Looking to sneak in some beach time on your next trip to Los Angeles? Depending on what you're in the mood for, the cinema-centric city delivers a diverse range of beach experiences from catching a wave to watching colorful locals.
Since Los Angeles is gainfully abundant in the beach department (L.A. county boasts 75 miles of coastline), it's best to choose what kind of fun in the sun you seek. Here are eight great beaches, listed from closest to farthest proximity to LAX airport, so you can make sure to dip your toes in the Pacific before you fly out.
Beautiful People-Watching: Manhattan Beach
Ideal for watching locals as they catch some waves or bike on the beach path, Manhattan Beach is a subdued no-frills beach, compared to nearby Venice and Santa Monica beach However, there's plenty of shopping and delicious eats just a block away.
From LAX: 5.3 miles
Wild & Wacky: Venice Beach
If you like to walk on the wild side, Venice Beach is for you. Either rent a bike and pedal down the bike path or simply stroll along the Ocean Front Walk for a visual amusement park of attractions. From the Venice Skate Park to Muscle Beach to chainsaw jugglers to Harry Perry, the famous turbaned rollerblading guitarist, there's plenty to keep you entertained here for hours. Plus, it's a great place to pick up inexpensive souvenirs.
From LAX: 6.1 miles
Nostalgia: Santa Monica Pier
If traveling with little ones or simply a kid at heart, Santa Monica's pier is home to plenty of old-fashioned amusement park rides, such as a Ferris wheel and merry-go-round. Just north of the pier, Santa Monica Beach is popular with families, ideal for chilling out or challenging your friends to game of volleyball.
From LAX: 11 miles
Wine & Dine: Topanga Beach
Sun and sip. That's the motto of this beach because it's across the street from local Rosenthal Winery—the only tasting room located on the Pacific Coast Highway. Rosenthal is a welcoming tasting room—even if you come bathing suit clad and sandy—offering flights of their wines made from Malibu-grown grapes. Afterwards, walk to Reel Inn, a fish shack just south on Pacific Coast Highway, for great fish tacos.
From LAX: 20.8 miles
Surfing: Surfrider Beach
As the name implies, Surfrider—formerly known as Malibu Lagoon State Beach—is one of L.A.'s most famous spots to ride waves. And it’s ideal for all levels; there are three different entry points that range from mellow waves to waves that offer nearly a quarter-mile ride all the way to the pier. Didn't bring your board or need a refresher surf lesson? Nearby Malibu Surf Shack offers lessons and board rental.
From LAX: 22.4 miles