7 Perfect Beaches in Los Angeles You’ve Got to Visit | The Ultimate LA Beach Guide

Ervaring seven world-famous stranden met de Ultieme LA Strandgids. This personal tool helpt je de beste plekken te herkennen, lees reviews, en plan uw year reizen. Zelf vervaardigd om mean minder giswerk, de gids biedt een duidelijke path naar een gemakkelijke, full dag aan zee, of je nu alleen reist of met iemand anders. Je zult views that are wide, vibrant, en perfect om herinneringen vast te leggen die Toon op het scherm, als een movie moment, voor jezelf en voor anderen.

Elke halte onthult een andere sfeer - van het drukke playa Naar Kinney cove en andere plekken met getijdenwerking pools en brandschoon zand. Sommige stranden voelen bijna laid-back en klassiek, terwijl andere pulseren met culture en massa's surfers. Je zult corona-zonsondergangen, helder water en kleurringen opmerken die een verbluffend vista standpunten die je met je meeneemt. Dit hoofdstuk laat je what te doen en hoe te easily de kustlijn verkennen, zodat je de leukste herinneringen voor jezelf en je vrienden kunt vastleggen.

De route gaat vervolgens naar Kinney en zijn cove and the nearby inlaat, with reefs die uitnodigen diving en memorabele momenten die een verhaal vertellen. Voor them, er zijn restrooms en strandwachten aanwezig, en campingmogelijkheden voor gezinnen die langer willen blijven. Deze kust is popular for paddle sport en casual games op het zand, en het voelt bijna als een movie set tot leven komen.

Voor een werkelijk zorgeloos verblijf, overweeg Marriott of Hyatt eigenschappen die brengen luxe comfort en gemakkelijke toegang tot de stranden. De gids wijst je naar areas met voldoende parkeergelegenheid, maar geeft je ook tips om de drukste crowds; je zult ze nog steeds ontmoeten many friendly people en someone wie houdt van de kust, hoewel je misschien ook de voorkeur geeft aan een rustiger stuk. Als je de dag simpel wilt houden, probeer dan een paddle along the inlaat of een snelle trip naar een nabijgelegen playground voor kinderen, met een knusse vreugdevuur nacht op een strand achteraf.

Deze gids is jouw personal metgezel die je vertelt what om in te pakken, nodig te weten, en during welke uren elke plek het beste zijn. Het omvat restrooms, netten aan de kust, en de parts van de kust waar je kunt stretch uw dag en take geweldige foto's die Toon de kust views from a truly laid-back perspective. If you’re traveling with someone, you’ll find favorite beaches that feel close to home yet offer an eiland escape, even during peak season.

7 Perfect Beaches in Los Angeles You’ve Got to Visit – The Ultimate LA Beach Guide; Los Angeles Beaches for Families

The santa Monica Beach offers sunny days and clear water along a wide, mostly calm shore that is ideal for families. A long, open stretch invites kids to bike, build sandcastles, and play while parents keep an eye on the water. You’ll find basketball spots along the boardwalk, and city programs offer activities for locals and visitors alike. Lifeguard stands mark safe zones along the shore, and the vista toward the pier showcases iconic California coastlines, a great state landmark, and a lively, open atmosphere. Budget-friendly lodging options are nearby, and several hotels near Marriott properties place you within easy reach of the beach. Early mornings are calm and the currents are mild, making it a good place to start a multi-day plan before heading to other spots on your list. On some days, dolphins surface offshore.

Venice Beach blends a family-friendly sandy area with a vibrant, active boardwalk that still feels welcoming to kids. The beach itself is wide and mostly safe for little ones, with spots perfect for sand play and easy access to snack stands. The locals create a unique vibe of art, street performances, and oceanfront fun, while the nearby canals and palm-lined streets offer a scenic vista for photos. On sunny days, the mood is lively and colorful, yet there are quiet corners where families can sit by the water and keep a close eye on the children. Parking can be challenging on weekends, but there are plenty of budget-friendly eats and parks within a short walk of the sand.

zuma Beach in Malibu offers great stretches of sand with ample space for families to spread out. The northern Malibu section tends to be sunny and has wide, open parking areas and relatively calm water during many days. Dolphins can be seen offshore on good days, enhancing the feel of a true California beach day. The area is renowned for its cleanliness and clear water, with lifeguard stands and a few snack cones lining the road. If you want to combine beach time with a nearby campground, zuma sits near places where you can stay overnight without breaking the budget, making it a perfect day trip for families and fans of the open coast.

