The beaches in Los Angeles are almost as famous as the theme parks. And who doesn't like spending a few days relaxing on the sand? You can find more than 20 different beaches across the city that attract locals and tourists alike. Some are better for surfing, and others are more secluded and private. There are also several luxury homes in Los Angeles that line the coastline and have impressive views of the Pacific Ocean. Here are some of the best beaches in Los Angeles.
Santa Monica Beach:
Santa Monica is the most famous stretch in Los Angeles that extends for more than 3 miles with a long pier in the middle. The sand is soft and it's just a few minutes away from many hotels and restaurants, which join to the sand by sets of stairs. Popular activities include sunbathing and water sports. Some attend Surf School to learn the basics of surfing or paddleboarding. In the evening, locals come to use the exercise machines and jog along the walkways. A quick word of warning, this is a popular beach and it gets very crowded, especially during the weekends.
One of the best things to do at Santa Monica Beach is to rent a bicycle and cycle along the South Bay Bicycle Trail, which stretches for 21 miles. Lots of rental shops are along the coastline.
Venice Beach:
Venice Beach combines picturesque views with a range of other activities and entertainment along the Ocean Front Walk. Performers hang out along the boardwalk doing a range of things from playing guitar to magic tricks. And there's also the famous Muscle Beach Venice, an outdoor weightlifting area popular with the local body builders. A trip to Venice beach isn't just for sunbathing or swimming. There are several other things to keep you engaged for an afternoon or evening. If you're driving, parking is free but the limited spaces tend to fill up quickly.
Malibu Lagoon State Beach:
This is one of the prettiest stretches of coastline in Los Angeles and is characterized by long beaches with white sand and a small lagoon. When the tide goes out, you can walk out and see lots of marine life in the rock pools. The area itself is near Surfriders Beach and is a great place to come to relax after a few hours in the waves. One of the highlights of Malibu Lagoon State Beach is the nearby Adamson House that's a large building with a Spanish-Moorish design. You can also visit the Malibu Lagoon Museum where exhibits explain the history of the region.
Malibu Surfrider Beach:
As the name suggests, this is one of the hottest beaches in Los Angeles for surfers. The waves are typically good, and you'll see masses of local surfers heading down to catch the perfect wave. Board rentals are available if you want to give it a go and spend the day in the water. If you can't surf, paddleboarding is also popular on this stretch of beach. The local surfers are also friendlier towards outsiders and tourists.
El Matador Beach:
El Matador is on the western end of Malibu Beach and an ideal spot for an evening stroll with your special someone. The beach is small and is relatively hidden by the surrounding sea caves. This gives it a special vibe compared to some of the other ones. The water is very clear and it's a pleasant place for a swim or bodyboarding in the light waves. During the summer months, it does get quite crowded but you'll probably be the only person there during the low season.
Hermosa Beach:
If you're looking for a place with the stereotypical laid-back atmosphere and beach-bums lounging around throughout the day, Hermosa Beach is the place for you. Local hipsters and hippies come here to relax on the sand and are friendly and welcoming to tourists. In fact, it's very easy to make a few new friends along here. You can play volleyball, go jogging or rent a bike and cycle along the walkway.
Manhattan Beach:
This beach is famous for being the " Wimbledon of beach volleyball" and is one of the more popular stretches in Los Angeles. The urban location makes it easy to find a restaurant or coffee shop. Why not enjoy the sunset from one of the beach side bars whilst sipping a cocktail or a cold beer? If you're tired of the beach, the shopping area is a few blocks away. People come here for surfing, swimming, and fishing a little further up.
The only downside about Manhattan Beach is that it gets busy on weekends and during the summer. This, in turn, makes it very difficult, if not impossible, to find a parking space.
Zuma Beach:
This is one of the favorite beaches in Los Angeles for locals on the northern side of the city. The beach has white sand and plenty of places to sunbathe or go swimming. Water sports are less popular here due to the colder water and softer surf. This beach has something more special and unique that visitors love. And that's the dolphins. Sometimes you can see them swimming in the distance.
The Bottom Line: Best Beaches in Los Angeles
You have more than 20 beaches to choose from in Los Angeles. Some are more active and attract a surfing crowd whereas others are better suited for a romantic walk. Don't just go to the nearest beach, do a little research to find which ones you can claim as the best beaches in Los Angeles.
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