Living in Burbank means the coast is always a day trip away, even if you have to time your escape around traffic. These nearby beaches offer a mix of classic piers, mellow coves, and boardwalk energy within roughly an hour’s drive. Whether you want an early-morning surf session or a laid-back sunset picnic, there’s a stretch of sand here that fits. Use this list to match your mood to the right shoreline and plan a beach day that feels worth the drive.
A broad, lively beach with a little bit of everything, from bike paths to a full-on amusement pier.
If you only have time for one beach trip from Burbank, Santa Monica is the most reliable crowd-pleaser. The wide sand, pier, and beach path make it easy to mix sun time with strolling, snacks, and people-watching. Aim for earlier in the day if you want easier parking and a slightly calmer scene.
A high-energy stretch of coast where the beach, skate park, and boardwalk culture all collide.
Venice is the pick when you want your beach day to feel like a full-on Los Angeles experience. Expect street performers, murals, a busy bike path, and a more compact strip of sand compared with Santa Monica. It’s not the quietest option, but the mix of surf, shops, and spectacle is hard to beat for an afternoon out of Burbank.
A mellow, uncrowded-feeling beach just up the coast from Santa Monica, with fewer distractions and easy sand access.
When you want ocean time without the bustle of the pier or boardwalk, Will Rogers is a smart detour. The vibe is more local, with room to spread out, play beach games, or just read by the water. Pack what you need, since amenities are simpler than at the big-name beaches but the trade-off is a much calmer day by the shore.
A legendary Malibu point break beside the pier, with long right-hand waves and dramatic coastal views.
Surfrider is where you go from Burbank when you want to lean into the Malibu fantasy: surfers in the lineup, the pier framing the view, and bluffs in the distance. The sandy area is smaller and can feel packed on weekends, so this spot shines most for surf sessions, sunset walks, and a post-beach bite at nearby cafés. Allow extra travel time; the drive along the coast is part of the appeal but can move slowly.
A long, open stretch of sand by the airport, famous for its fire rings and easygoing, bring-your-own-fun atmosphere.
Dockweiler is a solid call when your Burbank crew wants a social beach evening rather than a full day of sunbathing. The wide sand and numerous fire pits make it ideal for casual cookouts and sunset hangs, with planes overhead adding an only-in-LA backdrop. Bring layers for the evening wind and arrive on the early side if you’re set on snagging a fire ring.