Top 10 Public Beaches in Los Angeles (Summer 2024)

Los Angeles, renowned for its vibrant city life and star-studded allure, also boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. From iconic surf spots to tranquil family-friendly shores, LA’s beaches offer a diverse range of experiences for every type of beachgoer. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 10 public beaches in Los Angeles, highlighting their unique features, activities, and amenities.

1. Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is perhaps the most famous beach in Los Angeles, known for its iconic pier, bustling atmosphere, and picturesque sunsets. This beach stretches for 3.5 miles along the Pacific Ocean, offering a quintessential LA experience with a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for guests. Visitors are drawn to its wide, sandy shores that provide ample space for sunbathing and recreational activities. The Santa Monica Pier, with its historic carousel and Pacific Park amusement park, is a hub of entertainment that delights both children and adults. The beach is also home to a variety of dining options, from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants, making it an ideal spot for a full day of fun and relaxation.

Features

• Santa Monica Pier: Home to Pacific Park, an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and various arcade games.
• Bike Path: The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as The Strand, runs for 22 miles along the coast, perfect for biking, rollerblading, or walking.
• Volleyball Courts: Numerous beach volleyball courts are available for public use.
• Lifeguard Stations: Regularly spaced lifeguard towers ensure a safe swimming environment.

Activities

• Swimming and sunbathing
• Surfing and paddleboarding
• Dining at beachfront restaurants
• Shopping at the nearby Third Street Promenade

Hours and Fees

• This beach is located along Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica
• Open daily from dawn to dusk
• Free access to the beach; parking fees vary by lot and duration

2. Venice Beach

Venice Beach is a cultural hotspot famous for its bohemian spirit, vibrant boardwalk, and eclectic crowd. This beach is as much about people-watching and street performances as it is about sun and surf. The Venice Boardwalk is a lively promenade filled with street vendors, performers, and unique shops, creating a colorful and dynamic atmosphere for visitors. Muscle Beach, an outdoor gym where fitness enthusiasts showcase their strength and skills, adds to the beach's distinctive character. The iconic skate park attracts skateboarders from around the world, while the graffiti walls provide a canvas for street artists to display their creativity. Venice Beach offers a truly unique experience that reflects the diverse and artistic nature of Los Angeles.

Features

• Venice Boardwalk: A lively promenade with street vendors, performers, and eclectic shops.
• Muscle Beach: An outdoor gym where fitness enthusiasts showcase their strength and skills.
• Skate Park: A popular spot for skateboarders, featuring a variety of ramps and bowls.
• Graffiti Walls: Designated areas for street art, adding a colorful backdrop to your beach day.

Activities

• Rollerblading and biking along the boardwalk
• Watching street performers and artists
• Playing basketball at the Venice Beach courts
• Enjoying the local cuisine from food trucks and cafes

Hours and Fees

• Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Free access to the beach; parking fees apply in nearby lots

3. Malibu Surfrider Beach

Malibu Surfrider Beach, located near the Malibu Pier, is a paradise for surfers. Known for its long right-hand break, this beach attracts surfers from around the world, as well as those looking to enjoy the serene coastal views. The Malibu Pier offers a charming spot for fishing, dining, and taking in the scenic beauty of the coastline. Surfrider Beach is also popular among paddleboarders and beachgoers who appreciate its clean sands and clear waters. This public LA beach provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to connect with nature and the ocean.

Features

• Malibu Pier: Offers fishing, dining, and scenic views of the coastline.
• Surfer-Friendly Waves: Consistent waves make this beach ideal for both beginner and experienced surfers.
• Beautiful Scenery: Pristine sands and clear waters provide a picturesque setting for beachgoers.

Activities

• Surfing and paddleboarding
• Fishing off the pier
• Dining at Malibu Farm Pier Cafe
• Sunbathing and beachcombing

Hours and Fees

• This beach is located at 23050 & 23200 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
• Open daily from sunrise to sunset
• Free access to the beach; parking fees apply

4. Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach is a pristine, upscale beach known for its cleanliness, excellent surfing conditions, and the charming Manhattan Beach Pier. This beach offers a refined coastal experience, with its well-maintained sands and picturesque surroundings. The Manhattan Beach Pier features the Roundhouse Aquarium, which provides educational exhibits about marine life, making it a great destination for families. The beach is also famous for its beach volleyball courts, which host the annual Manhattan Beach Open, a premier beach volleyball tournament. With its vibrant dining scene and boutique shops, Manhattan Beach offers a perfect blend of leisure and luxury.

