If you’re stuck at LAX with extra time or staying nearby and craving a quick escape, the beaches near Los Angeles Airport are your ticket to a refreshing pause.
These closest beaches are just a short drive away, offering a great place to enjoy the sandy beaches and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
You’ll find bike paths, scenic piers, lively street performers, and lots of outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to do.
So ditch the airport terminal or hotel room and explore some of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches.
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Overview of Beaches Near Los Angeles Airport
Los Angeles County is every beach lover’s dreams and is home to the best beaches. From the bustling vibe of Venice Beach (and the iconic Muscle Beach) with its vibrant street performers, to the serene shores of El Segundo Beach, there’s a beach for every mood.
You’re in luck because Los Angeles Airport is just a hop, skip, and jump from many beaches in Southern California.
These sandy spots bring you ocean fun without the stress of a long trip. Let’s dive into an overview of beaches near Los Angeles Airport.
Travel Time and Accessibility
You’re here for a quick getaway, so you need to know how fast you can be lounging by the ocean.
The good news? You’re surrounded by sun-kissed shorelines that are just a short drive away. I know, unfortunately LA isn’t a pedestrian friendly city so you cannot walk to the beach from LAX.
We also don’t have a good public transit system. Thankfully there are lots of rideshare companies you have access to.
Here’s a quick guide on travel times:
- Dockweiler State Beach: Just a 15-minute drive south of LAX, it’s the closest beach. Perfect for a quick visit (even a layover). It’s so close you can watch planes take off and land into the airport.
- Manhattan Beach: A bit more upscale, this beach is only about 20 minutes by car. Enjoy volleyball courts, people watching, or stroll the pier for stunning sunsets.
- Venice Beach: Known for its eclectic vibe, is around 30 minutes away (north of LAX).When you arrive, enjoy the vibes from street artists, quirky shops, and endless bike trails.
- Santa Monica Beach: This iconic beach is about a 30-45-minute drive, depending on traffic.Visit Santa Monica Pier for rides, the busy boardwalk, and picnic spots.
Popular Beaches to Visit
Los Angeles is known for many things, and one of the main attractions are its beaches. I’m going to share some of the best beaches near Los Angeles airport and share some hidden gems.
Good thing is you don’t have to venture far from the airport to find sun, sand, and sea.
Check out these amazing hotels near the beach if you’re planning on staying for a few days near Los Angeles Airport.
Here’s a guide to some of the best beaches to visit:
Santa Monica Beach
This is the most famous beach (in my opinion) and the one spot every tourist and new LA transplant visits.
It was my first beach when I moved to Los Angeles. My cousin took me the day after I landed. And as someone who’s never been to a beach, it was beautiful, especially at sunset.
I took my parents and sisters here when they visited me. And my mom loved it so much, she brought her friends from work (who’ve never been!).
This popular spot is known for the iconic Santa Monica Pier, complete with a Ferris wheel and amusement park.
The ocean swimming, not too much. The water isn’t the cleanest (go to the Orange County beaches for that). And the water is cold!
It’s accessible via the Pacific Coast Highway (one of my favorite road trips up the California coast).
Enjoy a leisurely walk, shop at gift shops, or ride along the bike path. It’s an ideal spot for outdoor activities.
Wander into nearby Third Street Promenade where you’ll find high-end fashion and souvenir shops. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals.
A word of warning though, I haven’t been back since the pandemic and I’ve heard it isn’t as safe and clean as it was before.
Venice Beach
It’s a place where art meets grit, and you’ll find it positively buzzing with activity, especially on the boardwalk.
There’s street performers, skaters, and vendors as well as locals and tourists.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and explore the iconic path that stretches along the coast.
And don’t forget Muscle Beach, where fitness enthusiasts pump iron in the open air. People-watching is the best!
Hermosa Beach
Is a chill beach and great for relaxing. It’s got that laid-back California feel that’s perfect for anyone looking to unwind.
It’s also a popular destination for beach volleyball enthusiasts. Here, you can relax and enjoy the sun on the wide beach or engage in a game on the volleyball courts.
Head to The Strand, an oceanfront walk and bike path, perfect for biking or skating/rollerblading.
Redondo Beach
It’s about 20 minutes from Los Angeles Airport and has a picturesque, large pier great for strolling or dinner with an ocean view.
