Southern California is known for its surf, sunshine, and endless stretches of sand. But finding the right beach can turn an ordinary outing into an unforgettable day. The laid-back energy of LA’s coastline and the scenic charm of its southern shores, every spot has its own personality and story to tell.
Maybe you want soft sands for a quiet swim or a peaceful place to catch the sunset. Whatever your plan, this guide highlights the best beaches across the region, including classic piers, family favorites, romantic hideaways, and surf spots worth the trip.
For a more memorable day by the shore, try pairing your beach visit with a luxury beach picnic in Los Angeles or Orange County. Everything is prepared for you, so you can make the most of your time by the water.
Best Beaches for Families 👨👩👧👦
Southern California has many beaches that make family outings safe. These spots also have nearby food and restrooms, giving parents everything they need for a smooth day by the sea.
Santa Monica Beach ✨🌅🧡
Santa Monica is one of the best family beaches in Los Angeles for a reason. The wide stretch of sand gives kids plenty of space to play, and the nearby pier adds extra excitement.
Families can enjoy rides at Pacific Park, grab a snack at the food stands, or rent bikes to explore the coastal path. Lifeguards are always on duty, and there are showers and restrooms close by.
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Family Tip: Visit early in the morning to find parking easily and enjoy the pier before it gets crowded.
Redondo Beach 🥥🌴
If your family prefers calm water, Redondo Beach is a great choice. The nearby Seaside Lagoon is perfect for younger children, with shallow saltwater, shaded areas, and lifeguards on watch.
Parents can relax knowing the waves are gentle, and there are picnic areas close to the beach. After swimming, take a walk along the pier for ice cream or a quick lunch.
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Family Tip: Bring water shoes for kids at the lagoon’s edge, where the floor can feel a bit rocky.
Main Beach, Laguna ✨🫧🌤️
Laguna’s Main Beach is a family favorite with something for everyone. There is a playground right by the sand, volleyball courts, and lifeguards keeping an eye on swimmers.
The waves are mild enough for kids, and shops and restaurants are just a short walk away. It is a relaxed and clean spot that captures that classic California beach feel.
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Family Tip: Park in the metered spots along Pacific Coast Highway for the quickest beach access.
Corona Del Mar State Beach 🌴🍹🍉
Families who love exploring nature will enjoy Corona Del Mar. The water is calm, and kids can spend hours discovering sea life in the tide pools along the rocks.
It is one of the most peaceful and family-friendly beaches in Orange County, with picnic tables, restrooms, and wide sandy areas that are perfect for a long day under the sun.
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Family Tip: Check tide schedules before visiting the pools since low tide gives you the best chance to spot starfish and crabs.
For an extra touch, you can book a family beach picnic with everything set up ahead of time, including blankets, tableware, and fresh picnic food. All you have to do is show up and enjoy the day.
Best Beaches for Romance and Relaxation 💕
Few things feel more romantic than watching the sun dip below the ocean with someone you love. Southern California has no shortage of beaches that set the mood for peaceful walks along the shore.
These are the best beaches for couples in Los Angeles and romantic beaches in Orange County that bring beauty and calm together.
Will Rogers State Beach 💗🏄🏼♀️
For couples who love simplicity and peace, Will Rogers State Beach is a perfect choice. The soft sand and gentle waves create a calm atmosphere that feels far removed from the busy city life nearby.
It is also one of the most picnic-friendly beaches in Los Angeles, with open space to relax and enjoy the view together.
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Couple Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for a quieter setting and stay to watch the sunset over Santa Monica Bay.
Diver’s Cove, Laguna Beach 🐬🐠🏝️
Hidden away in Laguna, Diver’s Cove is a small, romantic spot surrounded by cliffs and clear blue water. Couples often come here to snorkel, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the sound of the waves in a more private corner of the coast.
It is one of the most beautiful romantic beaches in Orange County, perfect for sharing a picnic or celebrating a special moment.
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Couple Tip: Pack a snorkel set or rent one nearby. You might spot colorful fish swimming right beneath the surface.
Seal Beach 🏖️🌊
Seal Beach has a quiet, small-town feel that makes it ideal for slow, peaceful days. Take a stroll along the wooden pier, browse the local shops, and relax on the soft sand with the sound of the ocean in the background.
