The guide to eight great beaches in L.A.
Los Angeles is the best city to experience the quintessential endless summer in Southern California. We rounded up eight of the best beaches in LA, from Malibu to the South Bay.
The Getaway: Leo Carrillo State Beach
Located in Malibu 28 miles north of Santa Monica on Pacific Coast Highway, Leo Carrillo State Park offers a beach that stretches for more than a mile, dotted with sea caves, tide pools and other beach-combing delights. The park is named after the actor and preservationist who served on the California Beach and Parks Commission for 18 years. A small visitor center offers interpretive displays, as well as guided nature walks and campfire programs. Picnic areas, campsites and RV facilities are also located in the park, so if you're looking to set up shop for a while and enjoy the scene, this might be the perfect spot.
35000 W Pacific Coast Hwy
Malibu, CA 90265
The Hopeless Romantic: El Matador Beach
Depending on how hard you try, you might be able to find a more romantic experience in LA, but you'll be hard-pressed to find a more romantic beach than El Matador. Located about 10 miles northwest of Malibu, this secluded pocket beach has rocky shores, robust waves and some of the clearest water in LA. But don't be deterred by the lack of facilities or the rugged path to the shore; once there, you'll find that it's the perfect place to enjoy a sunset dinner in one of the hidden coves.
32100 Pacific Coast Hwy
Malibu, CA 90265
The Surf Spot: Malibu Surfrider Beach
When it's time to get out the surfboard, apply a new coat of wax and zip on the wetsuit, there’s no better place to be than Surfrider Beach in Malibu. As the waves roll in and begin to curl near the shore, surfers paddle furiously to catch those perfect waves of ocean bliss. You don’t have to be an experienced surfer to appreciate the act of surfing, the cool vibe at the beach or the toned bodies of the surfers. In fact, sometimes it's better to just be a spectator when the crowds get hectic and you're fighting to catch a wave.
23050 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Malibu, CA 90265
The Classic Stretch of Sand: Santa Monica Beach
Located just north of the historic Santa Monica Pier, this is one of the most popular beaches in LA. At two miles long, Santa Monica Beach seems to go on forever and offers plenty of space to stretch the legs, set up for a game of volleyball, or go for a bike ride. Bring the sunscreen, a little cash for parking and a beach towel or blanket. Let the sun, sand and surf do the rest.
380 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
