Thinking about sneaking in one last getaway before school and big work projects start up in the fall? Los Angeles is a destination that has much to offer, from the movie stars of Hollywood, to the exclusive restaurants and bars that can be found like places like Malibu.

However, some of the best experiences in the area can be had by searching for the best beaches in Los Angeles, as the soul of Southern California can be found where the scent of the sea can be inhaled deeply.

In order to gain the best possible appreciation for the beaches that we are about to discuss in this article, we recommend that you look into staying at one of the many private villa rentals in Los Angeles.

Many of these super exclusive suites are located on or within an easy walk from some of the sandy paradises, making it easy to assimilate yourself into the SoCal beach lifestyle.

On that note, let’s get right into it, starting with…

1) Santa Monica Beach

Looking for action and stimulation from the second you get to the beach right up until the moment you leave?

Santa Monica is the perfect place for you and your friends, as it is home to one of the few boardwalk amusement parks on the West Coast.

A Ferris Wheel, roller coaster, and arcade await the young and the young at heart, while those content to stick to the sands will have beach volleyball courts at their disposal.

If you are looking for an energetic, fun day at the beach, Santa Monica Beach is the best possible choice out of all the other options.

2) Venice Beach

Los Angeles is filled with interesting characters, and there is nowhere better to watch them go about their daily lives than from a beach blanket or park bench at Venice Beach.

Buskers, hippies and the body-obsessed weightlifters of Muscle Beach gym will keep your roaming eyes interested, while those interested in actually doing beachy stuff will enjoy surfing in the swells here … just watch out for the rip tide, as currents at Venice can be vicious at times!

3) Hermosa Beach

Think you’re too cool for the beach? You haven’t been to Hermosa yet obviously, as this portion of the coast in Los Angeles County is home to those that consider themselves hip enough to be a hipster.

While some actually hit the beach in a bid to be ironic, others huddle inside cute cafes within sight of its waves with an artfully crafted coffee drink.

If you’d rather dabble in this scene and then hit the waves, you’ll be in good company, as Hermosa is also well known for its community of surfers.