Jul 10, 2024
Our comprehensive list of Southern California beaches unfolds as a vibrant mosaic of sun-soaked havens along the Pacific coastline. From the iconic shores of Malibu to the bustling energy of Long Beach City Beach, each destination carries its own unique charm and allure. Whether you seek the lively atmosphere of Hermosa Beach, the cinematic landscapes of Leo Carrillo State Park, or the coastal poetry of El Matador State Beach with its hidden sea caves, our curated collection invites beachgoers to explore the diverse tapestry of sandy expanses, rolling waves, and picturesque cliffs that characterize Southern California's renowned coastal scene. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of surfing at El Porto Beach, the serene beauty of Point Dume, or the recreational offerings of Dockweiler State Beach, our list is a compass guiding you to the sun-drenched treasures that define this picturesque stretch of the Golden State.
North Beach at Leo Carrillo State Park offers a wide expanse of family and dog-friendly sands in western Malibu, boasting easy beach access with a large linear day-use parking lot right on the shore. Nestled between North Beach and Leo Carrillo’s South Beach, the rocky wonder of Sequit Point unveils tide pools and intriguing sea caves best explored at low tide—an ideal natural playground for children and their parents. With a spectrum of activities ranging from hiking and biking to scuba diving, whale watching, and swimming, coupled with amenities like a campground, lifeguard services, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and captivating caves, Leo Carrillo State Park stands as a multifaceted coastal haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
South Beach at Leo Carrillo State Park, cradled at the convergence of Arroyo Sequit in Western Malibu, beckons adventurers with its unique blend of activities. Popular for hiking, camping, surfing, and tidepooling, this stretch of coastline offers a narrower but dynamic sandy expanse framed by the scenic Sequit Point. With a rich tapestry of amenities, including a campground, lifeguard services, sea caves, and accessible features, South Beach invites exploration and coastal delights in the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains.
El Matador Beach, nestled within Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, stands as a gem on Southern California's coastline, earning its reputation as one of the region's most breathtaking beaches. The clifftop vantage point offers panoramic views, capturing the essence of the kelp forest, deep blue sea, and occasional glimpses of migrating whales. A favorite for weddings and photography, El Matador's expansive shoreline is adorned with massive rocks and secret sea caves waiting to be explored. The beach's parking lot, perched on a bluff with picnic tables, provides convenient access via a staircase, offering both sunbathing and beach exploration opportunities. While amenities are limited, the natural beauty, sea stacks, and sea caves create an idyllic setting for activities such as snorkeling, swimming, cave exploration, and birdwatching, making El Matador a coastal haven for those seeking both serenity and adventure.
Zuma Beach, a sprawling Los Angeles county park facility in Malibu, boasts a vast expanse of shoreline with ample parking spaces reminiscent of a Superbowl event. Stretching about two miles, the main beach at Zuma offers an unobstructed view of the Pacific Coast Highway, contrasting with other Malibu beaches that are lined with homes right up to the high water mark. While lifeguard stations are strategically placed along the shore to ensure safety in the face of strong rip currents, Zuma's gradually sloping beach makes it ideal for leisurely strolls in the surf and afternoon sunbathing. The beach is equipped with sand volleyball courts, picnic areas, restrooms, and concession stands, enhancing the experience for visitors engaging in activities such as surfing, scuba diving, beach walking, and birdwatching.
Point Dume Beach, also known as Dume Cove Beach, is the focal point of coastal beauty within Point Dume State Beach in Malibu. Cradled by the crescent-shaped embrace of Dume Cove, this southeast-facing beach is accessible through a trail traversing a small bluff-top natural preserve and descending a long steep staircase. Popular for scuba diving, tidepooling, beachcombing, and hiking, Point Dume Beach is a nature lover's haven. Its elevated vantage point also makes it a sought-after whale watching spot during the gray whale migration from February through April, offering panoramic views of the beach, Zuma Beach, and the Santa Monica Mountains. With minimal amenities, including tide pools and trails, Point Dume Beach invites exploration and appreciation of its pristine coastal wonders.
