15 Best Beaches in Los Angeles
Imagine a place where the sun kisses the Pacific, where golden sands stretch for miles, and where every sunset paints a masterpiece across the sky. Welcome to Los Angeles, a city synonymous with glamour, innovation, and, perhaps surprisingly, some of the most diverse and breathtaking beaches in the world. Far beyond the Hollywood sign, LA’s coastline offers an unparalleled tapestry of experiences, from dramatic cliff-backed coves to lively, iconic boardwalks.
Whether you’re seeking tranquil solitude, thrilling waves, or vibrant people-watching, the 15 best beaches we’re about to explore promise an unforgettable escape. To truly soak it all in, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April-May or September-October when the weather is glorious, crowds are thinner, and parking is a bit more manageable. Pack your sunscreen, a sense of adventure, and prepare to discover your new favorite slice of Californian paradise.
💰 Travel Cost Overview
| Category | Budget (per night/day) | Mid-range (per night/day) | Luxury (per night/day) |
| Accommodation | $80 – $150 (Hostel/Motel) | $180 – $300 (3-4 Star Hotel) | $400 – $800+ (Boutique/Resort) |
| Food & Dining | $40 – $70 (Fast Casual/Deli) | $80 – $150 (Casual Dining/Varied) | $180 – $350+ (Fine Dining/Gourmet) |
| Transportation | $15 – $25 (Metro/Bus) | $30 – $60 (Rideshare/Partial Car) | $70 – $120+ (Car Rental + Parking) |
| Activities & Attractions | $0 – $20 (Beach access/minimal fees) | $20 – $50 (State Parks/Pier activities) | $50 – $100+ (Guided tours/Private lessons) |
| Total Daily Budget | $135 – $265 | $310 – $560 | $700 – $1370+ |
| Weekly Budget Estimates | $945 – $1855 | $2170 – $3920 | $4900 – $9590+ |
El Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach is a true gem among Malibu’s famed coastline, renowned for its dramatic sea stacks, towering cliffs, and hidden coves. What makes this place truly unique are the striking rock formations that have been sculpted by centuries of wind and waves, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape perfect for photography enthusiasts and romantic strolls. You can expect to descend a steep, unpaved path and staircase to reach the secluded sandy stretches below, where you’ll discover small caves and arches waiting to be explored at low tide.
This beach is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to catch the soft light for photography and avoid the midday crowds. It’s an ideal spot for couples seeking a picturesque escape or solo travelers looking for quiet contemplation and stunning views. While not historically significant in the traditional sense, its natural beauty has made it a popular backdrop for films and photoshoots, adding to its mystique.
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El Pescador State Beach
Just a short distance north of El Matador, El Pescador State Beach offers a similar rugged charm but with an even greater sense of seclusion. This beach is truly special for its quiet, untouched beauty, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the busier LA spots. What you’ll find here are pristine stretches of sand, tide pools teeming with marine life, and picturesque rock formations that invite exploration.
Visitors can spend their time beachcombing for unique shells, observing the diverse ecosystem in the tide pools during low tide, or simply relaxing in the tranquility of the ocean’s rhythm. It’s a fantastic spot for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone desiring a peaceful escape. The best times to visit are during low tide to fully experience the tide pools, and weekdays generally offer more solitude. Its unspoiled nature connects you directly with the raw beauty of the Pacific coastline, a stark contrast to the urban sprawl just miles away.
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Zuma Beach County Park and Westward Beach
Zuma Beach County Park and Westward Beach together form one of Malibu’s largest and most popular beaches, offering a vast expanse of sand perfect for all kinds of beach activities. What makes Zuma truly stand out is its sheer size and accessibility, providing ample space for everyone from sunbathers to serious surfers. You can expect to see families picnicking, volleyball games in full swing, and surfers catching waves further out.
Westward Beach, located at the southern end, is particularly known for its strong surf breaks, attracting experienced surfers, while Zuma’s main stretch is more gentle and family-friendly. This beach is ideal for families, active individuals, and groups looking for a classic California beach day. Its wide, flat sands are perfect for setting up camp for the day. Zuma’s consistent waves and expansive shores have made it a go-to spot for generations of LA beachgoers, making it a quintessential part of the local surf culture.
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Paradise Cove Beach
Paradise Cove Beach is a semi-private oasis that feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, offering a unique blend of exclusive charm and stunning natural beauty. What sets it apart is its iconic pier, the famous Paradise Cove Beach Cafe, and the lush, tropical ambiance that makes it a popular filming location.