Features

• Manhattan Beach Pier: A historic pier with an aquarium at the end, offering educational exhibits and stunning views.
• Beach Volleyball Courts: Hosts the annual Manhattan Beach Open, a premier beach volleyball tournament.
• Cleanliness: Regularly maintained and considered one of the cleanest beaches in LA.

Activities

• Surfing and bodyboarding
• Playing beach volleyball
• Exploring the Roundhouse Aquarium
• Dining at oceanfront restaurants

Hours and Fees

• This beach is located at 400-4500 The Strand, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
• Open daily from dawn to dusk
• Free access to the beach; metered parking available

5. Zuma Beach

Zuma Beach in Malibu is known for its wide sands, excellent water quality, and family-friendly atmosphere. Spanning nearly two miles, Zuma Beach offers plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy a day by the ocean. The beach is renowned for its clean waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and bodyboarding. With numerous lifeguard stations, Zuma Beach provides a safe environment for families and solo swimmers to relax and have fun. This public LA beach's natural beauty and open space make it a favorite destination for picnics, beachcombing, and wildlife watching, including dolphins and seabirds.

Features

• Spacious Sands: Plenty of room for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy.
• Clean Waters: Frequently rated as having some of the best water quality in LA.
• Lifeguard Stations: Numerous lifeguard towers ensure safety for swimmers.

Activities

• Swimming and bodyboarding
• Picnicking in designated areas
• Beachcombing and sunbathing
• Wildlife watching, including dolphins and seabirds

Hours and Fees

• This beach is located at 30000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265
• Open daily from sunrise to sunset
• Free access to the beach; parking fees apply

6. El Matador Beach

El Matador State Beach is a hidden gem located north of Malibu, famous for its dramatic rock formations, sea caves, and secluded coves. This LA beach offers a unique and picturesque setting that is perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking a more intimate beach experience. The rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops create a stunning landscape that is particularly beautiful during sunset. El Matador Beach is notably less crowded than other LA beaches, providing a tranquil and serene environment. Visitors can explore the sea caves and tide pools during low tide, adding an element of adventure to their beach day.

Features:

• Scenic Beauty: Rugged cliffs and unique rock formations create a stunning landscape.
• Sea Caves: Natural caves to explore during low tide.
• Seclusion: Less crowded than other LA beaches, offering a tranquil setting.

Activities:

• Exploring sea caves and tide pools
• Photography and nature walks
• Sunbathing and picnicking
• Romantic beach strolls

Hours and Fees:

• This beach is located at 32220 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
• Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset
• Free access to the beach; parking fees apply

7. Dockweiler State Beach

Dockweiler State Beach is known for its long shoreline, ample amenities, and unique feature of being located under the flight path of LAX, making it a fascinating spot for plane spotting. This beach boasts a wide range of activities and facilities, including a dedicated RV park, numerous fire pits for cozy beach bonfires, and opportunities for hang gliding from nearby bluffs. The beach's proximity to LAX provides a unique backdrop for beachgoers, who can watch planes take off and land while enjoying the sand and surf. Dockweiler State Beach is an ideal destination for families and groups looking to spend a fun and active day by the ocean.

Features

• RV Park: One of the few beaches in LA with a dedicated RV camping area.
• Fire Pits: Numerous fire pits available for beach bonfires.
• Proximity to LAX: Offers a unique experience of watching planes take off and land.

Activities

• Swimming and sunbathing
• Beach bonfires
• RV camping
• Hang gliding from nearby bluffs

Hours and Fees

• This beach is located at 12000 Vista del Mar, Playa del Rey, CA 90293
• Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Free access to the beach; parking fees apply

8. Will Rogers State Beach

Will Rogers State Beach offers a quieter, more relaxed beach experience compared to its bustling neighbors. Located near Pacific Palisades, this beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, clean sands, and calm waters. The beach is named after the famous actor and humorist Will Rogers and provides a serene setting for picnics, beach sports, and leisurely strolls. The beach is equipped with volleyball courts, playgrounds, and a bike path that connects to Santa Monica and Venice, making it a versatile destination for a variety of activities. Will Rogers State Beach is perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day by the ocean without the large LA crowds.