Paradise Cove in Malibu beckons beachgoers to its public sands nestled in front of a privately-owned facility bearing the same name. With a Hawaiian-inspired ambiance, the property boasts surfboards, wooden lounge chairs for rent, palm trees, and thatched umbrellas, creating a tropical haven on the shores of Southern California. Beyond the beach's serene sunbathing and swimming opportunities, Paradise Cove serves as an ideal launch point for leisurely walks, unveiling secluded stretches of coastline beneath Malibu mansions to the east and leading to Escondido Beach. Heading west unveils the rugged beauty of steep sandstone cliffs, guiding beachcombers to the shores of Little Dume Beach and Big Dume Beach in Point Dume State Beach. With amenities including a fishing pier, restaurant, restrooms, showers, and beach chair rentals, Paradise Cove offers a coastal retreat blending natural splendor with comfort and leisure.
Malibu Lagoon State Beach is situated at the convergence of Malibu Creek and the ocean, where the creek forms the tranquil Malibu Lagoon, with the beach berm breaching in winter to facilitate tidal flows. This geographical marvel creates a separation between the lagoon beach and the renowned Surfrider Beach. Extending from the lagoon to the iconic Malibu Pier, Surfrider Beach offers a scenic stretch for surfing, sunbathing, walking, birdwatching, whale watching, swimming, and tidepooling. With amenities such as lifeguard services, toilets, trails, a museum, wetlands, picnic tables, and tide pools, Malibu Lagoon State Beach invites visitors to immerse themselves in the coastal beauty and diverse activities it has to offer.
Malibu Surfrider Beach, the cherished sandy expanse and surfing haven nestled between the Malibu Pier and the Malibu Lagoon, lives up to its name with an extensive right-hand break, making it a prime spot for surfing enthusiasts. As part of Malibu Lagoon State Beach, it offers additional parking near the lagoon, just west on Pacific Coast Highway. The beach, equipped with a fishing pier, lifeguard services, restrooms, showers, a volleyball court, and accessible features, beckons visitors to engage in activities such as surfing, fishing, swimming, sunbathing, scuba diving, whale watching, and volleyball in a captivating coastal setting.
Topanga Beach, the nearest Malibu California beach to Los Angeles, graces the eastern Malibu coast next to the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, offering a coveted sandy expanse for beachgoers and surfers alike. The beach's unique shape, coupled with the influence of Topanga Creek, creates a continuous right break, making it a popular spot for surf enthusiasts. With amenities such as lifeguard services, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, Topanga Beach invites visitors to enjoy activities like surfing, scuba diving, sunbathing, and fishing in a picturesque coastal setting.
Sunset Point Beach, also known as Sunset Beach, is the northernmost beach in Will Rogers State Beach, situated in the Pacific Palisades district of Los Angeles. This narrow beach, north of the point at the bottom of Sunset Boulevard, is distinguished by its separation from the rest of the state park, marked by a rocky, sandless stretch. Recognized as an ideal spot for novice surfers, Sunset Point's long right-hand rollers offer beginners a safe and extended ride, particularly conducive to learning on longboards. The southern expanse of the state beach, below Sunset Point, provides additional amenities like volleyball courts and a wider, more typical Southern California sunbathing beach, making it a versatile destination for beach enthusiasts.
Will Rogers State Beach, operated by Los Angeles County, spans the picturesque waterfront of the Pacific Palisades district, offering a wide array of activities along its three-mile stretch. Perfect for sunbathing, walking along the bay shore, and engaging in beach volleyball or bike rides, the southern section features sandy spots with volleyball courts and convenient public parking. The central area showcases sandy segments between short rock jetties, accompanied by a continuous parking lot, while the northern end, known as Sunset Point Beach, near Gladstones Restaurant, is recognized for a well-known gay beach area nicknamed "Ginger Rogers Beach." Amenities include lifeguard services, restrooms, showers, volleyball courts, a paved bike path, and accessible features, making Will Rogers State Beach a versatile and enjoyable destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Santa Monica State Beach's southern portion, situated south of the famed Santa Monica Pier and stretching toward Venice Beach, is a vibrant coastal destination operated by the city of Santa Monica, with lifeguard services provided by Los Angeles County. The beach features several parks and public parking lots south of the pier, offering open fields, sports courts, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a large human-scale chess board. Boasting the original Muscle Beach from the 1930s near the pier, equipped with workout facilities, the area is also traversed by the Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail, attracting cyclists and skaters along its paved path, while numerous volleyball courts dot the expansive sandy shoreline, making it one of the premier and diverse beaches in the Los Angeles area.
