Day Trips from Los Angeles
← All Los Angeles day tripsDay Trips from Los Angeles: Beaches & Waterfront
The best beaches and waterfront destinations within driving distance of Los Angeles, CA. Lake beaches, river walks, and coastal parks that make for a perfect warm-weather day trip. Real drive times, ratings, and photos included.
12 beaches near Los Angeles
Treasure Island Park
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Just 1 hr 5 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.9 stars by 2,270 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shoreline Park
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Just 1 hr 38 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 2,511 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fletcher Cove Beach Park
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Just 1 hr 39 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.8 stars by 3,236 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Marina del Rey Inlet Park
Venice, CA 90292
Just 31 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.7 stars by 670 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
ShoreLine Aquatic Park
Long Beach, CA 90802
Just 27 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.7 stars by 2,775 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shoreline Park
212 Golden Shore, Long Beach
Just 30 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Colorado Lagoon
Long Beach, CA 90814
Just 38 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.6 stars by 1,923 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Marina Green
Long Beach, CA 90803
Just 29 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.6 stars by 961 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mothers Beach
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Just 33 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.6 stars by 3,262 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Leadbetter Beach
801 Shoreline Dr, Santa Barbara
Just 1 hr 39 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.6 stars by 1,950 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
North Shore Beach
CA 91773, USA
Just 33 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.5 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
1000 Steps Beach
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
Just 1 hr 40 min from Los Angeles, rated 4.5 stars by 701 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches Day Trips from Los Angeles
What are the best beaches near Los Angeles, CA?
The best beaches near Los Angeles include lake beaches, state park swimming areas, and waterfront parks. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable beaches within driving distance of Los Angeles?
Yes. Several beaches within 1-3 hours of Los Angeles have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during summer months. State park beaches are often the cleanest and best-maintained options.
When is the best time to visit beaches near Los Angeles?
Late May through September is prime beach season near Los Angeles. June and July offer the warmest water temperatures. Shoulder months (May, September) have fewer crowds and are great for walking and photography.
What should I bring for a beach day trip from Los Angeles?
Pack sunscreen, towels, a cooler with drinks and snacks, and water shoes for rocky shorelines. Some state park beaches charge a vehicle entry fee ($5-$15), so bring cash. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking.
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