surfrider Beach in Malibu is a world-renowned spot that offers a mix of gentle areas for kids and more active breaks for aspiring young surfers. The long coastline provides plenty of space for families to spread out, while lifeguard stands and clear safety guidelines help you feel secure while your kids practice in the shallower water. The Surfrider Foundation runs programs that teach ocean safety and conservation, adding a learn-before-you-learn experience to your day. The area around Surfrider Beach has a friendly, open vibe, with lots of beach grass and light breezes that keep the day comfortable. After a day here, you’ll notice the feeling of a California coastline that is both iconic and welcoming to families.

el Matador Beach offers a more intimate and scenic option with rugged cliffs, tide pools, and stunning photo opportunities. It is a unique spot that feels like a private cove even on busy days, though access involves stairs and uneven surfaces, so it’s best for families with older kids. The clear water and dramatic rock formations create memorable views, and a small nearby lot makes parking manageable when you arrive early. This area is part of the broader Malibu coastline and is often quieter than the bigger beaches, making it a nice contrast if you want a calmer, early-day beach experience before heading to the next town.

manhattan Beach offers a classic family day with a gentle surf, a long sandy pedestrian-friendly strand, and a renowned pier that hosts weekend markets and events. The water is typically calm enough for beginners, while the tennis courts, volleyball nets, and bike paths provide active options for older kids. You’ll find plenty of spots for a picnic, and the nearby town has a friendly, beach-town feel that locals and visitors alike enjoy. The area remains budget-friendly with a range of eateries and rental options, and the sunsets here are famous for their warm light across the water. If you want a straightforward, well-rounded beach day, manhattan Beach is a reliable choice.

belmont Beach in Belmont Shore, Long Beach, offers a harbor-side alternative with calmer currents, a family-friendly ambiance, and lots of kid-safe spaces near the water. The promenade is full of shops and casual spots for snacks, and you can find direct access to playgrounds and grassy areas where kids can run around. The area near the Belmont Pier provides a nice vista over the water and is known for great sunsets and a relaxed state of mind, which helps families feel comfortable as they explore. You can plan open, budget-friendly days here, and locals often say that the calm water and long promenades make this spot ideal for a second or third beach day in a row.

Santa Monica Beach: Parking, stroller access, and family-friendly Pier activities

Santa Monica Beach sits on the western edge of california, surrounded by palm-lined streets and iconic spots that have welcomed visitors for years. The long stretch of sand and gentle shores feels like paradise, a favorite getaway for familys and travelers alike. This area offers a personal, kid-friendly atmosphere with compelling parking options and a lively promenade that sits at the center of the coast, connecting the beach to the pier.

Parking near the beach comes in several options: city lots, meters and structures within a short walk of the sand. For stroller access, use the broad boardwalk and the flat promenade that runs along the water. If youve planned a stay at the marriott, you’ll appreciate the easy access, and this is especially convenient on busy times or weekends. You’ll also find some spots that sit just a few steps from the side of the water, making the trip smoother before the kids tire. The whole area is a short drive away from downtown, which makes it a convenient choice when you need to balance time between the beach and other california adventures.

Santa Monica Pier is the center of family activity. There are amazing kid-friendly spots: rides at Pacific Park, an arcade, and occasional street performances. Shop souvenirs at the stalls along the pier and grab delicious bites from vendors. The vibe is a family getaway and one of my favorite places on the coast. santa Monica itself adds a touch of magic to the whole experience, and Kinney called the area a gateway to the beach for many visitors.

Walking along the strand, you’ll see a surfer and, when conditions allow, windsurfing. The area is surrounded by lifeguard towers and easy access to kinney and other streets that lead through lively neighborhoods. Currents can change with the tides, so the first rule is to stay in flagged zones. For a picture-perfect moment, stand on the west side of the pier to capture the line of the horizon. On clear days you may even catch a glimpse of the malibus along the distance. you should always check current conditions before entering the water.

Reviews from travelers show that Santa Monica is mostly a kid-friendly and safe choice for a short or long stay. This spot offers a table to sit at and share a delicious snack, and it’s easy to plan a trip that fits your schedule. Some visitors come before or after exploring other california places, and many leave with a sense of paradise. Kinney and the pier area remain popular, because they combine scenery, accessibility and a true beach-town vibe across times of the year.

That’s the vibe that makes this place a favorite for both locals and visitors. If youve been, you know the pull of the coastal air, the wind in your hair, and the chance to hang out with family on a sunny day. Youll love the vibe, and Santa Monica offers a personal, kid-friendly, picture-worthy experience that many california places dream of along the california coast. The sunsets, the delicious snacks, and the easy parking, plus the center of activity, create a memorable stay that has kept travelers coming back for years.

