Welcome to the sunny shores of Los Angeles, where the beach scene is as diverse as the city itself. Nestled along the stunning California coastline, Los Angeles boasts many beautiful beaches that cater to every kind of beachgoer. Moreover, transitioning to the top beaches in Los Angeles, from the lively, bustling shores of Santa Monica to the tranquil, hidden gems of Malibu, there’s a beach for everyone to enjoy in this beach paradise.
Discover LA’s diverse beaches, spanning 75 miles. Join us as we uncover the top beaches in Los Angeles, from family-friendly shores to vibrant boardwalks. LA is not just a city of stars but also of beaches. Ready to explore further? Check out our Los Angeles travel guide for more insider tips and recommendations. Grab your sunscreen and surfboard; let’s dive in!
Top Beaches in Los Angeles
Regarding coastal attractions in Los Angeles, there’s no shortage of stunning oceanfront spots to explore. Whether you’re a sun worshipper, a surfer, or just looking for a relaxing day by the sea, Los Angeles shorelines offer something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the top beaches in Los Angeles, from the iconic to the hidden gems.
1. Santa Monica State Beach
Location
Santa Monica State Beach is situated in Santa Monica, California, just west of downtown Los Angeles. Moreover, it is a three-mile-long beach stretching from the Santa Monica Pier to the city’s northern tip.
Direction to reach
By car: From Los Angeles, take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) south; Santa Monica State Beach is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles.
By public transportation: Take the Metro Expo Line to the Downtown Santa Monica Station. Subsequently, from there, you can walk or take a bus to the beach.
Transportation
Once you are in Santa Monica, there are several ways to get to the beach. You can walk, bike, or take the Santa Monica Pier Train. The train runs along the beach and stops at several points.
Highlights
Santa Monica State Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Los Angeles, and it is easy to see why. Additionally, the beach has soft, sandy shores, clear blue water, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Here are some of the highlights of Santa Monica State Beach:
- Santa Monica Pier: The Santa Monica Pier is a must-see for any visitor to Santa Monica State Beach. Moreover, the pier is home to a variety of attractions, including an amusement park, arcade, and restaurants.
- Third Street Promenade: The Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-only street that is lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. It is a great place for people to watch and soak up the atmosphere of Santa Monica.
- Muscle Beach: Muscle Beach is a weightlifting and gymnastics area that has been popular with bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts for decades. Moreover, it is a great place to watch people work out or to get a workout in yourself.
- Annenberg Community Beach House: The Annenberg Community Beach House is a public beach house that offers a variety of amenities. Additionally, these include a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center. Additionally, it is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach.
Hours
Santa Monica State Beach is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, some special beach hours apply to certain activities. For example, the lifeguard towers are only staffed from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Rules
Santa Monica State Beach has a number of rules in place to keep visitors safe and to protect the environment. Here are some of the most important rules:
- No smoking on the beach.
- No alcohol on the beach.
- No dogs on the beach.
- No littering.
- No beach fires.
Attire
Santa Monica State Beach is a public beach, so no specific dress code exists. However, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather and the activities you plan on doing. For example, if you plan on swimming, you must wear a swimsuit.
Swimming Conditions
Santa Monica State Beach has a variety of swimming conditions, depending on the time of year and the location on the beach. It is important to be aware of the swimming conditions before you enter the water.
Here are some of the swimming conditions that you may encounter at Santa Monica State Beach:
- Rip currents: Rip currents are strong currents that can pull swimmers away from shore. Furthermore, they are most common at the southern end of the beach.
- Waves: Santa Monica State Beach can have strong waves, especially during the winter months. It is important to swim in areas where lifeguards are present.
- Tides: The tides at Santa Monica State Beach can be significant. It is important to be aware of the tide schedule before you enter the water.
Accommodation nearby
Here is a list of some of the hotels and motels located near Santa Monica State Beach:
- The Georgian Hotel
- Shutters on the Beach
- Hotel Casa del Mar
- Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
- The Huntley Hotel
- Santa Monica Proper Hotel
- The Oceana Hotel
- The Santa Monica Beach Hotel
- The Shore Hotel
- The Bungalow Hotel
- The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey
Food and Refreshments
There are a number of restaurants and cafes located near Santa Monica State Beach. You can also find food and drink vendors on the beach itself.
