16 Best Beaches to Swim in Los Angeles

Looking for the perfect place to take a refreshing dip in the water in Los Angeles? With its miles of coastline, LA offers a variety of beautiful beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting the area, there are plenty of options to choose from.
From popular sunny spots like Santa Monica Beach to more secluded coves like El Matador Beach, each beach has its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you're looking for family-friendly facilities or a quiet spot to relax, there's a beach in LA that's perfect for you.
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas
- Activities: Swimming, surfing, beach volleyball
- Accessibility: Parking, public transportation
- Scenery: Views of the Pacific Ocean, cliffs, rock formations
Ready to start planning your beach day? Check out our list of the 16 Best Beaches to Swim in Los Angeles below and find the perfect spot for your next aquatic adventure!
- 1. Dockweiler Beach
- 2. Will Rogers State Beach
- 3. Playa Del Rey Beach
- 4. Mothers Beach
- 5. Sunset Beach
- 6. Torrance County Beach
- 7. Manhattan Beach
- 8. Las Tunas Beach
- 9. Santa Monica State Beach
- 10. Malibu Lagoon State Beach
- 11. Cabrillo Beach
- 12. Will Rogers Beach State Park
- 13. Santa Monica Beach
- 14. Royal Palms Beach Park
- 15. Torrance County Beach
- 16. Charlie Beach

1. Dockweiler Beach
Information and Reviews
Customers have left over 15,000 reviews praising the beach for its beauty and convenience. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Nice quiet beach with plenty of street parking available
- Plenty of room between groups and nice areas to relax
- Great location for families with clean facilities and RV parking
- Close to the beach with 24/7 security and dog-friendly
Whether you're looking to enjoy a day at the beach or host a gathering with friends and family, Dockweiler Beach has everything you need for a memorable experience.

2. Will Rogers State Beach
Information and Reviews
- Visitors appreciate the cleanliness and tranquility of the beach, with fewer crowds compared to other nearby beaches.
- Parking is available, although there is a small fee, which many find reasonable for the upkeep of the facilities.
- The beach offers stunning sunset views, friendly atmosphere, and various amenities like food vendors and clean restrooms.
- Accessibility is also a plus, with options for wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance, making it inclusive for all visitors.
Reviews highlight the beautiful scenery, peaceful environment, and engaging activities like playing in the sand, enjoying the waves, and observing local wildlife. The blend of relaxation and beach fun at Will Rogers State Beach makes it a must-visit destination for individuals and families seeking a memorable beach experience.

3. Playa Del Rey Beach
Information and Reviews
- Hermoso la playa más linda en 30 años q vivo en California, limpia el agua limpia gente que respeta, limpia y lindo atardecer fogatas y tarde sierran 10 pm hermosa playa solo q si hay mucho seewee plant.
- Never too crowded, always nice early in the morning. Spectacular sunsets and big winter surf.
- Beautiful spot for a sunset walk with bonfires, wide beach, and clean bathrooms.
- Beautiful well-kept beach for long walks, perfect for enjoying the sea air.

4. Mothers Beach
Information and Reviews
According to customer reviews, here are some key points:
- You can purchase an all day parking pass and enjoy a peaceful weekday visit by the water, away from the weekend crowds.
- This beach is quiet and relaxing, great for families with a dog-friendly area, shelter for picnics, and a playground.
- The beach provides a serene setting with calm waters, almost like a lake, making it ideal for families with young children.
- There are some occasional downsides like loud music from nearby benches and contamination in the water, but visitors mention overall positive experiences.
With a ranking of 4.6, Mothers Beach continues to attract visitors looking for a peaceful retreat by the water. So whether you're looking to relax in the sun or have some family fun, this beach offers a little something for everyone.

5. Sunset Beach
Information and Reviews
- Chill spot & perfect place for surfing ♀️
- Beautiful sunset view
- Less crowded and cleaner than other beaches in Southern California
- Difficult parking but worth the visit

6. Torrance County Beach
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews praise this beach for its cleanliness, lifeguard presence, and stunning views. Visitors love bringing their families here for a swim and enjoying the beach amenities.
Here are some summarized customer reviews:
- Nice beach, well maintained. Lifeguards ensured safety and no dogs are allowed on the beach. Parking is available for $6.
- Great place for families and weekends get busy. Clean beach, volleyball nets, and beautiful views. A fun and enjoyable experience.
- A romantic and picturesque destination. The breeze, views, and relaxing atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a date night.
- Amazing view from the car park, cool waves, and enjoyable beach atmosphere. Wish there was more time to spend at the beach.
Visit Torrance County Beach for a memorable beach experience with your loved ones!

7. Manhattan Beach
Information and Reviews
- Beautiful beach with a peaceful atmosphere, even on the weekends.
- Clean, beautiful, and tranquil beach that exceeds expectations.
- Avoids issues like homeless camps and offers a fun and clean environment.
- Perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy beachside dining with spectacular views.
With a high ranking of 4.8, it's clear that Manhattan Beach is a must-visit for those seeking a memorable seaside experience.

8. Las Tunas Beach
Information and Reviews
Some of the services and amenities available at Las Tunas Beach include a wheelchair-accessible car park for those with accessibility needs and a kid-friendly environment, making it perfect for families looking to spend a day in the sun.
With a high ranking of 4.6 stars out of 5, it's no wonder that Las Tunas Beach has received over 1255 reviews from satisfied customers. Some key points highlighted by visitors include:
- Beautiful and clean beach area.
- Great facilities for families and children.
- Easy access and convenient parking options.
Experience the beauty and relaxation of Las Tunas Beach for yourself by visiting their website or contacting them at +1 424-526-7777. Come see why so many visitors rave about this stunning beach destination in Malibu.