Venice Beach: Boardwalk safety, bike rentals, and kid-approved snack stops

Venice Beach’s boardwalk pulses with music, street art, and a vibe that feels unique. Before you head out, map your plan with kids in mind and note the areas with the most crowds. The village and beachfront stretch stay lively on weekends, and the overall scene is cute and welcoming. Youre going to see a mix of performers, shops, and locals, and you can literally feel the energy around you. Remind yourself to stay together, keep an eye on the time, and plan a snack break so the day stays fun rather than exhausting.

Boardwalk safety and awareness: stay in the marked lanes, hold your kids’ hands near the steps, and watch strong currents and tidepools that can surprise you near the water. Crowds can surge around street performers and basketball courts, so keep to your path and avoid weaving through groups. If you want a sunset shot, head to the north end where the crowds thin a bit and you can catch a quiet moment by the ocean. Surfrider guidelines remind you to stay with your group and respect the space of others; always have a plan B if someone wanders off or a stroller gets stuck in a crowd. Some areas are more crowded than others, so choose your routes accordingly.

Bike rentals and family mobility: several rental shops line the boardwalk, offering bikes, roller, and kid-friendly seats. If youre planning a weekend ride, reserve bikes ahead, check the helmet fit, and pick a pace that lets everyone enjoy the scenery. The north end near belmont and hyatt areas has convenient options, and some shops offer quick lessons for beginners. A sturdy bike lets you explore without tiring quickly, and you can cruise along the water line while staying out of pedestrian traffic. Take care with sidewalks and the ramped access to the sand, so you can return the bike without trouble.

Kid-approved snack stops: around the boardwalk you’ll find cute snack stands and a small table where you can grab a snack to refuel. Look for kid-friendly options like fruit cups, yogurt, pretzels, and smoothie bowls. Some stalls are filmed by visitors and become popular for a quick picture to post on instagram. Bring napkins, a water bottle, and a shaded spot away from the heat so you can rest before the next stretch. A good snack stop makes the day much nicer and keeps the vibe friendly and relaxed.

Planning your Venice Beach weekend getaway: start early, plan a safe route, and map out a dream day that includes a boardwalk stroll, a kid-friendly bike ride, and a snack break. The north section has some luxury options and many stylish corners, yet the core vibe remains casual and approachable. Always stay with someone and keep the kids close; if someone needs help, ask a vendor or lifeguard. This is a place where many choose to unwind, and with proper planning you can avoid long waits and crowded spots. Instagram-worthy views await around every bend, and you can literally capture a huge smile as you pose for a picture. This experience can become part of memories for years to come.

Seasons, seals, and safety: if you stay mindful of currents and wildlife, your Venice Beach time can be safe and amazing for the whole family. Look for a small, clean area to regroup, grab a snack at a nearby table, and plan a quick photo before you head back to your hotel or home. The weekend vibe can feel like a dream getaway when you balance activity with rest, and you may spot a seal near the tidepools. Whether you come for a short visit or a longer stay, Venice Beach offers a unique experience for kids and adults alike, with homes, shops, and endless views along the coast.

Malibu Surfrider Beach: Beginner surf lessons, calm surf zones, and lesson providers

Located on the Pacific coast, Malibu Surfrider Beach offers a classic backdrop for traveling visitors and for yourself to learn. The strand runs along a waterfront corridor between the village and the marina, with lifeguards on duty and dolphins often visible offshore. It even has a movie vibe, with kinney maps and plenty of spots to start exploring, making it nice for travelers who want to look at the coast and enjoy the laid-back vibe.

Beginner-friendly surf lessons at Malibu Surfrider Beach use calm surf zones designed for first-timers. Lesson providers run programs with certified coaches who emphasize safety, balance, and proper pop-ups. Rides start in the whitewater and progress to longer rides as you gain confidence, often with coach kovalenko leading the session.

Lesson providers along the strand offer several programs tailored for beginners. Look for group and private sessions, beginner-to-intermediate progression, and flexible scheduling including evenings. Many programs partner with nearby cafés to give you a quick snack after a session; a typical setup includes equipment rental, wetsuit if needed, and a safety briefing before entering the water. The caliber of instruction varies, so read reviews and compare at least three options before booking.

Family-friendly and safety-first, the area welcomes younger surfers and first-timers alike. Lifeguards are on duty, and coaches line up in a neat line to demonstrate popping up on the board. The warm sand, shade from umbrellas, and the chance to spot caves and dolphins along the coastline make this feel like a small seaside village in the glow of evening light. After your session, pick up souvenirs from nearby shops and stroll the waterfront for a sunset view, perhaps catching stars in the night sky as the tide rolls in.

