15 Best Beaches for Swimming in Los Angeles

When it comes to finding the perfect beach for swimming in Los Angeles, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a calm shoreline to relax on or a more adventurous spot for water activities, the beaches in LA have something for everyone.
From the famous Santa Monica Beach to the hidden gem of Zuma Beach, each beach offers its own unique charm and amenities. Whether you're planning a family day at the beach or a solo swim, there is a perfect beach waiting for you in Los Angeles.
- Close proximity to amenities
- Cleanliness of the water and beach
- Availability of lifeguards
- Parking options
- Water activities such as surfing or snorkeling
- Scenic views and surroundings
Ready to find the best beach for swimming in Los Angeles? Explore our list of the 15 top beaches below to discover your next favorite spot for fun in the sun!
- 1. Dockweiler Beach
- 2. Will Rogers State Beach
- 3. Annenberg Community Beach House
- 4. Cabrillo Beach
- 5. White Point Beach
- 6. Will Rogers Beach State Park
- 7. Santa Monica Beach
- 8. Venice Beach
- 9. Royal Palms Beach Park
- 10. Santa Monica State Beach
- 11. Abalone Cove Beach
- 12. Will Rogers State Beach
- 13. Castle Rock Beach
- 14. Santa Monica State Beach
- 15. Charlie Beach

1. Dockweiler Beach
Information and Reviews
With a ranking of 4.5 stars out of 5 based on 15267 reviews, it's no wonder this beach is a favorite among locals and visitors. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Nice quiet beach with plenty of parking available. Great for a relaxing visit.
- Plenty of room on the beach, but some areas may have washed up garbage.
- Huge park with dedicated RV parking, fire pits, and beautiful waves. Perfect for all-day outings.
- Clean facilities, 24/7 security, and a good place for dogs. One of the few beaches that allow fires.
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Dockweiler Beach for yourself!

2. Will Rogers State Beach
Information and Reviews
Customers have raved about their experiences at Will Rogers State Beach, highlighting key points such as:
- We arrived on a quiet Saturday to find a clean and peaceful beach where we could relax.
- The beach is well-maintained, with ample security and clean facilities.
- Visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets, friendly vendors, and tasty meals at the Beach Cafe.
- It's a safe and beautiful spot for picnics, running, biking, and family outings.
These glowing reviews speak to the appeal of Will Rogers State Beach as a top destination in the Pacific Palisades area. Whether you're seeking relaxation, recreation, or simply a scenic spot to take in the ocean views, this public beach has something for everyone.

3. Annenberg Community Beach House
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews rave about the pristine environment and exceptional customer service provided at the Beach House. Here are some key points summarizing their experiences:
- A great family-friendly gem nestled in bustling Santa Monica.
- Plenty of activities to enjoy and explore, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls.
- Excellent hosting for events and retreats with beautiful views.
- Spacious meeting rooms with modern amenities and unique outdoor pool setups for memorable events.
These glowing reviews highlight the diverse appeal and quality offerings of the Annenberg Community Beach House that set it apart from other similar establishments in the area. Visit their website to plan your next relaxing getaway or exciting event at this premier recreation center!

4. Cabrillo Beach
Information and Reviews
Cabrillo Beach is a serene and family-friendly beach located in Los Angeles, CA. This hidden gem offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Visitors rave about the calm and peaceful environment at Cabrillo Beach, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
- Diverse Recreational Options: With gentle waves for families, water sports areas, swings, picnic tables, and even a fishing pier, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this beach.
- Affordable Parking: At just $1 per hour, parking is convenient and budget-friendly, allowing visitors to spend more time enjoying the beach.
Customer reviews highlight the cleanliness of the beach, the availability of free amenities like the aquarium, and the stunning views of the ocean. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a fun day by the water, Cabrillo Beach is the perfect destination for your next outing.

5. White Point Beach
Information and Reviews

6. Will Rogers Beach State Park
Information and Reviews
- Beautiful beach always a good time here. #CappuccinoDog loved it!
- Excellent spot to view the world-famous sunset. Parking is paid, but plentiful. The people are friendly and the beach sand is fine.
- One of the cleanest beaches in So. Cal. Plenty of amenities, clean water, calm atmosphere, and beach volleyball courts available.
- Clean beach with cheap parking. The parking is close to the beach, making it convenient for families. Lots of space for sports and volleyball nets.
Whether you're looking to relax, enjoy natural beauty, or engage in beach activities, Will Rogers Beach State Park comes highly recommended by visitors who have experienced its charm and hospitality.

7. Santa Monica Beach
Information and Reviews
- Visitors rave about the beautiful scenery and energizing atmosphere of Santa Monica Beach, perfect for grounding oneself in the sand and rejuvenating in the Pacific Ocean.
- Many appreciate the diverse crowd of people from all over the world that can be found at the beach, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment.
- Individuals also enjoy the proximity of the beach to other attractions such as the Santa Monica Pier, offering fun activities, restaurants, and breathtaking views of the sunset.
With a high rating of 4.6 stars and 183 reviews, Santa Monica Beach continues to attract and enchant visitors seeking a memorable and enjoyable beach experience. The positive feedback highlights the cleanliness, accessibility, and variety of activities available at this iconic destination.

