Santa Monica Beaches
Every stretch of sand from Malibu to Venice, reviewed honestly. Where to go, when to go, and who to avoid.
Beach guide
From the crowded main stretch to the locals-only coves most tourists never find.
The classic. Wide, clean, and reliably crowded on weekends. Go south of the pier to escape the tourist density.
The quietest stretch of Santa Monica beach. Fewer crowds, reliable wave action, and a good walk from the main parking madness.
The only off-leash beach within easy reach of Santa Monica. Worth the 30-minute drive — your dog will agree.
Sea caves, rock arches, and dramatic cliffs — the most photogenic beach in Malibu. Arrive early, the small lot fills up before noon.
Long, wide, and noticeably less crowded than the main Santa Monica stretch. Popular with locals who want space to breathe.
73 courts run the length of the beach. Show up early on weekends with your own net and ball — the permanent courts fill up by 10am.
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