences, from world-class surfing and vibrant nightlife to peaceful nature escapes and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, LA’s coastline has something special waiting for you.
Each beach on this list offers unique characteristics that make it special, ensuring that every visit to the best beaches in Los Angeles can be a new adventure. From the iconic Venice Beach boardwalk to the secluded beauty of El Matador Beach, these coastal gems represent the very best of Southern California’s beach culture.
Plan your perfect beach day today and discover why millions of visitors and locals consider these the best beaches in Los Angeles. With year-round sunshine, perfect waves, and endless activities, LA’s beaches offer the ultimate California dream experience.
Ready to explore more of Los Angeles? Check out our guides to the best hiking trails, restaurants, and attractions throughout the City of Angels.