Features

• Gentle Waves: Ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.
• Ample Parking: Large parking lots ensure easy access.
• Picnic Areas: Designated areas with tables and grills for family gatherings.

Activities

• Swimming and paddleboarding
• Picnicking and beach games
• Biking along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail
• Enjoying the scenic views of the coastline

Hours and Fees

• This beach is located at 7700 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
• Open daily from sunrise to sunset
• Free access to the beach; parking fees apply

9. Redondo Beach

Redondo Beach is a classic Southern California beach town known for its laid-back vibe, scenic pier, and excellent water activities. The Redondo Beach Pier offers a variety of dining options, shops, and entertainment, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. The beach itself is wide and sandy, providing plenty of space for sunbathing, volleyball, and beach games. Redondo Beach is also a hub for water sports, with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The Seaside Lagoon, a saltwater lagoon adjacent to the beach, offers a safe and enclosed swimming area, especially popular with families and children. With its charming coastal atmosphere, diverse activities, and picturesque views, Redondo Beach is an ideal destination for a quintessential California beach day.

Features

• Redondo Beach Pier: Offers dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
• Seaside Lagoon: A saltwater lagoon with slides and a sandy beach, perfect for kids.
• Harbor: Home to various water sports rentals and fishing opportunities.

Activities

• Swimming and sunbathing
• Kayaking and paddleboarding
• Dining at waterfront restaurants
• Shopping and exploring the pier

Hours and Fees

• This beach is located at 400-1700 Esplanade, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
• Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Free access to the beach; parking fees apply

10. Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is a vibrant and active beach community known for its lively atmosphere, excellent surf, and beautiful pier. The beach is wide and sandy, perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and surfing. The Hermosa Beach Pier is a central hub for fishing, sightseeing, and enjoying ocean views. The Strand, a paved path running parallel to the beach, is popular with joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers across LA. Hermosa Beach also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its dynamic and energetic vibe. With its combination of recreational activities, scenic beauty, and lively community, Hermosa Beach offers a quintessential Southern California experience.

Features

• The Strand: A pedestrian and bike path that runs parallel to the beach, ideal for jogging, biking, or skating.
• Hermosa Beach Pier: A popular spot for fishing, strolling, and enjoying ocean views.
• Volleyball Courts: Numerous courts along the beach, hosting regular tournaments.

Activities

• Surfing and swimming
• Beach volleyball and paddleboarding
• Dining and nightlife along Pier Avenue
• Participating in community events and festivals

Hours and Fees

• Open daily from dawn to dusk
• Free access to the beach; metered parking available

Swimply: A Private Alternative to Public Beaches

While Los Angeles's public beaches are undoubtedly beautiful, they can sometimes be crowded, noisy, and challenging to navigate, especially during peak seasons. Swimply offers a unique alternative for those seeking a more private and personalized aquatic experience. By renting a private pool by the hour, you can enjoy all the benefits of a beach day without the hassle of public beaches, all right in your neighborhood. Here’s how Swimply can elevate your sun and swim time experiences:

Privacy and Exclusivity

Swimply pools are located in private residences, ensuring a secluded and exclusive environment. Whether you’re looking for a quiet day with your family, a romantic escape with your partner, or a fun party with friends, Swimply pools provide the perfect setting without the distractions of crowded beaches.

Convenience and Comfort

With Swimply, you can choose from a variety of swimming pool styles and amenities to suit your needs. Many pools come equipped with luxurious features such as hot tubs, poolside lounges, fire pits, and top of the line barbecue equipment. This means you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free day without the need to pack and transport all your beach gear.

Flexibility

Swimply offers flexible booking options, allowing you to reserve a pool for as long as you need. Whether you want to spend a couple of hours in the sun or enjoy an entire day of relaxation, you can tailor your booking to fit your schedule.