8. Venice Beach
Information and Reviews
- One visitor described it as one of the best beaches in the world, highlighting the great views and fun activities available.
- Another reviewer mentioned that Venice Beach is a mix of entertainment, shops, and people-watching, making it a quintessential California experience.
- A different customer praised the long sandy beach, big waves, and family-friendly environment, noting the abundance of bars and restaurants nearby.
- Someone else appreciated the unique vibe of Venice Beach compared to other nearby beaches, enjoying the chill and soothing atmosphere.
Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll along the beach or looking to catch some waves, Venice Beach has something for everyone. Soak up the California sun and enjoy all that this vibrant beach has to offer.

9. Royal Palms Beach Park
Information and Reviews

10. Santa Monica State Beach
Information and Reviews
Customer Reviews:
- Love this beach, its clean, long coast line, tracks for bike and running, and great sunset
- Clean sand beach portion south of the Santa Monica Pier, with fewer crowds on the weekends
- An absolute must-view place. Great views and vibes along the bike path from Santa Monica to Venice
- Awesome and clean beach next to Santa Monica pier with interesting views under the pier

11. Abalone Cove Beach
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the following key points:
- Beautiful views and great areas for a picnic
- Easy hike with clean restrooms and free parking on Sundays
- Challenging parking early in the morning, but worth the visit for tide pool exploration
- Small, peaceful, and uncrowded beach with tide pools to keep kids entertained
Come to Abalone Cove Beach and immerse yourself in nature's beauty while creating unforgettable memories.

12. Will Rogers State Beach
Information and Reviews

13. Castle Rock Beach
Information and Reviews
- Favorite place to read, especially in fall and winter seasons when it's less crowded
- Quiet beach with great views of the sunset, feels like having the whole beach to yourself
- Beautiful and not crowded, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean

14. Santa Monica State Beach
Information and Reviews
- Great beach to bring your family for a fun day in the water or just to walk along the shoreline. The beach offers plenty of parking and restroom facilities with showers. However, some visitors have noted cleanliness issues in the public facilities.
- Santa Monica is praised for being the best beach, boardwalk, and seaside shopping/dining spot in Southern California by many travelers.
- Not only is Santa Monica State Beach known for its natural beauty, but it also attracts friendly beach lovers, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Visitors highlight the friendly atmosphere, beautiful boardwalk, and excellent dining options available at Santa Monica State Beach. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, take a stroll, or enjoy some water activities, this beach has something for everyone.

15. Charlie Beach
Information and Reviews
Overall, customers have had positive experiences at Charlie Beach. Here are some key points from their reviews:
- Beautiful, clean, and friendly locals
- Best beach in the area
- Great beach to visit with small kids, waves are small, and parking is accessible
- Excellent view
Experience the tranquility of Charlie Beach and create memories with your loved ones in this hidden gem of Los Angeles.
Map of Beaches for Swimming in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is home to some of the most beautiful beaches for swimming in the world. From the iconic Santa Monica beach to the hidden gems of Malibu, there is no shortage of options for beach lovers. Whether you're looking to catch some waves or simply relax on the sand, Los Angeles has a beach for everyone to enjoy. Check out the map below to plan your next beach day!
What are the best beaches for swimming in Los Angeles?
Some of the top beaches known for swimming in Los Angeles include Santa Monica Beach, Venice Beach, and Manhattan Beach. These beaches have clean waters and lifeguards on duty to ensure safety for swimmers.
Other popular swimming spots include Zuma Beach, Malibu Surfrider Beach, and Dockweiler State Beach. These beaches offer scenic views and calm waters for a relaxing swim.
For those looking for more secluded swimming spots, El Matador Beach, Leo Carrillo State Beach, and Point Dume State Beach are great options. These beaches are known for their serene environments and clear waters.
Are there any beaches to avoid for swimming in Los Angeles?
While Los Angeles has many beautiful beaches, there are some that are not ideal for swimming due to strong rip currents or polluted waters. Avoid beaches like Dockweiler State Beach near the airport or Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro for swimming.
Additionally, beaches near storm drains or industrial areas should be avoided for swimming. It's important to check for water quality advisories before heading to any beach for a swim.
Always prioritize safety when choosing a beach for swimming in Los Angeles and follow any posted warnings or guidelines from lifeguards.
What amenities are available at beaches in Los Angeles for swimmers?
Most beaches in Los Angeles offer restrooms, showers, and picnic areas for swimmers to use. Some beaches also have beach equipment rentals such as umbrellas and chairs available for visitors.
Many beaches have beachfront cafes or food vendors where swimmers can grab a bite to eat or refreshing drink after a swim. Parking can often be found near the beach for convenience.
Some beaches, like Santa Monica Beach, have pier attractions such as amusement parks or aquariums for swimmers to enjoy after a day of swimming. Check the specific beach website for more details on available amenities.
What should I know about beach safety while swimming in Los Angeles?
When swimming in Los Angeles beaches, it's important to follow lifeguard instructions and warning signs to ensure a safe experience. Rip currents can be present, so swim near a lifeguard tower.
Always swim within designated areas and never swim alone. Be aware of marine life such as jellyfish or stingrays while swimming and give them space. If caught in a rip current, remain calm and signal for help.
Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen while enjoying the beach. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and tide timings to ensure a pleasurable and safe swimming experience.
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