Getting there and planning: check hours of operation for the surf schools, as schedules vary by season. Parking can fill quickly on weekends, so arrive early or use transit from nearby garages. The area around the marina and village provides lots of options for grab-and-go meals at cafés or casual restaurants. If you’re staying in the area, you might find a nearby hyatt-branded property or a campground where you can rest before or after your session. Then you can head back to the sand to explore more spots or head toward the final calm stretch of the strand for a sunset ride.

Final notes: start with a fresh mindset and take your time to enjoy the process. Malibu Surfrider Beach offers a chance to look back on your progress as you move with each ride, and the experience is often described as relaxing, contemplative, and unforgettable. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, this destination invites exploration, personal growth, and memories that last beyond the wave rides. A nearby roller path offers a playful post-session option.

El Matador Beach: Access routes, tide timing, and photo-friendly viewpoints

El Matador Beach sits along the Malibu coastline with dramatic cliffs, sea arches, and a narrow sandy stretch that makes every visit feel like a world-class photo opportunity. The access is through bluff-top parking lots, followed by a short set of steps or a cliff-side path down to the sand. The area is popular for surfing, walking, and quietly enjoying the scenery, but the currents can be strong and waves may rise quickly, so stay mindful of water edge conditions and never turn your back on the ocean. Since the terrain is uneven and there are steps, wear sturdy shoes and allow extra time to reach the front of the beach, especially on windy days.

1. Toegangsroutes
   • North entrance: Park in the bluff parking area on the north side, then descend a short, marked set of steps to the sand. The view from this side is wide, with the arch formations framing the water for excellent wide-angle shots.
   • South entrance: A bluff-side trail leads to another set of steps that descend toward the cove. This route is longer and slightly steeper, but it offers a different composition with rock textures and a quieter feel when crowds move along the front of the beach.
   • Alternate routes: From nearby beachs such as Dockweiler and Belmont, you can walk the coastal bluff to reach the head of El Matador, then follow the designated paths down to the shore. This option is great for days when you want to stretch your legs and gather multiple viewpoints into one visit.
   • Park and hours: Parking is in bluff lots rather than a large lot, and front hours are limited by local regulations; check posted signage before arriving. Overnight isnt allowed, so plan a daytime visit and head back before dark. Always recognize posted rules and stay on marked paths to protect the fragile coastal habitat.
2. Tide timing
   • Tide awareness: Tide timing changes daily, so always check a current tide table before you go. Low tide provides a wider strip of sand and better access to cave entrances and rock tables for photos.
   • Currents and safety: Winds and currents can be strong, especially during windy periods; stay well back from the water’s edge when waves are breaking near the rocks. If you hear a noticeable roar or feel spray, that’s a sign to step back and reassess.
   • Sun and light: For best light, plan around the early morning or late afternoon hours. The front of the beach faces the ocean, so you’ll catch soft, warm light on the grey-blue water and cliff faces, which is ideal for dramatic silhouettes.
   • Planning tips: Build a small table of times and lookout points to optimize your days. Always bring a headlamp or flashlight if your visit stretches toward dusk, and remember that after dark the area becomes difficult to navigate safely.
3. Photo-friendly viewpoints
   • North bluff overlook: From the north access, shoot toward the sea with the lighthouse-like rock formations in the distance. Use a wide lens to include the curved shoreline and the water’s motion for a dynamic frame that feels like a world away, plus a sense of scale.
   • Center cave and arch: On low to mid tides, the sea arches are accessible from the sand and provide a natural foreground that leads the eye toward the open water. A wide angle here captures both the textures of the rocks and the depth of the beach.
   • Rots-tafel voorgronden: Een opvallende rots-tafel nabij de kustlijn biedt een natuurlijk platform voor een interessante voorgrond. Composeer met de boog of een verre golf om een sterke leidraad voor je compositie te creëren.
   • Zuidelijke uitkijkpost: Het zuidelijke pad biedt een ander perspectief op dezelfde kenmerken, waardoor het makkelijker is om silhouetten bij zonsopgang of de gloed van de ondergaande zon tegen de kliffen te fotograferen. Het uitzicht hier is geweldig voor lange sluitertijden, waardoor het water als een glad oppervlak wordt weergegeven.
   • Dieren in het wild en activiteiten: Afhankelijk van de dag kun je honden zonder riem in de omgeving tegenkomen of mensen die langs de kust skaten. Let op de dieren in het wild en blijf op de aangewezen paden om alles veilig en respectvol te houden.
   • Maanlicht en vreugdevuren: Op sommige avonden zijn aangewezen vreugdevuren toegestaan nabij de parkeerplaats. Als je na het donker fotografeert, houd dan je ISO laag en pas je aan aan de gloed van nabijgelegen sintels; dit voegt warmte toe aan je foto's en benadrukt de sociale sfeer van de locatie.