It’s a perfect place to unwind, watch the boats, and dive into delicious seafood.
Restaurants line the waterfront, offering fresh seafood and stunning sunset views. They also host a lot of free community events like concerts in the summer, yoga, farmers market, and more.
Marina del Rey
It’s great for those who love water activities. Rent a kayak, boat, or dine by the marina.
Fun fact, Marina del Rey, the largest man-made marina in the U.S.
It’s less crowded and offers a more upscale vibe with lots of things to do like going to the beach, have a picnic at the park, explore Fisherman’s Village (a fishing town replica), and walk along the waterfront.
Playa del Rey
Known for its tranquil beach area and picnic spots, it’s a hidden gem where you can relax away from heavy crowds, even during rush hour.
It’s also another less crowded spot and a great escape from the more tourist-heavy places like Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach.
It’s perfect for a relaxing walk on the sand or a quiet picnic. The atmosphere is serene, almost meditative. You can also go kayaking here.
Bring a good book, lay back in the sun, and let time slip away.
These beaches near Los Angeles Airport each offer their unique slice of California coast life, ensuring you never run out of ways to enjoy the sun and surf.
Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Beaches
These beaches near Los Angeles Airport are less mentioned but definitely worth visiting.
Let’s dive into some of these secret coastal treasures and see what makes them special.
El Porto Beach
It’s located in El Segundo, about 15 minutes from LAX, and it’s great for surfing without the crowds. And also good for biking.
You’ll find quaint coffee shops and surf gear stores.
Dockweiler Beach
It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy fire pits for a classic bonfire night.
It’s also the closest beach to LAX so you can spend hours watching the planes land and take off.
It’s noisier and dirtier than other beaches.
Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is a very nice, clean and upscale beach community. You’ll see beautiful, expensive houses facing the ocean.
It’s also home to upscale restaurants and chic shopping spots. Wander along the pier, enjoy some street performances, or rent a bike to cruise along the beachfront path.
Pacific Palisades
It’s about 30 minutes north of LAX and passing Santa Monica. You can reach via Pacific Coast Highway.
The famous beach is Will Rogers Beach. It combines hiking and beach time with trails offering stunning panoramic views of the coast.
Pacific Palisades offers scenic views of the ocean that are hard to beat. Nestled between the Santa Monica Mountains and the ocean, this beach is a gateway to hiking trails that promise jaw-dropping vistas.
El Segundo Beach
It’s less crowded, more family-friendly and offers a quiet retreat that’s just right for some family fun.
Ideal for family picnics, this peaceful spot offers gentle waves for kids. Relax, feel the sand, and enjoy the soothing sea sounds.
These beaches near Los Angeles Airport are paradise spots to explore. Grab your sunhat and picnic, and enjoy the coastal wonders nearby.
Tips for Visiting Beaches on a Layover
If you have a long layover (4 hours and longer), it’s possible to hit the beach before taking your next flight. Here’s some tips to consider:
- Check the Distance: Know how far the beach is from LAX. Dockweiler Beach is just a 15-minute drive away, and a great choice if you lack time.
- Calculate Your Travel Time: Remember to include time for travel to and from the airport. Allow extra time for traffic, because, well, it’s L.A. Budget at least 15 minutes extra each way to account for the horrible traffic around the terminals.
- Set an Alarm: If you’re the type to lose track of time while watching waves, set an alarm on your phone to remind you when it’s time to head back.
- Plan for Security Checks: Keep in mind that going through airport security can take time. Aim to be back at LAX at least two hours before your flight.
- Consider Your Luggage: If you packed light then it’s no problem, you can take your backpack with you. However, if you have checked bags and carry-ons consider checking them with the airline or skip the beach for another time. The last thing you want is to drag your luggage across the beach (although I’ve seen people do it!)
Your Quick Getaway
If you’re short on time or need a peaceful break, the beaches near Los Angeles Airport offer a quick taste of California’s relaxed vibe.
Now, grab your sunnies and head out there! The endless ocean waves are calling.
Check out my Oaxaca, Mexico Travel posts: What to Pack for Oaxaca and What to Shop in Oaxaca to inspire you to travel beyond California.
Let me know if I missed one of your favorite spots and I’ll add it to my list ASAP.
