What are the best kid-friendly beaches to visit in L.A.? Depending on whether you want the most activities, most nature, or just the most convenience, you’ve got lots of great options.
(The NIKO was inspired by one happy-but-messy day at the beach, so this blog is near to our hearts.)
Here are the NIKO’s top three picks for kid-friendly beaches in the Los Angeles area:
1. Best for a Relaxing Day—Will Rogers State Beach
If you don't like big crowds, this is the spot for you. It is usually quieter than the more famous beaches nearby. And there’s plenty of space, so you won't feel crowded by other peoples’ sandcastles.
-
For Kids: There is a fun playground right on the sand. You can also watch people play volleyball or go fishing.
-
For Parents: It is easy to find a spot to sit, and there are clean bathrooms nearby.
-
The Cost: Parking is usually around $15—a great deal for a beach near the city!
2. For the “Most LA” Beach Experience—Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica is one of the most famous beaches in the world! It is home to the Santa Monica Pier, which its giant Ferris wheel and a roller coaster. It is VERY busy, but there is always something to see.
-
The Pier: Santa Monica Pier feels like a giant carnival right over the ocean, and kids love the arcade games and the snacks.
-
The Beach House: Don’t miss the nearby Annenberg Community Beach House, a beautiful facility that is open to the public. Little kids love the "splash pad" where they can run through water fountains to cool off. Guest access is free, but there is a charge for parking or use of the pool
-
Keep in Mind: This beach gets very crowded, so it’s a good idea to arrive early in the morning if you plan to spread out.
3. For Nature Lovers—Leo Carrillo State Park
If your family loves exploring, Leo Carrillo is the beach for you! It’s not just sand and water—it has big rocks, tiny caves, and even places to go camping under the trees.
-
Tide Pools: When the tide goes out, the tide pools are revealed! Pockets of seawater trapped in the rocks, each tide pool is a little outdoor aquarium. Having a blast helping your kids spot sea anemones, tiny crabs, and sea snails.
-
Adventure: Do you like lizards? Birds? Butterflies? There are plenty of hiking trails nearby. Note that the area is a recognized wintering site for western monarch butterflies October-February.
-
Why It’s Special: Leo Carrillo feels more like a wild park than a city beach. It’s the perfect place for a family that loves the Great Outdoors.
DO NOT FORGET to bring plenty of towels, and a NIKO for every child's car seat (the waterproof bottom panel keeps seawater from soaking the upholstery).
FYI, you can find our favorite NIKO for beach days here—it's our only seat cover made of towel-like terrycloth!