2. Venice Beach
Location
Venice Beach, located in a neighborhood and beach community in the Westside region of Los Angeles, California, is situated about 16 miles (26 km) west of downtown Los Angeles. Furthermore, it is known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic attractions.
Direction to reach
By car: From Los Angeles, take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) south. Subsequently, Venice Beach is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles.
By public transportation: Take the Metro Expo Line to the Downtown Santa Monica Station. Consequently, from there, you can transfer to the Metro 1 bus, which will take you to Venice Beach.
Transportation
Once you are in Venice, there are several ways to get around the beach area. You can walk, bike, or take the Venice Beach Boardwalk Bus. The bus runs along the beach and stops at several points along the way.
Highlights
Venice Beach is known for its eclectic mix of people and its vibrant atmosphere and one of the top beaches in Los Angeles. Moreover, it is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and people-watching.
Here are some of the highlights of Venice Beach:
- Venice Beach Boardwalk: The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a must-see for any visitor to Venice Beach. Additionally, the boardwalk is home to various shops, restaurants, and street performers. Moreover, it is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of Venice Beach.
- Muscle Beach: Muscle Beach is a weightlifting and gymnastics area that has been popular with bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts for decades. Furthermore, it is a great place to watch people work out or get a workout.
- Abbott Kinney Boulevard: Abbott Kinney Boulevard is a trendy street that is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. It is a great place to shop and people-watch.
- Venice Canals: The Venice Canals are a series of man-made canals that were built in the early 1900s. The canals are a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Hours
Venice Beach is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, some special beach hours apply to certain activities. For example, the lifeguard towers are only staffed from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Rules
Venice Beach has a number of rules in place to keep visitors safe and to protect the environment. Here are some of the most important rules:
- No smoking on the beach.
- No alcohol on the beach.
- No dogs on the beach.
- No littering.
- No beach fires.
Attire
Venice Beach is a public beach, so there is no specific dress code. However, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather and the activities you plan on doing. For example, if you plan on swimming, you will need to wear a swimsuit.
Swimming Conditions
Venice Beach has a variety of swimming conditions, depending on the time of year and the location on the beach. It is important to be aware of the swimming conditions before you enter the water.
Here are some of the swimming conditions that you may encounter at Venice Beach:
- Rip currents: Rip currents are strong currents that can pull swimmers away from shore. Additionally, they are most common at the southern end of the beach.
- Waves: Venice Beach can have strong waves, especially during the winter months. It is important to swim in areas where lifeguards are present.
- Tides: The tides at Venice Beach can be significant. It is important to be aware of the tide schedule before you enter the water.
Accommodation nearby
Here is a list of some of the hotels and motels located near Venice Beach:
- The Kinney Venice Beach
- The Hotel Erwin
- The Abbot Kinney Hotel
- The Venice Hotel
- The Venice Suites
- The Venice Beach House
- The Venice Beach Marina Hotel
- The Venice Beach Hostel
- The Venice Beach Bungalow Hotel
- The Venice Beach Inn
- The Venice Beach Suites
Food and Refreshments
There are a variety of food and beverage options available at Venice Beach. You can find everything you need anywhere from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants.
Here are a few of the most popular food and beverage options at Venice Beach:
- Gjelina: This popular restaurant serves up wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and seasonal dishes.
- The Tasting Kitchen: This award-winning restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its tasting menu.
- The Abbot Kinney Canteen: This casual eatery serves up American
3. Malibu Beach
Location
Malibu Beach is a popular beach city and another top beach in Los Angeles, located in Los Angeles County, California, about 30 miles (48 km) west of Downtown Los Angeles. It is known for its Mediterranean climate, its strip of beaches stretching 21 miles (34 km) along the Pacific Ocean coast, and for its longtime status as the home of numerous affluent Hollywood celebrities and executives.
Direction to reach
By car: From Los Angeles, take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) north. Malibu Beach is about a 40-minute drive from Downtown Los Angeles.
