The Guide to LA's Beach Cities
LA’s Beach Cities epitomize utopian SoCal coastal life. Characterized by aspirational ocean-view homes, picturesque piers, surfing, volleyball and miles of sun-soaked sand, today’s Beach Cities are also dining destinations and rich in eclectic retail. If you’re flying into nearby LAX for your Beach Cities stay, there are also attractions close to the airport that are well worth a visit before you head south.
Visitors can make LAX hotels their hub for exploring the Beach Cities as well as offering convenient access to world-class sports and events venues in nearby Inglewood.
For an even deeper dive into the region, check out our Basic Guide to LAX and the Best Beaches in LA.
From budget to luxury, the perfect hotel is waiting to host your trip to Los Angeles. Browse the Discover LA directory and book your stay today!
From a beloved SoCal burger chain to high-end dining experiences, the Beach Cities offer something for every taste and budget.
A pair of airport-adjacent locations of this beloved SoCal burger chain serve Angelenos and visitors alike, including one on the LAX flight path that's popular with plane spotters.
Huge portions, reasonable prices and super close to LAX, Courtyard Café is open for breakfast and lunch but is invisible from the street, so trust your GPS!
Ethically-sourced poké, vegan and artisanal açai bowls are the specialty of this Silicon Beach staple, which prioritizes locally-sourced produce including fresh seafood delivered daily.
A vibrant vegetarian restaurant, café and juice bar with numerous vegan and gluten-free options, the Butcher’s Daughter is also allergy conscious and accommodating of all diets.
Start your day guilt-free with a plant-based breakfast or brunch at an eatery that’s been doing it right since 2004, including baked Italian quiche, chilaquiles and housemade tofu scramble.
Head to the remodeled Jamaica Bay Inn to enjoy this bright, casually tasteful dining room and canopied outdoor area overlooking the beach, where a classic brunch is served from 7am.
Renowned for the chorizos and meats he supplies to restaurants, Humberto Raygoza's signature Breakfast Burrito is made with chorizo, soyrizo or chile verde; crispy potatoes, two runny eggs and cheese.
This distinctly SoCal deli, bakery/café/market serves seasonal all-day breakfast delights including quiche, morning flatbread pizza, frittata, and a delectable granola, yogurt and fruit bowl.
Serving nouveau Latin cuisine influenced by South and Central America, Spain and the Caribbean amid cool vibes. Breakfast is served until 2pm and Latin Breakfast till 4pm.
For over 40 years, the quaintly home-style Phanny’s has been serving great coffee, marvelous mimosas, and the South Bay’s most revered breakfast burrito, known for its spicy salsa zing.
"Top Chef" champ Brooke Williamson features four restaurant concepts in a 7,000 square-foot space, from the casual King Cafe to the spirited Grain Whiskey Bar.
With locations in all three Beach Cities, the Rockefeller serves simple but eclectic fare, craft beers, and a daily brunch at its Hermosa and MB restaurants.
RYLA’s Japan-influenced coastal cuisine reflects the backgrounds of chefs Ray Hayashi and his wife Cynthia Hetlinger, with brunch choices including shoyu ramen and breakfast fried rice.
Mediterranean cuisine always sits well with seaside settings, and this organic eatery is no exception. Try homemade yogurt and hummus, sirloin or tofu kebabs, or grab tapas and drinks.
Indoors or on their covered patio, Wildflower Café offers extensive breakfast and lunch menus and charming service. Little wonder that there’s a waitlist for weekend dining!
Since 1987, this stalwart Mexican food truck has parked at 4th and Rose, offering friendly family staff, honest pricing (cash only), raved-about seafood and more.
This long-running Venice landmark augments generous helpings of quality fare with a shaded patio and built-in entertainment from nearby street performers and primo people watching.
If you don’t want to break up your day with an elaborate meal, grab a quick fish & chips lunch at the wonderful Wee Chippy, run by Scotsman Joe Gorrie.
