Los Angeles is home to some of the most diverse and exciting beaches in the country. Whether you’re looking for a lively boardwalk, a quiet escape, or the perfect surf spot, this LA Beach Guide will help you find the right destination. But with so many options, which are the top beaches in Los Angeles? Which one is best for you?
The answer depends on what you’re after. If you want a classic LA experience, Santa Monica Beach is a solid choice. If you’re into photography and hidden coves, El Matador Beach is a must. Prefer a relaxing swim? Zuma Beach has some of the cleanest waters around. Whatever your vibe, this guide will break down the best beaches in Los Angeles, so you can pick the perfect one for your next beach day.
What to Expect from Beaches in Los Angeles
Before diving into the rankings, here are a few key things to know about visiting Los Angeles beaches.
- The weather is warm and sunny year-round, but summer brings bigger crowds. For fewer people, visit in late spring or early fall.
- Parking varies by beach. Some have free lots, while others require payment or street parking. Arrive early to find a good spot.
- Some beaches are better for swimming, while others are known for strong waves, surfing, or scenic views. Choose the right one based on your plans.
- If you want a quiet escape, skip the most popular spots on weekends. Hidden gems like Cabrillo Beach or Leo Carrillo offer more seclusion.
Top Beaches in Los Angeles
Each of these beaches offers something unique, whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or just a great view.
Santa Monica Beach – The Classic LA Experience
Santa Monica Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Los Angeles, and for good reason. Its long stretch of golden sand, lively pier, and easy access to restaurants and shops make it a great place for a full-day beach trip. The Santa Monica Pier is a major highlight, featuring an amusement park, street performers, and a classic boardwalk atmosphere.
The beach itself is spacious and great for sunbathing, biking, and beach volleyball. The paved path known as The Strand runs along the shore, making it perfect for a scenic bike ride. Since this is one of the busiest beaches in Los Angeles, expect crowds, especially on weekends. The best way to avoid parking stress is to take the Metro E Line, which stops just a short walk from the pier.
Venice Beach – Where LA’s Wild Side Comes Alive
Venice Beach is not just a beach—it’s an experience. This is where you’ll find street performers, skateboarding legends, and artists displaying their work along the boardwalk. The energy here is unmatched, making it a must-visit if you want to see the quirky, artistic side of Los Angeles.
While the beach itself is great for sunbathing and walking along the shore, the real attraction is the boardwalk. Muscle Beach, an iconic outdoor gym, sits in the heart of the action, while the Venice Skatepark is always packed with skilled skaters. For a quieter escape, the nearby Venice Canals offer a peaceful contrast to the lively main strip.
Zuma Beach – Clean, Spacious, and Great for Swimming
Zuma Beach in Malibu is one of the cleanest and most family-friendly beaches in Los Angeles. Its wide sandy shore and clear water make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach games. Unlike some other beaches, the waves here are mild, making it a safer spot for swimmers.
Zuma is also less crowded than Santa Monica or Venice, offering a more relaxed experience. The parking lot is large, but it does fill up quickly on warm weekends. If you’re looking for a great place to spend an afternoon in the sun without the hustle and bustle of the city, this is a top choice.
Manhattan Beach – Scenic, Laid-Back, and Upscale
Manhattan Beach has an effortless charm. It’s clean, relaxed, and has an upscale feel, thanks to the beachfront homes and stylish cafes lining the coast. The Manhattan Beach Pier is a highlight, offering stunning views of the Pacific and a small aquarium at the end.
Beach volleyball is huge here, with professional and casual games happening daily. The area is also known for its excellent dining options, with oceanfront restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers. If you’re looking for a scenic, less touristy beach with a sophisticated touch, Manhattan Beach is a great option.
El Matador Beach – The Most Instagrammable Spot
El Matador Beach is one of the most visually striking beaches in Los Angeles. Located in Malibu, this beach is known for its dramatic rock formations, hidden sea caves, and stunning coastal views. It’s smaller than most other beaches, but its rugged beauty makes it a favorite for photographers and couples looking for a romantic setting.
Reaching the beach requires a short but steep hike down a dirt path, so wear comfortable shoes and pack light. Sunset is the best time to visit, as the golden light makes the scenery even more breathtaking.
Hermosa Beach – The Fun, Sporty Beach
Hermosa Beach is all about fun. With a younger crowd, plenty of beach bars, and a lively pier, this is a great place to spend the day and stay for the nightlife. The wide sandy beach is perfect for volleyball, jogging, or simply relaxing by the waves.