By public transportation: Take the Metro 572 bus from the Santa Monica Pier to Pacific Coast Highway and Civic Center Way. From there, you can transfer to the Metro 534 bus, which will take you to various locations in Malibu, including Malibu Beach.
Transportation
The best way to get around Malibu Beach is by car. However, there is also a limited public transportation system, consisting of buses.
Highlights
Nestled among the top beaches in Los Angeles, Malibu Beach is renowned for its stunning scenery, pristine shores, and celebrity residents. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and people-watching.
Here are some of the highlights of Malibu Beach:
- Surfrider Beach: Surfrider Beach is one of the most popular surf spots in the world. It is also a great place to swim and sunbathe.
- Zuma Beach: Zuma Beach is a two-mile-long beach with soft sand and clear water. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the day.
- Point Dume: Point Dume is a rocky headland with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It is a great place to hike, picnic, and watch the sunset.
- Malibu Pier: Malibu Pier is a popular fishing spot and offers stunning views of the Malibu coastline.
Hours
- Malibu Beach is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- However, there are some special beach hours that apply to certain activities. For example, the lifeguard towers are only staffed from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Rules
Malibu Beach has a number of rules in place to keep visitors safe and to protect the environment. Here are some of the most important rules:
- No smoking on the beach.
- No alcohol on the beach.
- No dogs on the beach.
- No littering.
- No beach fires.
Attire
Malibu Beach is a public beach, so there is no specific dress code. However, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather and for the activities that you plan on doing. For example, if you plan on swimming, you will need to wear a swimsuit.
Swimming Conditions
Malibu Beach has a variety of swimming conditions, depending on the time of year and the location on the beach. It is important to be aware of the swimming conditions before you enter the water.
Here are some of the swimming conditions that you may encounter at Malibu Beach:
- Rip currents: Rip currents are strong currents that can pull swimmers away from shore. They are most common at the southern end of the beach.
- Waves: Malibu Beach can have strong waves, especially during the winter months. It is important to swim in areas where lifeguards are present.
- Tides: The tides at Malibu Beach can be significant. It is important to be aware of the tide schedule before you enter the water.
Accommodation nearby
Here are some of the hotels that are located near Malibu Beach:
- Malibu Beach Inn
- The Surfrider Hotel
- Malibu Beachcomber
- Malibu Colony Hotel
- Malibu Beach House
- The Malibu Pier Hotel
- The Malibu Beach Club
- The Malibu Beach Hotel
- Malibu Beach Lofts
- The Malibu Castle
- The Malibu Estate
Food and Refreshments
There are a variety of food and beverage options available at Malibu Beach. You can find everything from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants.
Here are a few of the most popular food and beverage options at Malibu Beach:
- Nobu Malibu: This world-famous restaurant serves up Japanese fusion cuisine.
- The Ivy at the Shore: This popular restaurant offers a variety of American dishes, including seafood, pasta, and pizzas.
- Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market: This casual eatery serves up fresh seafood dishes, including fish and chips, clam chowder, and lobster rolls.
4. Zuma Beach
Location
Zuma Beach is a popular beach located in Malibu, California, approximately 30 miles (48 km) west of Downtown Los Angeles. Furthermore, it is one of the longest and widest beaches in Malibu, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.
Direction to reach
By car: From Los Angeles, take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) north. Zuma Beach is about a 40-minute drive from Downtown Los Angeles.
By public transportation: Take the Metro 572 bus from the Santa Monica Pier to Pacific Coast Highway and Civic Center Way. From there, you can transfer to the Metro 534 bus, which will take you to Zuma Beach.
Transportation
Once you are at Zuma Beach, you can walk, bike, or take the beach shuttle to get around. The shuttle runs along the length of the beach and stops at several points along the way.
Highlights
Zuma Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and people-watching. It is also a great place to enjoy the stunning scenery of Malibu.
Here are some of the highlights of Zuma Beach:
- Long, wide beach: Zuma Beach is one of the largest beaches in Los Angeles County, with over two miles of sandy shoreline. This gives visitors plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the beach.
- Excellent surf: Zuma Beach is a popular spot for surfers of all levels. The waves are typically gentle enough for beginners, but there are also some challenging breaks for more experienced surfers.
