01
Best overall pick
Dockweiler State Beach
Westchester Shoreline • Wide, Straightforward City Beach • Best For Bonfires And Big Groups
A long, sandy stretch just south of Loyola with space for bonfires, meetups, and sunset walks under the flight path.
Dockweiler is the closest true ocean beach to Loyola and feels built for impromptu gatherings, with deep sand, plenty of room to spread out, and classic fire pits for s’mores nights. You’ll hear and see jets taking off from LAX overhead, which adds some energy but not much serenity. Go for easy parking, long shoreline walks, and group hangs that can roll from daylight into a bonfire after dark.
02
Most low-key nearby
Playa Del Rey Beach
Playa Del Rey • Low-Key Neighborhood Beach • Quietest Option Near Campus
A mellow, mostly local beach with wide sand, sea breezes, and fewer crowds than the better-known spots up the coast.
If you want to escape the boardwalk scene, Playa Del Rey is where locals go to keep it simple. The beach is broad and open, with easy access from the neighborhood streets, volleyball courts, and the Marvin Braude bike path running right behind the sand. It’s ideal for a quiet walk, a relaxed picnic, or a low-effort afternoon by the water without feeling like you’re in the middle of a tourist zone.
03
Best for families
Marina Beach (Mother's Beach)
Marina Del Rey Harbor • Protected Bay Beach • Best For Small Kids And Paddle Sports
A calm, sheltered stretch on the marina side with shallow water, a playground, and easy access to kayaks and paddleboards.
Mother's Beach sits inside the marina, so you get gentle, almost lake-like water rather than surfy waves. Families favor it for the shallow swimming area, lifeguards in season, and nearby playground and picnic tables. It’s also a convenient launch spot if you want to rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the harbor without dealing with ocean swell.
04
Most iconic scene
Venice Beach
Venice • Lively Boardwalk Scene • Best For People-Watching
An energetic mix of sandy shoreline, street performers, skate park, and murals just a short drive north of Loyola.
Venice Beach is where you go when you want a full-on coastal circus, not a quiet nap in the sand. The paved path hums with skaters and cyclists, the boardwalk is lined with vendors and performers, and the skate park and Muscle Beach gym add to the spectacle. Head here when friends are in town or you’re in the mood to walk, snack, and people-watch with the ocean as your backdrop.
05
Most classic day trip
Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica • Classic Socal Beach With A Pier • Most Options For First-Time Visitors
A broad, postcard-ready beach anchored by the Santa Monica Pier, with miles of sand and plenty of food and rental options.
Santa Monica State Beach is the go-to choice when someone says they want the “California beach experience.” You get the famous pier with its rides and arcade, rentals for bikes and beach gear, and a long, well-maintained stretch of sand with lifeguard towers and restrooms. Expect more crowds and tourist energy, but in exchange you get an easy all-day outing with food, shops, and sunset views wrapped into one stop.