Which LA Beach to go to Depending on What You're Looking For

Abalone Cove: Tide pools

Location: Rancho Palos Verdes

The marine life is thriving at Abalone Cove Reserve, where you can find tide pools teeming with critters. From Abalone Cove Park, take the trail to Abalone Cove beach. Head left and watch for the Sea Dahlia trail, which will take you directly to the pools bypassing the rocky trek across the beach. Check online to find out when low tide is before you go! And note that the park’s summer hours are 9am-4pm.

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Hermosa Beach: Volleyball

Location: Hermosa Beach

Several beaches in LA have volleyball courts, but Hermosa Beach has a whopping 23 right by the pier. Next time you get a hankering for a sandy leg day, grab a few friends, a ball, and some post-game snacks and head over. Courts are first come first served, but we have a feeling you’ll find one open when you arrive.

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Mother’s Beach: Barbecue

Location: Marina Del Rey

Barbecue + beach = classic summer. Settle in at one of the available picnic areas (with barbecue grills!) before plopping down on the sand for a post-feast nap. Located in a sheltered spot, this beach has no surf so it’s extra safe for youngsters should you bring any along.

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Rosie’s Dog Beach: Dogs

Location: Long Beach

It’s a beautiful beach, it’s a huge off-leash dog park, it’s heaven on Earth. Stroll the shore with or without a dog to enjoy watching our furry friends have the time of their lives. Just make sure to keep a close eye on your snacks and be ready to pet some wet dogs along the way.

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Manhattan Beach: Surfing

Location: Manhattan Beach

Hang out on the sand then hang ten on the water. Even if you’ve never touched a surf board, after a 1.5-hour class with One Wave Surf School you might just be riding the waves before the day is done. If you already know what you’re doing, just rent a board and get to surfing whenever the mood strikes!

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Dockweiler Beach: Bonfires

Location: Playa Del Rey

Nobody seems to know exactly how many fire rings are on Dockweiler Beach but LA County guesses it’s “about 40.” With a first come first served policy, get there early (we’re talking super duper early) to claim one while you can. Enjoy a long beach day with your pals and a long bonfire night. Most importantly, don’t forget your marshmallows!

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Original Muscle Beach: Workout

Location: Santa Monica

Not to be confused with the bodybuilding hot spot in Venice, SaMo’s Muscle Beach is geared toward acrobatics. The historic spot is complete with parallel bars, rings, and ropes and is free for public use. Find out which of your friends is the best gymnast before claiming a resting spot on the iconic Santa Monica Beach.

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Redondo Beach: Boardwalk & Pier

Location: Redondo Beach

If a beachy souvenir shop hates to see you coming, you’re in for a helluva time at Redondo Beach. The pier has at least a dozen gift shops along with over 30 places to eat and drink. When your bank calls to report suspected fraud, it may be time to give the shopping a rest and walk or rent an e-bike to enjoy the boardwalk views and pristine beach.

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Thornhill Broome Beach: Camping

Location: Malibu

If your perfect day at the beach includes waking up already on the sand, we have good news for you. At Thornhill Broome Beach campground in Point Mugu State Park you can set up your tent or camper right on the beach. Enjoy the sandy beach, dramatic views, and surrounding trails at your leisure. Just make sure to make a campground reservation, check the weather and tides, and follow all state park rules!

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Venice Beach: Skating

Location: Venice

Venice Beach is a globally iconic roller skating destination. Between the smooth bike path, the skate park, the skate dance plaza, and the frequent skating meetups there’s no denying that this is THE place to go. Ironically there aren’t a lot of options for rentals in the area - try Jay’s Rental or bring your own skates. When your feet are tired of being on wheels, make your way down to the shore for a rest.