This neighborhood steakhouse is a monument not only to wood-grilled beef but also creative seafood and vegetarian dishes, plus a bar boasting craft cocktails and over 200 global wines.
The world’s oldest movie-themed restaurant, famed for handmade tortillas and calamari steak served in a romantic ambiance inspired by the eponymous Bogart/Bergman 1942 classic.
A celebration of the aperitif culture and artisanal cocktails of the bars and bistros of France, Coucou serves elevated French favorites, classic cocktails, and fine Cali and Gallic wines.
The charms of this (mostly) locals’ (mostly) seafood wine bar aren’t lost on visitors, who appreciate low bottle prices and super-fresh fish caught by the staff.
Exceptional pizza, pasta, antipasti and desserts served in an uncluttered, quietly elegant space by warm, welcoming staff – and conveniently located on trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
This Thai eatery and market marries Bangkok buzz to SoCal chill, gathering friends over bold food and natural libations, including the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Leonardo DiCaprio.
This dramatically elevated neighborhood steakhouse also offers divine seafood, delightful appetizers, and an incredibly comprehensive wine list amidst sleek retro vibes.
Opened in 2024 by the team behind Fishing With Dynamite, RYLA and The Arthur J, AttaGirl is a vibrant Mediterranean-style experience replete with wittily-named cocktails.
Champagne in hand, cast off from Fisherman’s Village for this 2.5-hour upscale cruise featuring a three-course prix fixe dinner, scenic views and DJ entertainment.
Marina views and timeless tastes intuitively harmonize at this waterside gem specializing in classic American seafood, from clams casino to surf ‘n turf, and throwback personalized service.
With its prime location just blocks from the ocean, remarkable architecture, and modern interpretations of traditional Sonoran cuisine, this is the place for that special celebration or date.
East Coast meets West at this bright, 32-seat eatery anchored by a lively oyster bar and a menu of both traditional and “new school” artisanal seafood dishes with global influences.
Open for dinner daily, Little Sister is an East-meets-West collision of food cultures borne out of European colonization of Southeast Asia, including French, Dutch and British influences.
Soak up sea breezes on the patio or mid-century modern vibes in the sophisticated dining room while savoring home-style Mexican cuisine plus premium tequilas, mezcals and global wines.
Marina views, outdoor seating, and timeless dishes transformed into flavor-forward marvels have earned SALT the approval of loyal locals and returning visitors alike.
Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, SPFM is best known for its World Famous Shrimp Tray - Shrimp & Veggie Mix seared “A la Plancha” style (serves 2-4).
Nestled inside the luxurious Shade Redondo Beach hotel, Sea Level offers award-winning coastal cuisine in a comfy modern space with jaw-dropping views from Malibu to Palos Verdes.
It’s all in the name: dry-aged prime meats and an impressive whisky selection inside a Californian take on a classic American tavern, plus seafood, cocktails, and wine by the glass.
A favorite of performers and audiences since 1978, known for Jay Leno’s long-running Sunday residency but also regularly hosting the likes of Gabriel Iglesias, Arsenio Hall, and Daniel Tosh.
Enjoy live music and DJs perfectly paired with bold, classic flavors by chef Joshua Luce and a cultured cocktail program by Lee Farrell.
Street artists, specialty shops, eateries, million-dollar homes, skaters, rollerbladers and colorful characters combine into something that’s more a bucket-list experience than just a tourist attraction.
Beloved indie bookstore tucked behind The Sidewalk Café, known for its poetry collection, support of small presses and frequent author events. Free gift wrapping!
Artist Jonas Never painted this massive mural as a tribute to Orson Welles’ 1958 film noir Touch of Evil, which filmed in Venice Beach, including the famous opening tracking shot.
This network of canals that was built in 1905 to drain the original marshes intentionally echoes the namesake Italian city and are now a Historic District.
If you’re in Venice on a Saturday afternoon, this eye-popping curiosity is the live/work studio of artist Cheri Pann, where her tiles form mosaics decorating almost the entire property.