- Clean water: Zuma Beach is known for its clean water quality. This makes it a great place to swim, surf, and play in the waves.
- Stunning scenery: Zuma Beach is located in the heart of Malibu, and it offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains.
Hours
Zuma Beach is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, there are some special beach hours that apply to certain activities. For example, the lifeguard towers are only staffed from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Rules
Zuma Beach has a number of rules in place to keep visitors safe and to protect the environment. Here are some of the most important rules:
- No smoking on the beach.
- No alcohol on the beach.
- No dogs on the beach.
- No littering.
- No beach fires.
Attire
Zuma Beach is a public beach, so there is no specific dress code. However, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather and for the activities that you plan on doing. For example, if you plan on swimming, you will need to wear a swimsuit.
Swimming Conditions
Zuma Beach has a variety of swimming conditions, depending on the time of year and the location on the beach. It is important to be aware of the swimming conditions before you enter the water.
Here are some of the swimming conditions that you may encounter at Zuma Beach:
- Rip currents: Rip currents are strong currents that can pull swimmers away from shore. They are most common at the southern end of the beach.
- Waves: Zuma Beach can have strong waves, especially during the winter months. It is important to swim in areas where lifeguards are present.
- Tides: The tides at Zuma Beach can be significant. It is important to be aware of the tide schedule before you enter the water.
Accommodation nearby
Here is a list of some of the hotels and motels located near Zuma Beach:
- Malibu Beach Inn
- The Surfrider Hotel
- Malibu Beachcomber
- Malibu Colony Hotel
- Malibu Beach House
- The Malibu Pier Hotel
- The Malibu Beach Club
- The Malibu Beach Hotel
- Malibu Beach Lofts
- The Malibu Castle
- The Malibu Estate
Food and Refreshments
There are a number of food and beverage options available near Zuma Beach. You can find everything from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants.
Here are a few of the most popular food and beverage options near Zuma Beach:
- Nobu Malibu: This world-famous restaurant serves up Japanese fusion cuisine.
- The Ivy at the Shore: This popular restaurant offers a variety of American dishes, including seafood, pasta, and pizzas.
- Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market: This casual eatery serves up fresh seafood dishes, including fish and chips, clam chowder, and lobster rolls.
5. El Matador State Beach
Location
El Matador State Beach is located in the city of Malibu, California, at 32200 Pacific Coast Highway. It is part of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, including Leo Carrillo State Beach and Point Dume State Beach.
Direction to reach
- From the south: Take the PCH north to the El Matador State Beach exit. Turn right and follow the signs to the beach.
- From the north: Take the PCH south to the El Matador State Beach exit. Turn left and follow the signs to the beach.
Transportation
- El Matador State Beach is accessible by car, public transportation, and bicycle.
- There is a small parking lot at the beach, which can fill up quickly during peak season.
- Public transportation to the beach is available on the Metro bus line 534. The bus stop is located on Pacific Coast Highway, a short walk from the beach entrance.
- Bicycles can be parked at the beach entrance.
Highlights
- El Matador State Beach is known for its stunning scenery, including dramatic rock formations, sea caves, and tide pools.
- The beach is also a popular spot for surfing, sunbathing, and picnicking.
- El Matador State Beach has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including Iron Man, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Planet of the Apes.
Hours
- El Matador State Beach is open from 8:00 AM to sunset daily.
- Lifeguards are on duty from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Rules
- No alcohol is allowed on the beach.
- No pets are allowed on the beach.
- No fires are allowed on the beach.
- No camping is allowed on the beach.
Attire
El Matador State Beach is a public beach, so any beach attire is allowed.
However, it is important to respect other visitors and dress appropriately for the weather.
Swimming Conditions
El Matador State Beach has strong currents and riptides, so swimming is not recommended.
Lifeguards are on duty during the day, but it is important to always swim with caution.
Accommodation nearby
- The Malibu Beach Inn
- The Surfrider Malibu
- The Colony Palms Hotel
- Malibu Beach House
- The Wayfarer Malibu
Food and Refreshments
- There are no food or drink facilities at El Matador State Beach.
- Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks and to pack out all of their trash.