Safe and Clean Environment

Each Swimply pool is maintained to high standards of cleanliness and safety. You can have peace of mind knowing that the pool you’re using is regularly cleaned and inspected, providing a safe environment for you and your group.

Unique and Varied Locations

Swimply pools are available in a range of locations throughout the Los Angeles area, offering diverse settings from hillside retreats with stunning views to urban oases in the heart of the city. You can choose a location that best suits your preferences and enjoy a unique and personalized experience.

Spotlight on LA Swimply Pools

Here are a few examples of unique Swimply pools in Los Angeles that can provide an exceptional alternative to the traditional beach day:

1. New Modern Pool & Hot Tub In Eagle Rock

Located in the charming Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, this modern pool and hot tub rental is perfect for a relaxing getaway. For $20 per hour, guests can enjoy a stylish outdoor space featuring a pergola for shade, ample seating, and a poolside bar. The heated pool and hot tub, available for an additional fee, offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort. Pet-friendly with a fenced-in backyard, this Swimply listing is ideal for family gatherings or small parties, accommodating up to 17 guests.

Amenities:

• Heated pool and hot tub
• Poolside bar
• Pergola and shaded seating areas
• Pet-friendly fenced backyard
• Fire pit, grill, and WiFi available

2. Private Oasis with Fire Pit & Grill

Nestled in the vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood, this private oasis offers a serene and luxurious pool experience. Priced at $45 per hour, the beautiful saltwater pool ranges from 4 to 9 feet in depth and is ADA-friendly, accommodating up to 8 guests. Amenities include a heated pool, a hot tub with app-controlled jets, a grill, a fire pit, shaded seating areas, and a private restroom. Pets are welcome for an additional fee, and the location offers parking for up to 5 cars.

Amenities:

• Heated saltwater pool
• Hot tub with app control
• Grill and fire pit
• Shaded seating areas
• ADA-friendly facilities
• Pet-friendly

3. Beverly Hills 90210 Pool, Jacuzzi and Backyard

Situated in the upscale Beverly Hills Flats, this luxurious Swimply listing offers a large pool and jacuzzi in a lush, private backyard. For $50 per hour, guests can enjoy a heated pool (additional fee for heating) and a jacuzzi heated to 102 degrees. The space includes shaded seating, a fire pit, a grill, a 55" TV with streaming services, and a full-size refrigerator/freezer. Accommodating up to 20 guests, it’s ideal for events like family gatherings, photo shoots, and celebrations. The property provides parking for up to 20 cars and features a dedicated restroom.

Amenities:

• Heated pool and jacuzzi
• Shaded seating areas
• Fire pit and grill
• 55" TV with streaming services
• Full-size refrigerator/freezer
• Private restroom and shower

4. Refreshing Pool with a View in Pasadena

Located in Pasadena, this refreshing pool offers a serene retreat surrounded by a lush garden. For $45 per hour, guests can enjoy a chlorine pool measuring 14 ft by 16 ft, with a depth ranging from 3 ft to 6 ft. The backyard features shaded seating areas, a picnic table, and pool toys, making it ideal for families and small gatherings. This private oasis accommodates up to 10 guests and provides a restroom inside the main home. Pets are welcome, adding to the inviting atmosphere.

Amenities:

• Shaded seating areas
• Picnic table
• Pool toys
• Restroom access

5. Mi Piscina y Jacuzzi in South Pasadena

Located in the serene neighborhood of South Pasadena, this saltwater pool and jacuzzi offer a relaxing escape for up to 15 guests. Priced at $125 per hour, the pool measures 15 ft by 25 ft with depths ranging from 3 ft to 5.5 ft. The amenities include a heated pool (for an additional fee), a hot tub, a BBQ grill, shaded areas, WiFi, and folding tables and chairs upon request. A dedicated restroom is available by the pool.

Amenities:

• Heated saltwater pool and hot tub
• BBQ grill
• Shaded seating areas
• WiFi access
• Folding tables and chairs
• Private restroom

Finding the perfect private pool in Los Angeles, California is easier than ever with Swimply. Book a private pool today here!

Looking for public pool options in Los Angeles? Check out our list of top public pools in Los Angeles here!