It is a lovely spot for couples who prefer a more relaxed and less crowded beach experience.
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Couple Tip: Stop by one of the cafés near Main Street before sunset and bring your drinks to the pier for the perfect view.
Manhattan Beach 🐚☀️
Manhattan Beach is where elegance meets ocean charm. Couples can walk hand in hand along The Strand, watch surfers near the pier, and end the day with dinner at one of the stylish beachfront restaurants.
The combination of clean sands and upscale energy makes this beach one of the best places for a romantic day out.
Couple Tip: Arrive before sunset to catch the glowing sky from the Roundhouse Aquarium pier.
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If you want to turn your day by the sea into something unforgettable, book a romantic beach picnic in Laguna or Malibu.
Everything from the setup to the details will be taken care of, so you can focus on each other and the view. For more inspiration, see our ideas for romantic beach dates and beach weddings.
Best Beaches for Surfing and Adventure 🌊
Southern California is a playground for those who love the ocean. With consistent surf and wide stretches of sand, it attracts people who want more than just a day of sunbathing.
Here are the best surf beaches in LA and the top surfing beaches in Orange County, where adventure meets the sea.
Huntington Beach (Surf City USA) ☀️
Huntington Beach lives up to its name as Surf City USA. It is a world-famous surf destination where professionals and beginners share the same lineup.
The beach runs for miles with surf schools, board rentals, and competitions that keep the shoreline active all year. Even if you do not surf, the pier and nearby volleyball games make it an exciting place to spend the day.
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Adventure Tip: Visit in late July or early August to catch the US Open of Surfing, the biggest surf event in California.
Newport Beach (The Wedge) ✨
The Wedge is one of the most thrilling surf spots in Southern California. The waves here can grow massive during big swells, creating a show that draws spectators as much as surfers.
It is best suited for experienced riders, but watching the power of the ocean at work is an experience in itself.
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Adventure Tip: Bring a camera and watch from the shore at high tide. The wave size can reach 20 feet or more on strong days.
Venice Beach 🫧🦪
Venice Beach is where surf culture meets creativity. Alongside surfers in the water, you will see skateboarders at the famous Venice Skate Park and street performers along the boardwalk.
The waves are moderate and ideal for casual surfers who want to enjoy the scene as much as the surf.
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Adventure Tip: Rent a bike and follow the coastal path to Santa Monica for one of the best beach rides in Los Angeles.
Dockweiler State Beach 🌊🐚
Dockweiler Beach has a different kind of energy. It is one of the few beaches in Los Angeles where bonfires are allowed, and it also has a hang-gliding training area for those looking to try something new.
Located near LAX, it has a lively setting with planes passing above and plenty of space to unwind after an active day.
Adventure Tip: Arrive before sunset to claim a fire pit and stay for a cozy evening by the ocean.
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You can also check out our guide to the best beaches in Malibu for more surf and sunset spots worth visiting.
Best Hidden and Quiet Beaches 🌅
Not everyone heads to the coast for crowds and noise. Some prefer views that feel untouched. Southern California has many hidden corners where you can slow down and enjoy the coast in peace. These quiet beaches in Orange County and hidden beaches in Los Angeles are perfect for a relaxed day under the sun.
Seal Beach 🍹
Seal Beach has a small-town charm that feels worlds away from the city. The wooden pier stretches into the ocean, and the gentle waves make it a soothing spot for an afternoon of rest.
Main Street is lined with local cafés and shops, so you can grab a coffee before heading down to the sand.
Quiet Tip: Visit early on weekday mornings when the beach is nearly empty and the ocean air is cool and still.
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El Matador State Beach (Malibu) 🏞️
El Matador is one of the most picturesque hidden beaches in Los Angeles, known for its sea caves and dramatic cliffs.
A steep trail leads down to the sand, rewarding you with a secluded setting that feels private and romantic. It is a popular place for photography and sunset picnics.
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Quiet Tip: Bring shoes with a good grip for the walk down, and plan to leave before dark since the trail can get slippery after sunset. For shade or privacy at quiet beaches like this, you can set up one of the best beach tents to make your time by the sea more comfortable.
