The 7 Best Beach Destinations in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to more than 70 miles of coastline, and no two beaches feel the same. From iconic boardwalks buzzing with energy to quiet coves backed by cliffs and palm trees, LA’s beach destinations offer wildly different experiences depending on where you land.

So what are the best beach destinations in Los Angeles? The answer depends on how you like to travel. Whether you’re planning a laid-back coastal escape, a lively beach vacation with plenty to do, or a more secluded oceanfront stay, this guide breaks down the best LA beach destinations – with local insight on the vibe, what each area is best for, and where to stay.

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At a Glance: Best Los Angeles Beach Vacation Destinations

• Best for classic LA beach vibes: Santa Monica

• Best for culture & people-watching: Venice Beach

• Best for laid-back luxury: Malibu

• Best for walkability & dining: Manhattan Beach

• Best for a local, low-key feel: Hermosa Beach

• Best for scenic beauty & hiking: Pacific Palisades

• Best for family-friendly beaches: Redondo Beach

1. Santa Monica: Best for First-Time Visitors

Santa Monica is often the first beach people picture when they think of Los Angeles — and for good reason. With its wide sandy shoreline, iconic pier, and walkable streets, it offers a perfect balance of beach life and city convenience.

Why it’s great:

• Easy access to restaurants, shopping, and attractions

• Flat bike paths along the coast

• Lively but polished atmosphere

Local tip:
Head north of the pier toward Montana Avenue for a quieter beach experience without leaving the neighborhood.

Wander Homes to Explore in Santa Monica

• Wander Santa Monica Shores – Discover unparalleled ocean views, direct beach access, and a private hot tub and pool at this 6-bedroom property.

• Wander Los Angeles Willow – This 7-bedroom home features expansive balconies, a sparkling outdoor pool, a relaxing hot tub, and more.

2. Venice Beach: Best for Energy, Creativity & Iconic LA Culture

Venice is bold, eclectic, and unmistakably LA. From the famous boardwalk to canals and rooftop sunsets, this beach destination is perfect for travellers who want character and color.

Why it’s great:

• Strong creative scene and nightlife

• Excellent people-watching

• Easy access to Santa Monica and Marina del Rey

Local tip:
Skip the busiest boardwalk stretches and explore the Venice Canals at golden hour for a calmer, postcard-perfect side of the area.

Wander Homes to Explore in Venice

• Wander Venice Shores – Explore this designer home and its breathtaking rooftop oasis, complete with a fire pit, private sauna, outdoor seating, and stunning ocean views.

• Wander Los Angeles Mirage – This private 6-bedroom oasis features a rooftop terrace for drinks at sunset, an outdoor dining area, and a beautiful fireplace for gathering round when it gets cooler.

3. Malibu: Best for Scenic Beauty & Secluded Luxury

Malibu stretches for over 20 miles, and much of it feels worlds away from the city. This is one of the best Los Angeles beach vacation destinations for travellers who want space, privacy, and dramatic coastal views.

Why it’s great:

• Cliffside beaches and hidden coves

• Cooler coastal temperatures

• Easy access to hiking trails and oceanfront dining

Local tip:
Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends. If you want Malibu at its best, plan mid-week beach days.

Wander Homes to Explore in Malibu

• Wander Malibu Cove Retreat – Nestled near the famous Point Dume along Malibu's stunning coastline, this retreat offers unobstructed ocean views, an outdoor patio and al fresco dining area, and more.

• Wander Malibu Coast – Where else will you find 57 feet of direct ocean frontage, complete with an oceanfront deck, a hot tub, a fire pit, and more? Snap this one up before it’s gone.

4. Manhattan Beach: Best for Walkability & Upscale Beach Town Charm

Manhattan Beach blends a relaxed surf culture with polished restaurants, boutiques, and a beautifully maintained shoreline.

Why it’s great:

• Compact, walkable downtown

• Clean beaches and calm vibe

• Excellent dining scene

Local tip:
The north end of the beach tends to be quieter, while the pier area is more social and lively.

Wander Homes to Explore Near Manhattan Beach

• Wander Los Angeles Springs – Indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience on the expansive rooftop, where you can soak in the panoramic cityscape while enjoying a cozy fire in the outdoor fire pit.

5. Hermosa Beach: Best for a Local, Laid-Back Feel

Just south of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa offers a slightly more casual, youthful energy – popular with locals and surfers.

Why it’s great:

• Relaxed nightlife and beach bars

• Excellent coastal walking and biking paths

• Less tourist-heavy than Santa Monica

Local tip:
Hermosa is especially fun in the late afternoon, when beach days roll seamlessly into sunset drinks.

Wander Homes to Explore Near Hermosa Beach

• Wander Corona Shores – This elegant property features a sophisticated fireplace, ideal for cozy evenings, while a spirited ping pong table offers engaging recreation.

6. Pacific Palisades: Best for Scenic Views & Coastal Hiking

Where mountains meet the sea, Pacific Palisades offers one of the most beautiful coastal settings in LA. It’s quieter, greener, and perfect for travellers who love nature alongside the beach.

Why it’s great:

• Access to Will Rogers State Beach

• Coastal hiking trails and ocean overlooks

• Calmer, residential atmosphere

Local tip:
Pair beach mornings with afternoon hikes – the Palisades offer some of the best ocean-view trails in the city.

Wander Homes to Explore Near the Pacific Palisades

• Wander Los Angeles Willow – Relax by the sparkling outdoor pool or soak in the hot tub beneath the stars. Indoors, you’ll find everything from a cozy fireplace to a private gym for energizing workouts.

7. Redondo Beach: Best for Families & Easygoing Beach Days

Redondo Beach is spacious, relaxed, and family-friendly, with long stretches of sand and a working harbor that adds local charm.

Why it’s great:

• Calmer beaches and wide shoreline

• Harbor walks and waterfront dining

• Less crowded than northern beaches

Local tip:
The pier and marina area is great for casual seafood and sunset strolls without the buzz of busier beach towns.

So, What’s the Best Beach Destination in Los Angeles?

The best beach destination in Los Angeles depends on how you want to spend your time. If you want iconic energy and walkability, Santa Monica and Venice deliver. For natural beauty and privacy, Malibu and the Palisades stand out. And if you’re craving a slower, more local beach vacation, the South Bay beaches offer space to unwind.

Where to Stay for a Los Angeles Beach Vacation

Choosing the right home base can completely shape your beach experience. Wander’s luxury vacation rentals across Los Angeles offer spacious, private alternatives to hotels – many with ocean views, outdoor living spaces, and easy beach access.

From Malibu cliffside retreats to stylish Santa Monica and Venice homes, Wander makes it easy to stay close to the beach without sacrificing comfort, privacy, or design. Every home comes professionally cleaned, fully furnished, and supported by 24/7 concierge and ultra-fast WiFi.

Explore luxury vacation rentals in Los Angeles with Wander →