I am sure that when you say that Los Angeles visions of tanned inhabitants come to mind, as well as the beaches that allow them this luxury. Sunbathing is not, of course, the only activity that can be done on the beach. In fact, different beaches will have different activities for which it is best. Los Angeles County has over 30 miles of beaches, so we’ll have plenty of options for whatever activity you and your family have in mind.
If you haven’t decided which activity you’d like to participate in or if your family members want to do different things, Santa Monica State Beach would be ideal. It is the first beach you will find after the Santa Monica highway. The beach is wide with white sand and there are large parking lots. It is a beach for socializing both in the morning and in the evening, as summer night concerts are regularly held here. Also good for sunbathing, walking, biking, rollerblading but not surfing. For our needs: the bathrooms are well maintained, there is a lifeguard and cafes dotted around the area.
For an activity-oriented beach, Zuma Beach County Park and Redondo State Beach are the places to visit. Redondo’s white sands are south of King Harbor. You can access it via Torrence Boulevard or the Pacific Coast Highway. This is a busy beach with private and excursion boats lined up and restaurants and shops fill the pier. You can choose from fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, volleyball, surfing, biking, and jogging to pass the time. If you are a music enthusiast you will not be left out since during the summer they usually have several jazz and rock concerts scheduled. Don’t worry, there are lifeguards throughout the year. As for Zuma Beach, this is a favorite for teens who want to get that tanned complexion. It is located one mile past Kanan Dume Road, on the Pacific Coast Highway. If your facilities wish they have it in abundance: lifeguards, volleyball courts, playgrounds for children, dealer stands, and many restrooms. Their activities range from beach sports to fishing, diving and activities for children in the playground. However, a downside is that the surf is rough, so you have to be vigilant.
Surfing is back in popularity again with the help of our Hollywood actors and actresses. The best beaches for surfing in Los Angeles would be Malibu Lagoon State Beach and Surfrider Beach. These beaches next to the Malibu Pier are a surfer’s dream because they consistently produce three to five foot waves. If you are an avid fan of surfing, visit us in September because the international surfing contest takes place here.
If you love people-watching like everyone else does, Venice Beach is the perfect fit. You will feel transported to a different dimension or, at the very least, to a carnival. There are magicians, fire eaters, different types of street performers, vendors selling a range of products, bodybuilders and if I’ve missed something, I probably have my excuse is that you only have to experience Venice beach to understand it. Have fun!
If you’re more of an introspective person, the western end of Leo Carrillo State Beach is the quiet spot for you. This beach is on the Ventura County border and because it is narrow it is best to explore on your own or if this is your first time, it would be best with a ranger. There are camping grounds at the back of the beach and brave surfers have been known to visit this beach as well.
Remember that pollution in Santa Monica Bay can reach unacceptable levels after storms, so be sure to visit http://www.watchthewater.com for more information.