The northern stretch of Santa Monica State Beach unfolds as a wide sandy expanse, extending from the Santa Monica Pier to the city border where it meets Will Rogers State Beach. Operated by the city of Santa Monica, the beach continues south of the pier at South Beach, featuring several grass parks that complement the sandy shoreline. This section of the beach offers a range of activities, including biking, volleyball, surfing, swimming, sunbathing, beach walking, and sightseeing, while amenities such as the pier, sport courts, basketball courts, playground, grass park, paved bike path, lifeguard services, picnic tables, restrooms, showers, bike rentals, amusement park, arcade, and restaurants contribute to a dynamic and enjoyable beach experience.
Sorrento Beach, situated as the northernmost stretch of Santa Monica State Beach and merely one mile from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, offers an expansive coastal retreat. Boasting sand volleyball courts, a dedicated bike path, and a playground for children, this beach provides ample recreational opportunities. Activities include beach volleyball, biking, running, swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and beach walking, while amenities such as a paved bike path, restrooms, showers, volleyball courts, and lifeguard services enhance the overall beach experience.
Venice City Beach, situated in the vibrant Venice District of Los Angeles, spans from the Venice Pier to the northern end of the district, bordering Santa Monica. At the heart of Venice Beach lies Muscle Beach, renowned for its outdoor workout facilities and muscle display platform, surrounded by sport courts and a grass park. The area features a large beachfront skatepark, and beyond the Venice Breakwater, surfers navigate waves breaking in both directions. The Venice Beach Boardwalk, or Ocean Front Walk, bustles with street entertainers, creating a lively atmosphere for activities like volleyball, basketball, tennis, skateboarding, biking, surfing, and more. Amenities include a grass park, skatepark, sport courts, restrooms, showers, lifeguard services, and a paved bike path.
Nestled within Marina del Rey, Marina "Mother's" Beach is a serene 12-acre lagoon that offers a tranquil escape within walking distance of most hotels in the area. This family-friendly beach, staffed by lifeguards seasonally, boasts playground equipment, sheltered picnic tables, and convenient access to restrooms. The absence of strong surf makes it an ideal destination for families with young children, earning it the affectionate local nickname, Mother's Beach. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy various activities, including volleyball on the sandy courts, kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals, water yoga classes (by reservation), and beach boot camp classes on select mornings. Picnic tables and coal-powered barbecues are available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing a perfect setting for gatherings and leisurely outings by the water.
Marina Peninsula Beach, often affectionately referred to as "Charlie Beach," is located south of Venice Beach and the Venice Fishing Pier, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Marina Del Rey Harbor. Although technically part of Los Angeles, this picturesque stretch is commonly associated with the adjacent city of Marina Del Rey, which encircles the harbor. This local gem offers a less-touristy atmosphere, making it a favored spot for activities like walking, sunbathing, swimming, surfing, biking, and skating. Amenities at Charlie Beach include lifeguard services, restrooms, showers, paved paths, benches, jetties, and viewpoints, providing a delightful coastal experience for visitors and locals alike.
Situated in front of the Playa Del Rey neighborhood in Los Angeles, Playa Del Rey Beach is a spacious sandy stretch located at the north end of Dockweiler State Beach, south of the Marina Del Rey Harbor entrance, and adjacent to Ballona Creek. This beach is an excellent starting point for beach walks, bike rides, or a game of beach volleyball. Playa Del Rey Beach offers volleyball courts, a lengthy paved bike path known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, and a grass park across the street featuring a children's playground and basketball courts, including the picturesque Del Rey Lagoon. Locals affectionately refer to the north end of the beach as "Toes Beach," a nod to the surfing term for hanging ten (toes) on a surfboard, although the altered surf break after the completion of the Marina Del Rey Breakwater in 1965 diminished its status as a surf destination.