6. Hermosa Beach
Location
Hermosa Beach is located in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, California. The cities of Manhattan Beach border it to the north and Redondo Beach to the south.
Directions to reach
- From the south: Take the 405 Freeway south to the Artesia Boulevard exit. Turn left onto Artesia Boulevard and follow it to Hermosa Beach.
- From the north: Take the 10 Freeway west to the Sepulveda Boulevard exit. Turn south onto Sepulveda Boulevard and follow it to Hermosa Beach.
Transportation
- Hermosa Beach is accessible by car, public transportation, and bicycle.
- There is a small parking lot at the beach, which can fill up quickly during peak season.
- Public transportation to the beach is available on the Metro bus line 109. The bus stop is located on Hermosa Avenue, a short walk from the beach entrance.
- Bicycles can be parked at the beach entrance.
Highlights
- Hermosa Beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and vibrant downtown area.
- The beach is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
- Hermosa Beach is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and bars.
Hours
- Hermosa Beach is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
- Lifeguards are on duty from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- The Hermosa Beach Volleyball Courts are open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
- Hermosa Village is open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
Rules
- No alcohol is allowed on the beach.
- No pets are allowed on the beach.
- No fires are allowed on the beach.
- No camping is allowed on the beach.
Visitors are asked to stay on marked trails and to respect the natural environment.
Attire
- Hermosa Beach is a public beach, so any beach attire is allowed.
- However, it is important to be respectful of other visitors and to dress appropriately for the weather.
Swimming Conditions
- Hermosa Beach has relatively calm waters, making it a good spot for swimming.
- However, there can be strong currents and riptides, so it is important to always swim with caution.
Accommodation nearby
- The Beach House Hotel
- The Hermosa Beach Hotel
- The Sea Sprite Resort
- The Sea View Inn
- The Hermosa Inn
Food and Refreshments
Hermosa Beach has a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from, including:
- The Arthur J
- The Hermosa Beach Fish Company
- The Standing Room
- The Hermosa Beach Pier
- The Hermosa Beach Farmers Market
7. Redondo Beach
Location
Situated among the top beaches in Los Angeles, Redondo Beach is a picturesque coastal city in Los Angeles County, California, United States. It is located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, approximately 22 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles. Redondo Beach is bordered by Hermosa Beach to the north and Manhattan Beach to the south.
Direction to reach
- From the south: Take the 405 Freeway south to the Artesia Boulevard exit. Turn left onto Artesia Boulevard and follow it to Redondo Beach.
- From the north: Take the 10 Freeway west to the Sepulveda Boulevard exit. Turn south onto Sepulveda Boulevard and follow it to Redondo Beach.
Transportation
- Redondo Beach is accessible by car, public transportation, and bicycle.
- There is a small parking lot at the beach, which can fill up quickly during peak season.
- Public transportation to the beach is available on Metro Bus Line 109. The bus stop is on Pacific Coast Highway, a short walk from the beach entrance.
- Bicycles can be parked at the beach entrance.
Highlights
- Redondo Beach Pier: The Redondo Beach Pier is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline. The pier is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and amusement rides.
- King Harbor: King Harbor is a working harbor and marina located in Redondo Beach. The harbor is home to a variety of boats, including fishing boats, charter boats, and pleasure crafts. King Harbor is also home to several restaurants, shops, and galleries.
- Veterans Memorial Park: Veterans Memorial Park is a 112-acre park located on bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The park features a variety of amenities, including a picnic area, a playground, a basketball court, and a skate park.
- Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center: The Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art theater that hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance recitals.
- Redondo Beach International Film Festival: The Redondo Beach International Film Festival is a week-long event that showcases films from around the world. The festival also features a variety of special events, including film premieres, filmmaker panels, and awards ceremonies.
Hours
- Redondo Beach is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
- Lifeguards are on duty from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- The Redondo Beach International Film Festival typically takes place in February or March.
Rules
- No dogs are allowed on the beach between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
- No smoking is allowed on the beach or the pier.
- No alcohol is allowed on the beach or the pier.
- No glass is allowed on the beach or the pier.
- No overnight camping is allowed on the beach.
