Los Angeles is home to some of the most famous coastlines in California. With miles of golden sand, scenic cliffs, and vibrant beach culture, the best beaches in Los Angeles offer something for every traveler.
From lively destinations like Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach to hidden coastal gems in Malibu, the LA coastline is perfect for swimming, surfing, relaxing, and watching spectacular Pacific sunsets.
Whether you’re searching for the best beaches in Los Angeles to swim, family-friendly beaches, or peaceful hidden spots away from crowds, this guide highlights the top coastal destinations around the city.
Quick Overview of the Best Beaches in Los Angeles
| Beach | Best For | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Monica Beach | Iconic attractions | Santa Monica |
| Venice Beach | Boardwalk culture | Venice |
| Zuma Beach | Swimming & space | Malibu |
| El Matador Beach | Photography | Malibu |
| Westward Beach | Scenic cliffs | Malibu |
| Manhattan Beach | Families & volleyball | South Bay |
| Hermosa Beach | Pier & restaurants | South Bay |
Santa Monica State Beach
One of the most famous best beaches in Los Angeles is Santa Monica State Beach.
Located just west of downtown LA, this beach is a must-visit destination for tourists and first-time visitors.
Things to Do
- Visit the Santa Monica Pier
- Ride the Ferris wheel at Pacific Park
- Walk or bike along the beach path
- Watch sunset over the Pacific Ocean
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Santa Monica |
| Best For | Tourists & sightseeing |
| Amenities | Restaurants, bike paths |
Santa Monica is also one of the cleanest beaches in Los Angeles thanks to its well-maintained facilities.
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Venice Beach
Another iconic destination among the best beaches in Los Angeles is Venice Beach, famous for its lively atmosphere.
The Venice Boardwalk is filled with street performers, artists, food vendors, and unique shops.
Highlights
- Muscle Beach outdoor gym
- Venice Skatepark
- Street art murals
- Venice canals nearby
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Venice |
| Best For | Entertainment & people watching |
Venice Beach captures the creative and eclectic spirit of Los Angeles.
Zuma Beach (Malibu)
Zuma Beach is often considered one of the best beaches in Los Angeles to swim.
Located in Malibu, Zuma offers a long stretch of sand with excellent water quality and lifeguard stations.
Activities
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Beach volleyball
- Picnics
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Malibu |
| Best For | Swimming |
| Parking | Large public lots |
Because of its wide shoreline and clean water, Zuma is also among the cleanest beaches in Los Angeles.
El Matador State Beach
For dramatic scenery, El Matador State Beach is one of the most photogenic best beaches in Los Angeles.
This small Malibu beach features sea caves, towering rock formations, and stunning sunsets.
Highlights
- Sea caves and rock arches
- Photography spots
- Romantic sunset views
- Tide pools
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Malibu |
| Best For | Photography & sunsets |
El Matador is especially popular with photographers and couples.
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Westward Beach
Located near Point Dume, Westward Beach offers dramatic scenery and peaceful surroundings.
It’s one of the most scenic best beaches in Los Angeles for nature lovers.
Things to Do
- Whale watching during migration
- Hiking coastal trails
- Surfing
- Relaxing away from crowds
Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is one of the best beaches in Los Angeles for families.
Located in the South Bay, the area offers a relaxed local atmosphere and beautiful views.
Things to Do
- Walk along Manhattan Beach Pier
- Play beach volleyball
- Bike along The Strand
- Visit local cafes and restaurants
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South Bay |
| Best For | Families & local vibe |
Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach is another fantastic choice among the best beaches in Los Angeles.
It’s known for its lively pier area and relaxed beach-town atmosphere.
Activities
- Walk or bike along The Strand
- Surf and paddleboard
- Visit beachfront restaurants
- Enjoy sunset views
Mother’s Beach (Marina del Rey)
Mother’s Beach is one of the safest best beaches in Los Angeles for families.
Unlike ocean beaches, this protected lagoon offers calm wave-free water.
Features
- Playground
- Picnic areas
- Kayaking
- Safe swimming for children
Hidden & Quiet Beaches in Los Angeles
If you want to avoid crowds, these are great hidden gems among the best beaches in Los Angeles:
Will Rogers State Beach
A quieter alternative to Santa Monica with wide sandy shores.
Carbon Beach
Also called “Billionaire’s Beach”, this Malibu beach sits behind luxury oceanfront homes.
Playa Del Rey Beach
A peaceful stretch of sand with fewer crowds even on weekends.
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Are There Nude Beaches in Los Angeles?
While there are no officially designated nude beaches in Los Angeles, some remote areas along the Southern California coast occasionally attract clothing-optional visitors.
However, nudity is technically illegal on most public beaches in Los Angeles County.
Best Time to Visit the Best Beaches in Los Angeles
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| Spring | Mild weather and fewer crowds |
| Summer | Best beach weather |
| Fall | Warm ocean temperatures |
| Winter | Dramatic sunsets |
Late summer and early fall are often considered the best times to visit the best beaches in Los Angeles.
Travel Tips for Visiting LA Beaches
To enjoy the best beaches in Los Angeles, consider these tips:
- Arrive early for parking
- Bring sunscreen and water
- Check surf conditions before swimming
- Stay near lifeguard stations
Conclusion
The best beaches in Los Angeles offer everything from iconic boardwalks and lively crowds to peaceful Malibu coves and family-friendly lagoons. Whether you want to explore Santa Monica, watch surfers in Venice, swim at Zuma Beach, or photograph the cliffs of El Matador, the LA coastline provides unforgettable experiences along the Pacific Ocean.