01
Best overall pick
Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica Waterfront • Iconic, Activity-Packed Beach • Best For A First-Time Visit
The classic Santa Monica stretch with the pier, broad sand, and something happening at virtually every hour of the day.
If you picture Southern California beach life, this is probably it: the pier, the amusement rides, the bike path, and a huge sweep of sand backed by Palisades bluffs. It works just as well for a quick stroll at sunset as it does for a full day with kids in tow. Expect crowds near the pier and slightly calmer vibes as you walk north or south.
02
Most colorful scene
Venice Beach
Venice, Just South Of Santa Monica • Bohemian, People-Watching Hotspot • Best For Street Energy And Skating
A lively stretch where the beach, skate park, and boardwalk culture all blur into one long, entertaining promenade.
Venice is where you go when you want a show with your shoreline: street performers, murals, Muscle Beach, and one of the most photogenic skate parks in the country. The sand itself is wide and inviting, but the real charisma runs along the oceanfront walk. It pairs nicely with a bike ride from Santa Monica or a late-afternoon wander before dinner on nearby side streets.
03
Relaxed local stretch
Will Rogers State Beach
Pacific Palisades, North Of Santa Monica • Low-Key, Wide-Open Shoreline • Best For Uncrowded Lounging
A mellow, mostly local beach just up the coast where the sand feels expansive and the vibe is refreshingly low-key.
Drive a few minutes north and the scene thins out into long, less crowded sections of sand favored by locals and beach volleyball regulars. Will Rogers has an easygoing feel that’s ideal for reading, casual games, and slower-paced swims. Parking is usually more straightforward than right at the Santa Monica Pier, especially on peak weekends.
04
Classic Malibu day trip
Zuma Beach
Malibu Coast, Northwest Of Santa Monica • Expansive, Surf-Friendly Beach • Best For An All-Day Ocean Hang
A broad Malibu favorite with consistent waves, room to spread out, and a more rugged, open-ocean feel.
Zuma is the spot when you’re willing to drive a bit farther for a full-on Malibu beach day with fewer high-rises and more horizon. The sand stretches for what feels like miles, with lifeguard towers, decent breaks for surfers and bodyboarders, and space for big groups. Arrive early on summer weekends when parking lots and prime patches of sand fill quickly.
05
Best for bonfires
Dockweiler State Beach
Playa Del Rey, South Of Santa Monica • Casual, Social Shoreline • Best For Sunset Fire Pits And Planespotting
A laid-back strip known for its rare beach fire rings and nonstop procession of planes overhead.
Dockweiler is not your typical postcard-perfect scene, but locals love it for one key perk: legal fire pits right on the sand, ideal for s’mores, guitars, and long sunset hangs. It’s also directly under LAX’s flight path, which gives the evening a surprisingly cinematic backdrop as jets arc into the sky. Bring layers, arrive early to claim a ring, and plan to stay after dark.