Closest Beach Near LAX? Your Layover Guide to LAX’s Nearby Coastal Gems
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a beach day or two. Or, if you’re like us, you’ll find any excuse to head to the beach.
Whether you have a really long layover or just coming for a short trip, there are many excellent beaches near LAX. Millions of travelers fly to Los Angeles International Airport daily.
It’s not uncommon for flights to be delayed, plans to change, and for visitors to need a refreshing place to visit after experiencing one of the largest and busiest airports on the West Coast.
Fortunately, there are dozens of beaches closest to LAX airport. Follow along as we share what beach is closest to Los Angeles International Airport, how close is the closest beach to LAX, and the rest of the details to help what beach will fit best on your itinerary.
Best Beaches Near LAX
Dockweiler State Beach
12000 Vista Del Mar, Playa Del Rey | Distance from LAX: 3.7 miles
What beach is closest to LAX? Search for “closest beach near me” or “closest beach to me” and you’ll find that the closest beach to LAX is Dockweiler State Beach. Also called LAX beach, this is the best beach near LAX airport if your priority is proximity.
Depending on traffic, it can take as little as 7 minutes to get from LAX to Dockweiler State Beach. That’s LAX to the beach real quick!
Take some time to soak up some rays and walk barefoot in the sand. However, if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, you will not find it here. As the closest beach to LAX, expect to see planes taking off and soaring high above you.
Manhattan Beach
2 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach | Distance from LAX: 5.4 Miles
If you’re looking for the best beaches south of LA that are close to LAX, Manhattan Beach is a good option. Manhattan Beach is surrounded by top-notch restaurants and cafes, so you can spend the time drinking and lounging to your heart’s content.
If it’s not too hot outside, stroll along the pier at Manhattan Beach and gaze at the Pacific Ocean.
Playa del Rey Beach
7313-7351 S Marine Ave, Playa Del Rey | Distance from LAX: 5.5 miles
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Playa del Rey Beach is technically still part of Dockweiler State Beach, but it’s a little more to the West side of the airport and is surrounded by dozens of cafes and eateries.
Playa del Rey is an easy drive or Uber away, but it’s not the best idea if you’ll be traveling using public transport. However, if you plan to drive your own vehicle please note that Los Angeles beach parking lots are rarely free.
El Porto Beach
4499-4401 The Strand, Manhattan Beach | Distance from LAX: 5.8 miles
Surf’s up! El Porto Beach is the place to be if you’re looking for big waves and a surfer crowd. You will see locals taking advantage of the waves from sunrise ‘til sundown, which you can also do as long as there are still lifeguards around!
As a result, El Porto Beach gets a fair share of the crowd, from locals to visitors.
Venice Beach
2100 Ocean Front Walk, Venice | Distance from LAX: 6.8 miles
Stuck in LAX and searching for “pretty beaches near me”? Venice Beach is a whole new vibe, and not just because it’s one of the prettiest beaches near LAX.
Although not the nearest beach to Los Angeles International Airport, this beach is still worth a visit if you have the time. Skate, cycle, play volleyball, or go people-watching like the majority of the people who lounge at Venice Beach, one of the most popular Los Angeles beaches.
This beautiful beach is located near foodie hot spots, chic boutiques, and quaint cafes. Easily spend a day at the beach or exploring its surrounding area.
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Hermosa City Beach
1 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach | Distance from LAX: 6.9 miles
If you’re looking for a neighborhood beach that is clean and looks like a set from a romantic movie, head over to Hermosa Beach.
One of the things we love about Hermosa Beach is its dedicated bike path. Feel free to rent a bike and enjoy the cool breeze. When you get tired, there are lots of shops and well-known restaurants to satisfy your cravings.
Marina del Rey Beach
3418, Ocean Front Walk, Venice | Distance from LAX: 7.2 miles
Quiet beaches in Los Angeles are hard to find, especially if you’re looking for beaches near LAX. Marina del Rey Beach offers boating and water activities, which makes it popular for families and groups.
But some days, you won’t see anybody paddleboarding or kayaking and it’s during these times that you can enjoy the most peaceful stroll away from the crowd.
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Redondo Beach
Fisherman’s Wharf, Fishermans Wharf, Redondo Beach | Distance from LAX: 7.4 miles
Redondo Beach is not the closest beach to Los Angeles International Airport, but it’s worth a mention if you’re looking for a beach that is teeming with life and thriving with amenities.
There are all kinds of things to do and places to explore around Redondo Beach, from shopping to nightlife. Gondola rides and water activity gear rentals are also available, whether you want to kayak or try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding.
Santa Monica Beach
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica | Distance from LAX: 10.1 miles
Santa Monica Beach is the closest beach to Downtown LA and is arguably the most popular beach in Southern California. This beautiful beach is considered one of the best beaches in Los Angeles for families.
The world-famous Santa Monica Pier is located at Santa Monica Beach. Families enjoy the thrill rides at the on-site Pacific Amusement Park but when it gets too crowded, it’s impossible not to find something else to do.
Dip your feet on the beach’s famous white sand, eat pancakes, or stop by some of the most luxurious oceanfront hotels for a sunset cocktail.
Los Angeles Vacation Package
Now that you know which beach is closest to Los Angeles International Airport, you have more details to help you decide which beach (or beaches) to visit during your trip to LA.
Before heading out, check out Los Angeles Vacation Packages on Tripster. You’ll find dozens of special deals, discounts, and ticket combos that will help you save money on travel.
Beaches Near LAX FAQs
What is the Closest Beach to Los Angeles?
The closest beach to downtown Los Angeles is Santa Monica State Beach. This iconic beach offers a vibrant atmosphere, with a pier, amusement park, bike path, and plenty of shops and restaurants. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
What Beach in Los Angeles Has the Clearest Water?
Determining the beach with the "clearest" water in Los Angeles can be subjective and depends on the weather, tides, and other factors.
However, beaches like El Matador State Beach in Malibu and Abalone Cove Shoreline Park in Rancho Palos Verdes are often praised for their clear waters and scenic beauty.
Which LA Beach is Your Favorite?
Leave us a comment below!
