You’re fresh off the plane and ready to soak up some of the sun’s rays that Californians boast about. As you’re gearing up for a fun-filled vacation, you realize how big the city is and how easy it is to get lost. Not to fear!
Thankfully, you don’t need to wander around LA looking like a lost tourist. There are LAX airport transfers that will transport you wherever you need to go. This is perfect for getting to your destination after a long flight, or even being driven around to the attractions in luxury.
Along with the warm weather that California enjoys, there are dazzling vistas and gorgeous beaches to enjoy . Not all beaches are created equally, and you will want to visit one that will have you appreciating its amenities and natural beauty. Continue reading to learn more about the best beaches near LA.
Dockweiler Beach
If you want to hit the waves as soon as you get off the plane, this is the place to go. Dockweiler Beach can be found at the west end of Imperial Highway. Enjoy 288 acres of beach as well as amenities including restrooms, showers, picnic areas, fire pits and volleyball nets. There is plenty of sand for you to build elaborate sand castles or work on your tan. Keep in mind for future trips that RV visitors can take advantage of one of the 118 recreational vehicle spaces that offer full hook-up. In addition to the beach, visitors enjoy fishing, diving, hang gliding, and biking. Once you’re done at the beach, you can head over to the Dockweiler Youth Center where you will find a multi-purpose room with a terrace, youth camps, and community programs.
El Segundo Beach
El Segundo Beach can be easily found near the Southern end of Playa Del Rey and just North of Grand Avenue. This oasis is the perfect spot to go to avoid crowds as it is usually less congested than other more well-known beaches. As well as the promise of a more reserved experience, parking is easier than ever with cheaper self-pay pricing. When walking down the beach, you will notice surfers riding the waves or friends playing a game of volleyball.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach has earned the reputation of being one of the most well-known beaches in the world, and rightfully so. This beach has a boardwalk that is full of whimsical features such as shops, street performers, and breathtaking murals. Almost anything is possible at this beach as it also has outdoor sports, grassy areas, tasty treats, and even a beach gym. If you’re looking for somewhere to spend the day, Venice Beach is full of attractions.
Santa Monica Beach
South of the pier, there are multiple parks and parking spaces with beach access. Within these parks are open fields, sports courts, picnic areas, and a chessboard large enough to play human chess. By the pier is the original Muscle Beach for bodybuilding, and a paved trail that winds along the back of the beach. The Pacific Park Amusement Park is located within Santa Monica Beach and hosts many activities including rides, arcade games, restaurants, stores, and even the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Because of the length of the beach being so extended at 3.5 miles, locals refer to the beach as north of the pier and south of the pier. When visiting Santa Monica Beach, you will have trouble running out of things to do.
Playa Del Rey Beach
Also known as “Toes Beach” because of its perfect location to put ten toes on a surfboard, Playa Del Rey Beach is an incredible spot to spend the day. It is ideal for surfing but also has a long bike path, volleyball courts and a park across the street that has a children’s playground as well as basketball courts to shoot hoops. A benefit of this beach is that visitors can take advantage of the free parking.
Before running to the beach, ensure you are packing your beach essentials:
Bathing suit- You could swim in your day clothes, but you might not want to sit at dinner in soaked attire.
Towel- Once you get out of the water, you will need a towel to dry off your body and hair for you to get into your change of clothes.
Beach towel- You have your regular towel to dry you off after the water, but you will want a separate one to lounge around on the beach.
Sunscreen- Using sunscreen is crucial to maintaining the integrity of your skin. Without it you can get burned and that can lead to blisters. Sunscreen is used to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.
Sunglasses- While sunglasses are not mandatory, they will help you see better when the sun is shining bright.
Portable cooler- As long as the beach you are visiting allows outside food and drink, you will want to bring a cooler filled with beverages and snacks. When it is hot, your body becomes easily dehydrated and you will need to replenish the fluid you lose from sweating.
Going to the beach is almost always guaranteed to be a fun filled and relaxing day. At the beach you can wade in the cool waters, stick your toes in the sand, or even try your hand at surfing. You will want to go to one that is clean and has plenty of amenities for you and your group to use to make the most out of the visit. These beaches in LA are some of the most appreciated in California and will be the highlight of your day.
Read more:
5 Most Unrivaled Beaches near LA
