Best Beaches Near Los Angeles 2026
LA's beaches are world-class and each has its own personality. Here are the best beaches near Los Angeles for 2026.
Santa Monica and Venice
Santa Monica is the anchor of the LA beach scene — a polished, walkable beach city with the famous Santa Monica Pier, the Third Street Promenade shopping area, and a wide, well-maintained beach. The beach at Santa Monica is a broad south-facing arc of fine sand. Venice Beach, immediately south, is the cultural counterpart — the Ocean Front Walk (the famous Venice Boardwalk) with its skate parks, Muscle Beach outdoor gym, street performers, and independent vendors is one of the most distinctive public spaces in California. Both are accessible by LA Metro E Line (Expo Line) from Downtown LA. The best time for beach weather is September-October (the marine layer burns off and temperatures peak).
Malibu
Malibu — 45 minutes north of Santa Monica on PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) — is where the LA celebrity and surf community lives and beaches. The best Malibu beaches include Zuma Beach (the largest and most accessible, with parking and lifeguards), Surfrider Beach (one of the most famous surf breaks in California, at the foot of the Malibu Pier), and El Matador State Beach (a stunning, dramatic cove beach accessible via a cliff staircase, with rock formations and sea caves — the most photographed beach in the LA area). El Matador requires arriving early as the small parking area (approximately 25 spots) fills by 8am on weekends. Car access only for Malibu.
Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach
Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach — approximately 30 minutes south of Santa Monica on PCH — are the most local and least touristy of the LA beach cities, with a strong beach volleyball and surf culture. The Manhattan Beach Pier is a pleasant landmark; the downtown area of both cities has excellent restaurants and independent cafes. The beach at Manhattan Beach is cleaner and less crowded than Santa Monica. The LA Metro C Line (Green Line) connects to the beach cities from the eastern LA basin.
Practical Tips for LA Beaches
The Pacific Ocean along the LA coast averages 16-18 degrees Celsius, even in summer — notably colder than most Australian beaches. Wetsuits are common for surfing year-round. Red Flag conditions (high surf, dangerous rip currents) are posted by LA County Lifeguards at beach entrances — respect these. Parking at all major LA beach lots is paid on weekends and peaks at USD 15-20 per day; arrive before 9am for spots. Sunscreen is essential year-round (California UV index peaks at 10+ in July-August even through the marine layer).
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