Summer is officially here and in full swing. While Los Angeles may have beaches and palm trees, the cooler temps earlier in the year keep the shoreline a little less busy, but once summer hits locals and visitors alike flock to the waters.
Santa Monica Pier and Beach
With so many people it can be a bit overwhelming trying to map out the best way to do a beach day – but we’ve got you covered. Here are the Glitterati Tours approved tips for your best summer beach day:
If you find yourself truly wanting the surf and doing some swimming, your best bet is to skip hanging out at Santa Monica or Venice and head to one of the quieter beaches like Manhattan Beach, Hermosa, or Redondo. They may be less known by commercial standards, but they are perfect for laying out, playing sand volleyball, and surfing. Since they are a bit out of the way, there is less crowds, more options for parking, and an easy chance to get into restaurants at the end of the day.
Pacific Coast Highway
If you are planning a full day trip there are a few MUSTS to bring along.
● Sunscreen (duh).
● Beach umbrella. Those rays get HOT mid afternoon and you are going to want some
cover.
● Water. Bring a cooler with your own bottles. Upcharge can get crazy at convenience
shops in the area.
● Sweater. Yes we said a sweater. While the afternoon is hot and sweaty, the temps drop
just as fast as the sun drops down. If you want to stay for a perfect sunset you are going
to definitely need something to keep you warm.
● Quarters. If you find yourself driving down to the beaches, a few of the meters in the
area are older and only take quarters. You might get a prime time spot just because
most people only have their debit cards for parking
● Book, frisbee, football, or whatever your favorite pastime is – because what’s a beach
day without a fun activity while you soak up that Vitamin D!?
While we may have suggested avoiding Venice and Santa Monica for an actual swimming beach day, don’t let us deter you from visiting these spots! The Santa Monica Pier and the Venice boardwalk are must sees if you have the time. You’ll get to see all the character, catch some local talent, and you may just find that hidden gem of a souvenir along the way. If in Venice, make sure to visit the canals, and Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
Happy Beaching (and don’t forget the sunscreen)!
-By Lindsay
If you’re really short on time, and just want to get the essence of the Los Angeles area beaches, look into our Glitterati Tours private “Coastal Access” tour. It is 3-hours in duration when departing from the Hollywood or Beverly Hills area, and it covers the communities of Venice, Santa Monica and Malibu. However, we don’t recommend taking this particular tour on the weekends during the summer months, because roads around Pacific Coast Highway tend to be jam-packed with surfers and beach-goers.
