Waterfall Hikes
Top Beaches in LA for Sun, Surf & Scenic Views
Last Updated: August 09, 2026
Los Angeles is home to some of California's most iconic and scenic beaches, offering golden sands, turquoise waters, and unforgettable coastal views. Whether you're seeking family-friendly beaches, vibrant boardwalks, surfing hotspots, or peaceful escapes, the best beaches in Los Angeles deliver a full range of experiences year-round. This 2026 guide highlights 16 top beaches across LA County, including Malibu, Santa Monica, Venice, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Zuma Beach, San Pedro, and beyond.
El Matador stands out as a gem among Los Angeles's coastal treasures. Renowned for its unparalleled beauty, this beach offers visitors a captivating blend of rugged cliffs, golden sands, and azure waters. The parking lot, perched atop a bluff, provides not only convenient access but also sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, inviting guests to linger and soak in the scenic splendor. With its cinematic allure reminiscent of both fantasy realms and timeless romances, El Matador has left an indelible mark on popular culture, serving as the enchanting backdrop for iconic films like "The Notebook," "Mamma Mia!" (2018), and Madonna's "Cherish" music video (1989), as well as providing the serene setting for the ocean scenes of Jules in the television series "Euphoria."
Santa Monica Beach in Santa Monica, California, offers a quintessential coastal experience, epitomizing the allure of Southern California living. Strolling along the iconic Santa Monica Pier, renowned as the terminus of Route 66, amid the captivating hues of a Pacific sunset, one can't help but be enchanted by the sublime beauty of the moment. Often celebrated as "Hollywood by the Beach," Santa Monica has enchanted audiences for generations with its 3.5 miles of pristine coastline, breathtaking ocean vistas, and timeless architectural elegance. Since the inception of cinema, this coastal haven has held a prominent place in the limelight, serving as the backdrop for a myriad of iconic films, seamlessly weaving its charm into the fabric of cinematic history.
Point Dume Beach boasts over a mile of pristine ocean frontage and 34 acres of soft sand, framed by majestic headlands, cliffs, and rocky coves that beckon exploration. From its sprawling cliffs to its expansive beaches, this coastal gem showcases some of Southern California's most breathtaking scenery. The clear waters and golden sands offer a serene retreat, while the towering cliffs add a dramatic backdrop to the panoramic views stretching across Santa Monica Bay and distant Catalina Island. Point Dume has left an indelible mark on cinematic history, serving as the backdrop for iconic scenes in films like the original "Planet of the Apes," including its climactic ending revealing the Statue of Liberty, as well as featuring digitally-added shots of Tony Stark's house in "Iron Man." Other notable films shot here include "The Big Lebowski," "Knight and Day," "Beach Blanket Bingo," and "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?"
Discover Venice Beach, California, where the sun-drenched shores, vibrant culture, and eclectic atmosphere converge to craft an unparalleled coastal experience. Not only has Venice Beach served as a captivating backdrop for numerous films, but it has also doubled as substitute locales in cinematic history. In the 1958 musical "Gigi," Venice Beach stood in for seaside scenes originally intended for Trouville, France, showcasing its versatility and allure. This coastal haven boasts a rich cinematic tapestry, frequented by iconic figures like Jim Morrison and Olivia Newton-John, who famously roller-skated on these shores in "Xanadu" remain etched in memory. For those seeking to immerse themselves in cinematic nostalgia, the historic Samesun Venice Beach hostel offers a unique stay, featured prominently in the film noir classic "Touch of Evil" (1958). With its stunning Pacific vistas and storied past, Venice Beach continues to captivate filmmakers and travelers alike, seamlessly blending cinematic allure with natural beauty for an unforgettable coastal retreat.
Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu, Los Angeles, California, affectionately dubbed the "movie beach," has long been a favorite among filmmakers for its stunning natural features, including caves, tide pools, and reefs. Beyond its picturesque beauty, Leo Carrillo State Beach offers a plethora of activities such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing, windsurfing, and fishing, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike. This coastal haven has also served as a captivating stage for an array of cinematic masterpieces, leaving an indelible mark on the world of film. With a star-studded cast that includes the likes of Elvis Presley, Jerry Lewis, Nancy Sinatra, and Dick Clark, Leo Carrillo Beach has witnessed the creation of numerous unforgettable movie moments. From the beachside nostalgia of "Gidget" to the epic adventures of "Journey to the Center of the Earth," this beach has lent its natural splendor to a diverse range of stories. Classics like "Beach Blanket Bingo," timeless series like "The Rockford Files," and cultural phenomena such as "Grease" and "The Karate Kid" have all been graced by its picturesque backdrop. The beach's cinematic journey continued with modern hits like "50 First Dates" and the compelling isolation of "Cast Away," solidifying Leo Carrillo State Beach as an enduring destination where imagination meets reality.
Manhattan Beach displays a two-mile-long expanse of wide sandy shores, renowned among surfers and beach enthusiasts alike. Its iconic 900-foot-long pier, numerous parks, and abundance of sand volleyball courts make it a haven for outdoor recreation. The Strand, a scenic beachfront path, meanders along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of modern mansions juxtaposed with stretches of pristine sand and bustling volleyball courts. Downtown Manhattan Beach beckons with over 250 retailers, restaurants, and locally owned businesses, inviting visitors to indulge in chic shopping and savor award-winning culinary delights. With its picturesque setting, Manhattan Beach has attracted the attention of filmmakers, serving as the backdrop for a multitude of cinematic productions, including "The Avengers," "The Mandalorian," "Point Break," "Captain America," "Thor," "Avatar 2," "Jerry Maguire," and "Against All Odds," solidifying its status as a cinematic gem along the California coast.