One of the highlights is Pier Avenue, which is packed with restaurants, coffee shops, and live music venues. If you want a high-energy beach with both daytime and nighttime activities, Hermosa Beach is the place to be.
Dockweiler Beach – The Only LA Beach with Fire Pits
If you’re looking for a beach where you can have a bonfire, Dockweiler Beach is the best option. It’s the only beach in Los Angeles that allows beach fires, making it a popular spot for evening hangouts with friends.
The beach is also unique because it sits right under the LAX flight path, so you’ll see planes taking off while you relax by the fire. Arrive early to claim a fire pit, as they fill up quickly.
Malibu Lagoon State Beach – Where Surfers and Nature Lovers Unite
Malibu Lagoon State Beach is the perfect mix of surf culture and nature. The lagoon is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching, while the beach itself has some of the best surfing waves in Los Angeles.
It’s also next to the Malibu Pier, where you can grab a meal with ocean views. If you’re looking for a balance between adventure and relaxation, this beach is a solid choice.
Cabrillo Beach – A Hidden Gem for Tide Pooling
Cabrillo Beach is one of Los Angeles’ best-kept secrets. Located in San Pedro, it offers calm waters, tide pools filled with marine life, and a peaceful atmosphere. Families with kids will love exploring the tide pools, where they can find sea anemones, crabs, and small fish.
This beach is much quieter than others, making it a great escape from the usual LA crowds. The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium nearby is also worth a visit.
Leo Carrillo State Park Beach – The Adventure Beach
Leo Carrillo Beach is a top pick for adventure lovers. With sea caves, tide pools, and a nearby campground, this beach offers much more than just sunbathing.
Hiking trails run along the coast, providing stunning ocean views. If you want a beach that offers both relaxation and exploration, this is the perfect choice.
Best Beaches in Los Angeles for Swimming
Not all Los Angeles beaches are great for swimming—some have rough waters or strong currents. If you want gentle waves and clean water, these are the best choices.
- Zuma Beach – Known for its soft sand and clear, calm waters, this is one of the safest places to swim in LA.
- Santa Monica Beach – With lifeguards on duty and easy access to amenities, it’s great for a stress-free swim.
- Manhattan Beach – The clean waters and well-maintained shore make it a relaxing place for swimming.
- Cabrillo Beach – Located in a more protected cove, this beach has gentle waves and is ideal for kids.
Best Beaches in Los Angeles for Couples
Looking for a romantic beach day? These Los Angeles beaches offer stunning scenery, privacy, and a memorable atmosphere for couples.
- El Matador Beach – Its dramatic cliffs, hidden sea caves, and secluded coves make it one of the most romantic beaches in Los Angeles.
- Manhattan Beach – The combination of oceanfront dining, scenic pier views, and a quieter ambiance makes it perfect for a beach date.
- Leo Carrillo Beach – A great spot for couples who love nature, with hidden coves and tide pools to explore together.
- Dockweiler Beach – If a bonfire under the stars sounds like your kind of date, this is the only beach in LA where you can make it happen.
Last Word
With so many amazing beaches in Los Angeles, there’s truly a perfect spot for everyone. Whether you’re planning a full-day adventure, a quick dip, or a quiet sunset walk, this LA Beach Guide has given you all the options you need. From the top beaches in Los Angeles like Santa Monica and Venice to hidden gems like Cabrillo Beach, you now have a full list of places to explore.
The best part? You don’t have to pick just one. Try a classic LA beach one day and a more secluded spot the next. No matter which beach you visit, Los Angeles delivers breathtaking views, fun activities, and plenty of sunshine. So grab your towel, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—it’s time to hit the coast.
FAQ
What is the best beach in Los Angeles?
It depends on your preference—Santa Monica Beach is great for activities, Zuma Beach is peaceful, and El Matador Beach is stunning for photography.
Are Los Angeles beaches free to visit?
Yes! Most LA beaches are free, but some have paid parking.
Which beach in LA has the clearest water?
What is the least crowded beach in Los Angeles?
Leo Carrillo and El Matador Beach are usually less crowded, especially on weekdays.
Can you have a bonfire on LA beaches?
Yes, but only in designated fire pits, like those at Dockweiler Beach.
Are there any dog-friendly beaches in Los Angeles?
Yes! Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach is one of the best off-leash beaches for dogs.