Dockweiler State Beach, located in the Playa Del Rey District of Los Angeles, boasts a shoreline spanning 3.75 miles and is renowned for its unique feature—the Dockweiler Hang Gliding Center. This beach provides a dedicated area for hang gliding practice and training, offering enthusiasts and beginners the opportunity to learn and experience the exhilarating sport. Established by the city, county, and state, the Hang Gliding Flight Training Concession, operated by WindSports International, Inc., facilitates lessons and rentals, making Dockweiler a significant hub for hang gliding activities since the pioneering days of the sport in the 1960s.
Dockweiler State Beach – South Beach, situated near the park's southern "Bluff Parking Lot," offers a spacious expanse perfect for sunbathing and leisurely beach walks. Notably, the beach has gained a distinctive reputation for hang-gliding activities, adding an adventurous element to its tranquil atmosphere. Volleyball courts and the Dockweiler Youth Center enhance the beach experience, creating a well-rounded environment for various recreational pursuits.
El Segundo Beach in El Segundo, California, occupies a limited waterfront area nestled between Manhattan Beach to the south and Playa Del Rey to the north. The beachfront is unique as it stands in the shadow of a large oil refinery, marked by imposing smoke stacks. Despite the industrial backdrop, the beach provides a space for various activities such as biking, skating, volleyball, and leisurely walks, complemented by amenities like lifeguard services, restrooms, showers, and a paved bike path.
Manhattan Beach, the main beach of the city of Manhattan Beach in Los Angeles County, is a bustling two-mile-long stretch renowned for its popularity and vast sunbathing areas. The beach, located between Hermosa Beach and El Porto Beach, draws crowds during weekends and beach events near the iconic Manhattan Pier. With a multitude of sand volleyball courts, LA County lifeguard stations, and access to the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, Manhattan Beach offers a diverse range of activities and amenities, including surfing, swimming, biking, and beachfront dining.
Situated in the El Porto neighborhood of northern Manhattan Beach, California, El Porto Beach is renowned for its larger waves, making it a favorite among local surfers. The sandy stretch hosts volleyball courts for beach sports enthusiasts, while the nearby Marvin Braude Bike Path attracts bikers, skaters, and walkers. With amenities such as lifeguard services, restrooms, and showers, El Porto Beach provides a diverse range of recreational opportunities along the Pacific coast.
Hermosa City Beach stretches along the entire waterfront of Hermosa Beach in LA County, extending from King Harbor Marina in Redondo Beach to 1st Street, marking the boundary with Manhattan Beach. Boasting nearly two miles of sandy coastline, this beach is a favorite for various activities, including sunbathing, volleyball, surfing, swimming, and beachfront biking. With amenities such as the iconic Hermosa Beach Pier, lifeguard stations, restrooms, showers, and a paved bike path, visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and recreational options that make Hermosa City Beach a popular destination.
Redondo County Beach, a 1.5-mile stretch of sandy coastline, encompasses the waterfront of Redondo Beach, CA, beginning near the Redondo Beach Pier and extending southward past homes and condo buildings. The area near the pier and Veterans Park sees a higher concentration of beachgoers, with accessible parking and beach access. Lifeguard stations, a paved bike path (Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail), volleyball courts, and plaques marking Redondo Beach as the birthplace of surfing in California contribute to the diverse recreational offerings along this county-owned and operated beach.
South Redondo Beach, situated between Avenue A and Miramar Park in Redondo Beach, CA, boasts a wide sandy expanse adorned with lifeguard stations and volleyball courts. The beach stretches southward toward Torrance Beach beyond Miramar Park, with the Marvin Braude Bike Path running along its back. Activities such as surfing, biking, skating, walking, running, swimming, windsurfing, and beach volleyball are popular along the shoreline. Parking is available along Esplanade and nearby lettered side streets, with concrete ramps and stairs facilitating easy beach access from the bluff. The adjacent Riviera District in South Redondo offers numerous shops and restaurants for beachgoers to explore.
Seaside Lagoon, nestled adjacent to the Redondo Beach Harbor, is a popular man-made saltwater lagoon providing a delightful escape for families. This chlorinated lagoon, filled with sea water from the nearby steam generating plant, offers a safe environment for swimming and wading, with lifeguards ensuring a secure experience. The facility features a sandy beach, grassy areas, water slides, a snack bar, and playground toys, making it an ideal spot for picnicking and family fun during the summer months.
