While many visitors come to Los Angeles for the glitz and glamour of Beverly Hills and its palm tree-lined streets with Hollywood stars, that’s just one of the numerous things that attract tourists to the “City of Angels.”
With a temperate climate, beautiful weather, and too many sunny days to mention, it’s no wonder that the 75 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline, with soft sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, truly defines the iconic SoCal lifestyle.
Tourists from around the world are attracted to LA’s famous shorelines for the sand and surf of its picture-perfect postcard beaches. But with so many options to choose from, it’s very difficult to decide which beach to see first.
So here is our list of ten of the top beaches in LA to get you started:
1. Santa Monica Beach
Located north of the Santa Monica pier, this is one of the most popular LA beaches; with two miles of warm sand, there is lots of space to relax and soak up the rays, or if you are in the mood, there is plenty of beach activities to keep you busy and active all day long.
2. Venice Beach
Famously known as the place to be for people who love watching other people, between the colorful locals, palm readers, chainsaw jugglers, folk artists, or Harry Perry, the famous turbaned guitar-playing guy on rollerblades, you will not be disappointed with this social beachfront paradise.
3. Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach is known for its casual, laid-back hipster vibe not found on other beaches, mainly due to the surrounding seaside community. Enjoy building castles in the sand or relaxing in one of the outdoor cafes during the day and if you need a break from the heat, you must go and check out the always-popular Pier Plaza
4. Manhattan Beach
This busy urban beach always has a lot going on, whether it is at the beautiful beachfront homes along the coast or the beautiful people on the beach. If it’s the glitz and glamour of organized summertime beachfront events and activities that you are interested in, then this beach is a do not miss.
5. Cabrillo Beach
Located on a thin peninsula near Point Fermin by San Pedro. Cabrillo Beach is popular with travelers and families alike due to the tranquil, clean waters as well as the nearby Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and touch tanks. Treat the family here to a wonderful experience that’s enjoyable for all ages.
6. Surfrider Beach
This is the place to go for anyone with a passion for surfing, whether you are a beginner, a pro, or just a curious spectator, the waves are incredible, and the entertainment is unsurpassed.
7. Leo Carrillo State Beach
This is one of the most scenic beaches in Southern California, with rugged caves and interesting rock formations to explore. People come to enjoy tide pooling, scuba diving, or just beachcombing along this beautiful natural oasis.
8. El Matador Beach
A romantic getaway located 10 miles northwest of Malibu, this secluded paradise has rocky cliffs, hidden coves, rolling waves, and crystal-clear water that make it not only a great escape from the city, but also the perfect place to go for remarkable sunset viewing.
9. Zuma Beach
Conveniently located on the east Pacific Coast Highway, the long stretch of pristine waters and soft sands, offers a relaxing experience in the sun while watching dolphins and seals playing in the water nearby. Or you can go for a hike up the adjacent rocky cliffs and be rewarded with stunning panoramic views overlooking the beach below.
10. Point Dume Beach
Set in one of Southern California’s most beautiful stretches of coastline beside a spectacular natural promontory that juts out into the Pacific Ocean at the Point Dune National Reserve on the coast of Malibu, the cove’s pristine crescent-shaped beach faces southeast from the east side of the point. The bluffs above the beach are popular as a vantage point for ocean viewing and some amazing spring whale-watching.
