Most Beautiful Beaches in Los Angeles County

Malibu and Rancho Palos Verdes, California

Why the hell would you come to Southern California and not visit the beach? Below are our top four favorite beaches in Los Angeles County. The water may not be warm bath water like that of Miami, but the unique natural features of these beaches are not to be missed if you’re visiting southern California.

1. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park: Tide pools, sea caves, resident seals, and a beautiful cove - this park is a dream if you love coastal areas. Take the Sacred Cove View Trail to see the best views of the park and find your own little private beach. Click HERE for more information, additional photos, and tips on the park. Park hours are from 9am to 4pm (you can stay after 4pm, but no cars are allowed to enter the parking area after 4pm) and the paid parking lot can fill up quickly, so don’t show up too late. Located in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes.

2. El Matador State Beach: Very popular with models, this beach isn’t the one for you if you’re looking for seclusion. However, the two big chunks of land that sit part way in the ocean and part way on the beach make this spot a very cool scene that you won’t want to miss. From the parking area, it’s only a short five minute walk down some steps to the beach where you can have yourself a little picnic and take in the views. Limited paid parking is available in a small dirt lot (that fills quickly) and street parking is also available - watch the street signs carefully so you don’t get a ticket. Located in the City of Malibu.

3. Leo Carrillo State Park: With a cool sea cave you can walk through and its location just up the street from El Matador State Beach (above), Leo Carrillo is a lesser known Malibu beach that’s great for a relaxing stroll or to just chill on the beach. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon and you might get lucky and see some of the local rabbits that inhabit the area. For you movie buffs, a good number of scenes from the movie Point Break were filmed here. Paid parking and street parking are available at this location. Located in the City of Malibu.

4. Point Dume State Beach: Malibu cliffside views perfect for a good sunset along with a nice long beach if you’re not in the mood to wander around the cliffs - this beach has it all. When wandering around cliffs, you’ll more than likely see and hear the local seals down below. If you park down below at the beach, you’ll probably also see a handful of rock climbers practicing their skills on the north side wall of the cliffs. Limited parking (that is almost always full) is available in a small lot up near the cliffs or you can find plenty of paid parking down by the beach. Located in the City of Malibu.