Attire
Beach attire is acceptable in Redondo Beach. However, it is important to be respectful of others and to avoid wearing revealing clothing.
Swimming Conditions
Redondo Beach has generally good swimming conditions. However, it is important to be aware of the rip currents that can form at the beach. Rip currents are strong currents that can pull swimmers away from the shore. If you are caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current.
Accommodation nearby
- The Portofino Hotel & Spa
- The Redondo Beach Hotel
- The Seaside Inn
- The Best Western Plus Redondo Beach Inn
- The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Redondo Beach Pier
Food and Refreshments
Redondo Beach has a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- The Lobster
- The King Harbor Brewing Company
- The Redondo Beach Pier
- The Redondo Beach Farmers Market
8. Manhattan Beach
Location
Located within the realm of the top beaches in Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach lies in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, California. The cities of Hermosa Beach flank it to the south and Redondo Beach to the north.
Directions to reach
- From the south: Take the 405 Freeway south to the Artesia Boulevard exit. Turn left onto Artesia Boulevard and follow it to Manhattan Beach.
- From the north: Take the 10 Freeway west to the Sepulveda Boulevard exit. Turn south onto Sepulveda Boulevard and follow it to Manhattan Beach.
Transportation
- Manhattan Beach is accessible by car, public transportation, and bicycle.
- There is a small parking lot at the beach, which can fill up quickly during peak season.
- Public transportation to the beach is available on the Metro bus line 109. The bus stop is located on Pacific Coast Highway, a short walk from the beach entrance.
- Bicycles can be parked at the beach entrance.
Highlights
- Manhattan Beach Pier: The Manhattan Beach Pier is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline. The pier is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and amusement rides.
- The Strand: The Strand is a paved bike path that runs along the coast of Manhattan Beach. The Strand is a popular spot for biking, walking, and jogging.
- Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden: The Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden is a 1.7-acre garden that features a variety of plants from all over the world. The garden is a popular spot for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.
- Manhattan Beach Open: The Manhattan Beach Open is a professional beach volleyball tournament that is held annually in Manhattan Beach. The tournament is one of the most prestigious beach volleyball tournaments in the world.
- Manhattan Village: Manhattan Village is an outdoor shopping mall that features a variety of stores and restaurants. Manhattan Village is a popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Hours
- The Manhattan Beach Pier is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. The Strand is open 24 hours a day.
- The Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
- The Manhattan Beach Open typically takes place in August. Manhattan Village is open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
Rules
- No alcohol is allowed on the beach.
- No pets are allowed on the beach.
- No fires are allowed on the beach.
- No camping is allowed on the beach.
Attire
- Manhattan Beach is a public beach, so any beach attire is allowed.
- However, it is important to be respectful of other visitors and to dress appropriately for the weather.
Swimming Conditions
Manhattan Beach has relatively calm waters, making it a good spot for swimming.
However, there can be strong currents and riptides, so it is important to always swim with caution.
Accommodation nearby
- The Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach
- The Sea Sprite Resort
- The Beach House Hotel
- The Manhattan Beach Hotel
- The Hermosa Inn
Food and Refreshments
Manhattan Beach has a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from, including:
- The Arthur J
- The Manhattan Beach Post
- The Kettle
- The Manhattan Beach Pier
- The Manhattan Beach Farmers Market
Tips for Enjoying Los Angeles Beaches
Best Times to Visit for Ideal Weather For Los Angeles
When it comes to enjoying the stunning beaches in Los Angeles, timing is everything. The city’s coastal attractions are a year-round delight, but to make the most of your visit, consider these key points for ideal weather:
- Summer Bliss: If you’re a sunseeker looking for warm weather and vibrant beach scenes, plan your visit during the summer months. The Los Angeles shorelines come alive from June to August with locals and tourists alike. The sun-drenched days and balmy evenings create the perfect atmosphere for beach activities in Los Angeles. Whether it’s surfing, sunbathing, beach volleyball, or simply strolling along the shore, there’s no shortage of things to do in Los Angeles.
- Mild Winters: Remember to appreciate the charm of Los Angeles beaches in the winter. Moreover, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, December to February offers a serene coastal experience. Additionally, you can enjoy long walks along the sandy shores near LA without breaking a sweat.