Here, you can expect to lounge on comfortable beach chairs provided by the cafe, enjoy delicious seafood right on the sand, or simply wade in the calm, shallow waters perfect for families with young children. It’s an ideal spot for couples seeking a romantic setting, families looking for a relaxed beach day with amenities, or anyone wanting a touch of luxury. The history of Paradise Cove is intertwined with Hollywood, having served as a backdrop for countless movies and TV shows, adding to its allure as a celebrity hotspot and a piece of cinematic history.
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Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Malibu Lagoon State Beach, often referred to as Surfrider Beach, is a legendary spot that perfectly blends natural beauty with vibrant surf culture and historical significance. What makes it unique is its dual personality: a thriving wetland estuary on one side, home to diverse birdlife, and a world-famous surfing break on the other. You can expect to see experienced surfers riding the long, peeling waves that have made this beach iconic, or explore the tranquil lagoon for birdwatching and nature photography.
The Adamson House, a historic Spanish Colonial Revival home and museum, is also located here, offering a glimpse into Malibu’s past. This beach is a must-visit for surfers, birdwatchers, history buffs, and anyone wanting to experience a slice of classic Californian surf culture. Its designation as a World Surfing Reserve underscores its importance in the surfing community, making it a living museum of the sport.
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Abalone Cove Shoreline Park
Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is a true natural wonderland, offering a rugged, dramatic coastline that feels miles away from the urban sprawl. What sets this park apart are its incredible tide pools, sea caves, and a fascinating geological landscape formed by ancient volcanic activity. You can expect to descend winding trails to discover hidden coves, marvel at the diverse marine life revealed at low tide, and explore the captivating rock formations.
The park is also home to two distinct beaches: Abalone Cove and Sacred Cove, each offering unique views and experiences. This spot is perfect for adventurers, nature photographers, families interested in marine biology, and anyone seeking a more active, exploratory beach experience. Its designation as a State Ecological Preserve highlights its importance for conservation, making every visit a chance to connect with untouched nature and learn about coastal ecosystems.
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Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is the quintessential upscale Southern California beach town, embodying a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. What makes it unique is its pristine, wide sandy beach, the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier with its aquarium, and the vibrant, walkable downtown area filled with boutiques and gourmet eateries. You can expect to see locals playing volleyball on the numerous courts, surfers catching waves near the pier, and families enjoying the calm waters.
The pier offers fantastic views, fishing opportunities, and a small, free aquarium that’s great for kids. This beach is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for a clean, active, and slightly more affluent beach experience. Its strong community spirit and dedication to beach volleyball make it a hub for local sports and recreation, contributing to its lively yet laid-back atmosphere.
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Venice Beach
Venice Beach is an iconic, bohemian spectacle that pulsates with an undeniable energy and a truly unique character. What makes this beach special is its world-famous boardwalk, a vibrant tapestry of street performers, artists, fortune tellers, and Muscle Beach bodybuilders. You can expect to witness an eclectic mix of cultures, street art murals, and a bustling atmosphere unlike anywhere else in LA.
Beyond the boardwalk, the expansive sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, while the skate park is a magnet for skateboarders showcasing impressive tricks. This destination is ideal for anyone seeking a lively, unconventional, and culturally rich experience – solo travelers, groups, and those with an open mind will love it. Venice’s history as a counter-culture hub and a haven for artists has solidified its reputation as a place where individuality thrives and the extraordinary is commonplace.
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Leo Carrillo State Beach
Leo Carrillo State Beach offers a rugged, natural beauty that feels authentically Californian, making it a favorite for those seeking adventure and stunning landscapes. What sets it apart are its dramatic sea caves, tide pools, and iconic rock formations like the famous “Arch Rock,” all begging to be explored. You can expect to discover hidden coves, climb through unique rock tunnels, and observe marine life in the tide pools during low tide.
The beach is also remarkably dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs on the north side of the creek, which is a rare find in Malibu. This spot is perfect for active families, nature enthusiasts, photographers, and dog owners. Its designation as a state park ensures its preservation, allowing visitors to connect with the wilder side of the California coast, far from the more developed city beaches.
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Will Rogers State Beach
Will Rogers State Beach, nestled between Santa Monica and Malibu, offers a classic, expansive Southern California beach experience with a relaxed vibe. What makes it unique is its wide, flat sandy expanse, making it ideal for families and casual beachgoers, and its historical connection to the famed cowboy actor Will Rogers. You can expect to find plenty of space for sunbathing, building sandcastles, playing beach games, and enjoying the calm ocean waters.
