Lifeguard Tower 26

This place is great, open year-round either hourly parking or long term parking for the day. Watch walking on the wood boardwalk in bare feet, I've gotten splinters plenty of times. There is hourly parking a dollar an hour or you can park for the day for about 15-20 bucks.

One of my favorite beaches. There's a sandbar here that creates a more mellow surf and perfect conditions for boogy boarding. There are public bathrooms here and also a snack bar. There are two parking options. 1-2 hours or all day.

Low key Santa Monica beach between the Pier and Venice. A bicycle ride or a long stroll up the beach to either spot. One of my favorite spots full of locals of all ages and foreign visitors. Good morning or afternoon spot as well as "regular" beach times.

This is the best spot for beginners to learn how to surf for the first time within 50 miles. Shallow waves means that you can always stand up and are never taken out further where you can’t touch.

Cool beach, very few people. Some good waves sometimes and no undertoe. Safe place to swim and enjoy a day at the beach. A lot of parking available on the street also.