- Spring and Fall Tranquility: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) bring pleasant weather to the Southern California beach destinations. Additionally, these shoulder seasons offer a perfect balance between comfortable temperatures and fewer visitors. Moreover, it’s an excellent time for a peaceful seaside escape in LA.
- Avoiding Crowds: To avoid the peak tourist crowds, consider visiting the popular beaches near Los Angeles on weekdays or early mornings. This way, you can relish the oceanfront spots in LA without the hustle and bustle.
Parking and Transportation Options in Los Angeles
Navigating the traffic and parking in Los Angeles can be a challenge, but with these transportation tips, you’ll have a smoother journey to the sandy shores:
- Public Transportation: Consider using the Los Angeles Metro system or bus services to reach the coastal getaways in Southern California. They offer convenience and a chance to avoid parking hassles.
- Rideshare Services: Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available in LA. They can drop you off right at the beach, eliminating parking worries.
- Bike Rentals: Many beachfront areas provide bike rental services. Exploring the beaches on two wheels not only saves you parking trouble but also allows you to soak in the LA coastal scenery at your own pace.
- Arrive Early: If you opt for driving, arrive early in the morning to secure parking spaces, especially during peak season. Beachside parking lots can fill up quickly.
- Parking Apps: Download parking apps like ParkMe or SpotHero to find available parking spots near the best beachfront in Los Angeles. They can also help you plan your parking budget.
What to Bring for a Day at the Top Beach in Los Angeles
A day at the beach in Los Angeles requires some essential items to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. Don’t forget to pack:
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the California sun.
- Swimwear: Pack your swimsuit, towel, and a beach cover-up for quick and easy beach attire changes.
- Beach Essentials: Don’t forget beach chairs, umbrellas, and a cooler stocked with snacks and refreshments.
- Water Activities: If you plan to indulge in water sports, bring along snorkeling gear, surfboards, or boogie boards.
- Entertainment: Pack a beach read, a frisbee, or a beach volleyball for added entertainment during your stay.
Safety and Etiquette For Beaches
Prioritizing safety is essential when enjoying the beaches. Follow these safety precautions and beach etiquette to ensure a fun and secure visit:
- Swim Near Lifeguard Towers: Stick to swimming areas marked by lifeguard towers. Their presence ensures a quick response in case of emergencies.
- Respect Wildlife: Enjoy the coastal wildlife from a distance, but never feed or approach them.
- Stay Hydrated: It’s easy to get dehydrated in the sun; therefore, drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Keep the Beach Clean: Dispose of your trash in designated bins and leave no trace behind. Furthermore, respect the environment by keeping the beaches pristine.
- Follow Local Rules: Be aware of any posted rules and regulations at the beach. Moreover, this includes pet leash laws, alcohol restrictions, and bonfire regulations.
By following these top tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the stunning beaches in Los Angeles while ensuring a memorable and safe experience. Whether you’re seeking sandy shores near LA or exploring oceanfront spots in LA, the city’s coastal beauty will captivate you.
Conclusion
Top beaches in Los Angeles offer serene escapes amidst the urban hustle. From Malibu’s tranquility to Venice’s vibrancy, there’s a spot for everyone. Additionally, Santa Monica boasts family-friendly fun, while El Matador lures adventurers with sea caves. Moreover, Venice’s boardwalk bursts with cultural flair. Whether it’s relaxation or excitement you seek, LA beaches deliver. Furthermore, don’t miss Santa Monica’s iconic pier or El Matador’s hidden coves. Finally, embrace the sun and surf for unforgettable LA memories. Your trip isn’t complete without exploring these coastal gems.
FAQ
Q1. What is the No. 1 beach in Los Angeles?
The No. 1 beach in Los Angeles is Santa Monica Beach.
Q2. What is the most visited beach in Los Angeles?
Therefore, the crown for the most visited beach in Los Angeles goes to Santa Monica Beach.
Q3. What is Los Angeles’s famous beach called?
Choosing just one “famous” beach in Los Angeles is tough; however, two strong contenders come to mind, each with its own unique vibe:
- Malibu Beach
- Venice Beach