Located in Pacific Palisades, the Getty Villa houses a collection that spans 4,000 years of ancient art in a recreation of a first-century Roman country house.
The only aviation museum located at a major airport, the Flight Path Museum's exhibits celebrate the Golden Age of aviation travel with models, vintage uniforms and much more.
Home to its namesake Cultural Center, Fort MacArthur Military Museum, iconic Korean Bell of Friendship and an incomparably picturesque outdoor basketball court.
Choose your adventure aboard the "Battleship of Presidents," from self-guided tours to exclusive crew-led tours that take guests to restricted areas of the ship.
Featuring exclusively Southern California marine life, this mid-size aquarium is renowned for its commitment to education and its accessibility for young ones.
The 87-acre South Coast Botanic Garden boasts a collection of more than 200,000 plants that attracts visitors from around the world.
MOLAA is the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino art, with a permanent collection that now numbers over 1,300 works of art.
Few cities in the world can boast these state-of-the-art sports and events venues within walking distance of each other.
The centerpiece of Inglewood’s recent revitalization, SoFi Stadium - home to the NFL’s Rams and Chargers - is just 15 minutes from LAX and also houses the 6,000-seat YouTube Theater.
Immerse yourself in The Dome experience, cheer for your favorite teams in The Hall and unwind at The Deck.
Opened just last year, this 18,000-capacity indoor arena in Inglewood hosts the NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers, A-list concerts, and will be a 2028 Summer Olympics basketball venue.
Next door to SoFi Stadium, the storied Kia Forum has hosted sports and music since 1967, including the famed “Miracle on Manchester” six-goal NHL playoff comeback by the LA Kings.
Part of the SoFi Stadium complex, YouTube Theater is an intimate three-story venue combining state-of-the art technology with luxury guest amenities and premium sound.
From boho-chic Abbot Kinney Boulevard – dubbed “the coolest block in America” by GQ – to a pop & pop shop to an eclectic open-air mall, there's plenty of places in the Beach Cities for you to get your retail fix.
All of the 1970s-inspired pieces are handmade in California at the Aviator Nation factory, where each item is distressed to "perfect imperfection."
Inspired by the American West, Burro is a one-stop shop for locally made goods - stationery, trinkets, coffee table companions, handcrafted accessories and wares for hearth and home.
Shop the lush indoor-outdoor space for home accessories, apparel and outdoor furniture crafted right here in Venice; there's even a greenhouse ready to assemble in your yard!
"The largest Metaphysical Hub in Los Angeles" sells a wide range of spiritual and visionary books, as well as all the sacred, magical and supernatural necessities you'll need.
Warby Parker offers stylish men’s, women’s and children’s eyewear at reasonable prices by creating its products in-house and engaging with customers directly.
Eco-minded designer of snowboards and skateboards that also sells clothes and accessories for men and women.
For kids 9 to 90, shop novelty toys like rubber chickens, whoopee cushions and pick-up sticks; and a fun collection of prank items like hand buzzers and fake boogers.
Low-key, artsy shop selling unique surfboards, casual women's and men's apparel and photo books.
This huge weekend market takes place in a cavernous 1940s era warehouse, with artisan vendors selling everything from vegan bath bombs to jewelry, ceramics, textiles and more.
Anchored by Macy's, the open-air Manhattan Village offers an eclectic array of shops and upscale dining like BOA Steakhouse, Dan Modern Chinese and Joey.
Open daily, this rustic “barn at the beach” boasts over 7,000 vintage treasures, from vinyl records and antique jewelry to throwback clothing and décor, with new inventory constantly appearing.
Whether you're on the shore or on the sea, there's no better place to enjoy LA's beautiful weather and experience its spectacular natural beauty than the Beach Cities.
A 42-acre destination for food, drink, nightlife and entertainment will be opening soon at the Port of LA!