Torrance Beach, the sole beach in the city of Torrance, California, is a spacious and lengthy sandy shoreline along Santa Monica Bay. Offering activities like sunbathing, surfing, beach walking, and biking on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, Torrance Beach is a scenic destination for both relaxation and recreation. The beach provides ample amenities, including a large parking lot, well-graded ramps, lifeguard services, access to a lengthy bike path, and decent facilities. Torrance Beach is known for being slightly less crowded than its neighboring beaches to the north, such as Redondo, Hermosa, and Manhattan Beach.
Malaga Cove Beach, also known as RAT Beach, is the southernmost stretch of Torrance County Beach and the northernmost sandy beach in Palos Verdes Estates. The unique nickname RAT, standing for "Right After Torrance," reflects its location and separates it from the rocky coves prevalent along the Palos Verdes coastline. Surfers and scuba divers frequent RAT Beach, which offers a quieter sunbathing experience compared to its neighboring beaches, Torrance and Redondo. The beach features lifeguard services, restrooms, and tide pools, making it a versatile destination for various coastal activities.
Bluff Cove, also known as Palos Verdes Cove among local surfers, is a picturesque rocky cove in Palos Verdes Estates, California, offering stunning views from the surrounding bluffs. While lacking a wide sandy beach, it attracts visitors for activities like surfing, tidepooling, beachcombing, and hiking. Accessible from parking spaces on Paseo Del Mar, between Via Almar and Palos Verdes Drive West, this spot is cherished by brave scuba divers and snorkelers exploring its diverse shoreline.
Lunada Bay, nestled in the Palos Verdes Estates area, is a renowned surfing spot, attracting surfers to its challenging conditions. Best suited for experienced surfers due to its demanding waves, the bay is characterized by a strong sense of localism, emphasizing the importance of surfing with someone familiar with the area. Beyond surfing, the rocky beach of Lunada Bay offers opportunities for tidepooling and beachcombing during low tides, providing a unique coastal experience.
In the sun-drenched embrace of San Pedro, California, lies Cabrillo Beach, a coastal haven that whispers tales of exploration and salt-kissed adventures. Named in homage to Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, that daring Portuguese mariner who first danced upon the shores of this golden state, the beach unfolds like a parchment of discovery. Spanning a generous 370 acres, it cradles the eastern point of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, its dual nature revealed in the dichotomy of the inner sanctuary, where tranquil waters caress the shore, and the outer expanse, where the rhythmic pulse of the ocean's heartbeat meets the eager sand. As one stands upon the Cabrillo Beach Pier, surveying the grandeur of the Los Angeles Harbor, the salty breeze whispers secrets of maritime tales. A haven for aqua enthusiasts, the beach beckons with opportunities for swimming, windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, and the silent ballet of scuba diving beneath the surface—a tribute to the intrepid spirit of exploration that Cabrillo himself once embodied.
In the vibrant coastal tapestry of Long Beach, California, the sun-kissed stretch known as Long Beach City Beach unfolds like a welcoming embrace along Ocean Boulevard, stretching from the Belmont Pier to the serene Alamitos Beach at the west end. Affectionately dubbed "Junipero Beach" by locals, a nod to the central parking lot at Junipero Avenue, this south-facing haven captures the essence of seaside leisure. Bluff Park, a verdant expanse overlooking the beach, boasts a pedestrian walking path that meanders from Junipero Ave nearly to the Belmont Pier, offering a tranquil space to savor the ocean's melody. A wide, paved path unfolds along the shore, inviting bicyclists and skaters to weave through the coastal landscape. Long Beach City Beach beckons with a myriad of activities, from the exhilarating dance of kiteboarding to the timeless pleasures of swimming, sunbathing, and the rhythmic cadence of beach walking. Lifeguards stand sentinel over the shores, ensuring safety as beachgoers revel in the amenities—paved bike paths, walking trails, a grassy park, and the convenience of restrooms and showers—a testament to the city's commitment to blending the beauty of the coastline with the practicalities of seaside living.