Crystal Cove State Park 🪸
Crystal Cove offers a blend of beach and nature. Hidden coves, coastal trails, and tide pools stretch across miles of protected shoreline.
It is ideal for those who enjoy peaceful walks and scenic ocean views without the usual beach crowds.
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Quiet Tip: Park at the Los Trancos lot and take the tunnel walkway under the highway for the easiest beach access.
Corona Del Mar (Inspiration Point) ⛵
Corona Del Mar’s Inspiration Point overlooks one of the best beaches for picnics in Southern California. The cliffs give you a panoramic view of the Pacific, and the lower beach area stays calm even on weekends.
Families and couples often come here to watch the sunset and enjoy the quiet water.
Quiet Tip: Bring a light blanket and plan your visit near sunset for the best light and fewest people.
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Beach Safety and Visitor Tips 🧴
A day at the beach should be fun, relaxing, and safe. Knowing a few simple guidelines can make your trip smoother and help you enjoy the coast with peace of mind.
Here are some beach safety tips for Southern California visitors to keep in mind before packing your bags.
Water Safety Tips 🌊
Always swim near lifeguard stations. These areas are watched closely and are safer for both adults and children. Check warning flags before getting in the water. A red flag means strong surf, while a yellow flag means moderate conditions. If you get caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the pull.
Local Tip: Many California beaches have cool currents even in summer. Wearing a light wetsuit can help you stay comfortable during long swims.
Sun Protection Essentials ☀️
The sun can be strong, especially around midday. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours. A hat, sunglasses, and lightweight long-sleeved clothing can add extra protection. Drink water often, and take breaks in the shade whenever possible.
Copyright ©️ Photo by Picnic Makers
Local Tip: Bring a large umbrella or canopy for comfort, especially if you plan to stay for the afternoon. You can check our guide on the best beach umbrella tents for ideas that offer both shade and style.
Wildlife Awareness and Local Regulations 🚨
Southern California beaches are home to sea lions, dolphins, and shorebirds. Admire them from a distance and never feed them. Keep your space clean and follow posted signs about restricted areas. Open fires are only allowed in designated fire pits, and glass containers are banned on most beaches.
Local Tip: Check city websites for current California beach rules before you go, as regulations can vary between counties.
If you plan to bring your pet, check our guide on dog-friendly beaches in LA to make sure your beach choice is safe and welcoming.
Plan Your Perfect Beach Picnic with Picnic Makers 🥂
Every beautiful beach day deserves a touch of comfort and care. At Picnic Makers, we turn any stretch of sand into a setting made for connection, celebration, and relaxation. You bring the sunshine, and we bring the setup.
Our team creates fully styled beach picnics in Los Angeles, Malibu, and Orange County, complete with cozy seating, elegant tableware, and curated décor that fits your occasion. Whether it is a proposal, an anniversary, or a quiet afternoon with friends, every detail is planned so you can simply arrive and enjoy the view.
As a trusted pop-up picnic company, we specialize in creating moments that feel personal and effortless. Choose from luxury picnic setups, family gatherings, or custom themes designed just for you.
See the beauty for yourself in our Pinterest picnic gallery or start planning your event on our booking page.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Orange County beaches?
The best time to visit Orange County beaches is from May to October, when the weather is warm and the water is comfortable for swimming. Spring and fall are quieter months if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler air.
Are there beaches where I can have a picnic?
Yes, many picnic beaches in Los Angeles and Orange County welcome visitors with picnic tables or open spaces for beach setups. Santa Monica Beach, Will Rogers State Beach, and Corona Del Mar are great options for relaxed seaside meals.
Which beaches allow bonfires in LA?
Dockweiler State Beach is one of the few beaches in Los Angeles that allows bonfires. Fire pits are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and it is best to arrive before sunset to find a good spot.
Are there dog-friendly beaches in Orange County?
Yes, several dog-friendly beaches in OC allow pets. Huntington Dog Beach and parts of Laguna Beach are known for welcoming well-behaved dogs. Always check local rules before visiting.
Where can I park near Santa Monica and Newport Beach?
Both beaches have metered parking lots near the piers. In Santa Monica, parking starts around $7 per day, while Newport Beach offers hourly and daily options depending on location and season.