9. Santa Monica State Beach
Information and Reviews

10. Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Information and Reviews
The park is also pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their furry friends along for a day of adventure. Customers have left numerous positive reviews, highlighting the beauty and tranquility of the area. Some key points from customer reviews include:
- Absolutely beautiful location with safe and clean facilities.
- Great place for nature lovers to explore and learn about the environment.
- Ideal spot for families to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.
With a ranking of 4.5 and a total of 1475 reviews, Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a highly recommended destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Southern California.

11. Cabrillo Beach
Information and Reviews
- A peaceful place for families with gentle waves and water sports opportunities
- Clean beach with nearby free or inexpensive parking options
- Beautiful sunsets and a free marine aquarium on-site
- Swings, picnic tables, and a fishing pier add to the amenities
Some visitors have mentioned the cleanliness, tranquility, and affordability of the beach, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, swim in calm waters, or simply enjoy the ocean views, Cabrillo Beach is a must-visit destination in Los Angeles.

12. Will Rogers Beach State Park
Information and Reviews

13. Santa Monica Beach
Information and Reviews
- Beautiful Beach To Ground Yourself In The Sand & Energize Your Body In The Pacific Ocean.
- Great beach to enjoy the surf or sunset. Close to Third street promenade and a variety of restaurants and bars.
- Santa Monica Beach is close to downtown LA and offers bike paths along the beach.
- Great big well-maintained beach with so much to see and do. Perfect for a day with family.
The beach has received rave reviews from visitors, with a 4.6-star ranking based on 183 reviews. Customers praise the cleanliness of the beach, the variety of activities available, and the stunning views. An accessible place for all to enjoy the sandy shores and cool waters of the Pacific Ocean.

14. Royal Palms Beach Park
Information and Reviews
- Great place for a quiet time/gathering with paid parking, bathrooms, and seating areas
- Beautiful views from the cliff top and easy beach access for a small fee or free walk
- Opportunity to explore tide pools and spot marine life like hermit crabs and sea urchins
- Perfect spot for a picnic with benches, palm trees, and stunning sunset views

15. Torrance County Beach
Information and Reviews
- A stretch of sand beach perfect for biking or leisurely walks
- Surf ranging from moderate to rad with plenty of lifeguards for safety
- Clean sand beaches, well-maintained restrooms, and easy beach access
- Peaceful and uncrowded vibe, perfect for relaxing weekends
Customers rave about the tranquil ambiance, cleanliness, and convenient amenities offered at Torrance County Beach. Whether you're looking for a serene escape or a place to enjoy outdoor activities, this beach has something for everyone to enjoy.

16. Charlie Beach
Information and Reviews
Some key points from customer reviews include:
- Unfortunately, the area has become less safe with homeless individuals becoming more confrontational and disruptive.
- Beautiful, clean, friendly locals and lots of very good dogs.
- Best beach in the area!
- Great beach to visit with small kids, waves are small and parking is accessible.
With a Ranking of 4.6, Charlie Beach has established itself as a go-to destination for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or enjoy a leisurely stroll, this park has something for everyone. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience this hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles.
Map of Beaches to Swim in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is known for its gorgeous beaches where locals and tourists alike can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Whether you're looking for a calm spot to relax or a lively area for water sports, LA has a beach for everyone. Check out the map below to discover all the best spots to swim and soak up the California coast.
What are the most popular beaches to swim at?
Some of the most popular beaches to swim at in Los Angeles include Santa Monica Beach, Venice Beach, and Malibu Surfrider Beach. These beaches offer a range of amenities and activities for visitors looking to enjoy the sun and surf.
Each of these beaches has its own unique charm, from the bustling boardwalk at Santa Monica to the iconic Muscle Beach at Venice. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and even paddleboarding at these well-known beaches.
It's important to note that some beaches may have specific swimming restrictions or guidelines, so be sure to check with local authorities before heading out for a day of fun in the sun.
Are there any hidden gem beaches for swimming?
While the popular beaches in Los Angeles are well-known, there are also some hidden gem beaches for swimming that offer a more secluded and tranquil experience. El Matador Beach in Malibu, for example, is a beautiful spot with rocky coves and stunning ocean views.
Another hidden gem is Leo Carrillo State Park Beach, which features tide pools, sea caves, and ample opportunities for swimming and exploring. These lesser-known beaches can offer a more serene atmosphere for those looking to escape the crowds.
What safety precautions should I take when swimming at LA beaches?
When swimming at Los Angeles beaches, it's important to be aware of potential hazards and take necessary safety precautions. Always swim near a lifeguard tower and follow any posted warnings or guidelines.
Be mindful of rip currents, which can pose a danger to swimmers, and avoid swimming alone or in rough sea conditions. It's also a good idea to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and be cautious of jellyfish or other marine life in the water.
By practicing these safety measures and being aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable swimming experience at Los Angeles beaches.
Can I bring my dog to beaches for swimming?
While many Los Angeles beaches have designated dog-friendly areas, not all beaches allow dogs on the sand or in the water. It's important to check local ordinances and regulations before bringing your furry friend to the beach for a swim.
Popular dog-friendly beaches in Los Angeles include Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach and Huntington Dog Beach in Huntington Beach. These areas provide a safe and fun environment for dogs to swim and play off-leash.
Remember to always clean up after your dog and keep them under control while at the beach to ensure a positive experience for all beachgoers.
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