Locatie-opmerkingen: El Matador ligt ten noorden van Dockweiler en ten zuiden van de ruigere delen van Point Dume, waardoor het een handige stop is voor een dagje kustverkenning. De nabijheid van de luchthaven maakt dat je in een korte rit van aankomst naar het voorgebergte kunt gaan, maar het gebied behoudt een gezellige, intieme sfeer – een uitstekend contrast met de drukkere stranden aan de wereldberoemde kust. Als je een bezoek plant tijdens marktweekenden of drukke dagen, verwacht dan drukte aan de voorkant, maar de rotsachtige texturen en rustige baaien aan de zuidkant blijven gemakkelijker toegankelijk met minder drukte. Er zijn verschillende dagen dat de wind opsteekt en het geluid van de golven de baai vult met een grijze, stormachtige stemming - perfect voor stemmige fotografie - terwijl andere dagen heldere luchten en warm licht bieden dat uitnodigend en comfortabel aanvoelt. Vergeet niet om op de stromingen te letten, veilig te blijven en altijd de aangegeven regels te volgen; El Matador beloont zorgvuldige planning met opvallende foto's en memorabele momenten.

Manhattan Beach: Strandwachten, picknicks in de schaduw en veilige zwemzones

Manhattan Beach biedt een klassieke stranddag in Zuid-Californië met strandwachten, schaduwrijke picknicks onder bladerdakken en duidelijk gemarkeerde veilige zwemzones langs de oceaan. De kustlijn is bezaaid met palmbomen, kilometers zacht zand en een vriendelijke cultuur die families, jongere bezoekers en individuele reizigers uitnodigt om te blijven en te verkennen.

De voorzieningen omvatten toiletten, douches, vuilnisbakken, fietsenrekken en schaduwpaviljoens, waardoor het een budgetvriendelijke optie is voor een dagje uit. Zelfs op winderige dagen kunt u kalmere plekken vinden in de buurt van beschutte baaien waar kinderen zandkastelen kunnen bouwen en uitkijken naar dolfijnen en vogels voor de kust. Het stille water en de zachte stromingen bieden veel veilige ervaringen voor beginnende zwemmers en nieuwsgierige ontdekkers.

Beschouw Manhattan Beach als een knooppunt voor het verkennen van het dorp langs het strand. Je kunt over de boulevard slenteren, rondhangen met locals en zelfs een arcade-achtig spel proberen bij de marina arcade. Voor een snelle foto, wandel even richting de pier waar klassieke scènes aan zee zich ontvouwen en de sfeer gastvrij aanvoelt voor mensen van alle leeftijden.

De meeste gebieden zijn omgeven door rotsachtige uitlopers, stukjes groen en een prachtig landschap dat je verleidt om te blijven hangen. De kustlijn is vaak de thuisbasis van zeevogels die over het water scheren, en je kunt in de verte dolfijnen spotten. Lokale kunstenaars, waaronder Monica Kovalenko, dragen bij met muurschilderingen en lijnsculpturen in de buurt van het strand, wat een gevoel van cultuur biedt dat je bezoek verrijkt terwijl je de kustlijn en het nabijgelegen dorp verkent.

Let op de volgende tips bij je bezoek: kom vroeg om de drukte te vermijden, breng zonnebrandcrème aan en neem een deken en snacks mee zodat iedereen comfortabel is. Let op de vlaggen van de strandwacht, blijf binnen de beschermde zones en houd zeker jongere kinderen in de gaten. Het is oké om even geen rekening te houden met schema's en gewoon te genieten van de eindeloze zeebries, want de ervaringen hier zijn zeer memorabel en deelbaar met vrienden, familie en vreemden.

Overweeg ook de bredere kustmogelijkheden – Malibu is een klein stukje rijden voor extra kustavonturen, terwijl Hyatt hotels en nabijgelegen accommodaties de opties benadrukken voor een comfortabel verblijf na een lange dag vol ontdekkingen. De wandeling langs de winderige kust voelt als een kleine achtbaanrit – een gestaag ritme van kilometers, frisse lucht en pittoreske momenten die je uitnodigen om te blijven, rond te hangen en plannen te maken voor toekomstige bezoeken.