For hoops junkies, these famous outdoor courts - featured prominently in White Men Can’t Jump - are a must to play or watch games, especially on weekends.
Drop in (literally or figuratively) to 16,000 square feet of bowls, rails and steps designed to evoke SoCal’s famed empty swimming pool guerrilla skate spots.
Experience Venice as many locals do - on a bike, skateboard or inline skates - with child seats and wagons available for families.
A historical landmark and thriving, inspiring outdoor gym that hosts diverse bodybuilding shows, music videos, movie and photo shoots - and a young Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Inspired by traditional New England seaports, Fisherman’s Village provides sedate harbor strolls, several restaurants, the Marina del Rey Historical Society exhibit space and shops.
LA’s last coastal wetland is a 577-acre natural treasure that’s become a major birding attraction while also hosting diverse flora and fauna in tranquil, escapist surroundings.
Learn to sail and even get certified at this long-established school that offers all levels of ASA courses and clinics plus skippered or bareboat chartering and full-blown sailing vacations.
Charter a luxurious dream boat, ranging from 60 to 100 feet, that starts at $550 per hour but can be split between up to twelve guests.
Learn paddleboarding or kayaking from an experienced guide while on the lookout for sea lions, dolphins and various seabirds on a small group tour that begins at Mother’s Beach.
Taking place at Mother's Beach in Marina del Rey, the 90-minute class includes paddle instruction, paddling through the harbor and an hour of SUP yoga on the water.
Community hub at a historic site with a public pool, stunning coastal views and frequent events like Sunset Swims and Sunset Picnics.
The Baja-inspired Caravan Swim Club is a poolside gathering spot for fire pit conversations where you can enjoy seasonal snacks, biodynamic wines, craft beer and small-batch tequilas.
With its iconic Ferris wheel at the heart of a full-service amusement park, arcade, restaurants, bars and souvenir shops, this retro landmark also hosts street performers and live music.
More gymnast-focused than its Venice namesake, Santa Monica’s Muscle Beach, just south of the pier, began in the 1930s as a practice place for acrobats, wrestlers and stunt performers.
The jewel of 94 acres of sparkling public beach and the adjacent vibrant community overlooks excellent surf breaks, inviting swimming areas, and multiple popular volleyball nets.
Marking its 50th anniversary, Hermosa Cyclery’s longevity reflects its bike-friendly surroundings. The rental bikes and e-bikes here let visitors enjoy miles of beautiful beachside bicycle paths.
Redondo Beach boasts inland attractions, too, including this 11-acre (free!) resource replete with four distinct ecological habitats, a small amphitheater, overnight campgrounds, and a picnic site.
As well as breathtaking views including stunning sunsets, this iconic landmark is the centerpiece of the surrounding beach and includes the free, interactive Roundhouse Aquarium.
Over a mile and a half of sunny, sandy bliss enhanced with a pier, volleyball nets, showers, and a dedicated parking structure, plus an array of alluring restaurants and shops.
Since 1956, Redondo Beach Whale Watch has been living up to its name while also offering fishing charters, party cruises, sunset cruises, and even serene and sensitive burials at sea.
This last surviving local dune is a steep, 100-foot slope that kids love while parents enjoy its nature trail and views from the top. (Online reservation required.)
Open each summer from Memorial Weekend, Seaside Lagoon is an enclosed saltwater lagoon with small water slides plus picnic/BBQ areas and a private luau shelter (reservations required).
Look for the iconic boxer sign and step into the recently revamped bar, a local favorite since 1952 serving up classic cocktails, live music and food trucks.
With city, ocean and mountain views, this beachfront rooftop bar is the spot for seasonal cocktails, approachable wines and an all-day menu.
Longtime haven for the LGBTQ+ community that recently updated its interior and cocktail menu while keeping its inclusive, kitschy vibe.
Opened in 1915, the Townhouse boasted regulars like Charlie Chaplin and Venice resident Jim Morrison. Today the bar features craft cocktails and nightly entertainment downstairs in the Del Monte.