01
Closest sandy escape
Long Beach City Beach
Long Beach Waterfront • Wide Urban Shoreline • Best For Quick Beach Days
The nearest true ocean beach to Paramount, with a long ribbon of sand backed by a bike path and bluffside parkland.
From Paramount, Long Beach City Beach is the easiest choice when you just want to see the ocean without a long drive. Parking lots and street spots off Ocean Boulevard lead straight to wide sand, volleyball courts, and lifeguard towers. It’s a practical, no-fuss spot for sunbathing, walking the shore, or hopping on the paved beach path.
02
Best for a city-meets-beach feel
Alamitos Beach
Downtown Long Beach Shoreline • Relaxed City Beach • Great For Casual Hangs And Bike Rides
A laid‑back stretch just east of downtown Long Beach, with easy access to cafes, bars, and the waterfront bike path.
Alamitos Beach feels a bit more urban, with the skyline behind you and the Queen Mary and port views off in the distance. It’s a good pick if you like to split your time between the sand and nearby food and drink options along Broadway and 4th Street. Expect mellow waves, plenty of room to spread out, and an easygoing local crowd.
03
Safest water for kids
Mother's Beach (Marine Park)
Naples / Alamitos Bay • Protected Bay Beach • Best For Families With Small Kids
A sheltered bay beach with gentle water, a playground, and grassy picnic areas that make beach days easier with little ones.
Tucked inside Alamitos Bay, Mother’s Beach trades surf for calm, lake-like water that rarely sees more than small ripples. Parents appreciate the roped-off swim area, lifeguards in season, and adjacent playground, while the nearby parking lot simplifies unloading gear. It’s an ideal choice when you want the beach atmosphere without worrying about strong waves.
04
Classic small-town pier scene
Seal Beach Main Beach
Seal Beach Pier Area • Low-Key Pier Beach • Ideal For Mellow Surf-Town Vibes
A compact, charming beach framed by a wooden pier and a walkable main street lined with independent shops and cafes.
Seal Beach feels like a slower-paced alternative to the bigger OC beach cities, yet it’s still a quick hop from Paramount via the 605. You can watch surfers near the pier, spread a towel on the broad central beach, then wander up Main Street for fish tacos or coffee. It’s a great match if you like your beach days with a side of small-town character.
05
Most iconic surf experience
Huntington City Beach
Downtown Huntington Beach • Iconic Surf Beach • Top Pick For Surf And People-Watching
A long, lively surf beach anchored by the Huntington Beach Pier, with consistent waves and a festival-like boardwalk scene.
If you’re willing to drive a bit farther from Paramount, Huntington City Beach delivers the full “Surf City” experience. The wide, groomed sand, steady swell, and busy pier area make it ideal for surfing, bodyboarding, or just taking in the action. Stay into the evening to light a fire ring, stroll the pier at sunset, or explore the restaurants and surf shops along Main Street.