Planning your beach day but don’t know where to go in Los Angeles, USA? This city is packed with stunning coastal destinations from Malibu’s rugged shores to Santa Monica’s lively vibe.
In this guide, you’ll find the best beaches in Los Angeles and what makes each one special.
Key Takeaways
- Malibu offers picturesque beaches like Surfrider Beach, known for surfing, and El Matador State Beach with its iconic sea caves.
- Santa Monica Beach features the historic 1909 Pier with attractions like Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel and plenty of family-friendly activities.
- Venice Beach stands out for its lively boardwalk scene with artists, street performers, vendors, and popular spots like Muscle Beach Gym and the skate park.
- LA beaches cater to varied interests—surfing in Malibu, biking near Santa Monica, or exploring vibrant energy at Venice Beach.
Soak Up the Sun: LA’s Best Beach Destinations Uncovered
Top Beaches to Visit in LA
LA’s coastline offers a mix of sandy shores and crisp waves. From scenic views to lively scenes, each spot has its own charm waiting for you.
Malibu Beaches: Surfrider Beach, El Matador State Beach
Malibu offers some of the best beaches in Los Angeles. Its coastline combines natural beauty, activities, and history.
- Surfrider Beach draws surfers and visitors from across the globe. This spot is a top surfing destination in Southern California and famous for its perfect waves. It is part of Malibu Lagoon State Beach, where you can also see diverse bird species. Located near the Malibu Pier, it provides great views for beach-goers. The area became iconic after being called “Surf City USA” in the 1950s.
- El Matador State Beach showcases dramatic rock formations and sea caves. Known as one of Los Angeles County’s hidden gems, it’s excellent for photography or romantic sunsets. Visitors climb down a steep path to access its stunning shoreline and tide pools. The location has been a backdrop for countless photo shoots over the years due to its unique landscape. Positioned off Pacific Coast Highway, this beach feels peaceful compared to busier spots nearby.
Santa Monica Beach: Pier and Attractions
The Santa Monica Pier stands as a vibrant landmark in the city of Los Angeles. Built in 1909, it features the famous Pacific Park with its solar-powered Ferris wheel and roller coaster.
Families enjoy arcade games, an aquarium, and delicious food stalls. The beach itself stretches along LA’s vast 34 square miles (88 km²) of water area, offering plenty of space for sunbathing or playing volleyball.
It’s one of Southern California’s beaches that experiences “June Gloom,” creating cool mornings before clearing up by noon.
Beachgoers can stroll down Ocean Avenue to explore nearby cafes and shops or rent bikes to ride along Ballona Creek paths. Big Blue Bus services make getting there easy from different parts of Greater Los Angeles County.
For something unique, visit during sunset for stunning views; they don’t call these LA coastal destinations iconic without reason!
Venice Beach: Vibrant Boardwalk and Activities
Stretching from Santa Monica, Venice Beach invites visitors with its electric energy. The boardwalk buzzes with street performers, artists, and vendors. Known for its quirky vibe, it attracts 2.7 million tourists in 2023 alone.
Skateboarders glide effortlessly at the iconic skate park while musclemen lift weights under the sun at Muscle Beach Gym.
The beach isn’t just about sand and waves; activities abound here. Surfers chase breaks near the pier, making it a top surfing spot in LA. Locals and tourists bike along the vibrant Ocean Front Walk or snack on burritos sold by nearby taquerias.
With its mix of fun and chaos, it’s hard to find a Southern California beach livelier than Venice Beach!
Conclusion
Los Angeles beaches promise adventure, relaxation, and stunning views. Malibu’s hidden gems and Santa Monica’s lively pier bring something for everyone. Venice Beach bursts with life, art, and fun activities.
Pack sunscreen, grab a board or book, and set out to explore. The Pacific Coast is calling—don’t miss it!
FAQs
1. What are the best beaches in Los Angeles for families?
Santa Monica Beach and Dockweiler Beach are great family-friendly options. They offer clean sand, lifeguards, and plenty of activities for kids.
2. Where can I find hidden beaches in Los Angeles?
El Matador State Beach in Malibu is a gem. Tucked away with rocky cliffs, it’s perfect for those seeking peace away from crowds.
3. Are there top surfing spots in LA?
Yes! Malibu Surfrider Beach and Venice Breakwater are popular Southern California beaches known for their waves.
4. How do I reach these beaches using public transit systems like Metro or Metrolink?
You can take the Los Angeles Metro Rail or buses to Santa Monica via the Expo Line or use Metrolink trains to nearby areas like San Fernando Valley before connecting to beach routes.
5. What Venice Beach attractions should I visit besides the shoreline?
Explore Muscle Beach, skate parks, street performers, and shops along Ocean Front Walk while soaking up its lively atmosphere.
6. Can I combine visiting LA landmarks with beach trips?
Absolutely! Use Union Station as a hub to explore both city landmarks like Olvera Street and nearby coastal spots such as Manhattan Beach or Marina del Rey via bus routes or light rail systems.