Hermosa Beach, with nearly 2 miles of ocean frontage and 94 acres of public beach, stands as one of the most beloved coastal destinations in Los Angeles County, renowned for its excellent surf, vibrant sand volleyball courts, and scenic biking opportunities. Nestled between Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach, Hermosa serves as the southern anchor of the 22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail, affectionately known as The Strand. Sunbathers, beach volleyball enthusiasts, surfers, paddleboarders, and cyclists flock to Hermosa Beach to indulge in its array of recreational activities. Alongside the pier, a palm tree-lined promenade invites visitors to explore a variety of shops and restaurants. With its picturesque setting, Hermosa Beach has also captured the attention of filmmakers, serving as the backdrop for iconic movies such as "La La Land," "Beverly Hills 90210," "Carrie," "Creature from the Black Lagoon," "Age of Summer," and "Westworld," further solidifying its status as a cinematic treasure along the Southern California coastline.
Zuma Beach emerges as a quintessential gem, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life. Its allure lies in its breathtaking scenery, boasting azure waters that blend seamlessly with velvety sands and rugged cliffs, creating a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and recreation alike. Zuma Beach's captivating beauty has not only attracted sunseekers but has also beckoned the film industry's spotlight. Renowned for its scenic charm, the beach has served as a captivating backdrop for an array of cinematic productions. From the iconic television series "Baywatch" to Hollywood blockbusters such as "Planet of the Apes" and "Lethal Weapon 4," Zuma Beach's scenic allure has seamlessly integrated into these narratives, making it a preferred choice for filmmakers seeking to capture the essence of a perfect beach setting.
Immerse yourself in the storied surfing legacy of Malibu Surfrider Beach, hailed as the most renowned surf break in mainland America. Delve into its fabled point break and uncover the tales of the surfers who forged its legendary status. Malibu Surfrider Beach also holds a significant place in cinematic lore, serving as a quintessential backdrop for numerous films and television shows. Notably, it starred in classics like "Beach Blanket Bingo" and "Big Wednesday," cementing its status as an emblem of the quintessential beach movie genre. As the backdrop for the fourth installment in the series featuring iconic figures like Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello, this picturesque shoreline became a timeless cinematic canvas, forever etching its place in the annals of film history.
Topanga Beach beckons with its breathtaking beauty and vibrant coastal charm. As Malibu's closest beach to Los Angeles, Topanga Beach offers an immersive experience for beachgoers seeking thrilling surfing on cobblestone waves, windsurfing, diving, sunbathing, and more. Beyond its recreational allure, Topanga Beach holds a significant place in cinematic history, notably serving as the backdrop for the iconic 1963 film "Muscle Beach Party." Against the scenic canvas of Topanga Beach, the film unfolds with a dynamic mix of rivalry, humor, and the free-spirited essence of beach culture, creating a memorable cinematic experience that captures the spirit of the era and the enduring allure of Topanga Beach.
Will Rogers State Beach stretches nearly three miles along the Pacific Palisades coastline, offering wide sandy shores framed by the Santa Monica Mountains. Once part of cowboy actor Will Rogers's private estate, the beach retains a relaxed, uncrowded feel compared to its busier neighbors. Volleyball courts, a bike path connecting to Santa Monica and Malibu, and gentle waves make it a favorite for families and paddleboarders alike. Its unobstructed mountain-to-ocean views have also drawn film and TV productions looking for a classic Southern California beach backdrop.
Dockweiler State Beach is LA's longest stretch of sand, running over three miles from Playa del Rey to El Segundo. It's one of the only beaches in the county where bonfires are still allowed in permanent fire pits, making it a top pick for evening gatherings and s'mores under the stars. Wide open sand, consistent onshore winds, and open dunes make it popular with kite surfers and horseback riders. Its proximity to LAX also means dramatic low-altitude plane views for aviation enthusiasts.
Redondo Beach anchors the southern end of LA's famous Strand, blending a classic pier atmosphere with wide, walkable sand. The historic Redondo Beach Pier houses seafood restaurants and shops, while the adjacent harbor offers whale-watching tours and waterfront dining. King Harbor's marina and the nearby Seaside Lagoon add family-friendly variety beyond the open beach itself. Surfers favor the reliable breaks near the pier, while the flat, paved bike path makes it easy to continue on to Hermosa and Manhattan Beach.
El Segundo Beach sits quietly between the busier shores of Dockweiler and Manhattan Beach, offering a laid-back stretch of sand favored by locals over tourists. Wide open beach, minimal crowds, and easy parking make it a practical choice for a low-key beach day. The bluffs above give way to residential streets lined with small-town shops and cafes, a contrast to the more commercial beach towns nearby. It's a solid spot for volleyball, sunset walks, and watching surfers work the modest but consistent break.
Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro offers a rare split personality: a calm inner harbor beach ideal for young families, and a rougher outer beach facing the open ocean for surfers and bodyboarders. The adjacent Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and tide pools make it a popular educational stop, while views of the Vincent Thomas Bridge and passing container ships give it an industrial-maritime charm unlike anywhere else on the LA coast. Its protected waters and grassy picnic areas make it a favorite for birthday parties and school trips.
Paradise Cove is a privately managed slice of Malibu coastline, known for its calm, crescent-shaped shoreline, tide pools, and the beachfront Paradise Cove Beach Cafe. A small parking fee keeps crowds thinner than at nearby public beaches, and the cove's dramatic bluffs have made it a magnet for film and television, including scenes from "Rocky III" and countless commercials and music videos. Its calm waters, tucked-away feel, and photogenic pier remains make it a favorite for both relaxed beach days and special occasions.