The beach also features volleyball courts and a paved bike path that connects to Santa Monica and beyond, making it popular for cycling and rollerblading. This beach is perfect for families with children, groups seeking a spacious area for activities, and anyone looking for a laid-back day by the ocean without the intense crowds of more famous spots. Its historical namesake adds a touch of old Hollywood glamour to its otherwise unassuming charm.
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Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica State Beach is arguably Los Angeles’ most iconic beach, instantly recognizable by its famous pier and vibrant energy. What makes it truly special is the Santa Monica Pier, home to Pacific Park amusement park, an aquarium, and a classic arcade, offering entertainment beyond just sand and surf. You can expect to ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic views, stroll along the pier, swim in the ocean, or simply relax on the wide, golden sands.
The beach itself is vast, clean, and bordered by a bustling promenade and bike path. This destination is perfect for families, tourists, and anyone looking for a quintessential California beach experience with plenty of activities. Its historical significance as the western end of Route 66 adds to its legendary status, making it a symbolic landmark as well as a recreational hub.
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Redondo Beach
Redondo Beach offers a classic South Bay experience, centered around its bustling pier and tranquil marina, making it a delightful destination for families and seafood lovers. What makes it unique is the Horseshoe Pier, which curves into the ocean, providing fantastic fishing spots, numerous seafood restaurants, and shops. You can expect to stroll along the pier, watch fishing boats come and go, enjoy fresh seafood, or relax on the wide, clean sands.
The adjacent King Harbor Marina adds to the charm, offering boat tours, paddleboarding, and kayaking opportunities. This beach is perfect for families with young children, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxed beach day with convenient amenities and a focus on fresh catches. Its history as a vibrant fishing village still resonates, providing an authentic coastal community feel.
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Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach embodies the quintessential laid-back, active Southern California beach lifestyle, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. What makes it unique is its lively pier, bustling promenade, and a vibrant nightlife scene that distinguishes it from its South Bay neighbors. You can expect to see people cycling, rollerblading, and jogging along The Strand (the paved beach path), playing beach volleyball, or simply soaking up the sun.
The pier is a popular spot for fishing and sunset viewing, and the surrounding downtown area is packed with casual eateries, bars, and surf shops. This beach is perfect for young adults, active individuals, and anyone looking for a lively beach town with a strong sense of community and plenty of entertainment options after dark. Its consistent waves and active community make it a hub for beach sports and a relaxed social scene.
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Topanga State Beach
Topanga State Beach offers a rugged, natural escape at the very gateway to Malibu, providing a stark contrast to the urban sprawl just moments away. What makes it unique is its location at the mouth of Topanga Canyon, offering stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains meeting the Pacific, and its reputation as a popular local surf spot. You can expect to find surfers catching waves, particularly during good swells, and beachgoers enjoying the scenic beauty.
While not as wide as some other beaches, its natural setting and the backdrop of the canyon provide a tranquil, picturesque environment. This beach is best for surfers, nature lovers, and those seeking a quick, scenic escape without venturing too far into Malibu. Its position marks the dramatic transition from the canyon’s winding roads to the expansive ocean, making it a memorable entry point to the coast.
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Nicholas Canyon County Beach
Nicholas Canyon County Beach, often affectionately called “Zeros,” is a hidden gem in Malibu known for its excellent surfing conditions and a more relaxed, local vibe compared to its bustling neighbors. What makes it unique is its consistent waves, particularly popular with longboarders, and its relatively uncrowded atmosphere, offering a serene alternative to the more famous surf breaks. You can expect to find surfers of all levels enjoying the waves, families enjoying the sandy beach, and divers exploring the underwater reef.
The beach also features a grassy picnic area and restrooms, making it convenient for a full day out. This spot is ideal for surfers looking for reliable waves, families seeking a quieter beach day, and anyone who appreciates a beautiful, less-developed coastal environment. Its reputation as a consistent surf spot has made it a quiet favorite among local wave riders.
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Plan Your Visit
From the dramatic cliffs of El Matador to the lively spectacle of Venice Beach, Los Angeles offers an astonishing array of coastal experiences, each with its own unique charm and allure. You’ve now seen that beyond the glitz and glamour, LA’s beaches provide everything from serene natural escapes and prime surfing spots to bustling entertainment hubs and family-friendly shores. Whether your budget leans towards a luxurious retreat or a thrifty adventure, the diversity of these 15 beaches ensures there’s a perfect stretch of sand waiting for you.
Don’t just dream of the California sun; start planning your epic beach hopping journey today. Remember to factor in parking costs, which are often the main expense, and consider visiting during off-peak times for a more relaxed experience. Embrace the endless summer and discover why LA’s coastline truly is a world-class destination!
